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Holden SSX Crossover Sports Hatch Concept

Holden has issued the following press release:

Holden is making its presence felt at the 2002 Sydney International Motor Show with a newly designed stand full of recently released, upcoming and design concept models that will appeal to a broad audience. Showgoers will also get the chance to design their own Holdens at interactive computer terminals.

Previewed is the much-anticipated ZC Holden Vectra, the first all-new model in five years. Holden has unveiled a top-of-the-range 3.2 litre V6 Vectra CDXi hatch version with Active Select transmission in Sydney, but does not intend to release full details until the new line-up makes its Australian debut early next year. The company believes that the European-sourced Vectra ’ which offers pioneering technology, comfort and driver-oriented design ’ has the potential to redefine the medium car market.

Also sharing the limelight is Holden’s latest design concept ’ the SSX ’ a crossover sports hatch based on the current Commodore platform. It’s a flexible four seater which combines V8 performance with all-wheel-driveability and a versatile load area accessible through a large rear hatch. Holden will gauge market reaction to this vehicle, which may form part of a next-generation niche model line-up.

An individually appointed, limited edition Holden Statesman known as the LS8 also makes its debut. As the name implies, this luxury long-wheelbase model delivers 5.7 litre Generation III V8 performance. With features such as unique 17-inch alloy wheels, rear deck spoiler and custom-finished interior, the Phantom black LS8 has the sporting good looks to match. It is due for release in November. — Toyota's all-new Corolla Matrix debut at SEMA.

Four-wheel driver buyers will be introduced to the special edition Jackaroo Nullarbor, available in 3.5 litre V6 petrol and 3 litre intercooled turbo diesel versions, which offers a one-off array of features that add even more value to one of the most practical 4WD wagons on the market.

Destined for a debut at the Bathurst 24-hour race on November 16-17, Holden Motorsport’s Nations Cup Monaro takes a break from race preparations for an outing on the Holden stand over four days from 18 to 21 October.

The fire-breathing Monaro racer is powered by a 7.0 litre specific racing version of Holden’s Gen III V8 engine and has been constructed for Holden Motorsport by the Bathurst-winning Garry Rogers Motorsport. After its Bathurst 24 hour debut it will compete in the GT sports car category of the 2003 Nations Cup series against ’supercar’ Michelotto 360 Ferrari and Lamborghini Diablo GTR entries, as well as the V10-powered Chrysler Viper GTS and Porsche Supercup GT3. — Suzuki Makai concept at Los Angeles Auto Show.

For most Holden fans, the 2002 Sydney Motor Show also offers the first opportunity to view the striking new VY model range, released just weeks ago. On display are the all-new Commodore SV8, an Executive sedan which has been given the full Holden By Design (HBD) treatment, a Berlina wagon, the sharp new Commodore SS, dressed in brilliant Hothouse green, and an elegant Supercharged V6 Holden Calais.

Motor show patrons can also use advanced, interactive computer technology to personalise their chosen model with a wide range of Holden By Design options.

Also featuring will be Holden’s resoundingly successful CV8 and CV6 Monaro coupes ’ the greatest crowd-pullers of last year’s Sydney Motor Show. More recent Holden releases to feature will be the all-wheel drive Holden Cruze and the versatile, all-new Combo van, which goes on display on 22 October. — Toyota's sustainability concepts at Tokyo Show.

The highly popular Holden Astra ’ SRi, CD, Equipe and Convertible models ’ will also be well to the fore, in company with Wheels Car of the Year Holden Barina and an HBD-enhanced Zafira compact wagon.

The neighbouring HSV display hosts the high performance HRT 427, a closed-circuit racer featuring a 7-litre V8 racing engine based on the Le Mans-winning C5R Corvette powerplant. HSV’s refined and recently launched Y Series is represented by GTS, Club Sport, Maloo R8 and Senator Signature models.

Racing legend Peter Brock, current V8 Supercar champion and recent Bathurst victor Mark Skaife and members of Holden’s V8 Supercar Team of Champions will make special appearances at the Holden stand during the 2002 Sydney International Motor Show. Holden personnel representing key departments will also be on hand to answer questions and share their product knowledge.