The Holden Caprice V-Series is a refined, luxurious and powerful vehicle, yet despite the impressive list features – its high fuel consumption and sheer size limit its practicalities as a private vehicle, instead being favoured amongst the upper echelon of hire cars.
The Caprice is powered by a whopping 6.2L V8 LS3 engine producing 304kW of power @ 6,000rpm and 570Nm of torque @ 4,400rpm which is paired with a 6-speed automatic engine with Active Select. This pairing results in a smooth drive with even power distribution, immediate response and just enough oomph to make you smile when you plant your foot. This does however come at the cost of fuel consumption with a claimed 12.9L/100km on a combined cycle; however our test sat slightly higher.
Luxury comes as standard in the Holden Caprice V-Series, creating a whole new benchmark that remains unrivalled in its price range. As impressive as its powerful figures is the Caprice V-Series’ classic design with refined proportions that commands presence and subtly exudes a hidden opulence. Chrome highlights on the doors handles and side mouldings, 19” alloy wheels, dual exhausts and Bi-Xenon headlights are just some of the exterior features that combine to create the Caprice’s understated design. The refinement continues inside with a spacious, opulent cabin full of all the technology and features required to make a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
Optimal comfort and driving position is achieved for the driver with 8-way adjustable seat with lumbar support and heating features (also featured on the passenger seat) and tilt and telescopic adjustable leather wrapped steering wheel with controls for cruise control, sound system, trip computer, Bluetooth and satellite navigation. The Holden Caprice feature keyless entry with push-button start and smart remote engine start system for convenience. The usual bonus features are also included with rain sensing wipers, automatic headlights, heated power side mirrors that dip when reversing, dual zone climate control and plenty of storage.
The 8” colour touchscreen display houses the Holden MyLink infotainment system with Pandora and Stitcher SmartRadio apps, satellite navigation, CD player, USB input with full iPod integration, Bluetooth audio streaming, enhanced voice control and Siri Eyes Free technology (something that is slightly beyond my realm of grasp I must admit). Clarity of audio is achieved through a 9 speaker Bose system and rear occupants are treated to the delight of rear seat DVD players with dual channel capabilities and wireless headphones.
The Holden Caprice V-Series has achieved a 5 star ANCAP rating with all the usual three letter safety acronyms and a few added bonuses. From the driver’s seat, safety can be enhanced with front and rear parking sensors, reverse traffic alert and a rear view camera. There is also automatic park assist and a colour heads up display to minimise eye wandering. Holden has also added Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring and Forward Collision Alert.
This is a vehicle that proves luxury does not need to cost the earth and it does not need to be European. With a cost of $65,746*, in reality, the fact this is not really a private vehicle means that fleet discounts can dramatically reduce this price, representing perhaps the truest value for money. The Holden Caprice V-Series is a vehicle which effortlessly combines luxury and power while concealing its opulence with classic, refined design.
*prices are drive-away for postcode 2000 and are subject to change.