Holden is giving the Commodore SV8 a makeover to match the striking looks of its new six-cylinder performance hero sibling, the SV6.

To be released in February, the competitively priced Commodore SV8 also benefits from an increase in standard specification to better align with the SV6.

The decision reflects cus tom er feedback that most Holden performance car enthusiasts want to make a statement rather than blend into the crowd.

Alan Blazevic, Holden’s Marketing Manager Passenger Cars, said the move to give the Commodore SV8 the same sporty design cues as the popular Commodore SV6 was consistent with the company’s market-responsive philosophy.

“The Commodore SV6 has immediately struck a chord with buyers – so much so that our S car sales in November were 95 per cent up on the same month last year,” Mr Blazevic said.

“It’s very much our business to anticipate changes in cus tom er demand. Performance car buyers are becoming more particular about what they want in these high profile vehicles, and we’re determined to retain our winning edge in this market segment.

“We’re delighted with the response to our 190kW VZ Commodore SV6 and we are confident that V8 enthusiasts will be quick to appreciate what a great deal they’re getting with this revitalised Commodore SV8 sports package.”

The performance of Commodore SV8’s high output 250kW Gen III V8 engine will be highlighted by more overt sports styling cues –a deep front facia with fog lamps, large air dam with hexagonal mesh insert, mesh grille, black bezel headlamps, side and rear skirts and sports styled five-spoke alloy wheels.

The 2005 Commodore SV8 offers body-coloured exterior mirrors, leather wrap steering wheel, power windows all round, side impact airbags and sports styled or optional leather trim. Among new colour choices for 2005 is the brilliant Impulse blue to be shared with Commodore SV6 and SS.

Increases in power and torque delivered with the launch of the VZ Commodore SV8 and Commodore SS (250kW of power at 5600rpm, 470Nm of torque at 4800 rpm) were complemented by improved braking systems which feature Brake Assist and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.

Holden’s high performance icon, the Commodore SS, gains extra comfort and convenience features for 2005 and maintains its status at the top of Holden’s performance pecking order. Equipment levels are boosted by the addition of single zone electronic climate control, a dash-top storage compartment and twin fold-out cup holders in the instrument panel.

The 2005 Commodore performance range will be available from 1 February 2005 .