Holden has taken the covers off a new concept car that combines the
practicality of a hatch back with the bold bulk of a V8 super-saloon.
The SSX is an all-wheel-drive prototype showcasing the next generation of
Holdens.
Fully drivable, the SSX is a luxury four-seater concept which combines high
output V8 performance and AWD handling character with cargo carrying
convenience. Its flat-floored, multi-purpose load area is accessible through a
large rear hatch and can be extended by folding the back seats flush with the
floor and dropping the fold-down end gate.
Peter Hanenberger, Holden Chairman and Managing Director, believes vehicles
like SSX will complement the off-road AWD capability of cars like the upcoming
Cross8 as Holden enters a new era of manufacturing flexibility based around
families of niche vehicles.
“SSX is our vision of the future. It is the cream of our Australian
design and engineering expertise channelled into a car of world class standard.
It heralds a family of low ride height, inspirational all-wheel-drive niche
performance vehicles that could become reality in less than two years,” Mr
Hanenberger said.
The sleek SSX (SS + Crossover) is the product of the company’s biggest ever
concept car project. The young Holden design team members credited with bringing
this exploratory vehicle vividly to life are senior exterior designer Max Wolff,
interior designer Warrack Leach and colour and trim designer Kirsty Lindsay.
Set apart by more than its brilliant ‘Kryptonite’ green finish and slick,
black-on black interior, the SSX features a wide track stance, wheel arch
extensions over 19-inch magnesium alloys, front fender vents, Venturi-style
aerodynamic underpans – punctuated at the rear by twin central exhausts –
and dual aircraft-style fuel filler doors.
The SSX design concept is powered by a high output, 5.7 litre Generation III
V8 engine. It forms part of the extensive Holden display at the Sydney
International Motor Show and can be viewed from October 18 – 27 inclusive.
Now why can't Vauxhall do that...?
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