Test Drive 2011 Holden VE Series II SS V8 Ute
2011 is often a quite unique year for two Australian motoring icons. For 1, it’s the 50th anniversary of Queensland’s first permanent, purpose-built raceway: Lakeside Park. It’s also marks the 60th anniversary of Holden’s FX Utility, a vehicle widely regarded as by enthusiasts to be the forefather of the house grown Aussie “ute”. In recognition of these historic occasions, we took a Holden VE Series II SS Ute for a test drive and headed north to attend the first of Lakeside’s three 50th anniversary events. Component 1 of this feature will cover my impressions of the Ute, whilst part two will take inside the event itself. So let’s get cracking.
Overview
The VE Ute is already an appealing vehicle and in SS guise this is complemented with 18-inch alloys, front fog lights as well as a lowered sports suspension. With its 6.0 L V8 the SS is definitely potent, but it is also secure with a maximum 5-star ANCAP rating thanks to its six airbags and electronic stability control.
Our specific car also came with Holden’s Active Fuel Management (AFM) method - basically cylinder deactivation - as well as a 6spd automatic transmission.
The VE Ute is based on the exact same floorplan as the Commodore sedan and, as such, is really a long vehicle. It is not noticeable on the open road, but from the outside or when parking it becomes increasingly apparent, specifically if you’re utilised to driving subcompacts. On the plus side, there’s plenty of storage space within the tray region and front leg room is more than ample.
Inside Scoop
From the front seats forward, the SS Ute is all sedan. The pews are supportive with out being restrictive and even a big bloke like me had no trouble acquiring in and out. The steering wheel is big and meaty and, in SS guise, leather-wrapped to boot. The centre console is logically laid out with Holden’s multifunction touch screen iQ method at the top along with the climate controls
