VZ One-Tonner

The big news lay underneath.

An all-new drivetrain featuring the Melbourne-made Alloytech HFV6 3.6-litre DOHC 24V V6 pumping out 175kW/320Nm – but with peak torque delivered 400rpm lower than in those models, at 2400rpm, thanks to a higher back pressure exhaust.

The four-speed auto was significantly revised to cope, while the six-speed manual is this engine’s only throughout the whole VZ range.

It also benefits from steering tweaks across the VZ Commodore range, along with improved brakes, although traction and stability controls are not included.

The 5.7-litre Gen III V8 One Tonner (badged an S V8 rather than SS and lacking the SS add-ons) now pumps out 235kW/460Nm.

It continues with the six-speed Tremec manual while auto versions receive a new torque converter with more computer power.

Of course, the updated VZ cosmetic package also applies to One Tonner and includes a new, twin-spear bonnet, more aggressive front bumper, more compact headlights sans the “Bull’s eye” parking lights of the VY-based version and a larger Holden Lion logo in the middle of a larger single-bar grille.

One Tonner payloads remain unchanged at 1297kg manual/1294kg auto in base guise, with S able to haul 1286kg manual and 1283kg auto and One Tonner S V8 1245kg manual and 1239kg auto – almost double the Ute SS.

New standard equipment: Power windows and cruise control.

Engine options: 235kW/460Nm 5.7 V8 - S