2018 Holden Colorado Sportscat+ by HSV performance review

It’s an HSV, but not as we know it. Rear-wheel drive, a tray-back body and 500Nm of torque are all pretty familiar, but the elevated driving position, 2281kg kerb weight and 4000rpm redline make it clear the HS...sorry, Holden Colorado SportsCat by HSV is a very different kettle of fish.

All SportsCats have more aggro styling, a flashier interior and revised suspension with increased ride heights, improved approach and departure angles and unique Cooper Zeon all-terrain tyres as well as retuned ESP.

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Our test SportsCat ‘+’ adds even butcher styling, four-piston AP Racing brakes and a rear anti-roll bar that decouples when you select low range.

On the road the SportsCat handles like, well, a Colorado. Body roll is reduced and the brake pedal is firmer than standard but it remains a vehicle you’d only drive quickly if your life depended on it rather than for enjoyment. Unless you find an empty gravel road, that is.

The light rear end and ample torque means care is needed in the wet, but on the loose the rear LSD and well-tuned electronics make it possible to indulge your inner Neal Bates – within reason. It’s certainly very capable when the going gets really rough.

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I could see a place for it in my garage, but only to tow something actually exciting.

2018 HOLDEN COLORADO SPORTSCAT+ BY HSV SPECS:
Engine: 2776cc inline-4, DOHC, 16v turbo diesel
Power: 147kW @ 3600rpm
Torque: 500Nm @ 2000rpm
Weight: 2281kg
Drive: AWD
Price: $66,790