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All wheel drive coupe sets a new standard for Australian performance cars. The 'all paw' HSV Coupe 4 is evolved from Australia's favourite sports car, the Holden Monaro, which made its own high-profile debut at the Sydney Motor Show two years ago.

The first all wheel drive (AWD) sports coupe to be produced in Australia, the Coupe 4 is the dynamic result of a creative collaboration between HSV and Holden powertrain, chassis engineering and design specialists. No futuristic concept, the HSV Coupe 4 goes on sale in June 2004. It will be priced under $95 000 AUD.

The Coupe 4 is equipped with an HSV-enhanced, 27OkW 5.7 litre LS1 V8, matched to a four-speed automatic transmission. Power is transferred to the tarmac through all four wheels via a traction control-based HSV Quad Drive permanent all wheel drive system, which is calibrated to provide exceptional grip in wide range of surface conditions.

The HSV Coupe 4 is equipped with a HSV Performance braking system comprising 336x32mm ventilated and grooved front discs and 315x18mm ventilated and grooved rear discs. Its 19x8 inch alloy wheels are shod with Pirelli P-Zero directional tyres, and HSV's unique AWD 'low ride' sports series suspension set-up delivers a flat, supple ride quality that complements its prodigious inherent handling abilities.

A torque split of 38 per cent front and 62 per cent rear gives the Coupe 4 a sporty rear-drive bias.

With plenty of basic evidence as to ifs sports capability - a wider than average stance, flared arches over 19-inch wheels, large air intake and a quartet of big bore exhaust outlets - the Coupe 4 design treatment is more Euro-chic than aggressive.

Incorporated info the well-balanced styling package are a unique grille, Senotor- style front facia with mesh inserts, black bezel headlamps and High Intensity Discharge driving lamps, smoothly integrated wheel arch extensions, 19-inch alloys with HSV-embossed red front disc calipers, sculpted side skirts and technical mesh rear inserts.

Exterior finishes - Phantom Black, Sting Red and Quicksilver - can be colour-co-ordinated with a choice of plush fabric or leather-trimmed interiors in Anthracite and Ochre.

o accommodate its all wheel drive powertrain componentry, increased track and larger wheels, the HSV Coupe 4 requires extensive sheet metal and chassis system modifications.

These modifications will be carried out on a new, dedicated production line at Elizabeth before the vehicles are transferred to the Holden Special Vehicles facility in Clayton, Victoria, to be hand-finished- HSV Coupe 4 production is scheduled to begin in May 2004.

Story by Holden Special Vehicles & Supercars.net