The WH Statesman / Caprice are based on the VT Commodore.
The WH is also exported to the Middle East and badged as a Chevrolet Caprice.
Some changes introduced with the Series II include: The new rear suspension on Series II - known as Control-Link independent rear suspension (IRS) - which has been designed by Holden engineers to combine all the traction qualities of a supple independent rear suspension system with even greater stability, handling precision and control. Control-Link IRS features extra link arms which assist in keeping the car precisely on track over bumps and during strong acceleration, deceleration or braking. Its benefits are particularly noticeable in challenging cornering situations. By improving rear grip and keeping the vehicle on a tighter line, Control-Link IRS assists drivers to negotiate corners and bends more confidently. The suspension packages across the Series II Statesman and Caprice model range have been totally re-tuned to complement the rear suspension changes, further enhancing stability and ride comfort. Revised steel belt tyre construction also contributes to a sharper and more accurate steering feel.
All Series II models are equipped with new stalk controls for indicator, wiper and cruise control functions. The cruise control is operated using a more intuitive twist switch mechanism instead of the previous button system. The Series II Statesman and Caprice feature jewelled headlamps with complex reflectors and clear polycarbonate lens, new multi-spoke alloy wheels, wider chrome window surrounds and new rear badging. A bold, rectangular grille texture sets the Series II Statesman further apart. Caprice interior refinements include colour co-ordinated, leather wrapped steering wheels with woodgrain inserts. Statesman seat trim fabrics, in soft geometric patterned plush pile velour, are all-new.
Holden underlines its commitment to technological leadership and to satisfying customer needs with the introduction of the Holden Assist in-car communications system as standard fitment on Caprice and as an option offered to Statesman buyers. Combining mobile phone and global positioning system technology, the system puts drivers in direct phone contact with the Holden Assist Centre, which is manned 24 hours a day and offers a range of support services. The Holden Assist system can also remotely unlock doors on command, diagnose low battery voltage, detect unauthorised entry, track and immobilise the vehicle if stolen and automatically notify authorities of an airbag deployment.
The WH Statesman / Caprice Specifications page, with details on engines, suspension, gearboxes, etc.
V6, 4 speed automatic transmission, security system (immobiliser and alarm), IRS, Dual front and side airbags, programmable personal settings, trip computer, climate control, steering wheel mounted controls, CD changer, power seats, cruise control, ABS, self levelling rear suspension, 16x7 alloy wheels, front and rear cup holders, auto on headlights.
Supercharged V6, V8, leather trim, limited slip differential, sunroof, satellite navigation.
The Statesman International is a limited edition of 250. It features the new GEN III V8, 17 inch alloy wheels with low-profile 235/45 tyres, integrated rear deck spoiler, body-coloured grille treatment, Phantom black paint, re-styled instrument cluster, leather interior, and International Series badging.
The 2002 Statesman International, of which only 500 will be produced, features the following: GEN III V8, Unique 17-inch x 8-inch alloy wheels, Low profile 235/45 R17 tyres, Integrated rear decklid lip spoiler, Body colour front grille, Body colour side mouldings, Projector headlamps, V8 International badging on decklid and fenders, Choice of two paint finishes:- Quicksilver (sharp silver with brilliant mica highlights), Phantom (neutral black with brilliant mica highlights), Advanced, hands-free Holden Assist communications service that links driver and vehicle to Holden's 24-hour Customer Assistance Centre, Exclusive seat and door trim in Grenache dark red leather with suede fabric inserts, Priority Key personal identity system with three-position memory, driver's seat and mirror memory settings, Unique instrument cluster - Grenache dark red face, highlighted by contrasting white needles and Titanium silver mask, Dash fascia in Titanium silver, Custom diamond check finish on automatic transmission console and compartment covers, Silver grey stitching on leather-trimmed steering wheel, gear selector and handbrake, Satin chrome door handles, instrument panel V8 International badge, gear selector and handbrake buttons, Custom-embroidered floor mats.
The Statesman International LS8 is a limited edition of 350. It is powered by Holden's 5.7 Litre, 225kW V8, teamed with automatic transmission. Exterior features include: phantom paint finish (neutral black with brilliant mica highlights), unique 17x8-inch alloy wheels, 235/45R17 low profile tyres, unique projector headlamps, integrated rear decklid lip spoiler, International LS8 badging on decklid and fenders. Interior features include: Exclusive seat trim in Ochre leather with perforated inserts, french seams in Ochre thread; lower door trim in Lismore suede, SS-style, eight-way electrically adjustable front seats, Priority Key restores preferred driver's seat position, heated electric remote control exterior mirrors, priority Key restores preferred mirror positions, SS-style rear seat with head restraints, leather-wrapped steering wheel, handbrake lever and gear selector, satin chrome highlights - door handles, handbrake, gear selector, exclusive `Light Tempest' light metallic silver finish on instrument panel and surrounds, door sill plates, Holden Assist 24-hour satellite security and support system. Recommended Retail Price: $58,990.
As Statesman, plus: V8, leather trim, 12 speaker stereo, rear passenger stereo and climate controls.
Limited slip differential, sunroof, satellite navigation.
October 1999
American police forces are said to be crying out for the Statesman when they found it is powered by the LS1 5.7L V8 and could come with a manual transmission option. Holden and its Melbourne-based conversion partner, Maverick Motor Industries, have started building the first of what it hopes may be 2000 police car packs a year for the Middle East market. The first seven pilot-built police cars destined for the Middle East were so well received in the United Arab Emirates that Maverick Motor Industries, which modifies local police cars, is now building the first of a batch of 50 for that market, with firm indications from Holden that about 1000 cars might be needed next year. Another reason Holden should be hopeful for US police export orders is news that the Ford Crown Victoria, the last remaining rear-drive police car of choice, is rumoured to be switching to front drive in two years. During a recent trip to Holden in Melbourne, General Motors chief executive Jack Smith remarked on what a wonderful patrol car the left-hand drive export Statesman, badged Chevrolet Caprice, could be. Holden could easily supply cars to US forces because its Middle East police-pack specification is based around a common US pack called 9C1. The cars get a new wiring system (for strobe lights and the roof-top Christmas tree), spare Jerry cans for fuel and water, and a beefy auxiliary battery in the boot, while in the rear of the cabin, there's a handcuff tether bar bolted to the floor. The driving compartment is protected from the rear occupants by a Lexan shield, similar to that used in some taxis. Depending on the export market, the police cars come with either steel or alloy wheels. Outside, there are pusher bars on the nose and tail, which allow the cruisers to shunt dead cars along a highway or ram felons off the road. The additional police pack fitting adds about $4500 to the price of each car. The police cars are exported as V6 Commodore and V8 Statesman bodyshells, but are trimmed to a more sparse level including vinyl trim for the rear "passengers".
The WH Statesman / Caprice Specifications page, with details on engines, suspension, gearboxes, etc.
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Last modified: 21 April 2003.