Pontiac G8 GXP research? HSV Clubsport R8 spotted in Troy, MI

[Josh]

A reader named Dominic sent in photos of a car he spotted in Troy, MI this week. In his email, he noted only that said car was RHD. To our enjoyment, when we looked at the photos, we were pleased to find an E-Series HSV Clubsport R8 (official pic at right). HSV is the performance arm of GM's Australia-based Holden division, and the HSV cars have the goods to back up their aggressive looks.

The Clubsport, like the other E-Series HSV sedans, sports different front and rear fascias than the regular Holden Commodore SS-V (which we'll see as the Pontiac G8 GT). It's also identifiable easily thanks to the "Clubsport" badging ahead of the rear wheel well (plainly visible in the spy photo gallery below). Its 6.0L LS2 is good for a rocking 411 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of tire-shredding twist -- a notable upgrade over the forthcoming G8 GT's 362 horses and 391 lb-ft.

While it's not at all surprising to see Holdens in the Detroit area sporting manufacturer tags like this one (there are always several sightings during the Woodward Dream Cruise, as the stuff just comes out of the woodwork), it's encouraging to see one of the latest and greatest HSV's tooling about. After all, everyone knows that the best Pontiacs get a GXP designation now, and we hope that this car's presence is an indicator that the General is looking to add a range-topper to the G8 lineup sometime after it makes its debut next year.

Thanks for the shots, Dominic!
Gallery: Spy Photos - HSV Clubsport R8 in Troy, MI


Gallery: HSV Clubsport R8 (E-Series)


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[jamz]

Interesting :)

[jeremy96gase]

Hmmm hi-po G8 :D