Launched in 2013, the current ClubSport is the entry-level sedan->ke142 in the HSV range, which in turn is the high-performance division of Holden.->ke33 A beefed-up version of the Commodore VF, the Gen-F HSV ClubSport features enhanced aerodynamics, a sportier interior, and a high-revving, naturally aspirated V-8 engine. The unit in question is a revised version of the 6.2-liter LS3 used in the previous generation Chevrolet Corvette->ke1280 and Camaro.->ke248 A slightly more powerful variant is offered under the ClubSport R8 badge. The performance-oriented sedan will be discontinued in 2017, when Holden will cease all operations in Australia.

The last couple of years have seen Holden and HSV launch several special-edition models of the Commodore. With the sedan so close to exiting the market, HSV has prepared three final versions of the ClubSport R8, one of which is the Track Edition. Limited to only 156 units, the R8 Track Edition is essentially a standard R8 under the hood, but borrows most of its exterior features from the supercharged ClubSport GTS->ke3254 and sports a few performance improvements underneath.

“Given the unique track-inspired content, the sharp pricing and the fact that these will be the last LS3 ClubSport R8’s ever built, we’re anticipating strong demand”, said Tim Jackson, HSV's managing director. The Track Edition was launched alongside the Black SV and Grange SV versions and joins the Clubsport R8 25th Anniversary Edition as one of the last HSVs to leave the factory.

Continue reading to learn more about the HSV ClubSport R8 Track Edition.

2016 HSV ClubSport R8 Track Edition

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2016 HSV ClubSport R8 Track Edition
  • Engine/Motor: V8
  • Horsepower: 456
  • Torque: 420
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

What makes the HSV ClubSport R8 Track Edition special

Described as a sedan that offers "unrivalled value and a final buy opportunity," the ClubSport R8 Track Edition features the more aggressive bumpers of the GTS model and a set of 20-inch, Blade-design forged alloy wheels. The latter are also borrowed from the GTS' options list, being offered for the first time on the ClubSport R8. Around back, the sedan gained a "Hyperflow" spoiler for a more aggressive stance.

The interior of the Track Edition also received some attention. The standard R8 steering wheel was replaced by a suede-wrapped sports unit with a flat bottom, while the door sills feature "Track Edition" lettering. The same lettering can be found between the gear shifter and the driving mode selector on the center console.

Under the hood, the Track Edition is identical to the standard ClubSport R8 it is based on, meaning it gets it juice from the same naturally aspirated, 6.2-liter LS3 V-8 engine. The mill cranks out 456 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, enabling the four-door to hit 60 mph from a standing start in 4.5 seconds. The photos show a classic shifter, which means that the Track Edition is equipped with the standard TR6060 Tremec six-speed manual, but the optional 6L80E six-speed automatic with Active Select and paddle shifters should be available too.

While the engine remained unchanged, HSV meddled a bit with the chassis. The spring and damper rates have been stiffened for reduced body roll and improved cornering response, while the brakes received the yellow AP Racing, six-piston forged calipers of the ClubSport GTS.

The R8 Track Edition retails from AUD$68,990 (about $49,805), which makes it about AUD$10,000 (some $7,220) more expensive than the standard model. Production is limited to only 150 units for the Australian market and an additional six examples for New Zealand. HSV expects all 156 vehicle to sell out before production begins later in 2016.

HSV ClubSport R8 25th Anniversary Edition

As the name suggests, the ClubSport R8 25th Anniversary was built to celebrate two and a half decades since the nameplate was introduced to the market. Compared to the regular model, it features a number of limited-edition extras including 20-inch gloss-black wheels, a rear spoiler, Pitch Black accents and badges, and a "shadow-chrome" finish for the exhaust tips. Inside, there are custom 25th Anniversary Edition sill plates, a bespoke EDI start-up screen, and individually numbered plates. The drivetrain is as standard as they get, with the 6.2-liter LS3 V-8 engine churning 456 horsepower and 420 pound-fee) of torque. Pricing was set at AUD$73,290 (around $52,910) and only 100 were built for Australia and eight for New Zealand.

Read our full review on the HSV ClubSport R8 25th Anniversary Edition here.