Torana Set To Fly Could a Pontiac Firebird Join the Party?
A GM Inside News Commentary by
Michael McWilliams
mikmakGMInsidenews.com
Australia Correspondent
<edit> Due to popular demand ....and some complaining, refer to the end of this post for the return of the Firebird</edit>
24 January 2012
Torana, an aboriginal word meaning “to fly”, is name well known amongst Australian motoring tragics. The car that kick started Peter Brocks astounding run of dominance at Bathurst (Australia’s Nurburgring) also kick started many a childhood love of the Lion and Stone. From the HB Brabham to the giant killing GTR XU-1, SLR 5000 and A9X, Torana has served up many much loved hi-po variants of the family hack models spanning 2 decades. Right now two circumstances are providing the perfect environment to revive a legend.
There has been no end to the discussion and excitement around the arrival of the Alpha based Cadillac ATS. Some were disappointed in the restraint of its design, but, finally Cadillac has a very competent entry into the compact luxury segment, and as many have hoped, it IS REAR wheel drive.
Now, with the concurrent arrival of the 130R concept, it may appear that GM is at least willing to investigate further opportunities to leverage their new RWD platform. We at GMInsidenews.com believe Alpha is a crucial part of GMs resurgence. One that has the potential to create a excitement beyond the shores of North America.
It is no secret that US manufacturing has had a tough run for the last ten years. In recent times, however, strength is returning to domestic products, both through sales and a more viable business case. The waiver green back creates viability which now extends to a more competitive export position.
Design
Thanks to our resident chopping wizard, MonaroSS, we’ve theorized just such an export proposition, paying homage to the still born GTR-X. Applying the styling cues of one of Holden’s most loved prototypes can give the Alpha platform a more dynamic edge that is missing with the recently revealed ATS (We aren’t picking on the ATS here. I believe the baby Caddy is a restrained, classy and fad free modern sedan, which is assured of success with customers not interested in shouting their entry to the executive car park). Clean panels rely on a sweeping silhouette , without the fussiness of some of Asia’s contemporary offerings. It offers a modern interpretation to an era when the bulk and glitz of the 50’s gave way to lithe athletic forms of euro supercars.
Features
All models can share the Holden iQ system which currently resides in the Commodore range. Obvious inclusions: 6 speed Auto or manual, 6 airbags, ESP, 60/40 split fold rear seats, Blue Tooth. Fast glass all round and dual zone climate control
Torana CDX (4 door only) from 32,990 AUD
Possible product mixes can start with the 1.4 Turbo currently used in the Australian built Holden Cruze and NA Chevrolet Cruze Eco. This power plant has proven itself as a lively and fun engine that when coupled with the 6 speed manual, provides enough satisfaction for the regular citizen. It even put a smile on my face in the base model Holden Cruze CD. Much like the entry level models from MB, Audi and BMW models, this is about a handsome and striking product that will most likely spend more time in the inner city. Holden iQ presents suitable functionality for USB and iPod connection. Suspension is tuned in line with similar damping feel as the current Cruze range (Note: I suspect that in Oz we may have a firmer ride than North America). Optional 2.0L turbo Diesel
Full leather interior, heated front seats and HDD storage for music give the CDX a more premium focus. 17” wheels aid ride compliance and less intrusive road noise.
Torana SRi (2 or 4 door) from 32,990 AUD
18” wheels, with the leather interior giving way to a more affordable interior with fabric trim and alcantara accents. Add GMs new 2.5DI 4 and you have a solid recipe for accessible entertainment. This would be an ideal first car for a lucky few, or a great second vehicle for the daily commuter whom occasionally might take the long way home. This is the choice for those who want a little sport in preference to luxury. LSD comes standard.
Torana SRiV (2 or 4 door) from 37,500 AUD
A 2.0T with direct injection, LSD, and unique 19” alloys, add to an interior packing all the fruit of the CDX, with added Navigation to the Holden iQ system.
Torana GTR Option pack (2 door only) from 41,990 AUD
For the performance oriented enthusiast, GTR spec adds a hi-po tune to the SRiV, complemented by GTR only, light weight 18” forged alloys, bigger Brembo stoppers and “SPORT” ESP setting for more liberal angles of attack. The blacked out interior gets a lift through heavily bolstered sports seats, and, alcantara sports wheel and interior accents. A GTR tab is also added to the Holden iQ system with configurable displays of performance data adding to the driver’s involvement.
More Options:
Rear Seat delete (2 door only)
Factory tuned sports exhaust
4G connectivity for Holden iQ integrated web browsing
Active Aero boot lip spoiler (GTR ONLY)
Cross Brace (2 door only w/Rear Seat deletion) [loss of 60/40 split fold capability]
Three is a Crowd
The biggest hurdle for an Alpha based Torana is obviously the Holden Commodore. Though relinquishing its 15 year record strong hold on the Number 1 position in the Australian market to Mazda 3, Commodore still serves as the biggest lynch pin in assuring continuity of domestic manufacturing. The last thing Holden wants is to do is jeopardise the future of their local operations. Holden’s Zeta still offers the only real full size sedan under 50K AUD, and, is not something that General Motors should give away lightly.
This can be mitigated through more complementary import agreements on both shores. I’m sure you’ve already guessed what I’m thinking: swap Zetas for Alphas, ensuring both markets have the option to choose from GMs best global RWD offerings. The added market will be a welcome boost for Australian production (including more favourable PPV sales), and, will also allow General Motors to operate as a more globally orientated organization. This is what they [General Motors] have always touted, but currently there is still too much protection in GMs empire.
Four is a Party
Other current “internal” competition will come in the form of the Malibu and the Opel Insignia line up (both due this year). How can you possibly justify having so many products in such a small market?
Try making it a global “problem”. Buick in China is STILL demonstrating how is should be the template for global success. More variety = more customers. Malibu will still maintain its likely function as a Camry competitor. Opel will still provide competition with the likes of VW/Skoda. Torana will be the point of difference that makes customers feel like they are taking the path less travelled. More importantly, there would be a huge market of starry eyed kids, now all grown up looking to relive their childhood.
How about a Buick Riviera for the European and Asian markets? Why not a new Opel Ascona (CDX spec) with Opel Bitter (GTR Pack) to revive Opel’s current lineup? How about General Motors starts offering more products with differing values and unique selling points, as opposed to their current crop of vehicles which seem beholden to the same formula as their competition?
As I’ve said before; if you offer the same product as the competition, then you have to compete on price (eventually having to trim back on features or accepting lower quality components). Offer a unique product and you will find people falling over themselves to get it (just watch the lineup for the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ[sp?]).
As far as we know, Torana is just a theory (though I'd love to post it in Headline News!) however, Alpha is the key for General Motors to finally offer a unique range of emotive products throughout the globe, and those are the type of automobiles that create loyal customers.
It is time for Alpha to fly.
2016 Pontiac Firebird
Released for the marques 90th Birthday, the Pontiac Firebird would carry all the options of the GTR spec trim plus the 3.0 TT DI V6. Added tech from the Corvette includes MRC suspension and variable aperature centre mounted twin exhaust.
The top spec Trans Am adds a 6.2 litre Hi-Po tune of GMs Gen V V8 with functional RAM air hood to feed optimised high flow heads unique to this iteration of GMs best V8 yet. A quartet of stainless exhausts bellows from the rear, letting you know who just blew you away.
The Firebird pays homage to the past while showcasing the latest in General Motors bred excitement. Exclusively available through Chevrolet show rooms. Enquire about the track pack options including MRC delete in place of adjustable racing suspension, and factory cages (half and full)!
A GM Inside News Commentary by
Michael McWilliams
mikmakGMInsidenews.com
Australia Correspondent
<edit> Due to popular demand ....and some complaining, refer to the end of this post for the return of the Firebird</edit>
24 January 2012
Torana, an aboriginal word meaning “to fly”, is name well known amongst Australian motoring tragics. The car that kick started Peter Brocks astounding run of dominance at Bathurst (Australia’s Nurburgring) also kick started many a childhood love of the Lion and Stone. From the HB Brabham to the giant killing GTR XU-1, SLR 5000 and A9X, Torana has served up many much loved hi-po variants of the family hack models spanning 2 decades. Right now two circumstances are providing the perfect environment to revive a legend.
There has been no end to the discussion and excitement around the arrival of the Alpha based Cadillac ATS. Some were disappointed in the restraint of its design, but, finally Cadillac has a very competent entry into the compact luxury segment, and as many have hoped, it IS REAR wheel drive.
Now, with the concurrent arrival of the 130R concept, it may appear that GM is at least willing to investigate further opportunities to leverage their new RWD platform. We at GMInsidenews.com believe Alpha is a crucial part of GMs resurgence. One that has the potential to create a excitement beyond the shores of North America.
It is no secret that US manufacturing has had a tough run for the last ten years. In recent times, however, strength is returning to domestic products, both through sales and a more viable business case. The waiver green back creates viability which now extends to a more competitive export position.
Design
Thanks to our resident chopping wizard, MonaroSS, we’ve theorized just such an export proposition, paying homage to the still born GTR-X. Applying the styling cues of one of Holden’s most loved prototypes can give the Alpha platform a more dynamic edge that is missing with the recently revealed ATS (We aren’t picking on the ATS here. I believe the baby Caddy is a restrained, classy and fad free modern sedan, which is assured of success with customers not interested in shouting their entry to the executive car park). Clean panels rely on a sweeping silhouette , without the fussiness of some of Asia’s contemporary offerings. It offers a modern interpretation to an era when the bulk and glitz of the 50’s gave way to lithe athletic forms of euro supercars.
Features
All models can share the Holden iQ system which currently resides in the Commodore range. Obvious inclusions: 6 speed Auto or manual, 6 airbags, ESP, 60/40 split fold rear seats, Blue Tooth. Fast glass all round and dual zone climate control
Torana CDX (4 door only) from 32,990 AUD
Possible product mixes can start with the 1.4 Turbo currently used in the Australian built Holden Cruze and NA Chevrolet Cruze Eco. This power plant has proven itself as a lively and fun engine that when coupled with the 6 speed manual, provides enough satisfaction for the regular citizen. It even put a smile on my face in the base model Holden Cruze CD. Much like the entry level models from MB, Audi and BMW models, this is about a handsome and striking product that will most likely spend more time in the inner city. Holden iQ presents suitable functionality for USB and iPod connection. Suspension is tuned in line with similar damping feel as the current Cruze range (Note: I suspect that in Oz we may have a firmer ride than North America). Optional 2.0L turbo Diesel
Full leather interior, heated front seats and HDD storage for music give the CDX a more premium focus. 17” wheels aid ride compliance and less intrusive road noise.
Torana SRi (2 or 4 door) from 32,990 AUD
18” wheels, with the leather interior giving way to a more affordable interior with fabric trim and alcantara accents. Add GMs new 2.5DI 4 and you have a solid recipe for accessible entertainment. This would be an ideal first car for a lucky few, or a great second vehicle for the daily commuter whom occasionally might take the long way home. This is the choice for those who want a little sport in preference to luxury. LSD comes standard.
Torana SRiV (2 or 4 door) from 37,500 AUD
A 2.0T with direct injection, LSD, and unique 19” alloys, add to an interior packing all the fruit of the CDX, with added Navigation to the Holden iQ system.
Torana GTR Option pack (2 door only) from 41,990 AUD
For the performance oriented enthusiast, GTR spec adds a hi-po tune to the SRiV, complemented by GTR only, light weight 18” forged alloys, bigger Brembo stoppers and “SPORT” ESP setting for more liberal angles of attack. The blacked out interior gets a lift through heavily bolstered sports seats, and, alcantara sports wheel and interior accents. A GTR tab is also added to the Holden iQ system with configurable displays of performance data adding to the driver’s involvement.
More Options:
Rear Seat delete (2 door only)
Factory tuned sports exhaust
4G connectivity for Holden iQ integrated web browsing
Active Aero boot lip spoiler (GTR ONLY)
Cross Brace (2 door only w/Rear Seat deletion) [loss of 60/40 split fold capability]
Three is a Crowd
The biggest hurdle for an Alpha based Torana is obviously the Holden Commodore. Though relinquishing its 15 year record strong hold on the Number 1 position in the Australian market to Mazda 3, Commodore still serves as the biggest lynch pin in assuring continuity of domestic manufacturing. The last thing Holden wants is to do is jeopardise the future of their local operations. Holden’s Zeta still offers the only real full size sedan under 50K AUD, and, is not something that General Motors should give away lightly.
This can be mitigated through more complementary import agreements on both shores. I’m sure you’ve already guessed what I’m thinking: swap Zetas for Alphas, ensuring both markets have the option to choose from GMs best global RWD offerings. The added market will be a welcome boost for Australian production (including more favourable PPV sales), and, will also allow General Motors to operate as a more globally orientated organization. This is what they [General Motors] have always touted, but currently there is still too much protection in GMs empire.
Four is a Party
Other current “internal” competition will come in the form of the Malibu and the Opel Insignia line up (both due this year). How can you possibly justify having so many products in such a small market?
Try making it a global “problem”. Buick in China is STILL demonstrating how is should be the template for global success. More variety = more customers. Malibu will still maintain its likely function as a Camry competitor. Opel will still provide competition with the likes of VW/Skoda. Torana will be the point of difference that makes customers feel like they are taking the path less travelled. More importantly, there would be a huge market of starry eyed kids, now all grown up looking to relive their childhood.
How about a Buick Riviera for the European and Asian markets? Why not a new Opel Ascona (CDX spec) with Opel Bitter (GTR Pack) to revive Opel’s current lineup? How about General Motors starts offering more products with differing values and unique selling points, as opposed to their current crop of vehicles which seem beholden to the same formula as their competition?
As I’ve said before; if you offer the same product as the competition, then you have to compete on price (eventually having to trim back on features or accepting lower quality components). Offer a unique product and you will find people falling over themselves to get it (just watch the lineup for the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ[sp?]).
As far as we know, Torana is just a theory (though I'd love to post it in Headline News!) however, Alpha is the key for General Motors to finally offer a unique range of emotive products throughout the globe, and those are the type of automobiles that create loyal customers.
It is time for Alpha to fly.
MonaroSS has also added a possible Pontiac Niche Model so let's chew on that option!
2016 Pontiac Firebird
Released for the marques 90th Birthday, the Pontiac Firebird would carry all the options of the GTR spec trim plus the 3.0 TT DI V6. Added tech from the Corvette includes MRC suspension and variable aperature centre mounted twin exhaust.
The top spec Trans Am adds a 6.2 litre Hi-Po tune of GMs Gen V V8 with functional RAM air hood to feed optimised high flow heads unique to this iteration of GMs best V8 yet. A quartet of stainless exhausts bellows from the rear, letting you know who just blew you away.
The Firebird pays homage to the past while showcasing the latest in General Motors bred excitement. Exclusively available through Chevrolet show rooms. Enquire about the track pack options including MRC delete in place of adjustable racing suspension, and factory cages (half and full)!