Overview of the Holden Ute
Holden was without a car-based ute for a few years before a utility version of the VG-generation Commodore debuted in 1990. Its donor car has ensured the Holden Ute has continued to deliver ride comfort, refinement and steering ability beyond that of dual-cab and cab-chassis utes that employ more primitive suspensions. V6 and V8 engines were also shared with the Commodore and the fastest version, called the Maloo, was produced by Holden Special Vehicles (HSV). The Holden Ute was never better than in its final (VF) iteration, and the end of local manufacturing in 2017 was truly a time to lament the passing of an Australian icon.
HOLDEN UTE GENERATIONS (SINCE 2000)
2000-2006
2007-2013
2013-2017
RUNNING COSTS
Fuel Consumption
3.6L V6: 9.0 to 9.1 litres per 100km
6.2L V8: 12.8 to 12.9 litres per 100km
= Highly economical.
= Good economy.
= Average fuel use.
= Heavy consumption.
Servicing
Lifetime capped price servicing program. Every 15,000km or 9 months, whichever is sooner. Each service currently costs between $239 and $596 depending on age and kilometres of vehicle. Holden Ute parts and equipment can be found on Gumtree.
SIMILAR MODELS TO HOLDEN UTE
Ford Falcon Ute
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: HOLDEN UTE (2014 ONWARDS)
Mechanically, the Ute is a Commodore, so it's strong and reliable. Check V8s for oil leaks and noisy lifters. V6s could have noisy timing chains.
The most important check is to find out what kind of previous life the Ute has had. Many were worked hard on fleets and by commercial operators, so check the service record.
The condition of the tray can tell you lots about a ute's history. If it's scratched and dented, it's certainly seen some action. Is there a big tow bar fitted?
The interior can tell tales, too. Are there holes drilled in the dashboard or centre console for an electronic dispatcher or radio that has since been removed?
Sportier V8 models were often modified, so make sure any aftermarket wheels, tyres, suspension and exhaust systems are legal and roadworthy. Insurance companies take a dim view of modifications like these, too.
