Walkinshaw W457 and W497 2013 Overview
Blast me. Walkinshaw just released supercharged versions of the HSV and SS Commodore VF models, and the results are stunning.
The HSV Clubsport R8 now delivers 497kW/955Nm, while the SS starts at 457kW/780Nm. This is more grunt than a herd of pigs and confirms Walkinshaw's position as a major player in the aftermarket.
VALUE
The upgrade costs $18,990. With the 6.0-liter SS starting at $41,990 and the 6.2-liter Clubsport R8 starting at $71,290, the upgrades are $60,980 and $90,280, respectively. You could buy a compact car for this, but it adds power equal to the power output of a midsize car. We are talking about a 50 percent increase in power, as well as 400 Nm of torque in the HSV model. Improvements are mostly mechanical.
TECHNOLOGY
The supercharger is an Eaton 2300 series twin swirl supercharger equipped with high performance fuel injectors, a special intercooler and a cold air intake system. The exhaust is tuned to maximize airflow and the results are stunning. The transmission is also backed by Walkinshaw to balance the donor vehicle's new vehicle warranty.
Design
Equipped with the very powerful MyLink infotainment system, the VF models finally take the Commodore into the 21st century. HSV adds battery voltage and oil pressure gauges to the base of the center console, as well as EDI performance telemetry that displays lateral and power loads and comes with a Race feature. The HSV seats put the SS model to shame for looks and traction, but that's to be expected given the price difference.
SECURITY
The VF Commodore performed well in the ANCAP crash test with a score of 35.06/37. The local bodywork crash test notes: “In the frontal crash test, the driver’s chest and leg protection was acceptable. Passenger leg protection was also acceptable. All other injury results in this test and in the side impact test were good.”
Suffice it to say, in the usually cautious manner of the ANCAP, to state such conclusions.
DRIVING
The HSV-derived Walkinshaw feels stiffer in every area - brakes, seat support and steering - than the regular SS. This results in more confidence at the limit and a higher level of grip before the rear starts to fail. Given Walkinshaw's updates, it will release very quickly if you're not careful. Moments before it revs up, the R8 roars like an enema elephant. It then rushes down the road with tsunami momentum and doesn't seem to stop when the speedometer hits the 260 km/h limit.
Carsguide suggests a 4.0-second interval from rest to 100 km/h, but a decent driver on a race track can even cut that down to high triples. It's very fast. SS is just around the corner and in terms of value for money represents the best value. The accelerator isn't as jerky, and it feels a bit lighter over the front wheels. Exhaust noise is unlikely to anger neighbors.
Both are great for daily use, which was a key part of the Walkinshaw update. Peak power is good for showing off in the pub, but useless if the car takes off or tries to climb into the back of the car in front as soon as the accelerator pedal is pressed. Needless to say, the Walkinshaw treatment works.
VERDICT
On this side of the HSV GTS, there is not a single locally built car that comes close to it on the drag strip or winding roads. What Walkinshaw and Commodores are generally inferior in cornering speed is erased when the steering lock is released and the supercharger is turned on.
Walkinshaw W457 and W497 packages
Cost: from $18,990 (on top of donor car)
Guarantee: Remaining factory coverage for 3 years/100,000 km
Fixed price service: No
Service Interval: 9 months/15,000 km
Resale: No
Safety: 5 stars
Engine: 6.0-liter supercharged V8, 457 kW/780 Nm; 6.2-liter supercharged V8, 497 kW/955 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed male, 6-speed automatic; rear drive
