Taking exports into account, they are Holden’s second largest-selling locally built vehicles. Holden last year exported more than 27,300 vehicles based on the current WL series Statesman and Caprice, more than seven times the number sold in Australia .

The vehicles carried the General Motors brands of Chevrolet in the Middle East , Buick in China and Daewoo in South Korea as well as Holden in New Zealand . They led Holden to record vehicle exports of 60,518 for 2005.

GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Denny Mooney, said the design differences between the all-new WM Statesman and Caprice and the VE Commodore were greater than ever before.


Mr Mooney said Holden decided to reveal both ranges together to highlight the breadth of its design and development achievements.

He said WM would elevate its position as one of the most spacious and accommodating sedans in the world for rear seat passengers.

“This car delivers design themes worthy of its leadership of Australia's automotive hierarchy, a luxury vehicle setting its own path more than ever before,” Mr Mooney said.

“The all-new WM Caprice is the most distinctive modern vehicle which Holden has had the pleasure of calling its own.

“Virtually every panel is unique to WM. This car is now our biggest seller overseas which has allowed us to take the car to a whole new level.

“You’re not buying a longer Commodore, you’re buying a stand-alone car. Caprice will be among the most spacious passenger cars in the world, designed, engineered and manufactured right here in Australia .

“The space and comfort for rear passengers is particularly impressive and relevant for the buyer type and its proportions are truly stunning.”

The Holden WM Statesman and Caprice will offer the high output Alloytec 3.6L V6 engine, delivering peak power of 195 kilowatts, and the Generation IV 6.0L V8 alloy engine delivering peak power of 270 kilowatts.

Both vehicles will go on sale in September 2006. Pricing, full specifications and features will be announced closer to the start of sales.