2001 Holden Utility VU SS review from Australia and New Zealand

Tonneau cover needed replacing as the metal rod securing the cover to the chassis was rattling badly.

Rear brake shudder whilst braking from 60km/h - discs were machined twice before 30000klms, finally replaced. No issues thereafter.

Air conditioning had a 'whirring' noise in it, Holden eventually needed to order a modified part in order for this problem to be fixed - no further issues since.

Engine warning light came on once at traffic lights, idle went down to about 400 rpm. Holden investigated, and I cannot comment on what they did to rectify the issue, but no light has come on since, idle is fine now (however, it was before this incident too).

This car is the best Holden I have owned to date (after having a VC, VN, VR, VT then the monster VU SS!). Comparing to the VT (which I also bought brand new), there is no comparison. My VT (series 1, of course!) was plagued with issues from day 1 and even after selling (at 85000klms) I had outstanding issues with it. The VU has been a wonderful car to date, despite a few issues as mentioned above.

The power generated by the 5.7 is UNBELIEVABLE. The ute is the Automatic version (didn't want the 6sp as I do HEAPS of inner city driving), and the automatic is terrific. I have no issues with it at all. I can keep up with the manual version no probs (this has been tested!!). As with all automatics however, sometimes the gear shift occurs when you don't want it to. Solution - buy a manual!!

The dash is great (black car, red dash), and it certainly grabs attention.

Added some rollbars to the Ute this year. ADVISE: Ensure you shop around before you order your set. Holden roll bars are one piece (the arched bar is welded to the top). Other utility specialist businesses offer a stronger and MUCH BETTER looking rollbar for the same price (guaranteed 30% stronger than Holden standard bars). I bought my bars from a reputable business (not affiliated with Holden) and I am stoked with them.