2003 HSV Senator Signature review from Australia and New Zealand
"I see why people love HSVs"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Very little - The gearshifter release knob broke - $15 to replace.
Brakes have needed machining twice due to pulsation - this would be the most annoying trait.
Cupholders needed superglue as they started to crack.
General comments?
Has been an excellent car - superb coulson seats, very comfortable.
Self leveling rear is great when towing or loaded up. Easily enough performance.
I simply can't really fault the car. It has started first time every time, everything works, it is actually very economical on highway runs - regularly dipping into the 8's per 100km, which for a thumping V8 is commendable.
Aircon works great, power windows go up and down quickly, always unlocks and locks when I tell it to, everything simply works as it is meant to.
I guess my only complaint would surround the auto gearbox - it is simply dumb at times - but then again it is an old design, is not adaptive, and only 4spd. Simply dithers occasionally, thumps downshifts every now and then etc. 90% of the time is is acceptable.
I would recommend a HSV to anyone. Every time I walk out to it, I love the way it looks!
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2003 |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 5.7 Gen3 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 66000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 116000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Subaru Liberty |
| Date of Entry | 29th July, 2009 |