2003 Holden Monaro Series II CV8 Pictures, Specifications, Information

Holden introduced an updated Series II version of its highly popular Monaro sports coupe in December of 2002. The dynamically designed new millennium Monaro has dominated the sports car market segment since it hit the showrooms 12 months ago.

While the sleek exterior look remained largely unchanged, the Series II Monaro CV6 and CV8 models are distinguished by fresh interior styling treatments which include a new instrument panel with binnacle-style clusters and multi-function digital displays and a new steering wheel design. In addition, body structure refinements combined with powertrain improvements to offer better-than-ever build precision, performance and safety.

Simon Carr, Holden’s Brand Manager, Large Cars, said the latest evolution of the Monaro legend continues a remarkable sales success story that began well before the new coupe’s high profile launch at last year’s Sydney Motor Show.

“We held more than 500 firm orders months ahead of release time. Not surprisingly, Monaro jumped to the top of the sports car sales charts right from the beginning – and it has remained there, by a large margin, ever since,” he said.

The top of the range Monaro CV8 is powered by a 315 hp high output version of Holden’s Generation III 5.7 litre V8 engine, complemented by a specially tuned twin exhaust system.

Added to the standard equipment listing for CV8 are ‘twilight sentinel’ automatic headlamp control and road speed sensitive intermittent wipers. The CV8 also received high-feature Blaupunkt audio systems. The CV8 offers a six disc in-dash CD player and audible Rear Park Assist. Optional on both models are satellite navigation and the Holden Assist 24-hour satellite security and support system.

Stylish ‘mechanical’ design 5-spoke alloy wheels – 18-inch and 17-inch respectively – distinguish the Series II Monaro CV8 and CV6 from their predecessors. The CV8’s high output V8 performance boost is advertised by twin chromed exhaust outlets.

The choice of an exclusive new exterior finish, Purple Haze (named for the 1967 Jimi Hendrix classic released a year before the original Holden Monaro), is also available with the new Monaro series. On CV8 models, Purple Haze is complemented by instrument cluster colours and a choice of colour-keyed or Anthracite leather trim.

Inside, the new-look cockpit features a smoothly integrated and redesigned instrument panel with updated controls and graphics, a centre console incorporating large screen readout radio fascia and smart four-spoke steering wheel.

The CV8’s high output Generation III 5.7 litre V8 engine delivers a peak power of 315 and 343 lb-ft of torque. Its deep V8 base note comes courtesy of a new, full-length twin exhaust system with twin balance pipes, optimised to provide a sound quality that does not become intrusive at cruising speeds.