2018 Holden Monaro
The Holden will cease local manufacturing Down Under in 2017, but what
if it was given a lifeline, or more intriguingly, a chance to revisit the glory
days of the Monaro Coupe? With that question in mind, let’s
illustratively explore what a modern Monaro would look like and what would make
it go.
Many
motoring icons are remembered for their first generation designs and the Monaro
isn’t any different. Using the classic model as an
inspiration, this study takes on a retro path with muscular modern overtones.
Perhaps the strongest link between past and present is the wide, dominant front
grille with circular LED lighting and the smooth and rounded rear quarter
windows. Other modernized elements are the hood
and fender vents, helping to reinforce its muscular nature. Same could be said
for the rear haunches and lower lip splitters which emphasize stance and visual
punch.
In the world of platform sharing, the
retro body would be best suited to GM’s Alpha architecture, as it would reap the
same weight-saving and handling benefits the Camaro, Cadillac ATS and CTS
enjoy. Dynamics could be further improved by
employing a few Camaro tricks; like its impressive Magnetic Ride Control active
dampers, multilink rear suspension and quick electric-assist steering.
On the performance front, power would
come from Chevrolet’s 6.2-liter LT1 V-8. Offering up to 460 hp this unit
would feed power to the rear wheels, via a 6-speed manual or an eight-speed
automatic shared with the latest Corvette.
A naturally aspirated, direct-injected 3.6-liter V6 ought to be potent
enough to serve as a base option, while the Camaro’s 2.0-liter turbo could also
fit in.
