The HK Holden was the most influential Holden model
to date, bringing a large array of options and mechanical
features - most importantly of which was the imported
Chev V8 engine. Another important milestone for Holden
was the introduction of the now infamous 'Kingswood'
name for the volume selling model.
The new HK Holden was bigger, lower and heavier than
the previous model, and boasted two major model additions
to the range. For the first time there was a Holden
luxury vehicle, the 'Brougham', and a sports coupe, the
'Monaro'.
Most important for these two new models was
the V8 engine, although it could be specified as an option
across the entire HK range.
The base model HK sedan was the 'Belmont', while the
formally known 'Special' was now to be known as the
'Kingswood'.
The up market 'Premier' was retained (and
featured a different roofline to the lesser models) and
in July 1968, the extended version of the HK sedan, the
Brougham, was released.
It was over 20cm longer than the Premier and featured
as standard the Chev 307c.i V8 engine, Powerglide auto
transmission, power steering and the most plush Holden
interior to date.
In July of 1968 Holden introduced the Monaro sports coupe
to the HK range. Based on the sedan, the pillarless Monaro
was the first local vehicle of its type and won Holden
a legion of new fans.
The three Monaro models included
the potent 'Bathurst-Bred' GTS 327, fitted with the US-built
Chevrolet 5.3 liter V8 engine.
With the HK, Holden offered a larger choice of models,
engines, transmissions and options than had previously
been seen in a massed-produced Australian car.
Safety
features fitted to all models included an energy-absorbing
steering column (another Australian first) and dual circuit
braking system.
