Running late will be a thing of the past. Station wagons are known for being reliable people movers; however the new HSV ClubSport R8 Tourer will change the face of family cars with its 3.7kW, 6.2 V8 engine and sports-tuned suspension.

This car is one of a kind with very few competitors and since the Tourer was updated to E3 specification last year, it’s without a doubt that this vehicle will continue to pull ahead from the crowd. With its LED driving lights, big alloy wheels, bonnet scoops and low-slung shape, there was no need to change the already impressive exterior.

The interior however, is like stepping into the future. It is reflecting Holden’s VE series II Commodore but also includes a new touch screen and centre stack.

There are many other new features and trims such as the Enhanced Driver Interface (EDI), which shows performance data on the touch screen. Satellite navigation, iPod connectivity, dual-zone climate control, 19-inch alloy wheels, single-CD audio system and Bluetooth connectivity are just the beginning of what’s included in this vehicle. Another bonus includes a reversing camera and rear parking sensors. There is also an option for a blind-spot warning system, making the roads safer for everyone. The price is $68,600 (plus costs) which is $1000 more than the previous model.

As the station wagon is known as a popular people mover, it is expected the safety items are at the highest quality. The Tourer has a five-star NCAP crash safety rating, tyre-pressure monitoring, lap-sash seatbelts, stability control and six airbags.

As there are many concerns with the economy and many people are choosing price over performance, it is unfortunate the Tourer does not have a new HSV dual-fuel liquid propane injection LPG option.

The official fuel-use average is 13.9L/100kms which is fairly efficient as it pumps 317Kw and 550Nm and also has a kerb weight of 1887 kilograms. Sometimes it feels awkward in really tight going, but despite the weight of the Tourer, it steers with accuracy and grips indisputably. There is an option for 20-inch wheels and low-profile rubber, which makes for a slightly bumpy ride.

This six-speed auto vehicle is very easy to drive, however the manual and sports mode can make the drive more interesting. The manual mode gives exact control where as the sports mode sharpens the steering and changes to allow for more aggressive driving.

The Tourer has used the changes of the Commodore’s interior to reach a more up market niche group. The touch screen, climate controls and the centre console looks classier with a piano-black surface and a stainless steel nameplate divides the dashboard.

Adding to the class and style of this car are leather sports seats and the size of the features. Rear seats, interior space, steering wheel, storage options; all are massive.

If 895 litres of luggage area is not enough, the split-fold rear seat saves the day as it can expand to as much as 2000 litres.

Overall, the ClubSport R8 Tourer has done well in this niche market. Despite how many ways the HSV tries to improve it, it is still a Commodore, but it’s still very good.