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HSV has officially launched its version of the Commodore Sportwagon. Dubbed the Tourer and available in ClubSport R8 specification only, the Tourer carries a $1000 premium over its sedan equivalent.

The Tourer is the first HSV wagon since the Avalanche version of the Adventra all-wheel drive was released in 2003. Prior to the Avalanche, the company built 27 VT Senator Signature Estates in 1997. For HSV's sake, let's hope the Tourer attracts a few more buyers!

Mechanically identical to the sedan R8, the Tourer's LS3 engine is rated at 317kW and 550Nm.  HSV's boffins say they have tuned the hauler to match their sedans in handling and ride characteristics.

"We expect this product to appeal to a range of customers, including families, who will enjoy the versatility this HSV brings to the garage," said HSV Chief Engineer, Joel Stoddart.

"We've built on our knowledge gained since the launch of the E-Series range in August 2006 -- particularly in chassis development and tuning coupled with the all-new LS3 engine," Stoddart said.

HSV says it will build around 120 ClubSport R8 Tourers between now and the end of the year.

Unlike its Holden equivalent, the HSV wagon will be available with a manual transmission.

The manual ClubSport R8 Tourer is priced from $65,990 with the six-speed auto version $2330 more. Options include leather ($2490) and 20-inch wheels ($2500).

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