WORKHORSES have never offered this much play.

The revised Holden Crewman SS, like its Holden Ute and One Tonner stablemates, has received a considerable boost aimed at appealing to the booming ranks of tradespeople who crave greater lifestyle balance.

Tough and reliable are no longer the only prerequisites for such work vehicles, which now offer a level of refinement that allows them to be enjoyed long after knock-off time.

The Crewman SS four-door utility is at the top of the tree, being the only crew cab in Australia to combine sedan comfort, performance and handling with flexible seating for up to five.

And don`t forget it still has a decent load-carrying capacity for the serious yakka.

When dad finishes for the day, mum has no qualms about taking this stylish rig for a whirl to the shops or hairdressers. In fact, just try getting the keys back.

On the weekend, it`s load up the kids, boards and cattle dog and off to the beach for some fun in the sun. Life`s not all about toil you know!

The upgraded and sharper looking VZ series has further boosted the popularity of Australia`s number one light commercial range, which has sustained a record-breaking sales run.

Major changes include more high-output V8 power and an upgraded 4-speed automatic transmission.

Cruise control is now standard across the range and other additions include Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist and upgraded ABS.

Like their sedan counterparts, VZ Crewman, One Tonner and Ute are set apart by distinctive front end styling, characterised by new grille treatments, more compact headlights and deep facias integrated with a dynamic new bonnet form.

The Gen III V8-powered Crewman SS, as tested, sports smart chrome fender vents and projector headlights.

It has also benefited from the inclusion of electronic throttle control and upgrades to the 5.7 litre powerplant`s management system and powertrains. Power output on Crewman SS rises to 235kW and torque to 460Nm.

Improvements to the four-speed automatic transmission, including an advanced controlling module and torque converter refinements, enhance launch feel and shift consistency.

Crewman SS includes an in-dash six-stack CD player as standard equipment, a tonneau cover, two front/side airbags, trip computer, airconditioning, power windows, ABS brakes, LSD and a full-sized steel spare.

The front seats, much like a Commodore, are deeply contoured and offer generous room and comfort.

In the rear, however, only youngsters will be housed with comfort. If you have some burly workmates, they will be wrestling fiercely for the front passenger seat. The near vertical backrest doesn`t help things much.

Carrying capacity obviously has been deemed more important and the Crewman`s tray is only a tad shorter and narrower than the single cab ute.

In the safety department, Crewman`s crash protection is far superior to light truck-based one tonners. It also has excellent security with remote central locking, engine immobiliser and an alarm.

At 1820kg, Crewman SS is 160kg heavier than the single cab SS, and a less powerful engine means fuel consumption is slightly higher.

On the open road, it consumes 10.9 litres/100km, which is quite good for a hefty V8. Around town and hard at work, this can soar towards 20 litres/100km.

All attributes considered though, there is much to like about the Crewman SS.

Holden`s improvements to its looks and performance make it an even better proposition for those looking for a workhorse that doubles as a family car.