The workhorse Omega has the same mix of perfect balance and seamless power like its more powerful siblings the SV6, plus the V8 SS and SS-V.

The entire VE Ute range has been aimed squarely at those who use their Ute for work during the week and leisure at weekends, but certainly the Omega will be the one that fleets will buy for their tradesmen and contractors.

This has come about following research that it’s what the market wants. Holden has always had a disproportionate percentage of V8 and performance model buyers in its Ute mix; now it’s no longer a secret.

But you get electronic stability control (ESP) on all Holden VE Utes. And that means a level of safety and drive-ability hitherto unheard of in this market segment, particularly at the workhorse end where the Omega has the Falcon and others clearly in its gun sight.

ESP integrates traction control, anti-lock braking systems, electronic brake assist and electronic brake force distribution to help prevent skidding in critical driving situations by applying corrective braking to different wheels and reducing engine torque.

You also get more cab space in the Omega, with the ability to take your most valuable stuff with you inside, locked up hidden out of sight of thieving eyes.

You can hide your laptop or your briefcase away – even fit in an overnight bag behind the seat. Storage volume behind the seats is now 245 litres, a significant increase over VZ Ute’s 90 litre space, and as much as most small hatchback cars have.

There are two storage compartments beneath the load floor and it’s also easy to access the back storage area thanks to a quick release seat latch which is standard on all models.

Engine and transmission combinations have been matched to the likely use of the vehicle.

In the workhorse Omega this means a four-speed automatic transmission paired with Holden’s locally built 3.6-litre V6 Alloytec engine, delivering 180 kW of power and 330 Nm of torque.

If anything we preferred the 4-speed automatic to the more sophisticated 5 and 6-speed versions available in other VE Ute versions.

Certainly it’s tried and tested, having been around in generations of Holden models, it’s tough, and it’s absolutely smooth as silk.

The Omega Ute has the highest ride height and greatest payload of the range, at 794 kg, and comes standard with 16 inch steel wheels shod with 225/60 R16 102H tyres.

Features include a single disc CD/radio, four-way electric adjustment of the driver’s seat and adjustable driver’s seat lumbar support, power windows, a centre console storage compartment, cruise control, and a multi-function display and trip computer, the latter giving info on such things as average fuel, range and average speed, among other.

Surprisingly, air conditioning is an option, though all models also get steering height and reach adjustment as well as a multi-function steering wheel and dual two-stage airbags.

Holden Utes have come a long way from vinyl bench seats and a "three on the tree", and especially at $37,990 the Omega should find many friends amongst fleets and the trades.