🏁 How We Unlocked Nearly 30kW from a 2012 Holden LFX with Just Bolt-Ons and a Tune
- Revhigh Performance Tuning
- Jul 14
- 2 min read
If you're driving a 2012 Holden VE or VF fitted with the 3.6L LFX engine, you might be wondering — how much more power is hiding under that bonnet without touching the internals? The answer: plenty.
At Revhigh Performance, we recently tuned a Holden LFX that went from a stock 168kW at the wheels to a screaming 197.7kW, revving confidently up to 7000rpm. That’s a massive 29.7kW gain — and here’s the kicker: it was done with just a few simple mods and a precision dyno tune.
🔧 Mod List
ORSSOM OTR Intake: This cold air intake system is a favourite for a reason. Engineered to maximise airflow and eliminate restrictions, it gives the LFX engine the lungs it deserves.
Resonated Downpipe: No more raspy exhaust note — just a deeper, richer tone that’s music to any revhead’s ears. The resonated downpipe improves flow while maintaining civility.
🔥 Why This Tune Works
The LFX engine is often overlooked next to LS variants, but it's a high-feature, direct-injection V6 with plenty of untapped potential. It responds brilliantly to airflow improvements and careful tuning — particularly in the mid to high RPM range.
By lifting the rev limit to 7000rpm and refining fuel and ignition maps, our tuning dialed in more torque down low and more power up top — all while keeping drivability spot-on for the street.
📈 Real Gains, Real Fast
Stage | Power (at wheels) |
Stock | 168kW |
Tuned & Modded | 197.7kW |
That’s a 17.6% increase in wheel horsepower — with no cams, no internals, no forced induction. Just clean mods, a resonated exhaust, and the right calibration.
💡 Trend Alert: The Rise of N/A Tuning
While turbocharged builds get all the glory, the naturally aspirated (N/A) tuning scene is making a huge comeback — especially in Australia. With stricter emissions laws and rising turbo upgrade costs, more enthusiasts are turning to affordable, legal bolt-ons and ECU tunes to unlock serious gains.
Platforms like the LFX are gaining a loyal following for their reliability, rev-happy nature, and hidden potential.
👀 Thinking of Tuning Your Holden?
Whether you're driving a VE, VF, SV6 or Calais, the right setup can turn your Holden into a completely different machine. The gains are real — and best of all, you don’t need to break the bank or swap your engine.
Want to feel that 7000rpm scream? Hit us up.
