Holden Berlina
| Company type | Automobile series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | 1978 |
| Defunct | 2020 |
| Fate | Discontinued with retirement of Holden brand |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia, New Zealand, Middle East, South Africa, North America, United Kingdom, Singapore |
| Products | Automobiles (sedan, station wagon, utility, coupe, crossover) |
| Parent | Holden (General Motors) |
The Holden Commodore stood as the premier vehicle series offered by the now-defunct Australian automaker Holden from 1978 until 2020. Manufacturing took place domestically in Australia from its inception in 1978 up to October 2017, while production in New Zealand occurred between 1979 and 1990. Local assembly operations ended on 20 October 2017.
The initial three generations (1978–2006) utilized the GM V platform, originally designed by Opel for GM’s largest European models. Holden significantly adapted and reinforced this rear-wheel drive architecture to better accommodate Australian driving conditions and consumer expectations. The exterior design drew substantial influence from the Opel Commodore C and later Opel Omega, along with their Vauxhall equivalents.
Between 2006 and 2017, Holden independently engineered the fourth generation VE and VF Commodores, employing the rear-wheel drive GM Zeta platform. From 2018 to 2020, the ZB Commodore was introduced as a rebadged version of the German-built front-wheel/all-wheel drive Opel Insignia. The Commodore series concluded alongside the retirement of the Holden brand at the close of 2020.
History
Replacing the longstanding Holden Kingswood and Holden Premier, the Commodore initially launched solely as a sedan. The lineup expanded in 1979 to incorporate a station wagon variant. In 1984, Holden introduced its flagship model under the Holden Calais nameplate, while in 1988, the Commodore Berlina was elevated to its own Holden Berlina branding. Long-wheelbase Statesman/Caprice models and utility versions of the Commodore appeared in 1990. The third generation featured the broadest range of body types, including the Holden Ute (2000), a revived Monaro coupé (2001), four-door Holden Crewman utility, and all-wheel drive Holden Adventra crossover (2003). From 1987 onwards, Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) officially offered high-performance modifications for the Commodore and its variants under their own brand identity.
Its primary competitor was the locally manufactured Ford Falcon. Prior to the release of the second generation Commodore in 1988, Holden’s offering was considered a smaller segment compared to the Falcon. Additional competition stemmed from Toyota Australia and Chrysler Australia, which later became Mitsubishi Motors Australia. Between 1989 and 1997, Australian government policies facilitated the launch of the Toyota Lexcen, essentially a rebadged second generation Commodore. The third generation (1997) marked Holden’s most extensive export initiative for the Commodore and its derivatives, marketed as Chevrolet across the Middle East and South Africa; Pontiac and Chevrolet in North America; HSV badged as Vauxhall in the United Kingdom; Chevrolet Special Vehicles (CSV) in the Middle East; as well as HSV models in New Zealand and Singapore.
In December 2013, Holden declared it would end local manufacturing by October 2017 but planned to continue using the Commodore name on its fifth-generation model, which would be fully imported and built on a front-wheel drive (FWD)/all-wheel drive (AWD) architecture.
On 10 December 2019, Holden confirmed that it would retire the Commodore nameplate during 2020 to concentrate on SUVs and Utes, which represented over 76% of its sales portfolio in 2019. This decision brought an end to the Commodore’s production after a span of 41 years. Subsequently, on 17 February 2020, General Motors announced that it would withdraw the entire Holden brand from both Australia and New Zealand by 2021.
VB (1978–1980)
Launched in October 1978, the VB Commodore emerged during the aftermath of the 1973 oil crisis. The global trend favoring smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles prompted Holden to phase out the full-size HZ Kingswood in favor of a more compact model. Initial plans to develop a new WA Kingswood were scrapped due to indecisiveness within management. Instead, Holden based the VB on Opel designs, merging the body shell of the four-cylinder Rekord E with the front end of the Opel Senator A, both constructed on GM's V-body platform. This configuration accommodated Holden’s six- and eight-cylinder powertrains. The "Commodore" name was borrowed from Opel, which had been using it since 1967. Opel later employed this hybrid design for their Commodore C model.
During development, Holden determined that the Opel Rekord was ill-suited for Australia's demanding road conditions, prompting extensive re-engineering that reduced parts commonality to just 35%. Alterations included a redesigned front suspension and replacing the recirculating ball steering system with rack and pinion, which pushed development costs to about AUD 110 million—nearly equivalent to creating an all-new vehicle independently. Due to budget constraints, production was limited to a sedan body style offered in base, SL, and SL/E trims. Wagon variants, introduced in July 1979, utilized imported sheet metal and thus differed in components from the sedans. The platform did not lend itself to utility or long-wheelbase versions. Despite early quality problems such as poor trim fitment and mechanical issues resulting in high warranty claims, the VB earned acclaim for its handling, steering precision, braking performance, and ride comfort, securing the Wheels Car of the Year award in 1978.
The VB preserved 96% of the Kingswood’s interior volume while reducing overall exterior dimensions by 14%, rendering it approximately five percent larger than the Torana. This reduction positioned the Commodore below competitors like the Ford Falcon in terms of size but substantially improved fuel efficiency. While initially perceived as a drawback due to lost fleet and taxi sales, this proved advantageous when the 1979 energy crisis caused oil prices to escalate by 140%, boosting demand for more economical vehicles—a market segment where Holden had already adapted.
VC (1980–1981)
Released in March 1980, the VC Commodore debuted the "XT5" engine upgrade that replaced previous Red engines with blue-painted Blue straight-six and V8 units. Improvements included a new twelve-port cylinder head design, revamped combustion chambers, updated inlet and exhaust manifolds, and a two-barrel carburettor fitted to six-cylinder models. The V8 engines received electronic ignition systems, revised cylinder heads and inlet manifolds, along with a four-barrel carburettor on the 4.2-litre variant, enhancing power output, fuel efficiency, and drivability.
In response to escalating fuel costs, June 1980 saw the introduction of a 1.9-litre four-cylinder Starfire engine derived by removing two cylinders from the six-cylinder unit. This engine generated 58 kW and 140 Nm of torque but was underpowered and delivered fuel consumption comparable to the six-cylinder due to its necessity for high-rev operation.
Fuel economy considerations extended to instrumentation changes; a vacuum gauge replaced the tachometer across most models, with the latter available only in an optional sports instrumentation package. Exterior modifications were subtle: the corporate crest was repositioned centrally on a redesigned grille; black trim was added around sedan tail lamp surrounds; and side rubbing strips featured embossed model badging. The base model was renamed Commodore L, while a de-contented delete option targeted fleet buyers exclusively.
The premium SL/E trim brought back the "Shadowtone" paint scheme featuring dark-over-light color combinations. Reviews noted heavier steering feel accompanied by increased understeer but commended suspension updates for delivering a softer ride and improved handling when carrying full loads.
VH (1981–1984)
Introduced in September 1981, the VH series showcased refreshed front-end styling, including a redesigned bonnet, front fenders, a grille with horizontal slats, and recontoured headlamps. These changes gave the vehicle a broader and longer stance. The rear sedans featured louvered tail lights influenced by then-current Mercedes-Benz designs. The model lineup was simplified: the SL replaced the L as the entry-level variant, the previous SL was rebranded as the mid-tier SL/X, and the SL/E continued as the flagship trim. Wagon models were available exclusively in SL and SL/X versions. Distinctive pentagonal alloy wheels were introduced for the SL/E, complemented by blacked-out B-pillars, chrome rear bumper extensions wrapping around the sides, and elongated tail lamps that met at the license plate recess. Early SL/E sedans finished in Shadowtone paint were the first to be equipped with these wheels.
Mechanically, most components remained unchanged; however, a new five-speed manual transmission option was added for both the 1.9-litre four-cylinder and 2.85-litre six-cylinder engines. Holden emphasized enhancing engine performance and fuel economy, achieving fuel savings up to 12.5% for the four-cylinder and 14% for the six-cylinder versions. In September 1982, the sports-focused Commodore SS sedan was reintroduced, featuring either a 4.2-litre or optional 5.0-litre V8 engine paired with a four-speed manual gearbox. The Holden Dealer Team (HDT), led by racer Peter Brock, developed high-performance upgrade packages known as Group One, Two, and Three, with Group Three available for both V8 engine sizes.
At launch, Commodore sales were declining due to an outdated six-cylinder engine design dating back to 1963 and growing competition from Ford Falcon's ongoing enhancements. The VH offered minimal advancements in powertrain or exterior styling compared to its predecessor, limiting its appeal in terms of fuel efficiency and performance. Moreover, Holden's mid-size Camira, introduced in 1982, provided comparable interior space with lower fuel consumption and pricing, initially attracting buyers away from the Commodore. Nevertheless, as fuel prices stabilized, consumer preference shifted toward larger vehicles like the Falcon, which overtook the Commodore as Australia's top-selling car in 1982.
VK (1984–1986)
The VK model released in 1984 represented Holden's first significant redesign since the VB series, incorporating a six-window glasshouse that enhanced the Commodore’s visual impact. This update resulted in sales reaching 135,000 units over two years but failed to alleviate Holden’s financial difficulties. While the Holden Camira initially performed well in sales, it later suffered due to quality problems. Meanwhile, Holden’s aging Holden WB commercial vehicles and Statesman WB luxury models—both originating from 1971—fell behind Ford Australia's more contemporary Falcon and Fairlane ranges.
Trim designations were revised: Commodore Executive replaced SL with added air conditioning and automatic transmission; Berlina succeeded SL/X; and Calais took over from SL/E. The 3.3-litre Blue inline-six was replaced by the Black engine featuring computer-controlled ignition and optional electronic fuel injection, boosting power output to . The 5.0-litre V8 persisted for premium trims but was downsized from 5,044 cc to 4,987 cc in 1985 to meet Group A racing homologation requirements. The VK model weighed less than its predecessor by , alongside upgraded braking systems. With oil prices stabilizing during this period, Holden discontinued both the 2.85-litre six-cylinder and 4.2-litre V8 engines; meanwhile, the 1.9-litre four-cylinder was restricted to sales in New Zealand markets only.
VL (1986–1988)
The 1986 VL Commodore achieved a sales milestone by surpassing the Ford Falcon in private buyer numbers. This model presented a significant redesign from the VK, moving away from its Opel origins with more streamlined body contours, a discreet rear spoiler, slim headlamps, and a less pronounced grille; the Calais version featured distinct partially hidden headlamps.
Holden discontinued its long-serving 24-year-old six-cylinder engine in favor of importing the Nissan RB engine#RB30E from Japan through an agreement with Nissan. Initially cost-effective when arranged in 1983, currency fluctuations by 1986 increased its expense. The RB30E engine delivered a 33% increase in power and enhanced fuel efficiency by 15% compared to the previous Black six-cylinder unit. A turbocharged variant launched six months later elevated output to . Additionally, an unleaded V8 was introduced in October 1986 following public demand that reversed Holden's initial decision to phase it out. Export versions, including those for New Zealand and Southeast Asia, were equipped with a 2.0-litre RB20E six-cylinder engine.
The VL model experienced issues such as inadequate windshield sealing that led to water ingress and rust. The cross-flow radiator design caused cracked cylinder heads in the RB30E engine, a problem not seen in the Nissan Skyline equivalent. Safety assessments released in 2008 rated first-generation Commodores (VB–VL) as offering "worse than average" protection for occupants during collisions, comparable to contemporary Ford Falcons. At that time, airbags were not yet available in Australian vehicles but would be introduced as options on later Commodore generations beginning with the VR series.
VN (1988–1991)
The 1988 VN Commodore and subsequent second-generation models adopted styling cues from the larger Opel Senator B and Opel Omega A, but featured an expanded and lengthened floorpan designed to compete directly with the Ford Falcon in size. Due to budget constraints, Holden retained narrow VL chassis components beneath the broader bodywork to minimize development expenses. In Australia, the Berlina was marketed simply as Berlina, whereas in New Zealand the locally assembled V6 VN Berlina was branded Executive until the Berlina name was introduced for an entry-level four-cylinder model powered by an Opel-derived two-litre engine. The range grew in 1990 with the addition of the VG utility variant built on a longer-wheelbase platform shared with station wagons and luxury VQ Statesman sedans. During a period when the rival EA Falcon suffered from quality problems, the VN Commodore gained strong market acceptance, helping Holden return to profitability with an operating profit of in 1989. Furthermore, this model secured Wheels magazine’s Car of the Year award in 1988.
Fluctuating currency values rendered continued use of Nissan engines unfeasible, leading Holden to engineer its own 3.8-litre V6 engine derived from a Buick design modified from front-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive configuration. The optional 5.0-litre V8 engine received a power increase to through multi-point fuel injection. Although not highly refined, this new V6 was commended for its performance and fuel economy. The 2.0-litre Family II engine was available in New Zealand and select export markets such as Singapore, where the model also carried the Berlina badge. Transmission upgrades included replacing the VL’s four-speed automatic with a Turbo-Hydramatic unit and introducing a Borg-Warner five-speed manual gearbox. A Series II update released in September 1989 featured a revised V6 engine ('EV6') boosting output to .
As part of the government-mandated Button car plan, Holden collaborated with Toyota Australia through the United Australian Automobile Industries joint venture to produce badge-engineered versions of the VN Commodore marketed as Toyota Lexcen. Named after Ben Lexcen, designer of the victorious Australia II yacht, the initial T1 Lexcen offered sedan and wagon body styles across base, GL, and GLX trims, all powered by a 3.8-litre V6 coupled exclusively with an automatic transmission.
VP (1991–1993)
The 1991 VP revision brought both aesthetic and functional updates while maintaining the 3.8-litre V6 and 5.0-litre V8 engine options carried over from the VN series. The 2.0-litre straight-four engine was discontinued in the New Zealand market. Exterior modifications included a translucent acrylic grille on base Executive variants, colour-matched grilles for S and SS trims, and chrome finishes reserved for Calais models. Tail lamp designs and boot trim were adjusted according to trim level, with Berlina receiving grey striping and Calais featuring chrome detailing. The semi-trailing arm independent rear suspension became standard equipment on Calais and SS versions, optional on lower trims as a replacement for the live rear axle, improving both handling and ride quality.
An increased front track width addressed previous chassis constraints. By August 1992, anti-lock braking systems were optionally available on Calais and SS models, later becoming standard across all Series II variants. The January 1993 update introduced colour-matched grilles for Executive trims and alloy wheels for the Commodore S.
Toyota’s Lexcen (T2) mirrored the Commodore’s update cycle, introducing new trim levels: CSi, VXi, and Newport. These designations remained consistent through subsequent updates until the badge-engineering partnership concluded in 1997. Starting with the VP model, the Lexcen featured distinct front-end styling to visually separate it from the Commodore.
VR (1993–1995)
The 1993 VR Commodore represented a major facelift of the second-generation platform, incorporating approximately 80% new components relative to its predecessor. Exterior revisions included a more streamlined body shape, rounded wheel arches, and the signature "twin-kidney" grille design—a hallmark that continued until the release of the 2003 VX and VU models.
At the rear, elevated tail lights improved visibility and safety. The driver's airbag was introduced as an option—the first instance in an Australian-manufactured automobile. Safety enhancements such as anti-lock brakes and independent rear suspension were offered exclusively with the new electronic GM 4L60-E automatic transmission. These features, combined with cruise control and the driver's airbag, were packaged within the Acclaim trim line, which emphasized family-oriented safety beyond the basic Executive model. Updated VR/VS variants achieved superior occupant protection in crash testing compared to earlier VN/VP generations. The Series II revision in September 1994 added audible alerts for handbrake engagement and low fuel levels among several other improvements.
Under the hood, the VR Commodore utilized an upgraded Buick 3.8-litre V6 engine featuring rolling-element bearings in its rocker arms and increased compression ratios, resulting in enhanced power output at , alongside reduced noise and vibration levels. This powertrain contributed to the VR Commodore being awarded Wheels magazine's Car of the Year in 1993.
VS (1995–1997)
The 1995 VS Commodore represented an evolution of the VR’s mechanical platform aimed at maintaining market presence until the introduction of the VT model. Exterior alterations were minor, including an updated Holden emblem and redesigned wheel covers. The revised Ecotec iteration of the Buick V6 delivered a 13% power increase to , improved fuel economy by approximately 5%, raised compression from 9.0:1 to 9.4:1, and enhanced engine refinement. This powerplant was mated to a modified GM 4L60-E automatic gearbox that offered better throttle response and smoother gear shifts. The Series II update released in June 1996 introduced elliptical side indicators, interior enhancements, a supercharged V6 option rated at , as well as a new Getrag manual transmission; this supercharged variant filled the performance gap between standard V6 and V8 engines.
The VS marked the final iteration of the Commodore sold under Toyota’s Lexcen badge, signaling the end of Holden-Toyota collaboration with production ceasing in 1997. In New Zealand, this model was marketed as the VS Commodore Royale—combining the standard VS body shell with the front fascia of the VS Caprice—and was powered by an Opel 2.6-litre 54-Degree V6 engine. Limited exports of this variant badged as Opel Calais were also sent to Malaysia and Singapore between 1995 and 1997.
VT (1997–2000)
The 1997 VT Commodore was based on the German Opel Omega B platform, which was broadened and modified to suit Australian driving conditions. Holden initially debated either adopting the Omega with minimal changes or simply updating the previous VR/VS models. This VT chassis later served as the foundation for extended wheelbase Statesman and Caprice variants, and also inspired a Monaro coupé prototype presented at the 1998 Sydney Motor Show.
A notable competitive edge was the inclusion of standard semi-trailing arm independent rear suspension, which provided superior ride comfort compared to rivals such as the Ford Falcon. The model also introduced electronic features like Traction Control. However, Holden opted to simplify the Opel suspension by eliminating toe control links, resulting in increased tyre wear when subjected to heavy loads or uneven terrain. This feature was reinstated in HSV’s top-tier GTS 300 variant.
In 1999, the Series II update saw the replacement of Holden’s 5.0-litre V8 with a 5.7-litre GM Generation III LS1 V8 sourced from the United States. Initially rated at 220 kW, this engine’s output was later boosted to 250 kW before being succeeded by the Generation 4 engine in the VZ iteration. The supercharged V6 powerplant was also enhanced to produce 171 kW. Side airbags became available options on Acclaim and higher-grade trims, marking an important advancement in occupant safety for Holden.
General Motors considered introducing a left-hand drive Commodore to the North American market through the Buick XP2000 concept; however, union pressures to preserve domestic manufacturing led to its cancellation. Despite this, the initiative facilitated Holden’s export expansion into regions such as Indochina, the Middle East, South Africa (marketed as Chevrolet Lumina), and Brazil (sold as Chevrolet Omega equipped with a 3.8 V6). The VT earned the 1997 Wheels Car of the Year accolade and became Holden’s best-selling Commodore at that time, surpassing sales of the slower-moving Ford AU Falcon.
The VT lineup comprised: Executive (entry-level/fleet), Acclaim (family-oriented/safety-focused), Berlina (premium), and Calais (luxury sedan with sportier appeal). Limited editions included "Sydney 2000" Olympic and Holden 50th Anniversary models, both based on upgraded Executive trims with select Berlina enhancements.
VX (2000–2002)
The 2000 VX revision brought updated headlamp styling and replaced the VT’s rear tail lamp panel with two distinct units. However, luxury Berlina and Calais sedans maintained a continuous boot lid panel that integrated registration plate lighting and tail lamps.
The VX series also introduced the new VU-series Holden Ute, dropping the previous "Commodore utility" designation used for earlier versions. The Series II refresh in early 2002 addressed prior VT suspension shortcomings by reintroducing rear suspension toe control links.
Importantly, the VX architecture supported the revived Holden Monaro, enabling exports to North America where it was marketed as the Pontiac GTO.
Safety improvements were a major focus during this generation. Bosch 5.3 ABS became standard equipment across all variants—an Australian first—and traction control was offered on manual transmission models. Structural enhancements to B-pillars halved side-impact injury risk compared to VT models lacking side airbags.
VY (2002–2004)
The 2002 VY update represented the first significant design evolution since the 1997 VT model. Designers abandoned the softer, rounded styling of the VT and VX, opting instead for more defined, angular shapes on both the front and rear sections. Inside, the cabin transitioned from flowing curves to sharper lines, incorporating satin chrome plastic accents on the centre console and fold-out cup holders in premium variants, sourced from GM’s Saab division. Audio systems were upgraded by replacing Eurovox units with those from German manufacturer Blaupunkt, a collaboration that persisted until the brand's discontinuation.
Mechanical modifications were modest, focusing on revised steering and suspension calibrations to improve driving dynamics. The Generation III V8 engine saw enhancements that increased output in performance-oriented models. To appeal to budget-conscious buyers seeking V8 power, Holden launched the SV8 trim—based on the Executive but equipped with the SS’s V8 drivetrain at a more accessible price. A limited-run SS wagon was also introduced, with production capped at 850 units. The Series II update brought a front strut brace to the SS variant for added chassis stiffness and boosted V8 horsepower. Other trims received fresh wheels, new decals, and updated interior appointments. Notably, the Calais was repositioned as a sport-luxury model while the Berlina became the sole luxury offering beneath it.
Coinciding with the VY Series II release was Holden’s inaugural four-door utility vehicle, the Crewman, which shared components with the Statesman/Caprice, One Tonner, and two-door Ute.
In 2003, Holden invested significantly to engineer an all-wheel-drive system named Cross Trac for the VY platform. This system debuted exclusively on the raised wagon crossover Adventra model, paired solely with a V8 engine and automatic transmission. Holden chose not to develop AWD for the outgoing 3.8-litre V6 due to its imminent replacement in the upcoming VZ series. Despite modest sales expectations, the Adventra struggled commercially.
VZ (2004–2007)
The final version of Holden’s third-generation Commodore was launched as the VZ in 2004, introducing new Alloytec V6 powerplants. Available in both standard and enhanced 3.6-litre variants, these engines delivered improvements in power output, throttle response, and fuel economy compared to their Ecotec predecessors. Later on, power figures increased further with the arrival of the VE model. Luxury-oriented six-cylinder models adopted a new five-speed 5L40E automatic gearbox, while the sporty SV6 variant featured a six-speed manual Aisin AY6. Other models continued using an upgraded four-speed automatic transmission.
In January 2006, Holden added a 6.0-litre Generation 4 V8 to comply with Euro III emission standards; this engine omitted Active Fuel Management and variable valve timing found in its US counterpart. Concurrently, output from the Alloytec V6 was reduced to meet emissions requirements.
Safety improvements included electronic stability control and brake assist systems. According to Used Car Safety Ratings, occupant protection was classified as "better than average" for VT/VX models and "significantly better than average" for VY/VZ generations. ANCAP crash tests rated the subsequent VE generation slightly lower in frontal offset impact but higher overall due to enhanced side impact protection features.
VE (2006–2013)
Introduced in 2006, the VE marked the first Commodore developed entirely within Australia following GM's 2003 withdrawal from European rear-wheel-drive sedan production. Development costs reportedly surpassed AUD 1 billion. Constructed on the Holden-engineered GM Zeta platform, the model incorporated sophisticated independent suspension and achieved an almost perfect 50:50 weight balance to enhance driving dynamics. Most engines and transmissions were carried over from the preceding VZ series, although V8 versions adopted a new six-speed GM 6L80-E automatic transmission, replacing the former four-speed unit. The design featured export-oriented elements such as a centrally symmetrical console, simplifying conversion between left- and right-hand drive configurations. Globally, the VE was rebadged as the Chevrolet Lumina and Omega, and exported to the United States as the Pontiac G8 until Pontiac ceased operations in 2010.
Performance variants from Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) followed soon after the sedan's release, along with extended-wheelbase WM Statesman and Caprice models. The VE Ute was launched in 2007, with the Sportwagon version arriving in July 2008. The VE V8 Calais earned Wheels Car of the Year honors, becoming the fifth Commodore or Calais model to receive this distinction.
Towards the end of 2008, Holden implemented safety upgrades to the VE, including a passenger seatbelt reminder system, which contributed to achieving a five-star ANCAP safety rating by 2009.
The MY10 update in September 2009 introduced a new standard engine: a 3.0-litre Spark Ignition Direct Injection (SIDI) V6 for Omega and Berlina trims, while other V6 variants received an upgraded 3.6-litre SIDI engine. Transmission improvements involved replacing earlier four- and five-speed automatics with a six-speed GM 6L50 automatic; sportier models retained six-speed manual gearboxes. Holden claimed that fuel efficiency improved to levels better than some smaller four-cylinder vehicles, with the 3.0L engine rated at 9.3 L/100 km. Power outputs increased compared to previous engines—the 3.0L delivered 190 kW and the 3.6L produced 210 kW.
In mid-2010, Holden launched the VE Series II (VEII), which introduced the Holden iQ system—a centrally positioned LCD screen offering navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and audio controls—alongside subtle styling revisions and additional refinements.
VF (2013–2017)
The VF Commodore, representing a major evolution of the VE, was revealed on 10 February 2013 in Melbourne.
Extensive revisions were made to the GM Zeta platform’s body structure, suspension setup, and electronic systems to reduce overall weight, thereby improving handling and fuel economy. The Berlina trim was discontinued and merged into the Calais range, while the base Omega model was rebranded as Evoke.
Standard equipment throughout the lineup included front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, and automated parking assistance. Higher-end variants such as the Calais-V and SS-V Redline featured advanced safety technologies including forward/reverse collision alerts and a colour heads-up display—enabled by upgraded electronics compatible with sophisticated GM systems—helping to lower production costs. Pricing saw significant reductions ranging from AUD 5,000 to AUD 10,000 depending on the variant.
Following its domestic debut, a more potent export variant was launched as the MY14 Chevrolet SS at Daytona for the U.S. market. Additionally, GM replaced the Chevrolet Impala with this SS model in NASCAR’s premier series from 2013 until 2017 before transitioning to the Camaro ZL1 in 2018.
A Series II update (VF II) was introduced in late 2015 featuring minor front-end styling changes and standardizing the LS3 V8 engine across all V8 models. Adjustments were also made to final drive ratios and Redline suspension tuning.
ZB (2018–2020)
In 2017, Holden declared the cessation of domestic Commodore manufacturing but confirmed the continuation of the model name on its fully imported replacement. This decision was driven by customer loyalty to the iconic Australian nameplate that had been in use since 1978.
The ZB Commodore, unveiled on 6 December 2016, was essentially a rebadged Opel Insignia B. It offered four- and six-cylinder engine options and was available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations, marking a significant departure from the previous generation’s V8 engines and rear-wheel drive layout.
Holden’s choice to retain the Commodore badge despite the vehicle’s reduced dimensions and the elimination of traditional V8 powertrains and rear-wheel drive provoked debate. While aimed at maintaining brand recognition and sales, critics contended that this move overlooked an opportunity to reposition the sedan within a more profitable semi-premium segment.
By April 2018, the ZB Commodore had recorded the lowest resale value in Australia when compared to its original purchase price.
Facing sluggish sales and a strategic shift in corporate priorities, Holden announced in December 2019 that production of the ZB Commodore would cease in early 2020. This preceded General Motors’ broader decision to discontinue the Holden brand entirely.
Australian export models
During the late 1990s, Australian-made Commodores were exported under various brand names: marketed as the Chevrolet Lumina in Middle Eastern markets until 2011 and in South Africa until 2013, as well as sold as the Chevrolet Omega in Brazil until 2008 and again briefly in 2010. Earlier exports included Southeast Asia under the Opel Calais nameplate and North America between 2008 and 2009 as the Pontiac G8. The performance variant from HSV was sold in the United Kingdom as the Vauxhall VXR8 from 2007 through 2017. Between 2014 and 2017, the VF Commodore was available in the United States under the Chevrolet SS badge.
Chevrolet Lumina
The Commodore was marketed as the Chevrolet Lumina across regions including the Middle East, South Africa, and previously Southeast Asia. Additionally, a coupe version derived from the Holden Monaro was offered in Middle Eastern markets as the Chevrolet Lumina Coupe.
In Middle Eastern countries, four trim levels were available: LS (Omega), LTZ (Berlina), S (SV6), and SS. The LTZ and S trims were equipped with a 3.6 L Alloytec V6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission for S models and a four-speed automatic for LTZ. The SS trim featured a 6.0 L Alloytec V8 engine with optional active fuel management technology. Transmission choices included a standard six-speed manual on SS models with an optional six-speed automatic. The LTZ catered to luxury-oriented customers, while S and SS focused on sportiness. Exports to this region concluded in 2011.
In South Africa, Lumina variants omitted the V6 engine, instead utilizing a 6.0 L V8 mated to either six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes. Fuel injection combined with a compression ratio of 10.4:1 produced up to at 5,700 rpm and torque at 4,400 rpm for manual transmissions; automatic versions delivered at 5,800 rpm and torque at 4,400 rpm. All models were equipped with Brembo braking systems and featured ZF limited-slip differentials.
The 2011 facelift coincided with the launch of the VE Series II Commodore and introduced updated bumpers, chrome accents on the boot lid, refreshed alloy wheel designs, Holden IQ infotainment enhancements, plus addition of the SSV trim. The Holden Ute was also sold under this branding as the Lumina Ute, carrying identical specifications.
Australian manufacturing
The initial production of the first Commodore in Australia, which began in 1978, was divided between Holden's facilities at Pagewood in New South Wales and Dandenong in Victoria. In August of the same year, Holden revealed a $6.7 million initiative to establish assembly operations for the Commodore lineup at the Elizabeth plant in South Australia. This development resulted in the closure of the Pagewood site twelve months later. By 1988, all Australian Commodore manufacturing was centralized at Elizabeth, coinciding with the introduction of the VN Commodore model.
Beyond Holden, several companies developed modified versions of the Commodore and its variants. Officially, HSV is recognized as Holden's performance partner. Other prominent high-performance tuners associated with various generations of the Commodore include HDT Special Vehicles, Corsa Specialized Vehicles (CSV), and Walkinshaw Performance (WP), corresponding to the first, third, and fourth generations respectively.
In December 2013, Holden announced plans to end Commodore production in Australia by 2017. Following this, in December 2015, Belgian businessman Guido Dumarey proposed "Project Erich," which aimed to acquire Holden’s manufacturing facilities to continue producing rebadged luxury rear-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles based on GM’s Zeta platform for both domestic and export markets. Dumarey's firm, Punch Powerglide, was already supplying automatic transmissions for Holden’s locally produced V6 models. The final Commodore—the last vehicle manufactured by Holden in Australia—was completed at the Elizabeth plant on 20 October 2017.
Sales
| rowspan="2" Template:Vert header | 1980 | 1981 | 1982 | 1983 | 1984 | 1985 | 1986 | 1987 | 1988 | 1989 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78,429 | 35,355 | 62,436 | ||||||||
| rowspan="2" Template:Vert header | 1990 | 1991 | 1992 | 1993 | 1994 | 1995 | 1996 | 1997 | 1998 | 1999 |
| 50,820 | 57,641 | 62,663 | 75,330 | 80,452 | 83,001 | 76,849 | 94,642 | 85,648 | ||
| rowspan="2" Template:Vert header | 2000 | 2001 | 2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 |
| 83,610 | 85,422 | 88,478 | 86,553 | 79,170 | 66,794 | 56,531 | 57,307 | 51,093 | 44,387 | |
| rowspan="2" Template:Vert header | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 |
| 45,956 | 40,617 | 30,532 | 27,766 | 30,203 | 27,770 | 25,860 | 23,676 | 9,040 | 5,915 |
Bibliography
Books
- Part One, Part Two, Part Three (PDF).
Magazines
External links
- Official website for Holden Commodore
- Retrofocus: Road test of the 1980 Holden Commodore
- Holden Commodore model history
- Unique Cars and Parts: Holden Commodore
- 360-degree 3D visualization of the 1980 Holden Commodore
- Unofficial Holden Commodore archive
- Detailed site covering Opels including the Holden Commodore VB