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Holden Commodore

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Holden Commodore
Company typeAutomobile line
IndustryAutomotive
Founded1978
Defunct2020
Headquarters
Australia
Area served
Australia, New Zealand, Middle East, South Africa, North America, United Kingdom, Singapore
ProductsAutomobiles (mid-size cars, station wagons, utilities, performance variants)

The Holden Commodore served as the premier vehicle line for the now-defunct Australian automaker Holden from 1978 until 2020. Production initially took place in Australia up to October 2017 and in New Zealand between 1979 and 1990. Over nearly forty years, the Commodore was a dominant force within the Australian car market.

The initial three generations (1978–2006) utilized the GM V-body rear-wheel drive platform, originally designed by Opel but extensively adapted by Holden to meet Australian driving conditions and consumer preferences. These versions exhibited design elements reminiscent of the European Opel Commodore C and Opel Omega A/B models, along with their Vauxhall equivalents.

From 2006 through 2017, Holden internally engineered the fourth generation VE and VF Commodores on the rear-wheel drive GM Zeta architecture, reflecting a strategic pivot towards domestic design and engineering capabilities. Between 2018 and 2020, Holden introduced the ZB Commodore, a rebadged front-wheel drive Opel Insignia manufactured in Germany. The discontinuation of the Commodore line in late 2020 coincided with Holden’s full exit from manufacturing and sales activities.

History

Replacing the longstanding Holden Kingswood and Holden Premier, the Commodore debuted as a single sedan model before expanding in 1979 to include a station wagon. In 1984, Holden launched its flagship variant as the Holden Calais, while the Commodore Berlina, initially part of the lineup from 1984, became a standalone model named Holden Berlina by 1988. Extended wheelbase Statesman/Caprice models and utility versions of the Commodore were introduced in 1990. The third generation offered the widest array of body styles, including the Holden Ute utility (2000), a revived Monaro coupé (2001), four-door Holden Crewman utility, and all-wheel drive Holden Adventra crossover (2003). Starting in 1987, Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) officially produced high-performance variants of the Commodore under its own branding.

Its chief rival throughout much of its history was the domestically produced Ford Falcon. Prior to the release of the second generation Commodore in 1988, it was positioned considerably below the Falcon in terms of vehicle size category. Additional competition came from mid-size models offered by Toyota Australia and Chrysler Australia, which later became Mitsubishi Motors Australia. Between 1989 and 1997, government policies facilitated the introduction of the Toyota Lexcen, essentially a rebadged second-generation Commodore. The third generation (1997) marked Holden’s most extensive export initiative for Commodore and its derivatives: sold as Chevrolet in markets including the Middle East and South Africa; high-performance variants marketed as Pontiac and subsequently Chevrolet in North America; HSV exports carried Vauxhall badges in the UK, Chevrolet Special Vehicles (CSV) branding in the Middle East, and HSV insignia in New Zealand and Singapore.

In December 2013, Holden announced plans to end local production by October 2017 while continuing to use the Commodore name on an imported fifth-generation model built on a front-wheel drive/all-wheel drive platform.

On 10 December 2019, Holden revealed that it would retire the Commodore nameplate in 2020 to concentrate on SUVs and Utes, which comprised over 76% of its 2019 product lineup. This decision concluded a 41-year legacy for the Commodore. Subsequently, on 17 February 2020, General Motors confirmed that it would phase out the Holden brand entirely from Australia and New Zealand by 2021.

VB (1978–1980)

Launched in October 1978, the VB Commodore emerged as a response to the lingering effects of the 1973 oil crisis. This situation compelled Holden to phase out the full-size HZ Kingswood in favor of a smaller, more fuel-conscious vehicle. Initially, Holden intended to develop a WA Kingswood successor but ultimately discontinued that project. Instead, the VB was designed using Opel components, merging the body of the Opel Rekord E with the front fascia of the Opel Senator A, both built on GM’s V-body platform. This configuration accommodated Holden’s six- and eight-cylinder engines. The "Commodore" name was borrowed from Opel, which had been using it since 1967. Subsequently, Opel adopted this hybrid design concept for its Commodore C model.

During development, Holden determined that the Opel Rekord’s chassis was inadequate for Australian road conditions, necessitating significant re-engineering efforts that reduced parts commonality to just 35%. Among the modifications were updates to the front suspension system and replacing the recirculating ball steering with rack-and-pinion steering. These extensive changes increased development expenses to around AUD 110 million, nearly equivalent to creating an entirely new vehicle from scratch. Due to budget limitations, initially no station wagon variant was developed, and the platform was unsuitable for utility or extended wheelbase versions. Upon release, the VB was offered as a four-door sedan available in three trim levels: base, SL, and SL/E. A wagon model was introduced in July 1979; however, it required importing specialized sheet metal from Germany, resulting in differences between wagon and sedan components.

Early production faced quality control challenges such as poorly fitted trim and mechanical issues like water pump failures and steering rack noise, which led to elevated warranty claim rates. Nevertheless, the VB received acclaim for its affordability, handling dynamics, braking performance, and ride comfort, securing Wheels magazine’s Car of the Year award in 1978.

The VB maintained 96% of the interior volume of its predecessor, the HZ Kingswood, while reducing overall external dimensions to 86%—making it about 5% larger than the Torana. Positioned below both the Kingswood and Ford Falcon in size hierarchy, it benefited from improved fuel economy due to its lighter weight. Although this downsizing initially resulted in loss of fleet and taxi sales to Ford models, escalating oil prices during the 1979 energy crisis ultimately validated Holden’s strategy of early vehicle downsizing.

VC (1980–1981)

The VC Commodore, released in March 1980, introduced the "XT5" engine series, replacing the former Red engines with blue-coated Blue inline-six units and Holden V8s. Upgrades comprised new twelve-port cylinder heads, reengineered combustion chambers, modified inlet and exhaust manifolds, alongside a two-barrel carburettor. V8 variants received electronic ignition systems, updated cylinder heads and intake manifolds, and the 4.2-litre version was equipped with a four-barrel carburettor, enhancing power output, fuel efficiency, and drivability. In response to escalating oil costs, a 1.9-litre four-cylinder Starfire engine was introduced in June 1980 by removing two cylinders from the six-cylinder design. Although aimed at improving fuel economy, this four-cylinder’s limited power led to compromised performance and fuel consumption comparable to the six-cylinder models in everyday driving.

To further promote fuel efficiency, the tachometer was replaced with a vacuum gauge throughout the lineup, with the tachometer offered exclusively as part of the sports instrumentation package. Visual modifications were subtle: the corporate emblem was relocated to the center of a redesigned grille; black trim was added around sedan tail lamp surrounds; and model badges were embossed into side rubbing strips. The base variant was named Commodore L, while a simplified fleet-only version was introduced. The top-tier SL/E gained an exclusive "Shadowtone" dark-over-light paint scheme. Reviews highlighted heavier steering with increased understeer and a softer suspension setup that improved handling when carrying full loads.

VH (1981–1984)

Launched in September 1981, the VH Commodore featured refreshed front-end styling with an Australian-designed bonnet, guards, grille, and headlamps that imparted a longer and wider stance. The rear sedans adopted louvered tail-lights influenced by contemporary Mercedes-Benz designs. The model hierarchy was simplified: the base L model was renamed SL; the previous SL became the mid-level SL/X; and the SL/E remained as the premium offering. Wagon variants were confined to SL and SL/X trims. The flagship SL/E received redesigned pentagonal alloy wheels, blacked-out B-pillars, wrap-around chrome extensions on the rear bumper, and elongated tail lamps that integrated with the license plate area. Early production experienced shortages of pentagonal wheels, limiting their installation mainly to Shadowtone SL/E sedans.

From a mechanical standpoint, the VH retained earlier specifications but added an optional five-speed manual transmission for both the 1.9-litre four-cylinder and 2.85-litre six-cylinder engines. Holden enhanced these powerplants’ efficiency and output, achieving up to a 14% reduction in fuel consumption. In September 1982, Holden introduced the performance-focused Commodore SS sedan equipped with either a 4.2- or optional 5.0-litre V8 engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission. The Holden Dealer Team (HDT), led by racer Peter Brock, developed high-performance Group One, Two, and Three upgrade packages for the SS model, predominantly featuring the 5.0-litre V8.

During this era, Commodore sales declined as its six-cylinder engine—originating from 1963—fell behind competitors such as the Ford Falcon in terms of modernity. Despite its smaller dimensions, the VH failed to deliver notable improvements in fuel economy or performance compared to the Falcon due to limited updates to its powertrain and minimal design evolution from the original VB series. Additionally, Holden’s mid-size Camira launched in 1982 provided comparable interior space at a lower price point with superior fuel economy, initially attracting potential Commodore buyers. However, as fuel prices stabilized later on, consumer preferences shifted back toward larger vehicles like the Falcon, which overtook Commodore as Australia’s top-selling car in 1982.

VK (1984–1986)

The 1984 VK model represented the first substantial revision following the VB, introducing a six-window glasshouse design that replaced the earlier four-window layout, thereby giving the Commodore a more expansive visual presence. This redesign contributed to sales reaching 135,000 units over two years; however, it failed to alleviate Holden's ongoing financial difficulties. While the initially promising sales of the Holden Camira faltered due to reliability concerns, the aging Holden WB commercial vehicles and Statesman WB luxury cars, both originating from 1971, struggled to compete with Ford Australia's more contemporary Falcon and Fairlane models.

Trim designations were updated: the Commodore Executive (an SL variant equipped with air conditioning and automatic transmission), Commodore Berlina (superseding SL/X), and Calais (replacing SL/E). The previous 3.3-litre Blue straight-six engine was succeeded by the Black version, which introduced computer-controlled ignition on carburettor models and offered optional electronic fuel injection, boosting output to . The 5.0-litre V8 engine remained available in premium trims but was downsized from 5,044 cc to 4,987 cc in 1985 to meet new Group A racing homologation requirements. The VK weighed less than its predecessor and featured improved braking systems. With oil prices stabilizing, Holden phased out the 2.85-litre six-cylinder and 4.2-litre V8 engines, while the 1.9-litre four-cylinder engine continued exclusively in New Zealand markets.

VL (1986–1988)

The 1986 VL Commodore achieved a sales milestone by surpassing the Ford Falcon in private buyer sales. It underwent a major redesign from the VK, moving further away from its Opel heritage with smoother contours, a discreet rear spoiler, narrow headlamps, and a lower-profile grille; notably, the Calais variant featured distinctive partially hidden headlamps.

Confronted with an outdated six-cylinder engine that was nearly 24 years old and challenging to update for emerging emission regulations and unleaded fuel compatibility, Holden collaborated with Nissan to source the Nissan RB engine#RB30E RB30E powerplant. Although initially cost-effective due to a strong Australian dollar in 1983, by 1986 this arrangement had become more costly. The public accepted this transition as the RB30E delivered a 33% increase in power alongside a 15% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the previous carbureted six-cylinder unit. A turbocharged variant followed six months later, raising output to . In response to customer demand reversing Holden’s original decision, an unleaded carbureted V8 was introduced in October 1986. The VL was also marketed in New Zealand and parts of Asia equipped with the smaller 2.0-litre RB20E engine.

The VL experienced manufacturing quality problems such as inadequate windshield sealing that caused leaks and corrosion issues. Additionally, its cross-flow radiator design contributed to cracked cylinder heads in the six-cylinder engine—a defect not observed in the Nissan Skyline using the same RB30E engine. A safety assessment conducted by Monash University in 2008 rated first-generation Commodores (VB–VL) as offering below-average occupant protection relative to later models fitted with airbags, which were uncommon in Australia during the VL’s production years.

VN (1988–1991)

The 1988 VN Commodore and its subsequent second-generation models incorporated styling cues from the larger Opel Senator B and Opel Omega A, but featured an expanded and lengthened chassis to compete with the dimensions of the Ford Falcon. Due to budget limitations, Holden retained the narrower VL chassis components beneath the broader VN body to minimize development expenses. In Australia, the Berlina variant was marketed without the Commodore badge, whereas in New Zealand, the locally produced V6 VN Berlina was sold as the Executive until production ended in 1990. The lineup grew in 1990 with the introduction of a utility model called the VG, built on an extended-wheelbase platform shared with station wagons and luxury VQ Statesman sedans. During this era, quality concerns surrounding the competing Ford EA Falcon helped increase VN Commodore sales, contributing to Holden’s operating profit of in 1989. Additionally, the VN secured Wheels magazine’s Car of the Year accolade in 1988.

Fluctuations in currency values rendered continued use of the Nissan engine from the VL impractical, leading Holden to develop its own 3.8-litre V6 engine, derived from a Buick design adapted for rear-wheel-drive applications. The optional 5.0-litre V8 engine was enhanced to produce through multi-point fuel injection. Although not highly refined, the new V6 received commendations for its performance and fuel economy. A 2.0-litre Family II engine was available in New Zealand and select export markets like Singapore, where the vehicle was also marketed as Berlina. Transmission upgrades included replacing the VL’s four-speed automatic with a Turbo-Hydramatic automatic and introducing a Borg-Warner five-speed manual gearbox. A Series II revision in September 1989 brought a revised V6 engine ('EV6') with output increased to .

Following reforms under the Hawke Labor government’s Button car plan in 1989, Holden partnered with Toyota Australia through United Australian Automobile Industries, resulting in rebadged versions of the VN Commodore sold by Toyota as the Toyota Lexcen. Named after yacht designer Ben Lexcen, the initial T1 Lexcen offered sedan and wagon body styles across base, GL, and GLX trims, all equipped with a 3.8-litre V6 mated exclusively to an automatic transmission.

VP (1991–1993)

The 1991 VP update introduced both aesthetic and mechanical improvements while maintaining the existing 3.8-litre V6 and 5.0-litre V8 engine options from the VN series. The 2.0-litre straight-four engine previously offered in New Zealand was discontinued. Exterior revisions included a translucent acrylic grille on base Executive and Berlina trims, colour-matched grilles for S and SS models, and chrome accents reserved for Calais variants. Tail light assemblies and boot trim details were refreshed with model-specific treatments—grey striping on Berlina and chrome finishes on Calais. Semi-trailing arm independent rear suspension became standard equipment on Calais and SS models and was optionally available on lower trims as a replacement for the live rear axle, improving ride quality and handling dynamics.

A wider front track addressed previous shortcomings linked to retained VL chassis components. Starting August 1992, anti-lock brakes were offered as an option on Calais and SS trims before becoming available across all Series II variants. The January 1993 update added colour-matched grilles to Executive models and introduced alloy wheels to Commodore S variants.

Updates to Toyota’s Lexcen closely followed those of the Commodore lineup. The T2 (VP) Lexcen brought new trim levels—CSi, VXi, and Newport—which remained until badge engineering ceased in 1997. From this generation onward, Lexcens featured distinct front-end styling to differentiate them from their Commodore counterparts.

VR (1993–1995)

The 1993 VR Commodore represented a significant redesign of the second-generation platform, retaining only the doors and roof from the previous model. Nearly 80% of its components were newly developed compared to its predecessor. Exterior modifications included a more streamlined body shape, rounded wheel arches, and the introduction of the distinctive "twin-kidney" grille design, which remained a hallmark through the 2003 VX and VU iterations.

Safety improvements incorporated elevated tail lights and an optional driver’s airbag—the first offered in an Australian-manufactured vehicle. Anti-lock braking systems and independent rear suspension were available exclusively with the new electronic GM 4L60-E automatic transmission. These features, along with cruise control, were introduced in the Acclaim trim level, positioned above the entry-level Executive to provide a family-focused safety package. Occupant protection ratings for the VR/VS models showed enhancements over earlier VN/VP versions. The Series II update released in September 1994 added features such as audible chimes for handbrake engagement and low fuel warnings, alongside other refinements.

Powertrain enhancements included the latest iteration of the Buick 3.8-litre V6 engine, featuring rolling-element bearings in the rocker arms and increased compression ratios. These changes raised power output to and contributed to reduced noise and vibration levels. Such advancements helped secure the VR Commodore the Wheels magazine Car of the Year title in 1993.

VS (1995–1997)

The 1995 VS Commodore served as an evolution of the VR model, designed primarily to maintain sales momentum prior to the VT’s release. Exterior revisions were subtle, limited mainly to a refreshed Holden emblem and updated wheel covers. The revamped Ecotec variant of the Buick V6 delivered a 13% increase in power at , enhanced fuel economy by 5%, raised compression from 9.0:1 to 9.4:1, and reduced engine roughness. This engine was paired with an improved GM 4L60-E automatic transmission that enhanced throttle responsiveness and gear transition smoothness. The Series II upgrade in June 1996 introduced elliptical side turn indicators, interior updates, a new supercharged V6 rated at —filling the gap between standard V6 and V8 options—and debuted a Getrag manual gearbox.

The VS marked the conclusion of Holden’s model-sharing with Toyota under the Lexcen badge, with production ending in 1997. In New Zealand, it was sold as the VS Commodore Royale, which combined the standard VS body 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 Royale version also reached Malaysia and Singapore between 1995 and 1997 under the Opel Calais nameplate.

VT (1997–2000)

The VT Commodore launched in 1997 was based on the German Opel Omega B platform but extensively adapted for Australian conditions through widened dimensions and mechanical revisions. Initially, Holden considered either adopting the Omega largely unchanged or applying new body panels to previous VR/VS chassis. The VT’s body design later served as a foundation for new Statesman and Caprice models and inspired a Monaro coupé prototype unveiled at the 1998 Sydney Motor Show.

A key advancement with the VT was introducing semi-trailing arm independent rear suspension across all variants—offering a notable advantage over Ford Falcon competitors—alongside upgraded electronics such as Traction Control systems. However, Holden simplified Opel’s suspension by removing toe control links, which led to increased tyre wear under heavy loads or rough terrain; HSV reinstated this feature on its top-tier GTS 300 variant.

The Series II revision in 1999 replaced the original 5.0-litre V8 with a detuned US-sourced 5.7-litre GM LS1 V8 initially rated at , later increased to , before being succeeded by Generation 4 LS engines in subsequent models like the VZ. The supercharged V6 was also enhanced to . Side airbags became optional on Acclaim trim levels and above, marking Holden's first inclusion of this safety feature.

General Motors explored introducing a left-hand drive Commodore via the Buick XP2000 concept in 1996 but abandoned plans due to North American union opposition. Nonetheless, this initiative facilitated expanded exports to regions including Indochina, the Middle East, South Africa (marketed as Chevrolet Lumina), and Brazil (sold as Chevrolet Omega with a 3.8-litre V6). The VT earned Wheels Car of the Year honors in 1997 and became Holden's best-selling Commodore generation—outperforming Ford AU Falcon sales struggles and securing market leadership within Australia.

The VT lineup comprised: Executive (base/fleet), Acclaim (family/safety focus), Berlina (luxury-oriented), and Calais (sedan-only sport luxury). Special editions included "Sydney 2000" Olympic and Holden's 50th Anniversary models based on enhanced Executive trims featuring selective luxury upgrades.

VX (2000–2002)

The 2000 VX revision introduced updated headlamp styling and replaced the VT's single rear tail lamp panel with two distinct light clusters, except on the upscale Berlina and Calais sedans, which preserved a full-width boot-lid panel integrating both the registration plate and tail lamps.[1]

This generation also debuted the VU-series Holden Ute, moving away from the earlier "Commodore utility" nomenclature.[2] Early in 2002, the Series II update introduced a redesigned rear suspension featuring toe control links to resolve previous handling concerns.[3]

A notable highlight of the VX platform was its role in reviving the Holden Monaro, facilitating exports to the United States where it was marketed as the Pontiac GTO.[4]

Safety improvements were emphasized: Bosch 5.3 ABS became standard equipment on all models—the first Australian-manufactured vehicle to achieve this—and traction control was made available for manual transmission variants. Structural reinforcements to the B-pillars cut side-impact injury risk by half compared to the VT model lacking side airbags.[5]

VY (2002–2004)

The 2002 VY update represented the first significant design evolution since the 1997 VT, replacing softer contours with sharper, more aggressive lines.[6] Internally, the dashboard adopted an angular and symmetrical layout dominated by satin chrome plastic on the centre console. Premium variants incorporated fold-out cup holders sourced from GM’s Saab division.[7] Audio systems transitioned from Eurovox units to German-made Blaupunkt components, a collaboration that persisted until Holden's closure.[8]

Mechanical refinements were modest but included adjusted steering and suspension tuning aimed at enhancing handling characteristics. The Generation III LS1 V8 engine was upgraded to produce in sport models.[9] To target budget-conscious performance buyers, Holden released the SV8 variant, based on the Executive trim but powered by the SS’s V8 engine at a more accessible price.[10] A limited-run SS wagon was also produced, with only 850 units manufactured.[11] The Series II update added a front strut brace to the SS for improved chassis stiffness and increased V8 output by .[12] The Calais was repositioned as a sport-luxury offering, elevating Berlina to become the sole luxury model below it.[13] The first four-door utility vehicle, named the Holden Crewman, launched alongside VY II, combining elements from Statesman/Caprice, One Tonner, and Ute platforms.[14]

In 2003, Holden invested in developing the Cross Trac all-wheel-drive system for use with the VY platform.[15] Released following Series II revisions, this system debuted in the Holden Adventra crossover wagon paired with a V8 engine and automatic transmission. Holden decided against adapting AWD for the outgoing 3.8-litre V6 due to forthcoming model changes. Despite conservative sales projections, Adventra sales fell short of expectations.[16]

VZ (2004–2007)

The concluding model of the third-generation lineup was the VZ Commodore, introduced in 2004 with the newly developed Alloytec V6 engines producing and from a 3.6-litre capacity. These powerplants provided enhancements in power output, throttle response, and fuel economy compared to the earlier Ecotec V6 units, which were subsequently upgraded to in the VE series. The VZ debuted a five-speed 5L40E automatic transmission for luxury-oriented V6 versions and a six-speed Aisin AY6 manual gearbox for the SV6 sports edition, while maintaining a refined four-speed automatic option in other trims. In January 2006, a 6.0-litre Generation 4 V8 engine was introduced to comply with Euro III emission standards; this version omitted Active Fuel Management and variable valve timing found in the US counterpart. Emission regulations also led to a reduction in the Alloytec V6's maximum power to .

In addition to powertrain improvements, Holden upgraded safety features by adding electronic stability control and brake assist systems. According to Used Car Safety Ratings, VT/VX models were rated as "better than average" for occupant protection, whereas VY/VZ variants achieved a "significantly better than average" rating. ANCAP crash test results indicated that the fourth-generation VE attained slightly higher overall scores due to superior side impact protection, despite having a lower frontal offset impact score relative to the VY/VZ models.

VE (2006–2013)

Unveiled in 2006, the VE marked the first Commodore developed entirely within Australia following General Motors' 2003 withdrawal from European rear-wheel-drive sedans. The development investment reportedly surpassed AUD 1 billion.[17] Constructed on Holden's GM Zeta platform, it incorporated sophisticated independent suspension and achieved nearly perfect 50:50 weight distribution, significantly improving handling dynamics.[18] While engines and transmissions were largely carried over from the preceding VZ model, V8 variants adopted a new six-speed GM 6L80-E automatic transmission, replacing the four-speed automatic previously reserved for base models.[19] The design incorporated export-friendly features such as a symmetrical centre console to facilitate straightforward conversion between left- and right-hand drive configurations.[20] On international markets, the VE was rebadged as the Chevrolet Lumina and Omega, and entered the United States as the Pontiac G8 until Pontiac's discontinuation in 2010.[21]

Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) launched high-performance variants shortly after the sedan's release, followed by extended-wheelbase WM Statesman/Caprice models.[22] The VE Ute was introduced in 2007, with the Sportwagon arriving in July 2008.[23] The VE V8 Calais secured Wheels Car of the Year honors, marking the fifth time a Commodore or Calais had earned this distinction.[24]

In late 2008, safety enhancements were made to the VE range including passenger seatbelt reminders, contributing to a five-star ANCAP safety rating by 2009.

The MY10 update released in September 2009 brought new engine options: a standard 3.0-litre Spark Ignition Direct Injection (SIDI) V6 for Omega and Berlina trims and a 3.6-litre SIDI V6 for other variants.[25] Additionally, the six-speed GM 6L50 automatic replaced previous four- and five-speed automatics across all models; six-speed manuals continued to be offered on sportier versions.[26] These updated powertrains delivered notable improvements in fuel economy; for example, the 3.0-litre engine achieved consumption of 9.3 L/100 km while generating 190 kW—outperforming earlier V6 units and even some V8s.[27]

Midway through 2010 saw the introduction of the VE Series II, which featured the Holden iQ system—a centrally mounted LCD providing navigation capabilities, Bluetooth connectivity, and audio controls—alongside subtle styling tweaks and other refinements.

VF (2013–2017)

Unveiled on 10 February 2013 in Melbourne, the VF Commodore marked a major evolution of the VE model.

Significant modifications were made to the GM Zeta platform's chassis, suspension system, and electrical components to reduce overall weight, resulting in improved handling dynamics and fuel economy. The model range was simplified by integrating the Berlina into the standard Calais trim and renaming the entry-level Omega as Evoke.

Standard equipment throughout the lineup included front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, and automatic parking assistance. Premium variants such as the Calais-V and SS-V Redline incorporated advanced features like forward and reverse collision warnings alongside a colour heads-up display. These enhancements were facilitated by electronics compatible with GM’s latest vehicles, which also helped lower production expenses. As a result, retail pricing was significantly reduced—by as much as AUD 5,000 on base models and up to AUD 10,000 for Calais V V8 and SS V Redline trims.

After its domestic release, a more powerful export version was introduced as the MY14 Chevrolet SS at Daytona, Florida. To strengthen its presence in the US market, GM replaced the Chevrolet Impala with the SS in NASCAR’s top-tier series from 2014 through 2017 before transitioning to the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in 2018.

The Series II refresh (VF II), launched in late 2015, brought subtle front-end design updates and introduced a more potent LS3 engine across all V8 variants. The update also included a revised final drive ratio for V8 models and suspension tuning on the Redline to enhance driving performance.

ZB (2018–2020)

In 2017, Holden declared the cessation of Australian manufacturing for the Commodore but confirmed continuation of the model as a fully imported vehicle, maintaining the iconic Commodore nameplate due to customer demand.

The ZB Commodore, unveiled on 6 December 2016, was essentially a rebadged Opel Insignia B offering four- and six-cylinder engines with front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations—a notable departure from its predecessor’s rear-wheel drive V8 setup.

This strategic shift generated considerable debate because the smaller ZB lacked both the traditional V8 engine and rear-wheel drive layout. Critics argued that retaining the Commodore badge missed an opportunity to reposition the model within the semi-premium segment.

By April 2018, resale values for the ZB Commodore were among the lowest relative to initial purchase prices in Australia, reflecting weak consumer acceptance.

Owing to sluggish sales performance and Holden’s strategic refocus on other vehicle categories, production of the ZB Commodore ended in early 2020, shortly before General Motors discontinued the Holden brand altogether.

Australian export models

During the late 1990s, Australian-made Commodores were exported under various marques: marketed as the Chevrolet Lumina in Middle Eastern markets until 2011 and South Africa until 2013; sold as the Chevrolet Omega in Brazil until 2008 and again in 2010. Earlier exports included Southeast Asia under the Opel Calais nameplate during the mid-1990s and North America from 2008 to 2009 as the Pontiac G8. The HSV performance variant was available in the United Kingdom as the Vauxhall VXR8 between 2007 and 2017. From 2014 through 2017, the VF Commodore was marketed in the United States under the Chevrolet SS badge.

Chevrolet Lumina

In markets such as the Middle East, South Africa, and formerly Southeast Asia, the Commodore was sold under the name Chevrolet Lumina. The Middle Eastern region also saw a coupe version derived from the Holden Monaro, marketed as the Chevrolet Lumina Coupe. Available trims in Arabia included LS (Omega), LTZ (Berlina), S (SV6), and SS (SS). The LTZ and S models were equipped with a 3.6 L Alloytec V6 engine paired with automatic transmissions, whereas the SS variant featured a 6.0 L Alloytec V8 engine with optional active fuel management, offered with either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox. The LTZ catered to luxury-oriented customers, while the S and SS trims focused on sporty performance. Exports to the Middle East ceased in 2011.

In South Africa, the Lumina replaced the V6 engine with a 6.0 L V8, available with six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. These models utilized fuel injection and had a compression ratio of 10.4:1, producing up to at 5,700 rpm and torque at 4,400 rpm for manual versions. Automatic variants delivered slightly reduced power and torque figures. All South African Luminas were fitted with Brembo brakes and ZF limited-slip differentials. The 2011 facelift mirrored updates seen in the VE Series II Commodore, including redesigned bumpers, chrome boot lid trim, updated alloy wheels, the Holden IQ infotainment system, and introduction of the SSV model. Additionally, the Holden Ute was rebadged as the Lumina Ute in South Africa, featuring similar specifications.

Australian production

The initial production of the first Commodore model in Australia began in 1978 at Holden’s facilities located in Pagewood (New South Wales) and Dandenong (Victoria). Later that year in August, Holden announced an investment of $6.7 million to enable assembly of Commodores at their Elizabeth plant in South Australia. This transition led to the closure of the Pagewood factory by 1979. By 1988, all Australian production of Commodores had been centralized at Elizabeth, coinciding with the launch of the VN Commodore.

Beyond Holden’s own manufacturing efforts, various modified versions of the Commodore have been developed by third-party companies. Officially, Holden’s performance division is HSV; other prominent high-performance brands linked to different generations of Commodores 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. Two years later in December 2015, Belgian entrepreneur Guido Dumarey introduced "Project Erich," a proposal to acquire Holden’s manufacturing facilities to continue producing rebadged premium rear-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles based on GM’s Zeta platform for both domestic and international markets. Dumarey’s company Punch Powerglide was already supplying automatic transmissions for Holden’s Australian-built V6 models. The final Commodore—the last vehicle manufactured by Holden in Australia—was completed at the Elizabeth plant on 20 October 2017.

Sales

Holden Commodore sales figures within Australia
rowspan="2" 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989
78,429 35,355 62,436
rowspan="2" 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" 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" 2010 2011

Bibliography

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External links

  1. ↑ Lord (2000), p. 41.
  2. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  3. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Edgar
  4. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Next Car
  5. ↑ Lord (2000), p. 37.
  6. ↑ Bulmer (2002), p. 74.
  7. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  8. ↑ Davis, Kennedy, Kennedy (Part Three), p. 115
  9. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  10. ↑ McCarthy (2002), p. 78.
  11. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  12. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  13. ↑ Carey (2003), p. 64–69.
  14. ↑ Carey (2003), p. 59.
  15. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  16. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  17. ↑ Robinson (2006), p. 13
  18. ↑ Holden New Zealand, 2006
  19. ↑ WebWombat, 2006
  20. ↑ Butler et al., p. 21
  21. ↑ Pettendy, 2007
  22. ↑ Robinson (2006), pp. 12–13
  23. ↑ Torr, 2007; Dowling, 2008
  24. ↑ Wheels, 2007
  25. ↑ Pettendy, 2009
  26. ↑ Hagon, 2009
  27. ↑ Gratton, 2009
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