Holden Commodore (VE)

Holden

Company type	Subsidiary
Industry	Automotive
Founded	1856 (1856)
Founder	James Alexander Holden
Headquarters	Elizabeth , Australia
Parent	General Motors (former)

The Holden Commodore (VE) represents a full-size automobile manufactured between 2006 and 2013 by Holden, the former Australian division of General Motors. Promoted as Holden's "billion dollar baby," the lineup encompassed the mid-range Berlina and the upscale Calais models, while utility versions were marketed under the Holden Ute name.

Succeeding the VZ series, the VE was the first Commodore entirely designed in Australia, moving away from Opel-based platforms to utilize the in-house developed GM Zeta platform. To minimize expenses related to adapting vehicles for export markets, features such as a symmetrical centre console were incorporated, facilitating straightforward conversion between right- and left-hand drive configurations. The VE was distributed internationally under various badges, including Chevrolet Lumina, Chevrolet Omega, Bitter Vero Sport, and Pontiac G8.

Holden rolled out the VE body styles in stages: launching the sedan in July 2006, followed by the utility in August 2007, and then the station wagon in July 2008. Performance-focused variants from Holden Special Vehicles were released alongside the sedan and the extended-wheelbase WM Statesman/Caprice models. Notably, the VE Sportwagon shared its wheelbase with the sedan rather than adopting the longer Caprice platform.

In 2006, Wheels magazine honored the VE as Car of the Year. Throughout its production run, it maintained a leading position in Australian sales. Updates across model years generally included enhancements to trim levels, expanded standard equipment, improved fuel economy, and notably a smaller entry-level V6 engine alongside a "Series II" facelift introduced in September 2010.

Development

Manufacturing of the VE sedan officially commenced at Holden's production site in Elizabeth, South Australia on 13 July 2006. Three days later, Holden unveiled the vehicle at the Melbourne Convention Centre, an event broadcast live over the Internet. This launch coincided with that of Holden’s flagship model—the Statesman/Caprice (WM). At that time, Holden announced delays for the VE station wagon and utility variants while continuing production of their VZ counterparts. The VE Ute was revealed on 22 August 2007; later that year, a Sportwagon concept appeared, with its production version arriving in July 2008.

Sedan

Spanning seven years of development, the VE became Holden’s most ambitious and costly project to date, with expenditures around A$1.03 billion and encompassing 3.4 million kilometres of testing—earning it the nickname "billion dollar baby."

In late 1998, design head Michael Simcoe drafted an initial concept featuring a sleek sedan with an extended wheelbase and short overhangs that laid the groundwork for production styling. By late 2000, eight exterior sketches were refined down to four designs emphasizing pronounced wheel arches and a bold stance. Full-scale clay models were produced, culminating in a single design direction selected by July 2002. Refinements were made using computer-aided industrial design software and tested at Holden’s Lang Lang Proving Ground. Final design approval occurred by May 2003.

At the 2004 Australian International Motor Show, Holden previewed the forthcoming Commodore through the Torana TT36 concept car. Certain elements from this concept—such as its steering wheel and handbrake lever—were adapted into production vehicles.

Following initial designs, engineers developed a new platform after Opel ceased production of its rear-wheel-drive Omega in 2003. Rejecting GM’s Sigma platform due to insufficient rear seat width, Holden engineered its own GM Zeta, which later supported other GM vehicles. The VE incorporated double-pivot MacPherson strut front suspension along with a four-link independent rear suspension system to replace previous arrangements.

Denny Mooney assumed chairmanship in January 2004 and emphasized enhanced build quality along with reducing panel gap tolerances by half a millimetre compared to earlier models. The body structure employed high-strength steel to achieve approximately 50% greater rigidity than its predecessor. Structural improvements included tailor-welded blanks on front chassis rails and reinforced floors that reduced noise and vibration while enhancing handling dynamics and crash protection.

The VE’s development led to significant modifications at Holden’s Elizabeth plant to facilitate off-line assembly of entire vehicle sections. This enabled complete sub-assemblies—such as engines and transmissions—to be constructed on dedicated rigs simplifying manufacturing processes. The front-end module—which combined headlights, bumpers, and airbag sensors—was produced as a removable single unit to lower repair expenses and improve engine bay accessibility. This innovative approach earned SAE Australasia’s 2006 "Automotive Engineering Excellence Award."

Holden adopted a modular "Flex" interior design philosophy for VE variants, allowing components like audio systems and instrument clusters to be interchanged easily while managing production costs effectively. This strategy resulted in three distinct interior themes: Functional, Performance, and Luxury.

Among other innovations, the VE introduced a new four-strut hinge mechanism for its boot, replacing older "gooseneck" hinges. Higher-end models featured expandable door pockets and a "blackout" mode that illuminated only the speedometer during nighttime driving. The flush-mounted handbrake was integrated into a symmetrical centre console design that facilitated straightforward adaptation for left-hand drive markets—significantly reducing redesign expenditures.

Sportwagon

Debuted at the 2007 Australian International Motor Show held in Melbourne, the Sportwagon was the result of an A$110 million investment coupled with extensive road testing. It was designed to address the shifting preferences in the station wagon segment amid growing sport utility vehicle (SUV) popularity and significant fleet sales dependency. Holden’s strategy focused on appealing to retail buyers by offering a lower-profile, sportier wagon alternative to the SUV market.

Differing from earlier variants built on the extended wheelbase shared with the Statesman/Caprice, the Sportwagon utilized the sedan’s shorter wheelbase platform. This adjustment decreased cargo volume compared to the VZ model but preserved an almost ideal 50:50 weight balance. The tailgate hinges high at the roofline, creating a wide cargo opening operable within a confined space—an aspect prominently featured in promotional materials.

The suspension system was refined with firmer springs, modified anti-roll bars, and an extra rear ball joint to support added mass, resulting in an approximate increase of in kerb weight relative to the sedan.

Ute

The Holden Ute, characterized by its coupe utility body style, was introduced on 22 August 2007 as a "lifestyle vehicle," signaling a shift away from its traditional "workhorse" image. The VE Ute development involved an investment close to AU$105.1 million.

Initiated in 2000 alongside the VE sedan and its global rear-wheel-drive architecture, the design incorporated adaptability for a Ute variant. The Ute shares its wheelbase dimension with the WM Statesman/Caprice series.

Distinctive design elements include horizontally oriented tail lights, an elevated number plate recess, and a seamless one-piece bumper, all intended to lend the Ute a more passenger car-like aesthetic, as explained by Tony Stolfo, VE’s chief designer.

Safety

Engine placement was a significant focus during development. Holden’s design team advocated positioning the engine well behind the front axle to achieve minimal overhangs and enhance sporty styling. However, crash engineers raised concerns about compromised impact absorption with this layout. A compromise was reached by relocating certain engine components—such as moving the battery to the boot—thereby freeing space at the front end. This adjustment also contributed to nearly perfect 50:50 weight distribution across all model variants, improving vehicle dynamics. Additionally, crash engineers optimized safety by situating the fuel tank ahead of the rear axle.

By July 2006, Holden asserted that the VE featured one of the strongest global body structures, supported by over 5,000 virtual crash simulations and 79 physical barrier tests. Despite this, ANCAP assigned a slightly lower rating for offset frontal impact compared to its predecessor but acknowledged enhanced side impact protection, resulting in a four-star rating with a score of 27.45 out of 37.

The March 2008 MY09 update made six airbags standard equipment across VE models, enabling them to pass ANCAP’s side pole test and earn additional safety points. By October 2008 (MY09.5), energy-absorbing steering column covers and redesigned rear door latches became standard throughout the range. The Omega sedan achieved five-star status with a score of 33.45 by December 2008 thanks in part to its seat belt reminder system. Subsequently, in February 2009, the Omega Sportwagon attained five stars following installation of similar reminders.

Safety enhancements extended across other VE-derived vehicles such as the Ute and WM Statesman/Caprice, where seat belt reminders became standard from the MY10 update in August 2009. As a result, all VE sedans, Sportwagons, and extended-wheelbase WM models secured five-star ratings. The VE Ute earned its five-star ANCAP rating in October 2009, completing comprehensive five-star safety coverage for all Australian-built Holden models.

Powertrains

To minimize the risks associated with simultaneously introducing a new platform and powertrain, Holden opted to incorporate the Australian-manufactured Alloytec V6 engine, which was derived from the well-established VZ model. This strategy helped limit potential issues during pre-production. The base V6 engine was enhanced in power compared to the VZ version and benefited from quieter operation due to redesigned timing chains and other improvements. The longstanding four-speed GM 4L60-E automatic transmission, initially introduced in the VL, continued with minor refinements. Manual gearbox options included the Aisin AY6 and the Tremec TR6060 six-speed units; automatic transmissions with Active Select manumatic capability comprised the five-speed GM 5L40-E and six-speed GM 6L80-E, with the latter reserved for a modified L76 V8 engine. Notably, the new L98 V8 did not feature fuel-saving Active Fuel Management (AFM), unlike the L76 variant.

In October 2006, Holden introduced a bi-fuel version of the Alloytec V6 for Omega and Berlina models, enabling operation on either petrol or LPG. This model utilized an advanced Sequential Vapour Gas Injection system paired with strengthened valve seats. When running on LPG, performance decreased slightly by 5 kW and 5 Nm, achieving a total output of . The inclusion of a large cylindrical gas tank reduced boot capacity and caused a modest increase in fuel consumption. Between 2006 and 2007, several recalls addressed issues such as fuel hose defects, seat belt anchor problems, O-ring sizing errors, and fuel line abrasion affecting thousands of vehicles.

On 21 October 2008, Holden announced MY09.5 updates that standardized the Alloytec V6 across all Commodore variants starting November 2008; previously, it was limited to SV6 and Calais trims. The Omega and Berlina models received variable valve timing but lost the premium dual exhaust system and five-speed automatic transmission, resulting in a decrease of 5 kW in power and 5 Nm in torque. Fuel efficiency improved by two to four percent for both sedan and Sportwagon configurations. Emissions were reduced sufficiently for petrol engines to comply with Euro VI standards introduced in Europe in 2014. The bi-fuel LPG variants saw an eight percent improvement in fuel economy when operating on LPG but experienced a torque decrease of 7 Nm. In 2008, Holden launched the AFM-equipped 6.0-litre V8 L76, available exclusively with automatic transmissions; this engine sacrificed 10 kW in power for enhanced fuel efficiency. Versions equipped with AFM or LPG were marketed under the EcoLine badge.

The MY10 updates on 4 August 2009 replaced the Omega and Berlina's previous 3.6-litre Alloytec with a smaller-displacement 3.0-litre engine featuring Spark Ignition Direct Injection (SIDI). This change improved fuel economy by up to twelve percent while increasing power output to , although torque dropped to . A new SIDI-equipped 3.6-litre variant delivering and also became available. Apart from the SV6 manual model, all SIDI V6 vehicles paired with GM's 6L50 automatic transmission were classified under the EcoLine range. Fuel savings resulted from enhancements such as improved deceleration fuel cut-off, a more efficient alternator and voltage regulator, reduced idle speed (550 rpm), and a turbine damper in automatics allowing earlier gear shifts. Omega Ute models retained their 3.6-litre four-speed automatic but received efficiency improvements for LPG versions.

Significant MY11 Series II changes arrived in late August 2010, including upgrading the Omega Ute to the same 3.0-litre SIDI engine with six-speed automatic as found in sedans and wagons. Holden also modified the 3.0-litre V6 to be compatible with E85 bio-ethanol fuel, claiming performance enhancements alongside CO2 emission reductions ranging from twenty to forty percent depending on fuel transportation distance. This E85 compatibility was extended to the 3.6-litre V6 during MY12 updates.

Engine displacement; configuration	Engine	Power	Torque	Transmission	Fuel type	Fuel consumption (sedan)	Production	Ref.
3.6 L (3,564 cc); V6	Alloytec (LE0)	180 kilowatts (240 hp)	330 newton-metres (240 lbf⋅ft)	4-speed GM 4L60-E transmission automatic	Petrol	10.9 litres per 100 kilometres (26 mpg‑imp; 21.6 mpg‑US)	2006–2007
						10.8 litres per 100 kilometres (26 mpg‑imp; 22 mpg‑US)	2007–2008
		175 kilowatts (235 hp)	325 newton-metres (240 lbf⋅ft)			10.6 litres per 100 kilometres (27 mpg‑imp; 22 mpg‑US)	2008–2009
					Petrol/LPG (bi-fuel)	16.0 litres per 100 kilometres (17.7 mpg‑imp; 14.7 mpg‑US)	2006–2007
						15.5 litres per 100 kilometres (18.2 mpg‑imp; 15.2 mpg‑US)	2007–2008
			318 newton-metres (235 lbf⋅ft)			14.2 litres per 100 kilometres (19.9 mpg‑imp; 16.6 mpg‑US)	2008–2009
						13.4 litres per 100 kilometres (21.1 mpg‑imp; 17.6 mpg‑US)	2009–2012

Commodore Omega

The Omega served as the base model, replacing both the Commodore Executive and Acclaim trims, and featured essential standard equipment. A notable enhancement over the Executive was the inclusion of the Bosch version 8.0 electronic stability control system as standard across the entire lineup. Every VE variant, including the Omega, was equipped with a "space saver" spare tyre, which faced criticism for negatively affecting handling; nevertheless, Holden justified this choice as a weight reduction strategy. Initially, air conditioning was not standard on the Omega but was incorporated starting with the MY09 update.

Holden introduced five limited edition versions based on the Omega model. The V-Series launched in mid-2006 featured a sporty body kit, 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and exterior elements painted to match the body color. The Lumina edition, released in June 2007, added Bluetooth functionality and rear parking sensors. On 1 May 2008, the 60th Anniversary edition celebrated Holden's first vehicle with distinct alloy wheels, leather upholstery accents, and exclusive badges. Beginning in March 2009, International editions were offered with Calais V alloy wheels, fog lamps, six-disc CD changers, leather trim, and Bluetooth technology on both sedan and Sportwagon variants.

In October 2009, the International edition returned featuring engine choices including a 3.0-litre SIDI V6 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission or a 3.6-litre LPG Alloytec V6 mated to a four-speed automatic (available only on sedans). This version also included 18-inch alloys and Berlina grille styling. To commemorate the end of VE production ahead of the VF series release, the Z Series was unveiled on 5 September 2012. This line combined luxury and sport elements across Omega, SV6, SS, and SS V trims. Features included leather seats (available in Omega and SS V), Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking sensors with camera support, and alloy wheels in multiple sizes. These were offered in sedan, Sportwagon, and Ute body styles.

Commodore SV6

The SV6 builds upon the Omega by introducing a more robust High Output Alloytec V6 engine available with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic gearbox. Unlike the base Omega model, air conditioning is standard equipment here. It incorporates "FE2" suspension tuning which includes a lowered ride height along with stiffer springs and heavier dampers. The interior design of the SV6 adopts a Performance theme contrasting with the Omega’s more utilitarian Functional style. The 2012 SV6 Z Series edition was launched alongside the Omega to clear out remaining VE stock before transitioning to the VF series; it maintained existing mechanical components but added upgrades such as 19-inch alloy wheels, leather-accented seats, Z Series badging, custom floor mats, a rearview camera, and rear parking sensors.

Commodore VE SS

Powered by a 6.0-litre V8 engine coupled with a T-56 six-speed manual transmission and featuring quad exhaust tips, the Commodore SS earned Motor magazine’s “Bang For Your Bucks” accolade in both 2006 and 2007. The SS V marked Holden’s introduction of "V-Series" nomenclature for production vehicles to distinguish them from limited editions. This trim enhanced luxury features while maintaining similar pricing to the SS model; upgrades included metallic-style pedals and instrument clusters coordinated with exterior paint colors alongside optional dashboard finishes in bright red, orange, or black. Exterior enhancements comprised five-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels with optional upgrades to 20-inch alloys.

Two special editions of the VE SS were released by Holden: The SS V 60th Anniversary edition launched in May 2008 featured unique 10-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels, satellite navigation system, rear parking sensors, a high-mounted rear spoiler, chrome door handle accents, plus commemorative badges and floor mats. Following Pontiac’s discontinuation in North America in 2009, Holden produced approximately 1,500 Commodore SS Vs fitted with Pontiac G8 front-end styling and additional features. This special edition debuted at the Deniliquin Ute Muster in October 2009 and went on sale from November onwards. Unlike the Pontiac G8 which was sedan-exclusive, this SS V-Series Special Edition was available across sedan, utility (ute), and Sportwagon body styles with production limited to 500 units each.

Berlina

Positioned as the mid-tier VE variant, the Berlina incorporates many elements found in the Omega but enhances them with features such as enlarged rear light clusters, front fog lights, seven-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels, and a Luxury-style interior. The Berlina International, derived from the Series II Berlina and offered in both sedan and wagon forms, upgrades the package further by including leather upholstery, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a rearview camera to assist with reversing safely.

Calais

Serving as the top-tier model within the VE lineup, the Calais pairs the High Output Alloytec V6 engine with a five-speed automatic gearbox. A premium V-Series variant was also available. Two limited editions were released: the Calais V International, which came with either V6 or V8 powertrains and an automatic transmission, featured 19-inch alloy wheels, chrome door handles, colour satellite navigation, and pedals with alloy finishes; and the Calais V 60th Anniversary Edition, which added an electronic sunroof, leather interiors, and chrome exterior door handles.

Model year changes

Continuing the pattern of notable updates seen in earlier generations such as the VT, VX, VY, and VZ models, the fourth-generation Commodore underwent several model year (MY) revisions throughout its lifecycle.

Series I

Introduced on 15 March 2008, the MY09 lineup made six airbags standard across all variants to enhance occupant safety compared to earlier models. The Omega trim gained standard equipment including air conditioning, 16-inch alloy wheels, body-coloured mirrors and door handles, along with a redesigned grille featuring chrome accents. The MY09.5 revision, effective from November 2008 production runs, standardized instrument cluster lighting while removing turn-by-turn navigation and discontinuing Berlina V8 options. Additionally, a "premium" Alloytec V6 engine option was introduced for Omega and Berlina trims to improve fuel economy at a slight cost to power output. Safety enhancements were also implemented during this update.

In March 2009, Holden eliminated the space-saver spare wheel option in favor of either a compact tire inflator kit or a full-size spare tire. For Sportwagon Calais V and SS V models choosing the full-size spare, alloy wheels were provided; other variants retained steel wheels for their spares. Interior updates included replacing dark grey dashboard trim and steering wheel spokes on SV6, SS, and SS V models with matte silver finishes. Safety improvements were extended to the Omega Sportwagon alongside the sedan.

The MY10 refresh in September 2009 introduced new 3.0-litre and 3.6-litre V6 engines featuring Spark Ignition Direct Injection (SIDI), paired with a six-speed automatic transmission under the EcoLine designation. These variants displayed relocated EcoLine badges and twin exhaust tips on models equipped with the 3.0-litre engine. Suspension tuning was revised by adding a rear ball joint and increasing the rear anti-roll bar thickness to 24 mm for enhanced handling dynamics. Noise reduction was addressed through improved engine bay insulation and a redesigned muffler, while lighter low rolling resistance tires contributed to better fuel efficiency. This update also saw the introduction of an upgraded Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission featuring a reinforced clutch.

Series II ===

The MY11 update brought a series of design enhancements throughout the lineup, branded by Holden as the "Series II". Officially revealed on 31 August 2010 and released on 10 September, this refresh introduced restyled front ends, aerodynamic lip spoilers on sedan boot lids, and new alloy wheel designs for Berlina and above trims. Changes to the front fascia included redesigned headlamps, updated bumpers, and enlarged grilles featuring inserts unique to each model. Inside, a redesigned centre console housed a new 6.5-inch touchscreen, complemented by refreshed dashboards, rearranged controls, altered air vents, and updated trim and illumination colours. Models such as the SV6, SS, and SS V were equipped with distinctive circular air vents.

From a mechanical perspective, the MY11 added flex-fuel capability to the 3.0-litre V6 and 6.0-litre V8 engines, enabling operation on E85 bio-ethanol. A newly introduced "Redline" sports package for V-Series vehicles included lightweight forged 19-inch multi-spoke alloys sourced from the Pontiac G8 GXP, Brembo four-piston brake calipers, firmer "FE3" suspension tuning, and a tyre inflator kit specifically for the Redline Ute variant. The 6.5-inch "Holden-iQ" infotainment system—developed in partnership with Siemens VDO—became standard equipment on Omega, SS, and SS V trims. This system replaced the traditional mechanical CD stacker with a single-slot player and flash-drive storage capable of holding approximately 15 CDs. Additional connectivity features comprised iPod integration, USB and auxiliary ports, as well as Bluetooth support for hands-free calls and audio streaming.

Production of the MY12 Commodore commenced on 6 September 2011 following an announcement of minor mechanical revisions aimed at improving fuel efficiency and extending E85 compatibility to the 3.6-litre SIDI V6 engine. Exterior updates included seven-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels and chrome detailing on Omega's lower fascia inserts; chrome-trimmed fog light surrounds featured on Berlina; a new boot lip spoiler offered on Calais V (also available as an accessory for other sedans); plus chrome-accented lower spoilers and grille surrounds on SV6 and SS variants. The V-Series SS models gained chrome embellishments on lower outboard inserts. Redline SS V editions showcased redesigned 19-inch wheels with red-painted brake calipers and expanded FE3 suspension tuning now available for Sportwagon and Ute body styles.

HSV range (E Series)

Holden's performance division, Holden Special Vehicles (HSV), marketed high-performance versions of the VE Commodore under the E Series badge. Introduced in August 2006, the E Series range comprised models such as the Clubsport, Maloo (utility), Senator (luxury), and GTS variants. These vehicles featured unique styling elements including LED taillights and vertical front wing grilles. Initially powered by a 6.0-litre LS2 V8 engine, this was superseded by a 6.2-litre LS3 V8 in 2008. The E Series 2 arrived in 2010 with refreshed styling cues, launch control functionality, and upgraded stability control settings. In 2011, the E Series 3 was launched featuring LPG compatibility, improved driver interfaces with touchscreen controls, and leather upholstery.

The Clubsport range also included special editions such as the R8 Tourer station wagon and the CSV CR8 tailored for Middle Eastern markets. High-performance HSV models were marketed in the UK under the Vauxhall VXR8 nameplate. Among limited editions, the W427 stood out with its powerful 7.0-litre LS7 V8 engine, making it the most potent vehicle within the E Series lineup.

Production

Upon its introduction in Australia, the VE Commodore directly challenged the BF Falcon produced by Ford. Towards the end of 2005, the front-wheel-drive Mitsubishi 380 entered the scene but was discontinued following the 2008 shutdown of Mitsubishi Motors Australia's Tonsley Park facility. In November 2006, Toyota added the Aurion to the competitive landscape.

The VE Commodore gained strong market acceptance, dominating sales within Australia’s large-car category. Although it encountered competition from the Toyota Corolla amid rising fuel costs during 2007 and 2008, it reclaimed its leading position with the mid-2008 release of the Sportwagon, which represented more than 30% of all Commodore sales. In 2007, it earned the prestigious Wheels Car of the Year accolade.

Exports commenced in September 2006 targeting New Zealand; in regions such as the Middle East and South Africa, the vehicle was retailed as the Chevrolet Lumina. The Berlina variant was sold in Brazil under the Chevrolet Omega nameplate starting in 2007. Between 2008 and 2009, Pontiac imported the Commodore sedan for North America as the G8, which incorporated a modified L76 engine featuring Active Fuel Management alongside unique styling elements. The G8 was discontinued following General Motors' Chapter 11 bankruptcy and the subsequent discontinuation of the Pontiac brand.

In 2009, German automaker Bitter unveiled the "Vero Sport," a model derived from the Commodore SS, at the Geneva Motor Show.

The final VE Commodore rolled off production on 17 May 2013—an automatic SSV sedan finished in Chlorophyll green destined for a dealer in the Northern Territory. Over its production span from 2006 to 2013, Holden manufactured upwards of 520,000 VE units, with approximately 350,000 sold within Australia. The VE model was eventually replaced by the VF Commodore.