Holden Commodore (VF)

Holden Commodore (VF)

Industry	Automotive
Predecessor	Holden Commodore (VE)
Founded	June 2013 (2013-06)
Defunct	October 2017 (2017-10)
Fate	End of production following General Motors' closure of Australian manufacturing
Successor	None
Headquarters	Adelaide, South Australia , Australia
Area served	Australia, United States, United Kingdom
Key people	Justin Thompson (designer)
Products	Full-size automobiles (sedan, station wagon, utility)
Owner	General Motors
Parent	General Motors

{{Infobox automobile | name = Holden Commodore (VF) | image = 2014 Holden Commodore (VF MY14) SV6 sedan (2018-08-27) 01.jpg | caption = 2014 Holden Commodore (VF) SV6 sedan | aka = Holden Calais
Holden Ute
HSV Gen-F
Chevrolet SS (United States)
Vauxhall VXR8 (United Kingdom) | manufacturer = Holden | production = June 2013 – October 2017 | assembly = Australia: Adelaide, South Australia (Elizabeth) | designer = Justin Thompson (2008) | class = Full-size | body_style = 2-door coupé utility
4-door sedan
5-door station wagon | layout = Front-engine, rear-wheel drive | platform = GM Zeta | engine = 3.0 L LF1 V6
3.6 L LFX V6
6.0 L L77 V8
6.2 L LS3 V8
6.2 L LSA V8 (HSV only)
6.2 L LS9 V8 (HSV only) | transmission = 6-speed GM 6L45-E automatic
6-speed GM 6L80-E automatic
6-speed GM 6L90-E automatic (LSA only)
6-speed Aisin AY6 manual
6-speed Tremec TR-6060 manual | wheelbase = | length = | width = | height = | weight = |} The Holden Commodore (VF) represents a full-size automobile manufactured by Holden from June 2013 until October 2017. It marked the second and final significant redesign within the fourth generation and was produced domestically in Australia. The range encompassed sedan and station wagon models sold under the premium Holden Calais (VF) designation, alongside a utility version marketed as the Holden Ute (VF).

From 2013 through to 2017, an upgraded Commodore SS V sedan was shipped to the United States under the Chevrolet SS nameplate, maintaining the North American presence previously established by the Pontiac G8. Performance-focused variants crafted by Holden Special Vehicles, known as the Gen-F series, included sedan, wagon, and utility configurations that were also exported to the United Kingdom as the Vauxhall VXR8.

In December 2013, General Motors declared its decision to halt all Australian manufacturing operations by 2017, thereby concluding local production of the VF Commodore.

Development

Constructed on a revised iteration of the Holden-developed GM Zeta platform, initially introduced with the VE Commodore, the VF Commodore featured numerous updates. Its design enhancements comprised reshaped headlights and tail lamps exclusive to sedans, along with refreshed grille and intake components. Additionally, performance variants replaced the previous rear wing with a lip spoiler. Notably, structural elements such as the body shell, windows, doors, mirrors, roofline, wheelbase, and track dimensions remained consistent with its predecessor.

Inside, modifications included moving the boot lid release mechanism from inside the glovebox to the door panels and incorporating an electronic parking brake across all models. Standard equipment featured an eight-inch touchscreen centrally located on the console, keyless entry systems, and automatic parking assist. Optional advanced safety technologies offered head-up displays, forward and rear collision alerts, blind spot detection, and lane departure warnings. Transitioning from hydraulic to electric power steering improved fuel efficiency at the expense of some steering feedback.

The vehicle underwent primary testing within Australia supplemented by evaluations in Germany, the Middle East, North America, and Sweden. Public reveals of show vehicles for both the SS V and Calais V occurred on 10 February 2013, with pre-production units finalized by April of that year.

Safety

The VF continued to achieve a five-star rating in the ANCAP evaluations, maintaining the same high standard as its predecessor. It delivered excellent protection against occupant whiplash injuries; however, pedestrian safety was deemed only marginal, earning a score of 15.41 out of a possible 36 points.

ANCAP Test Outcomes
Star rating:
Test	Points	Maximum	Percentage
Frontal offset:	14.06	16	88%
Side impact:	16.00	16	100%
Pole impact:	2.00	2	100%
Seat belt reminder:	3.00	3	100%
Total score:	35.06	37	95%

In May 2014, Holden issued a recall affecting nearly 42,000 VF and WN Caprice models due to a potential defect in the front seatbelt pretensioner wiring harness, which might prevent the system from activating in a collision. A later recall targeted a possible malfunction of the windscreen wiper motor drive gear. Furthermore, LPG-powered variants were recalled in July because of a risk involving a feed hose leak that could cause fire hazards during the vehicle's later usage stages.

Powertrains

The VF model carried forward the VE's engine lineup with slight modifications aimed at enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency. The automatic transmission was also redesigned to improve gear shifting quality. Initially, both V8 and V6 engines retained compatibility with E85 fuel up until the 2015 model year. Weight reduction was achieved through the use of aluminium body panels, resulting in a 43 kg lighter vehicle compared to the VE, complemented by the adoption of electric power steering. Aerodynamic refinements reduced the drag coefficient from 0.33 down to 0.30, contributing to fuel savings between 3% and 8%, depending on engine type and trim level. From the VF II update in 2015 onward, the previous 6.0-litre L77 V8 was replaced by a more powerful 6.2-litre LS3, and LPG versions were phased out.

Engine capacity; layout	Engine designation	Power output	Torque output	Transmission type	Fuel category	Fuel consumption (sedan)	Production years
3.0 L (2,997 cc); V6	SIDI (LF1)	185 kW (248 hp)	290 N⋅m (214 lbf⋅ft)	6-speed GM 6L50 automatic	Petrol	8.3 L/100 km (28.3 mpg‑US)	2013–2017
3.6 L (3,564 cc); V6	SIDI (LFX)	210 kW (282 hp)	350 N⋅m (258 lbf⋅ft)	6-speed Aisin AY6 manual		9.0 L/100 km (26.1 mpg‑US)	2013–2017
				6-speed GM 6L45-E automatic			2013–2017	-	LPG (LWR)	180 kW (241 hp)	320 \ Nm	LPG		2013–2015	-	6.0 L (5,967 cc); V8	Generation 4 Alloy (L77)			6-speed Tremec TR-6060 manual	rowspan=2 | Petrol	rowspan=2 |	2013–2015	-	Generation 4 Alloy (AFM) (L77)			6-speed GM 6L80-E automatic	2013–2015	-	6.2 L (6,162 cc); V8	Generation 4 Alloy (LS3)			6-speed Tremec TR-6060 manual or GM 6L80-E automatic	Petrol		2015–2017

Models

The range of specification tiers was streamlined compared to the VE series, with the Berlina (discontinued in 1984) and Omega (phased out in 2006) no longer offered. Pricing saw a reduction of between A$5,000 and $10,000 relative to the VE lineup. Utility versions were positioned at a lower price point than sedans, whereas wagon models commanded a premium.

Commodore Evoke

Serving as the new base model, the Evoke replaced both the Commodore Omega and Berlina. It came equipped with a standard 3.0-litre SIDI V6 engine, identical to that found in the VE Omega, alongside an optional 3.6-litre LPG-powered V6, both paired exclusively with automatic transmissions. The central console display size increased from 6.5 inches to 8 inches, offering support for CD playback, MP3 files, iPod integration, mobile phone connectivity, and voice commands for audio, navigation, and telephone functions. Safety features included six airbags, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Evoke rode on 16-inch alloy wheels.

Commodore SV6

The SV6 was equipped with a larger 3.6-litre SIDI V6 engine available with either manual or automatic gearboxes and an LPG variant as well. It sported a more aggressive body kit featuring LED daytime running lights, a lip spoiler, FE2 suspension tuning, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Interior enhancements encompassed sport seats trimmed in suede and leather, a rear armrest, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and leather gear shift knob.

In 2016, Holden launched the "Black Edition" special edition for both SV6 and SS models. While retaining their standard powertrains (3.6 V6 for the SV6 and 6.2 V8 for the SS), these editions added satellite navigation, heads-up display, red contrast stitching, and black accents on the grille, side vents, and wheels.

Commodore SS, SS V and SS V Redline

The entry-level SS model shared styling cues with the SV6 but was powered by a more potent V8 engine. Between 2013 and 2014, it featured the 6.0-litre L77 V8; following the VF II facelift in 2015, it adopted the 6.2-litre LS3 V8 previously exclusive to HSV variants. The mid-tier SS V included larger 19-inch wheels and front fog lamps alongside LED daytime running lights. Interior upgrades comprised leather seating surfaces, enhanced instrument clusters, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, satellite navigation system, and a DVD player (which was discontinued after MY2015). The flagship SS V Redline further improved performance through upgraded brakes and suspension components as well as additional collision sensors; it also featured launch control for manual transmissions and offered a sunroof paired with Bose audio in sedan models only. Manual transmission availability was ceased for all SS sportwagon variants due to low demand.

Calais and Calais V

Both Calais and Calais V models came standard with the 3.6-litre V6 engine from the SV6 lineup; however, the Calais V optionally offered a 6.0-litre V8 equipped with active fuel management (AFM) or cylinder deactivation technology that reduced operation to four cylinders under light loads—while the VF II update introduced a 6.2-litre V8 engine found in higher-performance variants. These models were exclusively automatic transmission-equipped; a limited slip differential with a 2.92 ratio optimized for cruising was available as an option within the Calais range. The Calais emphasized luxury trim featuring chrome detailing inside and out, leather upholstery, and 18-inch wheels; Calais V models upgraded to standard 19-inch ten-spoke machine-finished alloys. Advanced equipment on the Calais V included satellite navigation shared with the SS V model line, text-to-voice messaging capabilities, voice-activated phone controls, heated front seats with eight-way electric adjustment plus memory function, four-way manual headrest adjustments, DVD player (until MY2015), head-up display, rain-sensing wipers, park assist system, side intrusion alert, lane departure warning system, forward collision alert technology, and self-parking functionality. The Calais V sedan further featured a sunroof along with a nine-speaker Bose sound system and optional Light Titanium Leather seating surfaces. Its suspension setup balanced ride comfort with responsive handling characteristics.

Limited editions

A variety of limited edition Commodore variants were released, each with distinct features:

• International: Derived from the Evoke model, offered as both sedan and Sportwagon, commemorating the 35th anniversary of the Commodore name. Highlights included 18-inch alloy wheels, refreshed exterior and interior design elements such as LED daytime running lights, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and leather upholstery.

2014 Model Year

• Storm: Available on SV6 and SS sedans, Sportwagon, and Ute configurations. This edition showcased black-accented wheels, "Storm" branding, integrated satellite navigation, red contrast stitching on seats, and front fog lamps with chrome surrounds.
• Collingwood: Dubbed the "Collingwoodore," this edition was limited to Heron White SV6, SS, or SS V sedans. It featured exclusive 20-inch wheels and branding associated with the Collingwood Football Club.

2015 Model Year

• Craig Lowndes: Offered in Heron White or Red Hot finishes on the SS V Redline trim, celebrating Craig Lowndes’ two decades with Holden in touring car racing. Enhancements included Brembo brakes front and rear, staggered 20-inch wheels, a black-painted roof and spoiler, a red engine cover, along with an embroidered signature on the dashboard. Production was capped at 233 units.
• Sandman: Based on Sportwagon and Ute models in either white or black paint, featuring orange retro-style decals paying homage to the 1970s Sandman editions. It included 20-inch Baretta wheels and orange sheepskin seat covers. Available alongside SV6 and SS-V Redline variants.
• Black Edition: Offered across all SV6 and SS body styles; this edition featured blacked-out exterior chrome trim, black mirror caps, darker 18-inch alloy wheels, red leather stitching inside, heads-up display (HUD), navigation system, and bespoke floor mats.

2016–2017 Model Years

• Reserve Edition: Exclusively produced for Holden employees and not available for public sale. It came equipped with unique 19-inch forged alloy wheels (shared only with the US Chevrolet SS), a special chassis plate displaying the build code and employee number discreetly to deter counterfeiting. The instrument panel bore “Reserve” embroidery, accompanied by distinctive exterior badges.

2017 Model Year

• Director: Sedan variant only; limited to 360 units.
• Motorsport: Sedan-only release; 1,200 units produced.
• Magnum: Utility model exclusively; production limited to 240 units.

Series II update

In September 2015, Holden introduced the MY16 Series II (VF II) update for the Commodore range. The primary upgrade was the rollout of the more powerful 6.2-litre LS3 V8 engine across all V8-equipped Commodore models including Calais, Caprice, and Ute variants. A Bimodal exhaust system became standard equipment on SS, SS V, and Redline trims while remaining optional on Calais V models fitted with the LS3 V8. Wagon versions received redesigned LED taillights along with a refreshed front bumper and updated running lights. The SS V Redline benefited from revised gear ratios and suspension adjustments.

For the 2017 model year, the SSV pack and Calais wagon were discontinued. SV6 trims incorporated HUD/GPS systems and adopted wheels previously exclusive to the "Black Edition," whereas SS variants gained HUD/GPS features alongside new 19-inch wheels. Both Redline and Calais V models were fitted with chrome V Series door sill plates; additionally, Calais V introduced an auto-dimming rearview mirror and Calais badging on its sides.

HSV range (Gen-F)

Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) enhanced the VF series with the Generation F ("Gen-F") lineup, which was also exported to the United Kingdom under the Vauxhall VXR8 badge.

ClubSport

The ClubSport represents the entry-level HSV sedan, built upon the Commodore SS platform. It is equipped with a 6.2-litre LS3 V8 engine generating and . The ClubSport R8, derived from the SSV/Redline models, increases output to 325 kW, with an SV-enhanced variant providing additional power and torque, along with subtle styling updates and SV branding. The R8 Tourer serves as the wagon version. Standard features across all ClubSport models include 20-inch wheels and a choice between a six-speed manual or an optional automatic gearbox.

The November 2014 MY15 revision boosted power figures to for the base ClubSport and for the R8 variant.

In July 2015, HSV introduced a limited Clubsport R8 25th Anniversary edition, featuring forged alloy wheels and exclusive interior trims; production was capped at 108 units, including eight allocated for New Zealand.

The 2016 model year saw the return of a detuned LSA supercharged V8 in the R8, rated at .

GTS

The Gen-F GTS is propelled by a supercharged LSA V8 engine delivering and of torque.

To manage thermal loads, it incorporates a stacked plate engine oil cooler alongside a dedicated water-to-air charge-air cooler. The drivetrain features reinforced tail shafts and a heavy-duty rear differential to withstand the elevated torque. Upon release, it stood as Australia's most powerful production vehicle.

Transmission options include a six-speed manual or automatic, paired with 20-inch alloy wheels. Performance enhancements comprise an upgraded braking system and a rear spoiler for improved aerodynamics and visual appeal. Additionally, this model integrates third-generation magnetic ride control (MRC) offering Tour, Sport/Performance, and Track modes selectable via a driver preference dial that also adjusts the bi-modal exhaust system.

GTSR

At the pinnacle of the Gen-F HSV lineup is the GTSR, powered by a supercharged LSA V8 delivering and of torque. It comes standard with a Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic featuring paddle shifters. Notable specifications include 6-piston AP Racing brakes with 410mm front rotors, quad exhaust outlets with dual diamond-shaped tips, and front seats upholstered in Alcantara HSV Podium material with diamond-quilted stitching and eight-way electric adjustment.

In 2017, HSV commemorated the end of production with the limited-edition GTSR W1, restricted to 300 units. This model holds the title of Australia's most powerful car, boasting a supercharged LS9 V8 engine producing and . Its engineering highlights include titanium connecting rods and valves, a dry sump lubrication system, and a twin four-lobe rotor supercharger displacing 2.3 litres per revolution. Exclusively paired with the Tremec TR-6060 (MH3 spec) six-speed manual transmission, the GTSR W1 rides on 20-inch SV Panorama forged alloy wheels finished in Matte Black wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero Trofeo R tires. The suspension features SupaShock technology alongside forged six-piston AP Racing monoblock calipers with 410mm rotors.

Maloo

The Maloo serves as the utility counterpart to the ClubSport range, offered in both R8 and R8 SV specifications. November 2014 saw the launch of a limited edition GTS Maloo that shared mechanical components with the GTS sedan but did not include Magnetic Ride Control suspension.

Senator Signature

The Gen-F Senator Signature presents a more restrained design compared to the ClubSport or GTS models, yet it retains all the premium features found in the Holden Calais. Under the hood, it houses the 6.2-litre LS3 V8 engine, producing and of torque. Buyers can choose between a six-speed automatic or manual transmission, both paired with 20-inch forged alloy wheels.

In early 2015, HSV introduced a limited run of the Senator SV (Gen-F MY15) edition, with only 52 units produced—50 allocated for Australia and two for New Zealand.

Production

Despite launching during a period of declining large car sales in Australia, the VF Commodore recorded strong initial demand with 2,827 units sold in its first month—representing a 17.8% rise compared to the same month in 2012. Overall production of the VF reached 177,593 vehicles. Sales momentum continued through 2013, with a 19% growth in the latter half of the year relative to 2012.

The VF generation stands as the fifteenth and final iteration of the Australian-manufactured Commodore series since its inception in 1978.

Australian Sales

Sedan and Sportwagon Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Total 2013 — 2,827 2,809 2,869 3,315 3,097 2,548 17,465 127,373 2014 2,364 2,777 2,967 2,443 2,648 3,156 2,469 2,344 2,616 2,210 2,200 2,009 30,203 2015 1,784 2,517 2,436 2,043 2,217 2,772 2,030 2,144 2,348 2,243 2,614 2,622 27,770 2016 1,242 2,331 2,559 1,908 2,255 3,054 1,874 1,952 2,366 2,101 2,088 2,130 25,860 2017 1,960 1,566 2,081 1,441 1,841 2,054 1,633 2,071 2,547 2,418 1,835 2,229 23,706 2018 871 374 474 114 155 213 41 47 34 20 2,343 2019 10 7 17 9 0 43 Note: Production ceased in October of 2017

Ute Sales (Australia)

	Jan ! Feb ! Mar ! Apr ! May ! Jun ! Jul ! Aug ! Sep ! Oct ! Nov ! Dec ! Year ! Total
2013	—						590	585	508	615	655	504	3,457	23,532
2014	436	458	543	500	496	702	434	402	411	375	415	424	5,596
2015	387	455	420	362	409	528	464	472	362	256	349	472	4,936
2016	335	400	428	406	497	608	517	341	346	347	367	369	>4,961
2017	312	235	300	241	353	371	362	451	437	>470	>337	>372	>4,241
2018	120	64	40	>26	>36	>40	>7	>4	>2	>2			>341
2019													>3

Chevrolet SS

The VF Commodore SS-V Redline sedan was introduced to the U.S. market under the Chevrolet SS nameplate, positioned as a performance-oriented "Super Sport" sedan situated between the Chevrolet Malibu and Impala models. It served as the successor to the Pontiac G8—a rebadged VE Commodore—after Pontiac was discontinued in 2009. Released for the 2014 model year in late 2013, this marked Chevrolet's first rear-wheel-drive V8 sedan available to consumers in nearly two decades. The vehicle made its public debut during Speedweeks in Daytona Beach, Florida, in February 2013.

Equipped with a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 engine sourced from the Chevrolet Corvette (C6), the SS produced 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The initial 2014 model came standard with a six-speed automatic transmission featuring paddle shifters, while subsequent versions introduced a manual gearbox option. The electronically governed top speed was set at 160 mph. Performance evaluations recorded a 0-60 mph sprint in approximately 4.5 seconds and a quarter-mile elapsed time of 12.9 seconds at 111 mph.

Relative to the Pontiac G8, the SS incorporated a more rigid chassis constructed from medium to high-strength steels, resulting in a weight reduction of around 30 pounds. This enhancement improved ride quality, handling precision, and crash safety through redesigned front rails and an upgraded electrical system capable of supporting advanced technologies such as a head-up display and active safety features including blind spot detection. The cabin received updates with a refreshed dashboard layout and improved user interface design.

With a starting MSRP of US$44,470, the SS was available exclusively in one fully loaded trim level, offering optional equipment like a sunroof and a full-size spare tire. Standard amenities encompassed Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment platform (including Bluetooth connectivity, Sirius XM Radio, and Pandora integration), automatic parking assist, lane departure alert, electronic power steering, and 19-inch wheels. Marketing campaigns highlighted its connection to the Holden VF Commodore through television advertisements produced by Holden.

Although previewed at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto, GM declared that the Chevrolet SS would not be marketed in Canada. Dealer allocations within the U.S. were limited based on sales performance of related high-performance models such as the Corvette C7 and Camaro, with production estimates ranging from approximately 2,000 to 3,000 units annually—significantly lower than earlier media projections of up to 20,000 units.

In July 2014, Chevrolet introduced automatic parking assist on the SS, making it the first model within its lineup to feature this technology. The 2015 iteration added a manual transmission option, standard Magnetic Ride Control suspension, and OnStar's 4G LTE connectivity service; this version was unveiled at the Woodward Dream Cruise event in August 2014.

2016 facelift

The 2016 model year brought updates to the SS consistent with the Holden Commodore (VF) Series II refresh. Modifications included redesigned front and rear bumpers, updated LED lighting elements, dual-mode exhaust systems with quad tips, functional vents integrated into the hood, and a new "Slipstream Blue" paint color replacing both "Perfect Blue" and "Alchemy Purple Metallic." Additional enhancements featured red Brembo brake calipers and newly designed cast aluminum wheels that took over from the previous forged aluminum variants.

For 2017, Chevrolet discontinued three exterior paint options—Some Like It Hot Red metallic, Jungle Green metallic, and Mystic Green metallic—and introduced two new colors: Orange Blast and Nightfall Gray Metallic. This year marked the final production run for the SS as Chevrolet announced on January 9, 2017, that manufacturing would cease with no plans for a replacement following the end of Commodore production in Australia.

Sales Performance

SS Sales in the United States

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Annual	Aggregate
2013	—									1	178	239	418	12,860
2014	232	283	350	283	297	217	241	152	111	115	105	93	2,479
2015	115	215	264	299	287	354	321	344	222	192	148	134	2,895
2016	88	165	286	592	228	254	521	14	5	554	212	94	3,013
2017	64	248	1,217	250	247	298	259	227	171	150	882	42	4,055
Source:

Racing Involvement

The VF Commodore participates across multiple motorsport arenas mainly for promotional objectives, with race vehicles sharing very few physical or mechanical elements with their production counterparts aside from visual similarities.

Supercars Championship

Under the guidance of Holden Motorsport technical manager Peter Harker, the VF V8 Supercar initiative featured an aerodynamic package crafted by Triple Eight Race Engineering’s Ludo Lacroix and Doug Skinner from the Holden Racing Team. The initial VF Commodore race prototype underwent testing on October 13, 2012, utilizing VE body panels to assess aerodynamic properties. The homologated VF V8 Supercar made its public debut in February of the following year through Garry Rogers Motorsport and the Holden Racing Team.

As the inaugural Holden model designed to comply with the New Generation V8 Supercar regulations introduced in 2013, the VF incorporated a cost-effective architecture including a five-litre V8 engine, standardized eighteen-inch control wheels, a dedicated aero kit, and a polycarbonate windshield. It also marked the first Holden V8 Supercar since the early ’90s to feature a rear wing mounted at the endplates. Only a limited number of body panels along with headlights and tail lamps were derived from the road-going version; all other parts were specially fabricated by racing teams.

The VF made an impressive entry at the Clipsal 500 Adelaide in 2013, where drivers Craig Lowndes and Shane van Gisbergen secured victories in both races, with Van Gisbergen taking pole positions for both events. Throughout that season, the VF dominated by winning twenty-eight out of thirty-six races across teams such as Triple Eight Race Engineering, Tekno Autosports, Brad Jones Racing, Garry Rogers Motorsport, and Holden Racing Team. Holden secured the Manufacturers' Championship well before season’s end. Jamie Whincup claimed the drivers’ championship while piloting a VF Commodore.

In the following season of 2015, Ford’s FGX model emerged as a strong contender when Mark Winterbottom captured his maiden Supercars Championship. Despite this challenge, the VF recorded its first Bathurst 1000 triumph with Craig Lowndes and Steven Richards driving for Red Bull Racing Australia. By that year’s conclusion, the VF had amassed seventy-four Supercars race victories, placing it second only to its predecessor, the VE.

Red Bull Racing Australia returned to prominence in the championship year of 2016 as Shane Van Gisbergen clinched both drivers’ and teams’ titles. The subsequent season in 2017 saw Scott McLaughlin dominate for Shell V Power; however, Jamie Whincup secured the championship driving a VF Commodore after McLaughlin received a critical penalty in the final race. This event marked both the last race win and championship title for the VF model.

NASCAR

The Chevrolet SS made its debut in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series at the 2013 Sprint Unlimited, a non-points event, where Kevin Harvick claimed victory in its inaugural race. Introduced as a Generation 6 model to succeed the Car of Tomorrow, it represented a notable advancement in design and performance. The SS achieved its first win at the 2013 Daytona 500 with Jimmie Johnson behind the wheel, following Danica Patrick's pole position qualifying effort in her SS. That same season, the SS secured the NASCAR Sprint Cup manufacturers' championship with three races remaining. Johnson earned the driver’s championship driving the SS, while in 2014, Kevin Harvick also captured the Sprint Cup Series title piloting this model. In 2016, Johnson won his seventh championship driving an SS, equaling the all-time record held by Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt. The 2018 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup season saw the Chevrolet SS replaced by the more compact Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, marking Chevrolet's return to coupe-style race cars since production of the Monte Carlo ended in 2007.

Advertising

Two television advertisements were produced for the Australian launch of the VF Commodore, showcasing features such as the head-up display and Automatic Parking Assist under the slogan 'Turns Heads. Changes Minds.' Another campaign, titled 'Think now. Think Tomorrow. Think Holden.', emphasized national pride and support. The introduction of the VF Series II was accompanied by a fresh commercial called "Power Ahead."

External links

• VF Commodore at 10: reassessing the greatest Australian family car through 2023 eyes