Holden Commodore (VT)
| Company type | Automobile model |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Predecessor | Holden Commodore (VS) |
| Founded | August 1997 |
| Defunct | October 2000 |
| Successor | Holden Commodore (VX) |
Area served | Australia, Indochina, Middle East, Brazil |
| Parent | Holden (General Motors) |
Holden Commodore (VT)
The Holden Commodore (VT) represents a full-size automobile manufactured by Holden between 1997 and 2000, serving as the inaugural model of the third-generation Commodore lineup. This iteration was the final one to incorporate a domestically produced 5-litre V8 engine, which it shared with the VS Series 3 Statesman/Caprice and utility variants, all ceasing production by 2000. Within the VT series, luxury editions such as the Holden Berlina (VT) and Holden Calais (VT) were available; however, no new utility model was introduced during this period.
Debuting in August 1997, the VT marked Holden's most substantial development initiative up to that point. It secured the prestigious 1997 Wheels Car of the Year accolade, marking the fourth occasion a Commodore had been so honored. The VT rapidly found favor with consumers who preferred it over the more unconventional Ford Falcon (AU), ultimately becoming Holden’s highest-selling Commodore and Australia's leading passenger vehicle at that time.
The VT Series II refresh was released in June 1999, preceding the launch of the redesigned VX model in October 2000. A significant milestone occurred in 1998 when the VT served as the basis for a prototype that paved the way for the revival of the Holden Monaro coupé in 2001, resurrecting a nameplate dormant since 1979.
History of development
The VT platform was derived from Germany’s Omega B, but it was extensively widened and modified to suit Australian driving conditions. This method went beyond merely rebadging the Omega or updating the previous VN–VS chassis.
Spanning over five years and costing approximately , this development program introduced sophisticated electronic systems, refined handling characteristics, and enhanced occupant safety through a body structure that was 30% more rigid than its VS predecessor.
Its design featured smoother contours and a windscreen angled at 63 degrees, which was generally more attractive compared to rivals like the Ford Falcon (AU). Although aerodynamic efficiency was not a primary focus—evidenced by a relatively modest drag coefficient—the sedan’s boot lid shape caused notable airflow issues that were later rectified by the 2002 VY series.
In 1999, the VT wagon chassis formed the foundation for second-generation Statesman and Caprice luxury sedans. Additionally, this generation saw the return of the iconic Monaro coupé, first previewed as the "Holden Coupé" concept in 1998 and entering production in 2001 based on the VX platform.
The project also involved a significant investment in upgrading Holden’s Elizabeth manufacturing facility. Automation increased substantially with robot usage rising by 43% to a total of 130 units. Pressing operations were streamlined from 104 to 59 presses, while main body welding time was cut to just 101 seconds—resulting in a reduction of final assembly duration by approximately two and a half hours.
Input from the United States
Holden’s parent company, General Motors, intended to develop a left-hand drive version of the Commodore for inclusion in its Buick portfolio in North America and was involved early on in VT development. Backed by funding for engineering modifications, Holden revealed a prototype in 1995 known as the Buick XP2000 concept car, which influenced elements of VT styling. Although internal "Project 127" was discontinued before VT’s release in early 1994, Holden capitalized on this design by exporting left-hand drive versions of the VT to markets across parts of Indochina and the Middle East under the nameplate Chevrolet Lumina, as well as to Brazil where it was marketed as the Chevrolet Omega.
Engineering
The foundation engine was the 3.8-litre Ecotec V6, introduced with the VS Series II, featuring updated exhaust manifolds and Bosch EV6 fuel injectors. Alongside this, the 5.0-litre V8 received enhancements delivering increased power and torque. HSV versions were offered, and a supercharged Ecotec variant generated thanks to a sophisticated engine management system incorporating individual knock sensor control. Transmission choices comprised a four-speed 4L60-E automatic and five-speed Getrag manuals—Getrag 260 for V6 models, and Getrag 290 or an optional six-speed Tremec T56 for V8-powered vehicles. The fuel tank capacity was expanded to 75 litres, larger than previous iterations but smaller than earlier V8 models.
Compared to the VS series, the VT's enlarged body added in dimensions, with notable increases in length, width, height, and wheelbase that significantly boosted cabin space—particularly rear shoulder room, which was vital for market competitiveness. Boot volume improved to for sedans and for wagons. Interior enhancements included broader front seats offering greater fore-aft adjustment and introduced a new "Surebond" seat bonding method.
All models came standard with semi-trailing arm independent rear suspension (IRS), although initially simplified by omitting the toe control link found in European designs, which caused premature rear tyre wear under heavy loading conditions. Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) restored this link on the top-tier GTS 300 model during the Series II update.
Handling benefits included an increased front caster angle and larger stabilizer bars that varied according to engine type; V8 variants featured firmer FE2 suspension tuning. A Bosch 5.3 three-channel ABS system was standard equipment, with disc brake sizes optimized front and rear. Tyre dimensions ranged from 15-inch wheels on base trims up to 17-inch wheels on performance-oriented models.
The steering system utilized a variable-ratio Bishop design with extended rack travel and a tight turning radius; however, the Calais model's speed-sensitive "Variotronic" system faced criticism. Advanced electronic features included standard traction control on Acclaim and Calais trims, optional availability on other variants, automatic headlights, and key-based memory functions exclusive to Calais models—all facilitated by a multiplex communication bus that reduced wiring complexity by eliminating 73 circuits compared to earlier versions. Anti-theft measures were enhanced with improved immobilizers and reinforced steering locks.
More than 90% of electrical and HVAC components were redesigned relative to the VS series. Safety development heavily relied on computer simulations supported by Monash University research, which reduced physical crash tests from 55 in the VR to just 20 in the VT. Driver airbags were standard across all models; passenger airbags were optional on lower trims; side airbags became available from 1998 onwards on Acclaim and higher specifications—a pioneering feature for Holden and Australian-built vehicles.
| Engine | Power | Torque | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3791 cc Ecotec V6 | 147 kilowatts (197 hp) | 304 newton-metres (224 lb⋅ft) |
|
| 3791 cc Supercharged Ecotec V6 | 171 kilowatts (229 hp) | 375 newton-metres (277 lb⋅ft) | |
| 4987 cc V8 | 179 kilowatts (240 hp) | 400 newton-metres (300 lb⋅ft) |
|
| 4987 cc Holden Special Vehicles V8 | 195 kilowatts (261 hp) | 430 newton-metres (320 lb⋅ft) | |
| 5665 cc GM LS engine#LS1 Generation III V8 | 220 kilowatts (300 hp) | 446 newton-metres (329 lb⋅ft) |
Models
The VT series was introduced on 26 August 1997 and officially released on 5 September, taking over from the VS Commodore. Its only significant revision, the VT Series II, was unveiled on 1 June 1999 and continued production until October 2000, when it was replaced by the VX series.
The initial VT range in 1997 comprised six distinct models:
- Commodore Executive (fleet/entry-level) featuring a V6 manual transmission in both sedan and wagon; automatic transmission and V8 engine were optional
- Commodore Acclaim (family safety-oriented) equipped with a V6 automatic available in sedan and wagon variants
- Commodore S (entry-level sports) offered with a V6 manual in sedan only; an optional V6 Supercharged automatic was also available
- Commodore SS (premium sports) powered by a V8 manual in sedan only; automatic or V6 Supercharged automatic transmissions were optional
- Berlina (luxury-focused) came with a V6 automatic for sedan and wagon; an optional V8 automatic was offered
- Calais (sport luxury) available as a sedan with a V6 automatic; optional upgrades included a V8 automatic or V6 Supercharged automatic
Notable features and options across the lineup included:
- Independent Rear Suspension as standard, driver's airbag, seatbelt pre-tensioners, electric seat height and tilt adjustment, front lumbar support (driver only on Executive), and a trip computer with six standard functions; Berlina and Calais received enhanced versions
- Passenger airbag was an option on Executive and S models for
- ABS was standard except it remained optional on the Executive
- Traction Control came standard on Acclaim and Calais, while it was an option on other trims for
- Automatic transmission was optional except it was standard on Acclaim, Berlina, and Calais
- Power steering was standard across all models; the Calais featured speed-sensitive "Variotronic" power steering
- Air conditioning was optional on Executive and Acclaim; standard on S and SS; Berlina had single-zone climate control, while Calais offered dual-zone climate control
- Alloy wheels were optional for Executive and Acclaim; other models had them either as standard or optional depending on the variant
- Full power windows and metallic paint were standard on Berlina and Calais; optional elsewhere
- Cruise control came standard with automatic transmissions except it was optional on the Executive
- Fabric seats were standard throughout; Berlina and Calais had velour seats with leather available optionally on Calais
- Audio systems featured a double-DIN six-speaker cassette player as standard (Calais had eight speakers); CD players were optional except they were standard single-CD units on Berlina and 10-CD stackers on Calais
- The Calais model included automatic headlights, a personalized key system, dual-zone climate control, eight-way power-adjustable seats with lumbar support
- Leather-wrapped steering wheels were optional across all models except they were either standard or optional on Calais, S, and SS variants
- Rear wing spoilers and FE2 sport suspension packages were available options for S and SS models
- SS came equipped with exclusive sports seats and a limited-slip differential as standard features
- Sunroof options were available across all model lines
The Berlina and Calais names were marketed independently from the Commodore badge. The Calais was exclusively offered as a sedan featuring upgraded interior elements such as map lamps, footwell illumination, programmable dimming lights, speed-sensitive wipers, woodgrain gear gate surround, chrome door handles, and door lamps. On the exterior, it distinguished itself through chrome-style grilles and trims. Additional unique touches included dual-tone lower skirts, chrome window surrounds, fog lamps, and clear rear indicators.
Colour options consisted of Heron white (non-metallic), Rubens Mica, Capricorn Mica, Raven Mica, Orion Frost silver, Valencia Mica, Tundra Mica, Botanica Mica, Granada Mica, Morocco Sand Frost, and Bermuda Mica.
Several special editions were released:
- 1998 Commodore 50th Anniversary sedan/wagon editions
- 1998 Calais 50th Anniversary edition
- 1999 Commodore Equipe marketing package
- 1999–2000 Commodore Olympic edition commemorating the Sydney 2000 Olympics
- 2000 Calais International marketing package
These limited editions featured unique badging along with additional equipment such as full body-coloured bumpers and alloy wheels. However, luxury interior enhancements were generally not included except for exclusive limited-edition components found in the Calais.
Series II
On 1 June 1999, the VT Series II update retained the structural design of the Ecotec V6 but introduced a refined engine calibration to boost performance. The supercharged V6 ceased to be offered on the Commodore SS, becoming an optional feature on the Berlina and standard equipment on the Calais, which also had a naturally aspirated "delete option." The previous 5.0-litre Holden V8 was superseded by the 5.7-litre Gen III V8, imported from North America and produced at GM’s St Catharines facility in Ontario, Canada. According to Wheels in 1999, the VT II powered by the Gen III V8 was recognized as the fastest Australian production car ever. Initially detuned to , this V8 engine saw gradual power enhancements reaching up to during its production span in the Commodore lineup.
Visual changes for the Series II encompassed new wheel covers and alloy designs, front grilles featuring silver trims on base variants and thicker chrome bars on Berlina and Calais models, alongside clear lenses replacing amber for side and rear indicators. The Calais also received a distinctive chrome strip positioned across the boot garnish just above the license plate.
Holden Ute
Unlike other new generation platforms where Holden simultaneously launched a utility variant with standard body styles, no VT utility version was developed. Instead, Holden continued offering the VS Commodore utility model until December 2000. At that time, the Holden Ute (VU) was introduced, built on the extended wheelbase platform of the VX Commodore, which debuted in October 2000 as a significant facelift of the VT series.
HSV range
The HSV performance range based on the VT platform included:
- Manta sedan: equipped with a 5.0-litre 195 kW V8, available with a 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic transmission
- Clubsport sedan: powered by a 5.0-litre 195 kW V8, offering a choice between a 5-speed manual and an optional 4-speed automatic
- GTS sedan: fitted with either a 5.7-litre 220 kW or an optional 230 kW V8, paired with a 6-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic
- Senator sedan: available with a 5.7-litre 220 kW or optional 230 kW V8, equipped with a 4-speed automatic featuring manual shift options
- Senator Signature sedan: sharing identical engines and transmissions as the Senator
- Senator Estate wagon: utilizing the same engines but exclusively with a 4-speed automatic transmission
A limited edition XU8 model showcased the final Australian-produced 5.0-litre V8 before transitioning to the imported standard 5.7-litre V8 in VT Series II vehicles. The brief-lived XU6 sedan utilized a supercharged variant of the Commodore’s 3.8-litre V6 engine.
- Clubsport
Introduced in 1997, the HSV VT Clubsport was larger and heavier compared to its predecessors. Its 5.0-litre V8 delivering 195 kW was also shared with the Commodore SS, diminishing its exclusivity somewhat. Luxury features included an upgraded CD player, enhanced steering wheel design, improved front seats, and fog lamps.
With the arrival of VT Series II in 1999, it was replaced by a new GM Powertrain-sourced LS1 Gen III 5.7-litre V8 producing 250 kW. Production ceased in 2000.
- For the UK market, Series II VT Clubsport models were rebranded as GTS
- GTS
- Series I VT GTS – total production of 402 units; predominantly manual transmissions
- Series II VT GTS – limited run of 100 vehicles fitted with Callaway C4B engines
- Series II VT GTSR – exclusive batch of 15 units designated for the UK market
- Senator Signature
Debuting in 1997 with an all-new VT body shell, the Senator Signature expanded HSV’s portfolio by introducing a station wagon variant for the first time. Engine choices included enhanced versions delivering 195 kW and 220 kW from V8 powerplants. Standard equipment featured speed-sensitive steering that adjusted based on road conditions and Monroe Sensatrac-tuned luxury suspension.
Styling cues comprised a chrome single-slat grille, side skirts, fog lamps, and distinctive 10-spoke alloy wheels measuring 17 inches. The suspension system was lowered for improved handling; interiors boasted leather upholstery complemented by woodgrain accents.
The Variatronic power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering combined with independent rear suspension and Sensatrac variable dampers ensured refined ride comfort and stability at high speeds. HSV also equipped drivers with practical accessories such as a Maglite torch and multi-purpose pen knife.
The VT Series II update brought in a GM LS1 V8 engine generating 250 kW and torque of 473 Nm. Transmission options included a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox. Standard safety and convenience features encompassed front and side airbags, climate-controlled air conditioning, and traction control systems. A "power" mode button allowed for enhanced acceleration through extended gear holding.
Storage amenities incorporated rear seat pockets, door compartments, an expansive glove box, console storage bin, and a generously sized boot.
The Senator Signature Estate Wagon was offered in two variants—195i and 220i—denoting their respective power outputs. Optional upgrades featured advanced braking systems, rain-sensing wipers, luxury-tuned suspension setups, premium leather interiors, dual-zone climate control, as well as an optional high-end audio system equipped with a powerful amplifier and six-disc CD changer. Coulson performance front seats were available for additional comfort alongside standard-fitted 10-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels.
Exports
Starting in 1998 with the 1999 model year, the VT was exported to the Middle East under the name Chevrolet Lumina. These exports, derived from the Series II VT, offered three sedan variants: LS, LTZ, and SS, which aligned with the Commodore's Executive, Berlina, and SS trims respectively. A wagon version was available exclusively in LS trim equipped with a V6 engine. Notably, the VT marked Holden's return to producing left-hand drive vehicles for the first time since 1976.
In Brazil, General Motors do Brasil introduced the VT as the Chevrolet Omega beginning in October 1998, replacing the earlier model based on the Opel Omega A. The Brazilian market received a single-spec CD trim modeled on the Holden Calais automatic and powered by the Ecotec 3.8-litre V6 engine. The VT II was launched in Brazil in December 1999. Sales of the VT Omega concluded in 2001, when it was replaced by a VX-based version.
Production
From August 1997 through October 2000, total production of all VT models reached 303,895 units. Within the initial 22 months prior to the introduction of the VT Series II in June 1999, nearly 100,000 vehicles were sold domestically, alongside exports totaling 33,428 units.
Motorsport
At the 2000 FAI 1000 endurance race held at Bathurst, a Commodore VT piloted by Garth Tander and Jason Bargwanna achieved victory.
References
Books
Magazines