Holden Commodore (VY)

Holden Commodore (VY)

Company type	Car model
Industry	Automotive
Predecessor	Holden Commodore (VT)
Founded	2002
Defunct	2004
Successor	Holden Commodore (VZ)
Area served	Australia
Products	Full-size cars, commercial vehicles
Parent	Holden (General Motors)

The Holden Commodore (VY) represents a full-size car manufactured by Holden from 2002 until 2004, serving as the third update within the third generation of the Commodore series. This lineup also featured upscale variants such as the Holden Berlina (VY) and Calais (VY). Commercial versions included the One Tonner (VY), Ute (VY), and Crewman (VY). In 2003, the range was broadened with the introduction of the first Commodore-based all-wheel drive vehicles, most notably the Adventra (VY) wagon.

Overview

Released in September 2002 and remaining in production through August 2004—with a Series II refresh arriving in August 2003—the VY marked the initial significant redesign of the third-generation Commodore since its original launch in 1997. It was introduced concurrently with its rival, the Ford Falcon (BA).

The VY series included these models:

• Commodore Executive
• Commodore Acclaim
• Commodore SV8
• Commodore SS
• Commodore S
• Berlina
• Calais

All variants came standard as sedans, while wagon options were limited to Executive, Acclaim, and Berlina trims. A distinctive addition was the limited-run SS wagon, which housed the same V8 engine as the SS sedan—upgraded to for Series II—paired with a sporty body kit and suspension. However, it featured smaller 17-inch alloy wheels compared to the sedan’s standard 18-inch rims.

The VY generation was the last to utilize the enduring 3.8-litre Ecotec V6 engines that had been part of the Commodore lineup since the VN model debuted over sixteen years before.

Following a 1999 partnership between General Motors and Subaru, Holden contemplated rebadging the VY Ute as a Subaru model to fill Subaru’s SUV market gap. This plan involved selling it alongside a rebadged Forester through Holden dealerships under the name Subaru Brumby. Ultimately, this initiative was shelved due to resistance from Subaru Australia’s management.

Design

Both front and rear sections underwent subtle restyling, incorporating redesigned grille elements, headlights, and taillights. Inside, significant enhancements were made including a revamped instrument panel, new centre console layout, redesigned steering wheel, updated transmission selector, and handbrake lever. Additionally, a power outlet for mobile phones was installed beneath the centre console. The instrument cluster featured a prominent multi-function digital display capable of showing radio station information, gear position, trip computer with stopwatch functionality, service reminders, and assistance prompts.

Certain models came equipped with features such as "twilight sentinel" automatic headlamp activation, programmable headlamp delay timers, premium Blaupunkt sound systems, speed-sensitive intermittent windshield wipers, and passenger airbags.

The Series II update introduced cruise control functionality, front power windows across more variants, adjustable lumbar support for front seats, and refreshed interior trim materials. Performance-oriented models benefited from an upgraded V8 engine producing 245 kW (329 hp). The Calais variant received a repositioning with a subtle body kit addition; it also offered an optional 235 kW V8 engine replacing the prior 225 kW (302 hp) unit and adopted a suspension tuning (FE 1.5) that was firmer than standard but less stiff than the FE2 setup used on sports models.

Powertrains

Engine displacement; configuration	Engine	Power	Torque	Transmission	Fuel type	Fuel consumption (sedan)
3.8 L (3791 cc); V6	ECOTEC (L36)	152 kW (204 hp)	305 Nm (225 lbft)	5-speed Getrag 260 (M35) manual	Petrol	11.0 L/100 km (21 mpg US)
				4-speed GM 4L60-E (M30) automatic		12.0 L/100 km (20 mpg US)
	Supercharged ECOTEC (L67)	171 kW (229 hp)	375 Nm (277 lbft)	PULP	13.5 L/100 km (17 mpg US)
5.7 L (5665 cc); V8	Generation III Alloy (LS1)	225 kW (302 hp)	460 Nm (339 lbft)	6-speed Tremec T-56 manual	Petrol	13.0 L/100 km (18 mpg US)
				4-speed GM 4L60-E automatic		13.5 L/100 km (17 mpg US)
		235 kW (315 hp)	465 Nm (343 lbft)	6-speed Tremec T-56 manual		13.0 L/100 km (18 mpg US)
				4-speed GM 4L60-E automatic		13.5 L/100 km (17 mpg US)
5.7 L (5667 cc); V8		245 kW (329 hp)	465 Nm (343 lbft)	6-speed Tremec T-56 manual		13.0 L/100 km (18 mpg US)
				4-speed GM 4L60-E automatic		13.5 L/100 km (17 mpg US)

Commodore Executive

The Executive serves as the entry-level variant within the VY Commodore lineup, with a starting price of A$31,650.

Highlighted features include:

• 3.8 L 152 kW (204 hp) ECOTEC V6 engine
• Choice of 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic gearbox
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS) combined with Brake assist (BA)
• Integrated CD player
• Dual front airbag protection for driver and passenger
• Independent rear suspension (IRS)
• Power-operated antenna, security alarm system, and trip computer
• 15-inch steel wheels
• Equipped with cruise control and air conditioning

Commodore Acclaim

Positioned above the Executive, the Acclaim model starts at A$37,510.

Standard equipment comprises:

• 3.8 L 152 kW (204 hp) ECOTEC V6 engine
• Standard fitment of 4-speed automatic transmission
• Air conditioning, ABS, and BA systems
• CD player and cruise control functionality
• Driver and passenger airbags plus additional side impact airbags (SIAB)
• Power windows front and rear, power antenna, and security system
• Traction control system (TCS)
• Trip computer and 15-inch alloy wheels
• Independent rear suspension (IRS)

Commodore S

The S variant represents the sport-oriented entry-level model, starting at A$37,820.

Notable specifications include:

• 3.8 L 152 kW (204 hp) ECOTEC V6, with an optional upgrade to a 171 kW (229 hp) Supercharged V6
• Available with a 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic
• Features air conditioning, ABS, BA, CD player, and cruise control
• Dual front airbags for driver and passenger protection
• FE2 sports-tuned suspension alongside independent rear suspension (IRS)
• Power windows front and rear, power antenna, and security system included
• Traction control system (TCS) and trip computer installed
• Equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels (upgraded to 17-inch on Series II)

Commodore SV8

The VY series introduced the SV8 as the entry-level V8 model since the Executive no longer offered a V8 option. Essentially an Executive fitted with a V8 engine, rear spoiler, and distinctive 17-inch alloy wheels. The SV8 was priced from A$40,490.

Key attributes:

• 5.7 L 235 kW (315 hp) V8 engine; Series II models feature a High Output version rated at 245 kW (329 hp)
• Transmission options include a 6-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic
• Air conditioning, ABS, and brake assist included
• CD player along with driver’s and passenger’s airbags
• FE2 sports suspension paired with limited slip differential (LSD) and independent rear suspension (IRS)
• Power antenna, security system, traction control system (TCS), and trip computer provided
• Fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels

Commodore SS

As the premier sports edition in the VY lineup, the SS starts at A$49,490.

Distinguishing features are:

• 5.7 L 235 kW (315 hp) V8 engine; Series II offers a High Output variant delivering 245 kW (329 hp)
• Available with a 6-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic transmission
• Single in-dash CD player standard; optional six-disc changer available; includes air conditioning, ABS, and brake assist
• Cruise control alongside driver’s and passenger’s airbags plus side impact airbags (SIAB)
• FE2 sports suspension setup with front and rear power windows; equipped with IRS and LSD
• Power antenna, security system, traction control system (TCS), and trip computer included
• Mounted on 18-inch alloy wheels

Berlina

Serving as the mid-tier luxury choice positioned between the Acclaim and Calais, the Berlina carried a starting price of A$40,850.

Notable specifications:

• 3.8 L ECOTEC V6 delivering 152 kW (204 hp) or an optional LS1 V8 generating 225 kW (302 hp)
• Four-speed automatic gearbox
• Six-disc in-dash CD player, ABS, brake assist, and climate-controlled air conditioning
• Cruise control alongside driver and front passenger airbags, plus side impact airbags (SIAB)
• Power-operated front and rear windows, independent rear suspension (IRS)
• Power antenna, integrated security system, traction control system (TCS), and trip computer
• 16-inch alloy wheels

Berlina International

In 2002, a special edition of 325 VY series 1 Berlina International wagons was produced exclusively in Turbine Grey. Positioned above the standard Berlina, it incorporated select features from the Calais model such as:

• Headlights sourced from the Calais
• Distinctive satin grey badges
• Dual-zone climate control system
• Front seats with eight-way electric adjustment (without memory function)
• Pistachio Green leather upholstery paired with Racquet cloth inserts
• Four bespoke floor mats
• Six-spoke alloy wheels borrowed from the WH Statesman

Calais

Expanded Colour Palette
Heron White (pure white)
Quicksilver (silver)
Turbine (gunmetal grey with green undertones)
Martini (gold featuring olive undertones)
Syracuse (metallic beige – Series II)
Phantom Black (black with silver accents)
Redhot (red)
Shanghai (light burgundy)
Berry (dark burgundy)
Hothouse (lime green – Series I)
Laurel (dark green with gold accents – Series I)
Cove (dark green with blue undertones – Series II)
Barbados (light blue with turquoise highlights – Series II)
Delft (medium blue – Series I)
Vespers (dark royal blue)
Cosmo (dark purple – Series II)

The Calais represents the pinnacle of luxury within the VY lineup, blending high performance with sophisticated features. Its base price commenced at A$56,250. Highlights include:

• 3.8 L Supercharged ECOTEC V6 producing 171 kW as standard, with optional engines including a 152 kW ECOTEC V6 or LS1 V8 rated at 225 kW for Series I and 235 kW for Series II models
• Four-speed automatic transmission system
• Six-disc CD player integrated into the dash paired with Bose sound system speakers
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist, and Traction Control System (TCS) for enhanced safety and control
• Climate-controlled air conditioning alongside cruise control functionality
• Airbags for driver and passenger plus side-impact airbags (SIAB) for added protection
• Power windows front and rear, power antenna, rear parking assist technology, and a security system
• Independent rear suspension setup, luggage net for cargo management, and trip computer
• Alloy wheels sized at 16 inches on Series I models and upgraded to 17 inches on Series II

Adventra

The Adventra was Holden’s inaugural all-wheel-drive wagon, manufactured from October 2003 through February 2005. Built on the VY II Commodore wagon chassis, it replaced the traditional rear-wheel-drive layout with an AWD system. Offered in CX8 and LX8 trims, it featured a uniform powertrain: a 5.7-litre Generation III LS1 V8 delivering 235 kW mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.

Visually distinct from the standard wagon by black plastic bumpers front and rear as well as wheel arch guards, the Adventra also included a rear seat folding in a 60/40 split configuration plus additional dashboard instrumentation. Optional equipment encompassed third-row seating, cargo nets, and an off-road recovery kit.

The Adventra was succeeded by the VZ Adventra model in 2004. An interim version introduced in August retained the VY body style but incorporated upgrades to the engine, running gear, ECU calibration, and compliance plate. The comprehensive VZ facelift launched in February 2005 introduced a V6 engine as the new primary option.

Commercial lineup

In May 2003, the VU Ute series underwent a redesign, evolving into the VY-based Ute lineup and adopting the same exterior and interior enhancements as seen in the sedan and wagon variants. The trio of trim levels persisted, now equipped with features paralleling those of the VY sedans. It is important to note that the VY utes did not carry the "Commodores" badge.

The VY generation marked a notable broadening of the range by introducing two new models: the reintroduction of the One Tonner cab-chassis utility after an 18-year hiatus, and Holden's inaugural four-door utility, the Crewman. The Crewman sported an extended wheelbase measuring compared to the Ute's , and its cargo tray was shorter at versus . In December 2003, Holden unveiled the all-wheel drive Crewman Cross 8 variant, equipped with a V8 engine and designed for enhanced off-road performance, featuring distinct styling modifications.

The addition of both the Crewman and One Tonner significantly boosted sales figures, fueling rapid expansion within Holden's Ute portfolio—the first substantial growth since 1990. The Ute was available in base Ute, S, and SS trims, whereas the One Tonner came only in base and S versions:

• Base: Derived from Commodore Executive, powered by a 3.8-litre Buick V6 engine Ecotec V6
• S: Based on Commodore S, with a 3.8-litre Ecotec V6; transmission options included a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual
• SS: Built on Commodore SS, featuring a 5.7-litre GM LS engine Gen.3 V8; equipped with either a 6-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic

Crewman variants aligned with the Ute’s three trim levels and debuted alongside the VY Series 2 update, which delivered an increase in power to the Gen.3 V8. By December 2003, the AWD Crewman Cross 8 model featured a lifted suspension, reinforced wheel arches, and additional equipment, powered solely by the upgraded Gen.3 V8 mated to a 4-speed automatic gearbox. For both One Tonner and Crewman V6 models, only automatic transmissions were offered. The VY series was eventually replaced by the VZ range in August 2004.

HSV lineup (Y Series)

Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) presented an enhanced performance version of the VY range under the Y Series designation, introducing unique variants. This marked HSV’s first use of a dedicated series code to distinguish their models from standard donor vehicles.

Avalanche

Manufactured between 2003 and 2005, the HSV Avalanche was an all-wheel drive crossover SUV based on the Holden Adventra LX8 wagon platform. The range also included the dual-cab utility HSV Avalanche XUV, which was derived from the Holden Crewman Cross8.

These models were available in two series: initially, the 2004 VY Series II (with wagons arriving late 2003), followed by an updated VY Series II incorporating select upgrades from the VZ Series HSV lineup. The latter production run spanned from April to December 2005 and is considered rare.

Between September 2004 and March 2005, AWD Avalanches were assigned "Z Series" compliance and Vehicle Identification Numbers consistent with new-specification Holden VZ and Z Series HSV non-AWD models.

From a design perspective, updated Avalanches featured a redesigned front bumper with a more subdued appearance and integrated auxiliary driving lights.

The Avalanche was exclusively powered by a 5.7-litre LS1 V8 engine, producing and torque. This was paired with a four-speed 4L65-E automatic transmission. Its permanent AWD system allocated 62% of torque to the rear wheels to maintain a rear-wheel drive driving feel.

Production of the Avalanche series ceased in late 2005 due to discontinuation of the LS1 engine prompted by tightening Euro III regulations.

Clubsport

Built on the VY Holden Commodore chassis, the VY Clubsport came equipped with an updated 5.7-litre GEN3 Chevrolet V8 engine delivering 260 kW. Buyers could choose between a four-speed automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox.

GTS

The VY GTS represented a limited-edition, special order model from HSV, with production capped at just 100 units, making it one of the most exclusive and desirable vehicles in the range.

Maloo

HSV introduced the facelifted Y Series in October 2002, maintaining the 5.7-litre LS1 engine from the VU but enhancing its output to . Key standard features on the Maloo included Climate Control air conditioning and the 'Performance' Brake System, while the Maloo R8 upgraded to the 'Premium' Brake system. New paint shades such as Hothouse Green and Turbine Grey were added to the palette. The first VY Series saw production numbers of 167 standard Maloos and 132 R8 variants.

In October 2003, the Y Series 2 was launched concurrently with HSV's Coupe Series 3, further increasing LS1 engine power to . Fresh colour options included Syracuse Gold and HSV Ultra Violet. Production for this series totaled 312 standard Maloos and 361 R8 models.

Senator Signature

The Y Series Senators, derived from the Holden VY Commodore, made their debut in 2003 featuring bolder styling cues and a revised naming structure that led to some market ambiguity. The lineup consisted of a base Senator grand tourer and an upscale Senator Signature variant. Both models came with an enhanced luxury suspension setup, rear parking sensors, and a LS1 engine, with the VY Series II update raising power output to .

The Senator Signature stood out through larger alloy wheels (compared to those on the Senator), upgraded seating, and bigger front brakes. Interior refinements included shale leather upholstery, centrally positioned oil and battery gauges, white-faced instrument dials, an ergonomically improved leather steering wheel for better grip, and additional memory settings for the front seats. The front seats were redesigned following customer feedback regarding comfort.

Standard inclusions encompassed a CD stacker, power-operated mirrors and windows, cruise control, climate control system, engine immobilizer, remote central locking, front and side airbags, rear DVD player with headphones, electric tyre pressure monitoring system, and High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights. A fully independent multi-link rear suspension was standard equipment. Optional extras included GPS navigation and a sunroof.

The 5.7-litre LS1 V8 generated at 5600 rpm along with torque output. Subtle exterior design elements preserved its premium character: brake and cooling vents were seamlessly integrated into the front bumper with mesh cloth air dams; satin grey detailing adorned side skirts, air dams, and mirror bases; body panels were painted in matching colours elsewhere. "Senator" badges appeared on side skirts, rear panels, and lower rear doors.

Interior enhancements featured alloy pedals, new colour schemes throughout the cabin, a redesigned four-spoke steering wheel equipped with remote audio controls, white instrument dials with dedicated central gauges, a reprogrammed multi-function display that showed the HSV logo and build number at startup, automatic climate control, a Blaupunkt six-disc CD stacker paired with eight speakers, carbon fibre trim accents throughout the interior, and light shale leather seating surfaces. The starting price was around $74,000.

Motorsport

The VY Commodore took part in the Supercars Championship during the years 2003 to 2005.

Exports

Beginning in 2002, the VY was shipped to the Middle East under the Chevrolet Lumina name, continuing the approach established with the VX series. Available trims included the Lumina LS sedan and wagon (derived from Commodore Executive), Lumina S (based on Commodore S), Lumina LTZ (modeled after Berlina), and Lumina SS (equivalent to Commodore SS).

Starting in 2003, General Motors do Brasil brought in the VY as the Chevrolet Omega, succeeding the VX-based Omega. This Brazilian version was offered exclusively in a CD trim, which was based on the Holden Calais. Sales ceased in 2005 when it was replaced by the VZ-based variant.

Chevrolet Lumina exports commenced in Malaysia in September 2003 with the LTZ trim (aligned with Berlina), followed by Thailand in October where both LTZ and S trims were available. Singapore joined the market by 2004 with the Lumina LTZ, although exports there were discontinued within that same year. Malaysia and Thailand continued selling the model with the VZ update from 2004 onwards.