Holden Commodore (VZ)

Holden Commodore (VZ)
Company type	Automobile model
Industry	Automotive
Predecessor	Holden Commodore (VY)
Founded	August 2004; 22 years ago
Defunct	September 6, 2007
Successor	Holden Commodore (VE)
Area served	Australia
Products	Full-size automobiles (sedan, wagon, utility)
Parent	Holden

Holden Commodore (VZ)

The Holden Commodore (VZ) is a full-size automobile manufactured by Holden between 2004 and 2006 for the sedan variants, extending to 2007 for the wagon and utility versions. It was sold concurrently with the newly launched VE series. This model represents the fourth and concluding version of the third-generation Commodore lineup and was the final one to offer a coupe option. The VZ range also encompassed premium models such as the Holden Berlina (VZ) and Holden Calais (VZ).

Overview

Introduced in August 2004, the VZ was a subtle update of the preceding VY series, featuring a new family of 3.6-litre Alloytec V6 engines delivering , which replaced the previous 3.8-litre Ecotec V6. The supercharged engines found in earlier S models were discontinued with this update. The Alloytec DOHC engines were carried forward into the Holden Commodore (VE) that debuted in July 2006. Moreover, a new 5L40-E five-speed automatic gearbox was introduced for sportier and luxury V6 trims.

These advanced Alloytec powerplants provided enhancements in output, throttle response, and fuel economy compared to their Ecotec predecessors. The variant produced featured variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust valves along with a dual-stage intake manifold; meanwhile, the version offered variable timing solely on the intake valves. Certain models were equipped with active safety systems designed to assist drivers during critical situations.

The VZ Commodore lineup closely resembled that of the VY but debuted the SV6 trim, which took over from the previous S range. Available models included Executive, Acclaim, Berlina, Calais, SV6, SV8, and SS sedans; wagon versions were offered for Executive, Acclaim, and Berlina trims. The Berlina and Calais were marketed independently from the Commodore brand. The VZ series marked the final use of the Executive and Acclaim badges.

Importantly, no official Series II update was released for the VZ; however, mechanical upgrades were implemented in January 2006 (MY06). Among these was the addition of the L76 6.0-litre V8 engine with slight detuning and removal of Displacement on Demand and variable valve timing features. The base V6 engine’s power output was slightly reduced from to , with torque decreasing from to comply with ADR 79/01 (Euro III) emissions regulations effective from January 2006.

Despite these improvements, sales of the VZ fell short compared to its predecessor due to growing preference for smaller vehicles, increasing fuel costs, and anticipation surrounding the upcoming VE series replacement.

The VE series replaced VZ Commodore sedans on 10 July 2006; however, production of wagon and utility body styles continued until August–September 2007. The final VZ utility vehicle rolled off production lines in August 2007, while wagon manufacturing concluded on 6 September 2007 at Holden’s Elizabeth facility.

Executive

The Executive served as the entry-level model with pricing starting at A$33,160. This generation was the last to carry the Executive designation, which had been introduced back in 1984.

Standard equipment included:

3.6 L Alloytec V6 engine (upgraded to 172 kW as of January 2006)
Four-speed automatic transmission
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Brake Assist (BA)
Automatic headlights and cruise control
Driver and front passenger airbags
Electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD)
Power front windows, powered antenna, centre console power outlet
Four cupholders and security system
Single-disc CD player integrated with steering wheel audio controls
Trip computer and 15-inch steel wheels

Available options:

Air conditioning
Alloy wheels
Country pack suspension or FE2 sports suspension
Rear parking sensors (sedan only)
Satellite navigation system (sedan only)
Side Impact Airbags (SIAB)

Acclaim

Positioned above the Executive trim, the Acclaim started at a price of A$39,050. This model marked the final use of the Acclaim badge, which had been introduced back in 1993.

Included standard features beyond the Executive:

Air conditioning and Electronic Brake Assist (EBA) available on sedan models only
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with traction control exclusive to sedans
Power windows for both front and rear
Rear parking assist system (sedan only)
Side Impact Airbags (SIAB)
Traction control featured on station wagon variants only
15x7 inch alloy wheels

Available options:

Alloy wheels upgrade
FE2 sports-tuned suspension
Satellite navigation system

SV6

The SV6 was introduced as the entry-level sports edition, taking over from the S trim found in the VY Commodore. Unlike previous iterations, the VZ Executive no longer offered a manual gearbox, positioning the SV6 as the most affordable manual transmission choice, starting at A$38,990.

Notable SV6 attributes included:

3.6 L Alloytec High Output V6 engine
Choice of 6-speed manual or optional 5-speed automatic transmission
Air conditioning, ABS, brake assist, and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD)
Automatic headlights, cruise control, CD player, and trip computer
Driver and passenger airbags; side airbags were added late in 2005
FE2 sports suspension paired with independent rear suspension (IRS)
Limited slip differential introduced in 2005 and traction control system (TCS)
Sports body kit, rear spoiler, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows and antenna
Standard 17 inch alloy wheels; optional leather seats and sunroof

SV8

Serving as the mid-tier sports model, the SV8 commenced at A$41,990. Initial versions combined Executive styling with a V8 engine and SV6 design elements but were later enhanced to match SV6 equipment levels while still remaining beneath the SS in hierarchy.

SV8 key specifications comprised:

5.7 L LS1 V8 engine until late 2005; replaced by a 6.0 L L76 V8 from 2006 onwards
6-speed manual transmission standard or optional 4-speed automatic
Air conditioning, ABS, brake assist, EBD, cruise control, and CD player
Driver and passenger airbags included
FE2 sports suspension with IRS, limited slip differential (LSD), and TCS
Power antenna and front power windows
17 inch alloy wheels

SS

The SS represented the top-tier sports variant within the VZ lineup, with pricing beginning at A$50,990.

Highlights of the SS model featured:

Initially equipped with a 5.7 L LS1 V8 until late 2005; succeeded by a 6.0 L L76 V8 from 2006 onward
Standard 6-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic transmission
Six-disc in-dash CD player alongside air conditioning and alloy pedals
ABS, brake assist, EBD, and traction control system (TCS) fitted as standard
Sports seats for driver and passenger with side impact airbags (SIAB)
FE2 sports suspension complemented by IRS and LSD technology
Power windows front and rear plus power antenna
Leather-wrapped sports steering wheel and colour-matched instrument cluster
Front fog lamps and 18 inch alloy wheels

Berlina

The Berlina occupied a semi-luxury position within the VZ range, situated above the Acclaim yet below the Calais model line. Its starting price was A$42,900.

Principal features included:

3.6 L Alloytec V6 engine producing 172 kW in 2006; optional 5.7 L LS1 V8 until end of 2005 followed by a 6.0 L L76 V8 from 2006 onward
Four-speed automatic transmission standard
Six-disc in-dash CD player installed as standard equipment
Anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake assist (BA), electronic brake assist (EBA), and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) all incorporated
Climate-controlled air conditioning paired with cruise control functionality
Driver and passenger airbags plus side impact airbags (SIAB) for enhanced safety
Independent rear suspension (IRS) combined with limited slip differential (LSD) when equipped with V8 engines
Rear parking assist system alongside traction control system (TCS) and vehicle security features
Leather-trimmed steering wheel plus power windows and antenna fitted as standard
Equipped with 16x7 inch alloy wheels

Calais

Positioned as the flagship luxury variant within the VZ lineup, the Calais combined high-end amenities with robust performance. Its starting price was set at A$52,660.

Key attributes comprised:

3.6 L Alloytec V6 engine, with an optional 5.7 L LS1 V8 available until late 2005, succeeded by a 260 kW 6.0 L L76 V8 from 2006 onward
Four-speed automatic transmission paired with the LS1 V8, otherwise equipped with a five-speed automatic gearbox
Dual-zone electronic climate control alongside cruise control functionality
Comprehensive safety features including ABS, Brake Assist (BA), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and electronic stability program (ESP) on V6 models, complemented by driver and passenger airbags plus side impact airbags (SIAB)
Independent rear suspension (IRS) and limited slip differential (LSD) exclusive to V8 variants, with luxury and sports suspension options
Power-operated windows front and rear, a power antenna, and programmable driver memory settings covering seat positioning, climate control, audio preferences, and mirrors
Rear parking sensors, traction control system (TCS), and an integrated security system
Sports-oriented leather steering wheel combined with speed-sensitive variable front wipers
Trip computer functionality and 17x8 inch alloy wheels

Adventra

The Holden Adventra (VZ) represented an all-wheel drive wagon evolution based on the original VY II series.

An interim version of the VZ Adventra was introduced in August 2004 alongside the broader VZ Commodore range. This model essentially married the VY body style with updated VZ components such as engine, drivetrain, ECU, and compliance plate. The definitive VZ facelift was launched in February 2005, featuring a 3.6-litre V6 engine coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission. The V8 engine carried over from the VY model was enhanced but remained available solely in CX8 and premium LX8 trims. Production of the V8 Adventra ceased in December 2005 when Holden discontinued its Generation III V8 engines and opted not to adapt the newer 6.0-litre Generation IV V8 for all-wheel drive applications.

Due to weaker market performance compared to rivals like the Ford Territory, the Adventra was discontinued in 2006 to make room for the imported Holden Captiva sourced from GM Daewoo in South Korea.

Commodore 9C1

The Commodore 9C1, also known as the 'Police Pack', was a specialized edition of the VZ Commodore developed specifically for law enforcement agencies across Australia, New Zealand, and select Middle Eastern regions. Built upon the Commodore Executive platform, it incorporated enhancements tailored to policing requirements. Most vehicles were finished in white, although unmarked units were available in alternative colors.

Upgraded specifications included:

Four airbags covering driver, passenger, and side protection
Interior lighting featuring built-in map lights alongside a lock-out switch
FE2 performance suspension setup
15x7JJ silver steel wheels fitted with Bridgestone Turanza ER30 225/60/R15 tires
Black dashboard surrounds replacing the grey trim found on standard Executive models
Power windows for both front and rear doors (standard Executive only had front power windows)
Limited slip differential or traction control systems
Sump guard for underbody protection
Larger capacity battery rated at 450 Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) with 115 minutes reserve capacity
Police-certified speedometer calibrated with finer increments
Dual horn system combining the standard 400 Hz horn with an additional powerful 450 Hz horn
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) paired with upgraded front brake pads
Extra wiring loom provision for installation of beacons, sirens, and communication radios
Firewall access grommets to facilitate wiring installations

Commodore Lumina

Debuting in January 2005, the Commodore Lumina was derived from the Commodore Executive and featured an additional A$6,000 worth of enhancements. Production totaled 3,700 units, each priced at A$32,390.

Commodore Equipe

Released in April 2005, the Commodore Equipe upheld Holden's legacy of upgraded editions. Built on the VZ Acclaim platform with an extra A$5,000 in features, it was sold for A$33,490 AUD, with 3,500 units manufactured.

Commodore SVZ

Holden introduced the limited edition SVZ in March 2006, based on the Executive sedan and wagon models, incorporating A$6,000 in additional features and retailing at A$32,990. The SVZ returned in March 2007 as a final edition model boasting improved specifications such as a Police-spec 193 kW engine in the wagon and leather seating combined with sporty enhancements.

Commodore SSZ

In late 2005, 930 limited edition SSZ vehicles were launched. This upscale version offered leather upholstery branded with SSZ insignia, performance braking systems, 18-inch Monaro-style wheels, Rear Parking Assist technology, and Bluetooth functionality. Priced at A$49,990, production ceased following the introduction of the VE series.

Commercial range

The commercial segment featured the Ute and Crewman variants primarily powered by the 3.6L Alloytec 175 V6 engine—the standard powertrain across these models—paired with either a six-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic transmission. Crewman models were electronically limited to a top speed of 160 km/h due to chassis limitations and exhibited greater fuel consumption alongside a wider turning circle compared to Utes.

Key details included:

The base Crewman/Ute shared specifications with the Commodore Executive and was equipped with a 175 kW Alloytec V6 engine.
The S trim for Crewman/Ute matched the Commodore SV6 specifications; it was rebranded as SV6 in August 2006 and gained a five-speed automatic transmission option.

The V8-powered SS variant received an increase in output to 235 kW.

For the One Tonner and Crewman models:

The base configuration offered either a 3.6L Alloytec V6 or a 5.7L Gen III V8 engine, both available with six-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearboxes.
The S trim aligned with SV6 specifications but excluded fog lamps; engine choices remained consistent with the base model.
The Cross 6 was an AWD One Tonner fitted exclusively with a 3.6L Alloytec V6 paired to a four-speed automatic transmission.
The SVZ trim added leather seating and Monaro CV8 alloy wheels and was available with either a five-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission.

Production of the One Tonner ended in December 2005 as preparations began for the VE series rollout.

The Ute lineup experienced minimal alterations until January 2006 when Holden introduced new L76 V8 engines. Although VZ Utes and Wagons continued to be offered after the VE series launch, manufacturing of Crewman and AWD ute variants ceased by December 2006 due to weak sales performance. The VZ Utes were ultimately succeeded by VE series models in September 2007. Notably, Holden discontinued long-wheelbase "Crewman" crew cab variants within the VE series owing to insufficient market demand.

HSV range (Z Series)

The high-performance VZ range developed by Holden Special Vehicles (HSV), launched in 2004 under the Z Series designation, comprised several distinct models.

Clubsport

Equipped with the LS2 6.0 L, 16-valve pushrod V8 engine, the Clubsport delivered power output of at 6000 rpm and torque of at 4400 rpm. Buyers could choose between a six-speed manual gearbox or a four-speed automatic transmission. Fuel efficiency was rated at 15.9 L/100 km. The starting price for the Z-Series Clubsport manual was $61,850 plus additional on-road expenses. The Clubsport R8 variant included enhancements such as leather upholstery, supplementary instrumentation, redesigned wheels, and improved braking components.

In July 2005, HSV introduced the manual-only Clubsport and Clubsport R8 "Dealer Team Spec" (DTS) editions, featuring Stage 1 and optional Stage 2 upgrade packages. Stage 1 upgrades comprised enhanced tires and wheels along with weight reduction measures; Stage 2 further incorporated adjustable suspension settings and a tire pressure monitoring system.

The Z Series also marked HSV’s debut into Middle Eastern markets through one-make racing events featuring ClubSport R sedans.

Senator

The Z Series eliminated the Senator Signature badge in favor of a more subtle aesthetic, standardizing on wheels. Power came from the LS2 6.0-litre V8 engine shared with the C6 Corvette, producing . Redesigned rear mufflers contributed to a richer exhaust sound. With a weight of , the vehicle accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and was electronically limited to a top speed of . Fuel consumption varied between 10–12 L/100 km on highways and 18–22 L/100 km in urban conditions.

Measurements included a height of , length of , width of , and a wheelbase measuring .

Optional features encompassed a sunroof priced at $2390, satellite navigation for $3800, rear-seat DVD entertainment systems at $3900, Xenon headlights costing $1800, and tire pressure monitoring available for $1395. Interior appointments featured standard Nappa leather seating.

The braking system utilized ABS combined with twin-piston front calipers and grooved brake discs. Rear suspension incorporated a self-leveling mechanism designed to maintain vehicle stability under load while improving headlight alignment—technology also found in subsequent Senator Signature models and select Holden vehicles since 1999.

Exterior refinements included a chrome-trimmed grille for an upscale appearance and exclusive 10-spoke alloy wheels. Optional interior upgrades offered suede leather trim. Pricing remained competitive with the Clubsport model despite its elevated luxury specifications.

Avalanche

The Avalanche was an all-wheel drive crossover SUV produced by Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) in 2005. It was based on the Holden Adventra LX8 crossover wagon platform, with the lineup including a dual-cab utility variant named the HSV Avalanche XUV, which was derived from the Holden Crewman Cross8.

Both Avalanche models were manufactured in two series: the initial 2003 "Y Series II" (with the wagon released late in 2003) and an updated "Y Series II" that incorporated selected "Z Series" HSV enhancements. The latter series, produced between April and December 2005, are considered rare. Although AWD, HSV Y Series AWD vehicles built from September 2004 to March 2005 bore Z Series compliance and Vehicle Identification Numbers, coinciding with production timelines for newer Holden VZ and Z Series HSV non-AWD models.

The refreshed Avalanches featured a less aggressive front bumper design incorporating auxiliary driving lights, setting them apart from earlier Y Series versions.

Both Avalanche variants were powered solely by the 5.7-litre LS1 V8 engine, generating power and , mated to a four-speed 4L65-E automatic transmission. The permanent AWD system distributed torque with a rear bias of 62%, maintaining a driving experience akin to rear-wheel drive.

Production of the Avalanche range ceased in late 2005 alongside Holden’s V8 Commodore-based AWD vehicles due to the discontinuation of the LS1 engine driven by increasingly stringent Euro III regulations.

Maloo

In October 2004, HSV unveiled the updated Z Series Maloo, featuring the exclusive LS2 6.0-litre V8 engine delivering . The Z Series enhancements also introduced standard equipment such as 19-inch wheels, Traction Control, and a multi-link rear suspension system throughout the Maloo lineup.

Production numbers for the Z Series comprised 517 base models and 958 R8 variants; for the 2006 model year, 181 base and 339 R8 vehicles were manufactured.

On 25 May 2006, a standard HSV Maloo R8 piloted by Mark Skaife recorded an average velocity of at South Australia's Woomera Test Range. This achievement was officially acknowledged by Guinness World Records as the Fastest Production Pickup Truck, overtaking the prior record set by the Dodge Ram SRT-10 at .

Limited editions

HSV released multiple limited-edition versions during the Z Series and Z Series MY06 production runs:

SV6000: Comprising 50 units based on the Clubsport R8; 30 painted in "Devil Yellow" and the remainder in "Phantom Black"; launched March 2005
Maloo R8 "15th Anniversary": A batch of 50 units in "Devil Yellow" celebrating Maloo's milestone with the "15 Years of Thunder" theme; August 2005
Clubsport R8 "Toll HSV Dealer Team": Fifty MY06 models finished in "Phantom Black Mica" accented with orange stripes; July 2005
Clubsport R8 "Holden Racing Team": Fifty MY06 vehicles in "Sting Red" featuring white stripes; March 2006
Senator Skaife Signature: Limited to 50 MY06 units in "Phantom Black," equipped with chrome shadow wheels, unique trim elements, and exclusively automatic transmission; March 2006

Exports

Beginning in 2004, the VZ sedan was exported to Middle Eastern markets under the Chevrolet Lumina nameplate, continuing the export strategy initiated with the VY series. Available trims included Lumina LS (equivalent to Commodore Executive), Lumina S (based on Commodore SV6 with 175 kW), Lumina LTZ (aligned with Berlina), Lumina SS (matching Commodore SS), and Lumina Royale (comparable to Calais).

The VZ Lumina also maintained export presence in Malaysia and Thailand with LTZ trim (derived from Berlina) until exports ceased in 2005.

From 2005, General Motors do Brasil imported the VZ as the Chevrolet Omega, succeeding the VY-based Omega. This single-variant CD model was based on Berlina but incorporated additional features from Calais. Sales concluded in 2007 when it was replaced by the VE-based Omega model.

Sales

Sales of the VZ Commodore commenced in August 2004. Although initial demand was robust, its release coincided with a downturn in the large car segment, resulting in sales figures lower than some earlier models.

	Jan	Feb	Jul	Aug	Oct	Nov
2004	—			6,030	7,869	7,301
2005	4,225	5,890			4,906
2006			—

Note: These figures incorporate VZ Wagon sales up until July 2006; this variant remained on sale until 2008.