Commodore Information

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Commodore Background Information (Updated on January 2004)

Passenger Market Leadership
The Holden Commodore has topped the Australian passenger car market for seven consecutive years � 1996-2003 � and remains the number one seller.

Number of Models
The current VY model is number 12 of the Commodore series.
Model designations are: VB (1978); (VC) 1980; VH (1981); VK (1984); VL (1986);
VN (1988); VP (1991); VR (1993); VS (1995); VT (1997); VX (2000); (VY 2002).
Major model changes occurred in 1988 with the introduction of the VN Commodore and in 1997 with the introduction of the VT Commodore.

Most Popular Models
1. VT Commodore (1997�2000)
303,895 units produced
2. VS Commodore (1995-1997)
277,774 units produced
3. VN Commodore (1988�1991)
215,180 units produced
4. VX Commodore (2000�2002)
207,339 units produced

Production
Commodore sedans and wagons are produced in left- and right-hand drive configurations at Holden Vehicle Manufacturing Operations in Elizabeth, South Australia. In earlier years, Commodores were also produced at Holden plants in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.

Total Number Built
� 2,126,453 (to 31 July 2003)

Exports
More than 180,000 Commodore sedans and wagons have been exported since 1978. In 2003, Holden forecasts a Commodore export total of 21,237 units.
Current Commodore export markets are the Middle East, Brazil, Southern Africa (badged Chevrolet, left-hand drive), New Zealand Brunei and Fiji (badged Commodore, right-hand drive).

Safety Innovation
VR Commodore � first Australian-manufactured vehicle to offer a driver airbag (1993).
VS Commodore � first Australian-manufactured vehicle to offer driver and front passenger airbags (1995).
VT Commodore � first Australian-manufactured vehicle to offer side impact airbags (1998); first to offer a computer-optimised restraint system (1997).
VX Commodore � first Australian-manufactured vehicle to offer ABS braking across the range and an advanced structural design that improves protection in side impact crashes (2000).
VY Commodore series 2 - second Australian-manufactured vehicle to offer active front head restraints after Holden's WK Statesman and Caprice (2003).

Holden Commodore Awards
1978 - 2003

VB COMMODORE
1978 Wheels Car of the Year

VN COMMODORE
1988 Wheels Car of the Year
1988 Modern Motor Car of 1988 Award
1988 Car Australia Car of Australia Award
1989 Car Australia Best Family Car
1989 NRMA Best Family Car
1991 Australian Fleet Magazine Fleet Car of the Year

VP COMMODORE
1992 Australian Fleet Magazine Fleet Car of the Year

VR COMMODORE
1993 Wheels Car of the Year
1993 Motor Magazine Best Car 93/94 Award
1993 Car Australia Car of �93
1993 Australian Design Award
1993 NRMA Best Family Sedan and Most Secure Large Car
1993 RACV Best Buys Best Family Car
1993 RAA Family Car of the Year
1993 RAA Best Luxury Car up to $50,000 (Calais)
1993 Windscreens O�Brien Achievements in Automotive Safety Award
1993 2CH Car of the Year Award
1993 A Current Affair Family Car of 1993
1993 New Zealand Car Car of the Year
1993 Adelaide Sunday Mail Car of the Year
1993 Perth West Australian Car of the Year
1993 Brisbane Courier Mail Best Value Family Car
1993 Canberra Times Best Car of �93
1994 NRMA Best Cars for 1994 Best Family Sedan (Acclaim)
1994 Sydney Daily Telegraph Mirror Best Car of �94 Best Family Car (Acclaim)

VS COMMODORE
1995 NRMA Best Car Awards Best Family Sedan (Acclaim)
1995 NRMA Best Luxury Car Under $50,000 (Calais)
1995 RACV Best Large Car Award
1995 Sydney Daily Telegraph Mirror Best Family Car
1995 Radio 2GB Top Cars of the Year Best Value Car (Acclaim)
1995 Brisbane Courier Mail Best Buys 1995 Best Large Car
1995 Canberra Times Best Family Car (Acclaim)
1996 Adelaide Advertiser Car of the Year
1996 RACV Best Buys Best Fleet Car
1996 Business Fleet Magazine Fleet Car of the Year
1996 Radio 2KY Car of the Year Best Value Family Car

VT COMMODORE
1997 Wheels Car of the Year
1997 RACV Best Buys Best Large Car
1997 RAA Best Family Car ($25,000 - $40,000)
1997 Adelaide Advertiser Car of the Year
1997 RACQ/Brisbane Courier Mail QCAR Queensland Car Awards Best Family Car
1997 Australian Design Award
1997 Victorian Design Awards - Major Prize for Industrial Design
1997 Perth Sunday Times Best Car of 1997
1997 Which Car? Safety Merit Award
1997 Radio 2KY Car of the Year Best Value Family Car and Car of the Year
1997 Radio 2SER World on Wheels 1997 Automobile of the Year
1998 RACT Best Car Awards � Best Family Car
1998 RACQ/Brisbane Courier Mail QCAR Queensland Car Awards Best Family Car
1998 The Age Top Ten Best Family Car
1998 SAE-A Gold Automotive Engineering Excellence Award (VT Safety systems)
1998 Windscreens O�Brien Achievements in Automotive Safety Awards � Highly Commended � Industry Division (side impact airbag)
1998 Radio 2SER World on Wheels Best Family Car, 1998 Automobile of the Year
1998 Sao Paulo Auto Show � Most Admired Car (Export LHD, badged Chevrolet Omega)
1998 Michel Malik�s Media World Auto of the Year Best Family Car
1999 RACQ/Courier Mail QCAR Qld Car Award Best Family Car
1999 Radio 2KY Car of the Year Best Family Car

VX COMMODORE
2000 Australia�s Best Cars Best Family Car
2000 Radio 2KY Car of the Year Best Value Family Car, Car of the Year
2001 Australia�s Best Cars Best Family Car
2001 Windscreens O�Brien Achievements in Automotive Safety Awards � (side impact research program)

VY COMMODORE
2003 Queensland Country Car of the Year Best sedan over $35,000 (Calais)

Commodore Model by Model - VB to VY

VB Commodore
Released: October 1978
Base model price at release: $6513
Total produced: 95,906

Seven years and $110 million in the making, the first Commodore represented a considerable change of direction for Holden.

Developed from a GM �world car� platform as economic rationalisation kicked in and oil price shocks began, the Commodore was appreciably smaller than previous family Holdens. This was a result of its European design heritage and a need, as Holden planners saw it, to move with the times and deliver a fuel-efficient, advanced and better-packaged car � still large enough to carry five adults in comfort � that would trump the rival Falcon and hold its own against increasing import competition.

The value-for-money VB Commodore�s generous standard equipment specification and excellent performance and handling capabilities brought a new level of sophistication to the market, earning it top-selling status and the 1978 Wheels Car of the Year award.

Under the skin the VB Commodore differed markedly from its Opel-badged German cousins. It combined the best available world car technology with Australian-developed powertrain, suspension set-up and steering system, body strengthening and dust sealing � all the better to cope with a driving environment murderous enough to have destroyed European-built prototypes. (Proof, if any was needed, that Holden engineers knew their territory came less than 12 months later when untried Commodores finished 1-2-3 in the 19,000 km Repco Round Australia Trial.)

Commodore sedans and wagons (these launched mid-1979) were offered in base model and SL designations, and top of the range was the remarkably well-equipped SL/E sedan. Engines included a 2.85 litre six-cylinder, 3.3 litre six, and 4.2 and 5.0-litre V8s, matched to four-speed manual and three-speed automatic transmissions.

The VB Commodore ushered in across-the-range standard features like steel-belted radial ply tyres, front disc brakes, carpets, front bucket seats, clock, radio, remote control driver�s mirror and heated rear screen. While the SL added extras such as ribbed corduroy trim, T-bar auto, height adjustable driver�s seat, rear centre armrest and intermittent wipers, the standard-bearer V8 SL/E weighed in with automatic air conditioning, 15� alloy wheels with 60 series tyres, four wheel disc brakes, full instrumentation, burl walnut finish, Blaupunkt radio/cassette audio system with electric antenna, remote boot release and must-have headlamp washer/wipers.

The VB Commodore reigned as Australia�s most popular car in 1979, selling alongside the HZ Holden range of sedans, wagons, utes, vans and one tonners.

VC Commodore
Released: March 1980
Base model price at release (6 cyl): $8120
Total number produced: 121,807

The VC Commodore update refined the classy Commodore concept and maintained its sales leadership. Wheels magazine said that while the VC wasn�t perfect .. �that doesn�t stop us declaring that it is easily the best Australian car ever.�

This model was distinguished externally from its predecessor largely by a new grille treatment with centre-mounted Holden badging and a smart �Shadowtone� dark-over-light paint finish option on the SL/E. The VC range (its base model now designated Commodore 'L') offered cruise control and electronic ignition for the first time and an upgraded suspension system further improved ride and handling.

The big news, however, was under the bonnet. Upgraded �Blue� six and eight cylinder engines with redesigned cylinder heads, camshafts, carburettors, inlet and exhaust anifolds delivered major improvements in power output, driveability and economy. The new powerplants were up to 25 per cent more powerful and 15 per cent more fuel efficient than before. A 1.9 litre four-cylinder model was also released.

The VC was the first Commodore to be modified by Peter Brock�s newly-established Holden Dealer Team (HDT) outfit. Based on the 5.0 litre SL/E, the 500 HDT Commodores produced featured front and rear spoilers, wheel arch flares, Irmscher alloy wheels, upgraded suspension and dampers. A series of engine tweaks maximised performance. Available in red, black or white, the individually numbered HDT �Brock� Commodores sported body striping and decals.

The VC production run included the four millionth Holden, which was driven off the line by former MD Sir Laurence Hartnett.

VH Commodore
Released: September 1981
Base model price at release (6 cyl): $10,560
Total number produced: 141,018

The VH Commodore series was the third in four years and reflected a �steady as she goes� policy of refinement rather than sweeping change. The original front end sheet metal made way for an Australian-designed treatment, with subtle changes to the guards, bonnet, grille and headlights. Louvre-style sedan tail lights, seven new exterior colours and fresh interior trims also set the VH apart.

Buyers had a choice of five engines and four transmissions, among them a five-speed manual and a locally-built Trimatic auto for the 5.0 litre V8. Performance and economy improvements centred on the 1.9 litre four and 2.85 six cylinder engines.

This model also benefited from refinements that delivered a smoother, quieter ride and from the introduction of advanced electronics systems, highlighted by a seven-function digital trip computer on the SL/E model. On the comfort and convenience front, VH introduced central locking and all-new leather trim.

In early �82 the first Commodore SS made its debut with the VH series, which also saw the former Commodore L model designated SL, the former SL become the SL/X and the SL/E remain unchanged. The Commodore SS sports package formed the basis for HDT�s Group 1, Group 2 and Group 3 SS performance variants.

VK Commodore
Released: February 1984
Base model price at release: $11,152
Total produced: 135,705

Cleverly designed, keenly priced and radically upgraded, the VK range introduced a raft of major changes. Its sleek and strikingly different look came courtesy of a new six-window profile, distinctive louvred grille, deep polycarbonate bumpers and wrap-around side mouldings.

Performance was boosted with an enhanced version of the 3.3 litre six, now the base engine, which benefited from an electronic spark timing engine management system. Standard on the newly designated Calais flagship (the Berlina name also made its first appearance with VK) and optional on other models was a 3.3 litre electronic fuel injection (EFI) six, which raised power output without sacrificing fuel efficiency.

Lower-priced than the VH models it superseded and much improved in terms of operating refinement, the value-for-money VK delivered upgraded sound, security and air conditioning systems and a cruise control option for the first time. The stylish Calais, set apart by silver side mouldings and bumpers, offered the first trip computer in a locally-built car, central locking, power windows, digital/analogue electronic instrument displays, cruise control and velour or optional leather trim.

A new SL-based �Executive� package, incorporating air conditioning, power steering and auto transmission, was aimed largely at fleet buyers. High-performance HDT versions included the SS, SS Group 3 and the �sporting evolution� SS Group A.

VL Commodore
Released: March 1986
Base model price at release: $15,400
Total number produced: 151,801

More like an entirely new model than a makeover, the streamlined VL series really raised the bar in terms of performance and technology. Although an initially controversial choice, its sophisticated Nissan-sourced powertrain proved silk-smooth, sensationally powerful and remarkably fuel-saving. The completely new high-tech 3.0 litre engine, running on lower octane unleaded fuel, lifted SL base model power output by 33 per cent and improved fuel economy by 15 per cent. It could be matched to a five-speed manual or an equally efficient and economical four-speed electronic auto transmission.

The competitively-priced VL Commodore also looked the goods, benefiting from comprehensive front end sheet metal changes, highlighted by a compact grille and slim �homofocal� headlamps that on Calais were given an individual, semi-concealed treatment. In profile, the longer VL nose was balanced at the rear by an integral bootlid lip. Upgraded interiors had an all-new dash facia and instrument panel layout with binnacle-mounted touch controls.

Mid-1986 saw the introduction of a 150kW turbocharged version of the 3.0 six � an engine with more power on tap than Holden�s standard 5.0 litre V8.

The VL series also introduced Holden�s first �unleaded� V8 engine, a limited edition Calais wagon and two SS Group A entries: � an HDT model and one of the most famous Commodore sporting evolutions, the outrageously styled �plastic fantastic� 180kW SS Group A, first of a new dynasty to be created by the newly-formed Holden Special Vehicles (HSV).

VN Commodore
Released: August 1988
Base model price at release: $20,014
Total number produced: 215,180

In 1978 Holden had introduced a Commodore that was perceptibly smaller than its rival in response to economic woes and fuel crises. By the early 1980s, however, these concerns had largely passed and it was obvious to Holden planners that Australian family car buyers would prefer their next generation Commodore to be bigger all round.

Using the Omega model platform developed by German GM affiliate Opel, Holden designers and engineers came up with a unique vehicle, wide-bodied and radically redesigned for Australia, that made the landmark VN Commodore model a winner from day one.

It introduced a totally new �aero look� body, featuring a raked windscreen and large areas of flush-fitting glass. The standard powerplant � a torquey, Buick-sourced 3.8 litre V6 with a locally developed engine management system � was as powerful as the old carburettored V8. The VN also introduced a refined 165kW fuel-injected V8, the most powerful mass-produced Aussie engine so far, which was standard on the SS and optional across the range. Buyers could choose an Australian-made five-speed manual transmission or US-sourced four-speed overdrive automatic.

Four wheel disc brakes and power steering were standard on all models. While the rear track was widened by 50mm, suspension and steering systems carried over from the VL.

VN�s roomy, totally new interior included a one-piece dash facia, wide centre console and binnacle-mounted �fingertip� controls on either side of the instrument panel.

The VN wagon sat on a 91mm longer wheelbase and could accommodate seven with the addition of an optional rear seating. (The stretched wagon platform also heralded the extremely successful return, two years later, of Holden�s luxury long-wheelbase Statesman and Caprice models and the legendary Ute.)

The VN Commodore scooped all the major �1988 Car of the Year� awards and zoomed up the sales charts with the help of a memorable advertising campaign � �Like it? I love it!� � to claim the title of Australia�s most popular car by the end of 1989.

VP Commodore
Released: September, 1991
Base model price at release $23,535
Total number produced: 111,949

While design changes to the VP Commodore were low-key, this series was characterised by significant engineering refinements and equipment upgrades that improved ride quality, refinement, comfort and safety.

For the first time, independent rear suspension (IRS) was offered � standard on Calais and SS models, optional on Berlina and Executive � and anti-lock braking (ABS) was made available.

All models came equipped with remote control central locking, power mirrors, a sophisticated anti-theft system and bonnet gas struts. Berlina picked up such items as a tachometer and cruise control, while the Calais had a body computer which controlled a range of functions including Variotronic speed-sensitive power steering and automatic headlights-off.

Externally, the VP received new front guards to accommodate larger turn indicators, as well as new bumpers, a new grille treatment, new boot panel garnish and a striped tail lamp finish.

A HSV-enhanced 180kW V8 engine became optional across the range in early 1992. Further models included the luxurious limited edition Calais International , Berlina LX sedans and wagons and value-added pack Vacationer sedans and wagons. The VP range also saw the introduction of the Series II concept and a no-cost, three-year roadside service package, with Calais models.

VR Commodore
Released: July 1993
Base model price at release : $25,933
Total number produced: 165,262

Strikingly different in appearance from its predecessors and with a strong emphasis on occupant safety, the multi-award-winning, technologically sophisticated VR Commodore was the first Australian-manufactured car to offer a driver�s airbag.

Changes to more than 80 per cent of its exterior included new sheet metal front and rear and flared, rounded wheel arches. The range was characterised by a new �twin port� grille � echoing that of the famous FJ � above a large central air intake.

The safety-orientated Commodore Acclaim made its debut with VR and was an immediate hit. It combined more safety features than any car in the family price bracket, including a unique, Holden-designed driver airbag, anti-lock brakes, independent rear suspension and other across-the-range items such as seatbelt webbing clamps and sedan centre rear lap/sash seat belt.

Inside, there was a completely new �soft form� dash fascia, a new steering wheel and adjustable steering column and an extended comfort and convenience features listing. VR�s upgraded air conditioning system ran free of ozone-depleting chemicals and all models were equipped with a body computer and smart electronic security with remote key and central locking.

Engine modifications produced more power, refinement and fuel economy, while a wider front track and major revisions to suspension geometry further improved ride and handling characteristics.

VS Commodore
Released: April 1995
Base model price at release: $28,170
Total number produced: 277,774

An advancement on the successful formula that won the VR number one sales status, the VS was powered by a smooth, refined 3800 ECOTEC V6 that delivered 13 per cent more power and improved fuel economy.

Continuing Holden�s leadership in safety technology, it was the first locally-built vehicle to offer �dual� driver and front passenger airbags.

The comprehensively upgraded ECOTEC V6 benefited from low friction technology and included a new cylinder block design, lightweight, high-compression pistons, lighter cylinder heads, new Bosch throttle body and sequential fuel injection. Complementing these changes, the re-engineered automatic transmission had its computing power doubled and revised shift changes improved throttle response and fuel efficiency.

While the VS wore the dynamic new-look Holden Lion symbol on its bonnet and interior treatments were more luxurious, design changes were relatively few.

A Series II upgrade in 1996 brought in a new five speed Getrag manual transmission for V6 models and later that year a Supercharged V6 was introduced as an option on the top-range Calais.

VT Commodore
Released: August 1997
Base model price at release: $29,760
Total Number produced: 303,895

The VT Commodore reinforced Holden�s position as an automotive manufacturer of world standard. It was totally new from the ground up � the all-Australian result of a $600 million investment and the largest and most advanced new vehicle engineering program Holden had ever undertaken.

This range was characterised by powerfully sculpted exterior styling, more spacious and luxuriously equipped interiors, class-leading vehicle dynamics and significant strides in safety performance. The design integrity of its substantially stronger body structure was reflected in appreciably higher levels of build quality and driving refinement, and many of VT�s high-technology features were �firsts� for an Australian car.

With its wider track and longer wheelbase, the VT was the largest Commodore so far and with export markets in mind, the first to be designed to suit left- and right-hand drive configurations. The level of standard equipment offered � it included a driver airbag, electric driver�s seat adjustment, trip computer, advanced security and remote boot release � was higher than in any other car in its class.

Designed to help protect occupants from injury in the widest possible range of crash situations, the VT also offered higher levels of primary and secondary safety. Initiatives included computer-designed, crash energy-absorbing body structures, computer optimised restraint systems, pyrotechnic seat belt buckle pre-tensioners and anti-submarining ramps. Side impact airbags were also made available later in this model�s life.

The all-new heavy duty braking system used four-wheel large diameter discs and high-performance calipers and worked in tandem with an �Australian first� traction control system. VT ride and handling attributes set a benchmark in �driver�s car� chassis dynamics and independent rear suspension was fitted across the range.

The accommodating interior offered a completely new instrument panel layout, new seating and richer soft trims.

Few changes were made to the recently upgraded 3.8 litre ECOTEC V6 powerplant, Supercharged V6 power output was raised to 171kW. Revisions to the standard 5.0 litre V8 also increased power output and a high-performance 195kW V8 was also offered, before the VT Series II introduction of a 5.7 litre Gen III V8.

Calais came complete with dual zone climate control, a personal PowerKey system which �remembers� individual settings at start-up and a twilight sentinel that automatically turns headlamps on and off.

The VT Commodore claimed more than 15 major awards in 1997/1998, among them the 1997 Wheels Car of the Year and the 1997 Australian Design Award. Several limited edition VT models commemorated Holden�s 50th Anniversary in 1998.

VX Commodore
Released: September 2000
Base model price at release: $28,330
Total number produced: 207,339

While retaining the key attributes that won the VT such emphatic market acceptance, the VX Commodore range offered a higher degree of refinement, achieved through a series of design, engineering, safety and feature upgrades.

Faced with the challenge of taking an extremely successful design and freshening it retaining its huge appeal, Holden designers introduced graphic cues, accented by new headlamps, grilles, bumpers and rear treatments, that made each model in the range more distinctive.

Safety advancements included an advanced structural design for improved protection in side impact crashes, across-the-range fitment of ABS anti-lock braking and the availability of traction control with manual transmissions.

Driveline improvements, recalibrated and more powerful electronics, suspension changes and noise isolation measures combined to deliver smoother, more responsive ECOTEC V6 and GEN III V8 performance, a three-to-four per cent improvement in fuel economy and a quieter ride. To complement the improved ride quality, Holden engineers also focused on reducing cabin noise.

Steering wheel-mounted audio system controls, CD player and retracting power antenna became standard fitment and Executive and Acclaim buyers could now choose the Supercharged V6 engine option.

The Series II VX introduced Control-Link IRS, which offered even greater stability, control and handling precision, and the Holden Assist in-car communications system was made optional on Calais.

VY Commodore
Released: October, 2002
Price at release: $28,330
Still in production at time of publication

With the VY model, Holden continues to finesse the formula that has made Commodore Australia�s most popular car for five years straight � and keeps it well on track to make it six in 2003.

Expanded to include a new SV8 sports sedan, the VY series sets a strong new styling direction with harder-edged, angular lines, a more aggressive �face� and a sharper rear end which improves aerodynamic performance.

Inside, the look is also cutting edge, with a totally re-designed instrument panel, featuring a binnacle-style instrument cluster and multi-function digital displays, a new centre console and steering wheel.

Emphasising Commodore�s reputation as a true driver�s car, VY benefits from the most intensive vehicle engineering program undertaken by Holden since the development of the VT. It offers a new measure of refinement and improved drive character via significant advances in chassis dynamics, build precision, powertrain and safety performance. As an example, its new steering package delivers a precise feel through more positive feedback and improved on-centre definition.

The VY series introduced upgraded high feature Blaupunkt audio systems, automatic headlamps, road-speed sensitive intermittent wipers, headlamps off programmable time delay and passenger airbags across the range � and such options as Rear Park Assist on sedans and a six-stack in dash CD player (where not standard). VY Series II models add cruise control, passenger seat lumbar support, sunglasses holder and rear reading lamps across the range and introduce active front seat head restraints on Acclaim and Calais models, �memory� seats and heated exterior mirrors on Calais.