Holden VE Commodore

The Holden VE Commodore is the 14th series Commodore launched by Holden. The VE is the most technically advanced and refined series so far, starting on a new platform along with the newly refreshed model lineup, better safety and the newly european designed aesthetics. Unlike all other Commodore variants, which are based on Opel platforms, the VE platform was designed in Australia for their own conditions using a more sophisticated independent suspension system and as the result, it had offered a smoother ride and better ride and handling with the 50:50 weight distribution. It won numerous awards but had stirred a small controversy over questionable reliability and build quality.

See Wikicars' comprehensive Holden VE Commodore Review.

Recent Changes

 * For 2011, the Commodore lineup gets a minor refresh and facelift (called Series II) in the form of a new "iQ" touchscreen interface (which includes Bluetooth, USB, iPod and backup camera), improved fuel economy/reduced emissions, and 3.0-liter and 6.0-liter engines that are E85-compatible. The lineup gets improved aerodynamics as well while the Omega/Berlina receive low-resistance tires.


 * In 2009, Holden released a limited edition Commodore International. Available in petrol or dual fuel and sedan and wagon choices, the International adds 18 inch alloy wheels, bluetooth connectivity and leather appointed seats and steering wheel along with the stainless steel exhaust pipe. Prices vary across model to model. The petrol sedan will cost you $33,990, the dual fuel version costs $36,390 and the petrol only wagon costs $35,990.
 * In 2008, Holden has reduced the Commodore's power output to 235 bhp in all V6 models


 * In 2008, Holden released the new wagon variant called the Sportwagon. Based on the sedan platform, the Sportwagon is 136 mm shorter so some cargo space has been cut but it still offers station wagon practicalities and unlike most conventional station wagons, it offers better ride and handling than any of them.

In late 2009, all V6 Holden Commodore's had Spark Ignition Direct Injection which increases power and has better fuel economy.

In 2009, Holden released a special edition SS-V-Series. Other than V8 power, the main difference is the front appearance. It gets a unique twin-nostril fascia, lower splitter and twin air bonnet scoops found on the defunct Pontiac G8.

Styles and Major Options
Omega
 * 16 inch Alloy wheels
 * Air conditioning
 * Anti-lock brakes
 * Dual front airbags
 * Front side airbags
 * Side curtain airbags
 * Alarm
 * Audio - Aux input socket (MP3, CD, Cassette)
 * Brake assist
 * CD player
 * Electronic Stability Control
 * Traction control
 * Cruise control
 * Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
 * Power windows (front and rear)
 * Trip computer
 * Bluetooth system (Optional)
 * 6 disc CD stacker (Optional)
 * DVD Player (Optional)
 * Limited Slip Differential (Optional)
 * Metallic paint (Optional)
 * Rear park assist (Optional, not avaiable in Dual Fuel model)
 * Full-size spare wheel (Optional)
 * Electric sunroof (Optional)
 * Country suspension (Optional, not available in Dual Fuel model)
 * Sports suspnesion with Limited Slip Differential (Optional)
 * Holden Assist Ultra Telematics Monitoring Service (Optional, added in 2007)
 * Tyre sealant and air compressor kit (Optional)

Berlina
 * 6 inch Multifunctonal display
 * 17 inch Alloy wheels
 * Fog lamps
 * Dual zone Climate Control Air Conditioning
 * Automatic Headlamp Mode
 * Leather Appointed Seats
 * Leather Wrapped Sttering Wheel
 * Rear park assist
 * Bluetooth system (Optional)
 * 6 disc CD stacker (Optional)
 * DVD Player (Optional)
 * Limited Slip Differential (Optional)
 * Metallic paint (Optional)
 * Full-size spare wheel (Optional)
 * Electric sunroof (Optional)
 * Sports suspnesion with Limited Slip Differential (Optional)
 * Holden Assist Ultra Telematics Monitoring Service (Optional, added in 2007)
 * Tyre sealant and air compressor kit (Optional)

SV6
 * 18 inch Alloy wheels
 * Air Conditioning with Pollen Filter
 * Bluetooth system
 * Cruise control
 * Full bodykit (front & rear spoiler, side skirts, rear apron)
 * Brake assist
 * CD Player
 * Corner Braking Control
 * Electronic Stability Control
 * Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
 * Power steering
 * Power windows (front and rear)
 * Traction control
 * 6 disc CD changer (Optional)
 * DVD Player
 * Holden Assist Ultra Telematics Monitoring Service (Optional)
 * Limited Slip Differential (Optional)
 * Metallic Paint (Optional)
 * Full-size spare wheel (Optional)
 * Rear park assist (Optional)
 * Electric sunroof (Optional)

SS
 * 18 inch Alloy wheels
 * Air Conditioning with Pollen Filter
 * Dual front airbags
 * Front side airbags
 * Side curtain airbags
 * Alarm
 * Audio - Aux input socket (MP3, CD, Cassette)
 * Brake assist
 * Bluetooth system
 * Full body kit (front & rear spoiler, side skirt, rear apron)
 * 6 disc CD changer
 * CD player
 * Cornering Braking Control
 * Electronic Stability Control
 * Traction control
 * Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
 * Limited Slip Differential
 * Power steering
 * Power windows (front and rear)
 * DVD Player (Optional)
 * Holden Assist Ultra Telematics Monitoring Unit (Optional)
 * Metallic paint (Optional)
 * Rear park assist (Optional)
 * Full-size spare wheel (Optional)
 * Electric sunroof (Optional)

SSV
 * 19 inch Alloy wheels
 * Anti-lock brakes
 * Dual Zone Climate Control Air Conditioning with Pollen Filter
 * Dual front airbags
 * Front side airbags
 * Side curtain airbags
 * Audio - Aux input socket (MP3, CD, Cassette)
 * Alarm
 * Bluetooth system
 * Brake assist
 * Full bodykit (front & rear spoiler, side skirts, rear apron)
 * 6 disc CD changer
 * CD Player
 * Brake assist
 * Electronic Stability Control
 * Corner Braking Control
 * Rear park distance control
 * Electronic brakeforce distribution
 * Limited Slip Differential
 * Power steering
 * Power windows (front and rear)
 * DVD Player (Optional)
 * GPS (Optional)
 * Holden Assist Ultra Telematics Monitoring Service (Optional)
 * Metallic paint (Optional)
 * Rear parking sensors (Optional)
 * Full-size spare wheel (Optional)
 * Electric sunroof (Optional)

Calais
 * 6 inch Multifunctional Display
 * 17 inch Alloy Wheels
 * Anti-lock Brakes
 * Automatic Headlamp
 * Audio - Aux Input Socket (MP3, CD, Cassette)
 * Bluetooth System
 * CD Player
 * Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
 * Electronic Stability Control
 * Front Foglamps
 * Leather wrap gear selector
 * Leather wrap multi-functional steering wheel
 * Leather appointed seats
 * Projector Headlamps
 * Rear park assist
 * Traction Control
 * Steering wheel mounted audio controls
 * Full-size Spare Wheel (Optional)
 * Tyre Sealant and Air Compressor Kit (Optional)

Calais V
 * 6 inch Multifunctional Display
 * 18 inch Alloy Wheels
 * Anti-lock Brakes
 * Automatic Headlamp
 * Audio - Aux Input Socket (MP3, CD, Cassette)
 * Bluetooth System
 * CD Player
 * Chrome Finish Mouldings
 * Decklid Lip Spoiler
 * Driver's Seat Position Memory
 * DVD Player
 * Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
 * Electronic Stability Control
 * Front and Rear Park Assist
 * Front Foglamps
 * Leather wrap gear selector
 * Leather wrap multi-functional steering wheel
 * Leather appointed seats
 * Projector Headlamps
 * Traction Control
 * Steering wheel mounted audio controls
 * Full-size Spare Wheel (Optional)
 * Tyre Sealant and Air Compressor Kit (Optional)

Pricing
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Gas Mileage
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As seen on the FuelEconomy.gov website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

First generation

Second generation

Engine and Transmission
Specifications, details, graphs, pictures and other information regarding the powertrain is placed in this section.

Manual transmission

Alsin AY6 (6 speed)

Automatic transmissions

GM 4L60-E (4 speed)

GM 5L40-E (5 speed)

GM 6L80-E (6 speed)

Performance
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If using information gathered from Road Test articles from a reputable automotive source, then please make sure to cite the quote.

Reliability
FIRST RECALL

V6 VE Commodores and WM Statesmans have a risk that one of the fuel lines in the engine compartment may have a rub condition with a fuel vapour hose clip. 

SECOND RECALL

Holden recalled nearly 13,000 Commodores and Statesmans with a fault of the rear seatbelt buckles.

THIRD RECALL

More than 86,000 Commodores and Statemans have a fuel tank design fault which could cause a fire. 

With those problems recalled and fixed, there were no serious problems reported.

So far, reliability of the VE Commodore had been doubtful. The car had 3 recalls in its first year of production and many problems to look out for are the 4L60-E Automatic that can last up to 175,000 kilometres (109,000 miles) unless it's well cared of and lower dashboard panels that could fall out. Elsewhere, it remained fine.

According to Car Survey.org, the reliability rating is 7 out of 10.

Safety
At first, the VE Commodore scored only 4 stars (27.45 out of 37) in 2006. The car came with dual airbags and stability control as standard whereas side and curtain airbags were a $2000 option and because the car tested wasn't equipped with side airbags, the default score was only 4 stars.

ANCAP result for 2006 Holden Commodore VE Omega

In 2008, side thorax and curtain airbags were made standard and enabled the Commodore to earn a maximum of 5 stars (33.45 points out of 37). It now joins its rival, the Ford Falcon as the two locally built cars to earn 5 stars by ANCAP.

ANCAP result for 2008 Holden Commodore VE Omega

Standard safety features
 * Dual front airbags
 * Front side airbags
 * Side curtain airbags
 * Anti-lock Brakes
 * Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
 * Electronic Stability Control
 * Traction Control

Photos
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Colors

 * Heron White
 * Red Hot

Metallics
 * Phantom
 * Provence (Light Blue)
 * Sandstorm
 * Red Passion
 * Nitrate (Silver)
 * Karma (Blue-green)
 * Evoke (Grey)
 * Atomic (Bright Green)
 * Voodoo (Bright Blue)
 * Ignition (Orange)

Main Competitors

 * Ford FG Falcon
 * Toyota Aurion
 * Mitsubishi 380
 * Honda Accord
 * Audi A6

Hybrid Models
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Unique Attributes
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Interior
This section should include information on the interior's design, build quality, ergonomics, space (head and legroom, front and rear), features, stowage compartments and overall comfortability and livability. Add pictures wherever applicable and keep information in a third-person point of view.

In the centre console, there's an unusual handbrake and window switches.

In the 2011 upgrade, Holden made improvements in the interior after receiving criticisms. The IQ interface has been moved upwards making it more user-friendly. It also has a hard drive storing up to 15 CDs for playback and an integration for plug-in music applications. Higher luxury models get a clever satellite navigation to beat traffic jams and includes a reversing camera.

Rectangular air conditioning vents are a default feature on the dashboard while sports models have round vents. Also, the sports models get their colour treatments in lower dashboard areas and seat faces.

Resale Values
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Criticisms

 * "Despite the new direct injection technology, the Commodore's new 3.0-litre engine used 11.09 L / 100 km of fuel (almost identical to the trip computer's claim of 11.0 L / 100 km). That's not only 19 per cent more fuel than its official claim but 10 per cent more than the Falcon." Drive

Of the criticisms in regards to the interior, the interior looked dated. The interface which is below the air conditioner is risky to use because there's a risk that the driver can take his or her eyes off the road. Apparently, one owner complained about the backseat which made its child claustrophobic.

With the handbrake's rather flawed design, the chances are that drivers could jam their thumbs.

Generations
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Second generation (2010-Present)
Holden released a new series VE II. The upgrade offers a retuned SIDI engine to produce more torque at mid revs. The Commodore gets aerodynamics underneath and a small spoiler on the boot to further reduce fuel consumption. It also uses low rolling resistance tyres and an air conditioning pump that detaches from the engine when not in use. 3.6 litre models have a lower idle speed.

The cabin is redesigned for a lighter feel and sport models get the body colour treatment in the cabin. And introducing the first in the Australian car industry, the new touchscreen interface called the IQ which operates Bluetooth, USB and iPod integration as well as a backup camera when reversing.

First Generation/Origins (2006–2010)
2008 saw a minor make over for the VE Commodore. All V6 models have power reduced to 235 bhp to benefit better fuel economy. The base-model Omega gets side and curtain airbags standard to get a 5 star ANCAP safety rating and 16 inch alloy wheels fitted.

2009 saw the introduction of the new SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) engine ranger coupled with a 6 speed Automatic gearbox.

The SIDI technology is for the response of Ford's upcoming EcoBoost Falcon as Holden chose not to make a 4 cylinder version for their Commodore reflecting their experience they had before with a VH Commodore. Holden decided to 'out-engineer' the competition whilst maintaining customer satisfaction for power and towing abilities.

Holden claimed the Omega's fuel economy of 9.3L/100 km and also claimed that it can go from Melbourne to Sydney on a single tankfull (distance is 880 kilometres (550 miles)). However, motoring journalists found out that there is a huge variation of fuel economy with the Commodore. Also in the Bathurst 100 km (62 mile) Fuel Test, the Commodore averaged 11L/100 km (900 ml more than the Falcon).

Worse still, sales of the updated Commodore were no better despite Holden's aggressive SIDI ad campaign and that forced production to halve and the replacement of the VE starting from the second half of 2010.

Sportwagon
In 2008, Holden just released a new re-designed wagon for the Commodore known as a Sportwagon. Based on the sedan platform, the Sportwagon features a stylish and sporty appearance, much like the designs of sportswagons on sale in Europe and Holden wants to attract buyers with this subject matter. Apart from some compromises such as a reduced cargo area and thick D pillars, the Sportwagon was considered a rewarding drives compared with other normal station wagons as it offered better ride and handling. Likewise, the cargo area of the Sportwagon carries 895 litres of luggage and with the back seats folded down, the cargo area's increased to 2000 litres.

That doesn't mean though that the Sportwagon isn't short on boot space. It does feature some clever concepts such as the hinges that were further forward. This is nifty for putting tall luggage in without the hassle of budging against the roof and it's very good for limited space behind the car. It features numerous tie-down hooks, a power socket and an ingenius dual-level cargo blind.

The Sportwagon had won the 2009 Australian International Design Award and had eclipsed Toyota Corolla sales since its launch.

See Wikicars' comprehensive: Holden Sportwagon Review.

E85 Ethanol Commodore
In 2010, Holden started selling the flexi-fuel powered Commodore running on a maximum of E85 ethanol as Holden took leadership of the future fuel. There is no confirmed price but the model should not be more expensive than the petrol version.

Holden and investor Coskata invested on new technologies for the production of ethanol from household rubbish and sewerage rather than resorting to food based crops.

http://www.webwombat.com.au/motoring/news_reports/holden-commodore-e85-ethanol-2010.htm

Worldwide
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Design quirks and oddities
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Awards

 * 2006 CarsGUIDE Car Of The Year
 * 2006 Motor Bang For Your Buck
 * 2006 Wheels Car Of The Year
 * 2007 Motor Bang For Your Buck
 * 2009 Australian International Design Award (Sportwagon)
 * 2010 Drive Best Large Car (Omega Sportwagon) (Nominee)
 * 2010 Drive Best Performance Car Under $60,000 (SS-V) (Nominee)
 * 2009 Carsales Large Car People's Choice Award