HOLDEN invested $1billion in its VE Commodore range when it launched in 2006 and has since swatted away Japanese competitors to re-establish the iconic Australian full-sized vehicle at the top of the pack.
The new VE Series II Commodore range however epitomises how adept designers are continually improving the aesthetic. Released amid huge market anticipation, the VE Series II includes a raft of new options that rival those found in pricier European equivalents.
A number of exterior styling updates are conspicuous, albeit subtle, with new front bumpers, grilles, headlight, fog lamp styling and fresh wheel designs across the range.
The new SV6 models look more aggressive and muscular with a prowling new front bumper sporting a larger grille and new headlamp shape.
The biggest news for the Series II’s updated interior and dash is the new six inch LCD touch screen found from the base model Omega through to the top of the range Calais V models.
Dubbed the ‘Holden IQ System’, Surfers City Holden new car sales manager Mathew Bielby says this technology is just another way Australian cars are closing the gap with their European rivals.
“The response has been fantastic. The introduction of the Holden IQ system has been long awaited for,” says Bielby.
“The base model now comes with touch screen and wireless Bluetooth with the option of satellite navigation and an inbuilt hard drive that can store around 15 CDs’ worth of data. These options are standard from the SV6 upwards.”
Under the hood the new VE Commodore II also continues to impress.
The 3.0ltr SIDI motor has seen a slight increase in economy and along with the 6.0ltr V8 option is now compatible with regular unleaded petrol or E85 bio-ethanol fuel.
For those not looking to move into V8 territory, the 3.6ltr remains an excellent performance option with 210kW on tap.
The new generation, smart six-speed automatic gearbox with sports shift mode also provides driving comfort and luxury that until now was synonymous with vehicles built north of the equator.
Holden has released special introduction pricing for the SV6 Series II. Sedans start at $36,990 with the Sportswagon variant from $41,990.
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