February 2003 Volume 84 Number 1 "serving the protectors"
Motoring
By Jim Barnett

More than just a make over

As it takes on, and defeats, all comers, Commodore is emerging as Holden’s battleship. But might the tables turn?

After the late-2002 release of the VY Commodore and the new BA Falcon, the battlelines were once again drawn. Only one manufacturer can reign supreme but, as Aussie-built cars just get better and better, consumers emerge as the big winners.

Most Holden fans will like the new VY Commodore but, to some, it might not appeal. That should surprise no one: this is a substantial upgrade, not just a mid-model facelift. With record first-month sales, however, the new VY is already popular.

Much has been said about its new “Magna-look” rear end. For that matter, Ford has done similar with the new Falcon. But just park a new VY next to a Magna to see that they are not really the same. Triangular tail lights and a sharp edge to the boot lid are their only similarities.

VY Commodore is a necessary freshen-up of a car that sold well but wasn’t reflecting the latest styling. Its new lines give the car a stronger, more purposeful appearance. And substantial work has been carried out beneath the surface to make Commodore an even better road car, particularly in the way it handles.

A fresh interior is highlighted by an all-new instrument panel, centre console and steering wheel. The binnacle-style instrument cluster features new gauges and a multi-function digital display. This display provides information to the driver relating to the audio system, “gear selected” (PRNDL), trip computer (including a stopwatch function) and service reminders.

Creating a new ambience for occupants are:

• Updated controls and graphics.
• Metallic detailing.
• A colour-coded instrument cluster on some models.
• New seat materials.

New standard features include automatic headlight control, Blaupunkt audio systems and passenger airbags on all sedans and wagons. Berlina, Calais and SS have a six-disc in-dash CD player and a new Rear Park Assist audible feature is standard on Calais. Holden Assist 24-hour satellite security and support system is optional across the entire VY range.

Holden has expanded its Commodore range to include a new SV8 sports sedan, fitted with a high-output version of the 5.7-litre Gen III V8. Common to SV8 and SS models is a specially tuned twin exhaust system that lifts power output of the V8 from 225kW to 235kW.

Alterations to steering and suspension provide vast improvements in handling. The new cars provide sharp, sure-footed cornering with excellent ride characteristics and are just about as good as one could expect. Even the luxurious Calais has a much sportier and sharper feel. Holden’s advertising suggests corners were made for the VY and that’s just about right.

Prices start at $30,880 (Executive V6 manual) and rise to $40,490 (SV8) and $52,840 (Calais V8). Unfortunately, air conditioning is a $2,250 option on Executive and the base model Ute.

After only 12 months, and following remarkable interest from within Australia and overseas, the new millennium Monaro has also received an upgrade. Series II Monaro sports coupe will be released in late January.

Its exterior is largely unchanged. Inside, however, it is vastly different and in line with the VY Commodore. Similarly, Monaro CV8 has 10kW of additional power thanks to a specially tuned twin exhaust system. A new paint colour, purple haze (smoky charcoal with violet accents) will be offered and there are new five-spoke alloy wheels.

And Holden is tantalizing its followers with yet another concept car. The SSX Crossover Sports Hatch was shown at the 2002 Sydney International Motor Show. SSX is based on the current Commodore platform. It’s a flexible four-seater combining V8 performance with all-wheel driveability and a versatile load area accessed via a large rear hatch. In light of Monaro’s success, we might soon see this stunner in the showrooms.

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