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.

Generations:

-----------------

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.