Holden Commodore (VE): Difference between revisions

Holden VE Commodore
Holden VE Commodore
Overview
Manufacturer	Holden
Also called	Chevrolet Lumina (Australia); Chevrolet Omega
Production	2006–present
Assembly	Elizabeth, South Australia, Australia
Body and chassis
Class	Full-size car
Body style	4-door sedan
Platform	FR layout GM Zeta platform
Related	Holden WM Caprice; Holden WM Statesman; Pontiac G8; Vauxhall VXR8
Powertrain
Engine	V6 engine 3.6 L GM High Feature engine; 3.6 L autogas Alloytec; 3.6 L High Output Alloytec; V8 engine 6.0 L GM LS engine#L98;
Transmission	6-speed Manual transmission Aisin AY transmission; Borg-Warner T-56 transmission; 4-speed Automatic transmission GM 4L60-E transmission; 5-speed automatic GM 5L40-E transmission#5L40-E; 6-speed automatic GM 6L80 transmission;
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2915 mm (114.8 in)
Length	4894–4900 mm (192.8–192.9 in)
Width	1899 mm (74.8 in)
Height	1476 mm (58.1 in)
Curb weight	1690–1825 kg (3726–4023 lb)
Chronology
Predecessor	Holden VZ Commodore

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The Holden VE Commodore is the fourteenth and current model of the Holden Commodore, a full-size car produced by Holden, the Australian subsidiary of General Motors.

Full-scale production commenced on July 13 2006, and the official unveiling took place at a media launch in Melbourne on July 16 2006.^[1] The VE is the first Commodore model designed entirely in Australia, with previous generations based on Opel-sourced automobile platform that had been adapted both mechanically and in size for the local market.^[1] To date the annualised sales of the VE have failed to match those of the record-breaking Holden VT Commodore.

Prior to the release of the VE model, Holden stated that they would manufacture two parallel generations of Commodores until the launch of station wagon and Coupe utility Car body style,^[2] and shortly afterwards they also announced that Internal combustion engine and Transmission (mechanics) would largely be carried over from the previous Holden VZ Commodore model.^[3] In 2007 the VE Commodore became the fifth Commodore model to receive the prestigious Wheels Car of the Year award.^[4]

The design of this new model included innovative features to help minimise export costs, such as a symmetrical Center console (automobile) that houses a flush-fitting handbrake lever to facilitate its conversion to Driving on the left or right.^[5]

The mainstream VE also forms the basis of the long-wheelbase Holden WM Statesman and Holden WM Caprice.^[1]

History of development

Holden's designers and engineers began laying down the basics of a clean-sheet Commodore in 1999. In the seven years of development, the car came to be Holden's largest and most costly project representing an expenditure exceeding Australian dollar1 billion and 3.4 million kilometres (2.1 million mile) of testing.^[6]^[7]

Design

In 1999 Peter Hughes, Holden's manager of exterior design, produced a two-dimensional image of a sketch drawn earlier by Michael Simcoe, Holden's design director at the time. Known in house as the "Bill of Design", the sketch formed the design basis for the production-ready car. Various elements of the sketch were changed, including the rear Automotive lighting#Rear position lamps (tail lamps), the low-profile side window cluster and the drawn out wheelbase, but the aggressive stance remained.^[8]

Holden introduced several automobile safety initiatives in the design of the new Commodore, including the relocation of the fuel tank in front of of the rear-axle line, instead of behind.^[1] A more crash-resistant rear-end was also seen as necessary. The design requirements included a spacious Trunk (automobile), and a spare-wheel bay that could house the largest-sized wheel to be fitted to the car.

Image:HoldenVE99Sketch.jpg

In 2004, just two years before the release of the VE Commodore, Holden unveiled the Holden Torana#Torana TT36 concept car at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney. The TT36 served as a preview of the VE, and allowed Holden to gauge the public reaction to its styling. Much of the Torana’s styling drew on the essence of the VE's design, including some production-ready components carried over from the TT36 including the steering wheel, the window and rear-view mirror switch cluster, and the handbrake lever.^[8]

Engineering

Shortly after penning the first design sketches, Holden engineers began work on developing the chassis. Opel, which had provided the basis for all previous Commodore generations, ceased production of their rear-wheel drive Opel Omega. This meant that Holden had two options: to use another General Motors platform, or to develop an all-new vehicle.^[9] GM's new premium rear-wheel drive GM Sigma platform was about to see production in the 2002 Cadillac CTS. Holden's engineers were offered this platform, but decided it was not appropriate.^[10] The Sigma platform’s double wishbone suspension front suspension and extensive use of aluminium was too costly for a car that was to be sold for around AU$35,000. The luggage compartment was deemed too small, and the Sigma interior package could not be stretched sufficiently to become a family-sized car, and in particular the rear-seat shoulder width was too tight.

Image:HoldenVE03Sketch.jpg and side vents.]]

These major drawbacks made Holden decide to develop an all new platform, known as the GM Zeta platform,^[1] on which a number of forthcoming General Motors vehicles will also be based. The GM Zeta has already replaced the GM V platform (RWD) and will eventually replace the front-wheel drive GM W platform, GM K platform (FWD) and GM G platform (FWD) platforms after 2010.

Another contentious issue was the engine packaging. Holden's designers wanted the engine positioned well behind the front axle to allow short overhangs and an overall sportier appearance, whereas the crash engineers were concerned that this would reduce the body's impact absorption in an accident. Negotiation between designers and crash engineers resulted in moving of some of the engine components, like the battery, into the boot. This freed valuable front-end space. While not achieving the design department's original targets, the compromise allowed the retention of much of the car's sporting profile while complying with crash standards.^[11] By having the engine moved back and further down, the VE Commodore also benefits from near perfect 50:50 weight distribution across all variants, leading to superior handling.^[12]

The VZ Commodore introduced the GM High Feature engine V6 engine, which Holden originally intended for the VE. However, Holden was concerned about the risks of introducing a new platform and drivetrain at the same time, so they introduced the Alloytec V6 in the proven VZ model. This allowed time to address any issues or faults before fitting it to the VE. This was a prudent decision and the introduction of a refined version of the engine for the new platform included updated components and gave five–seven Watt (7–9 Horsepower) more power.^[13]

Innovations

Denny Mooney was appointed chairman of Holden in September 2003, by which time development of the VE Commodore was well underway. Key design and engineering work was being finalised, and investment was already being made in making the tooling with which to manufacture the car. One of Mooney's priorities was to improve the perceived quality issues that surrounded the previous generations of Commodores. The interior quality benefited dramatically from this additional emphasis; Mooney pushed for panel gaps to be reduced by a further 0.5 millimetres (0.02 Inch) over previous targets.^[8]^[14] Smaller panel gaps are just one of the ways that Holden have developed the VE to pitch it against the European competitors. Through the use of advanced steels and intensive design, the body structure is 50% Stiffness than the outgoing model, benefiting from noise and vibration reductions, Car handling and crash safety.^[15] However the new body has resulted in substantially increased weight over the outgoing model.^[5]

Image:Holden VE Clay Model.jpg clay model can be seen in the background.]]

The development of the new car led Holden to redesign the Elizabeth, South Australia plant in South Australia so that entire sections of the car can be assembled off the foremost production line. This new production method allows for complete sub-sections like the engine and transmissions to be constructed seamlessly together on rigs that simplify production. This process is applied to the front-end module of the VE Commodore, consisting of the headlamp, bumpers, airbag sensors and other accessory components. It can be easily removed as one-piece leading to lower Auto mechanic and easier access to the engine bay.^[16] This design represents the first time such a method has been used within General Motors, and garnered the Society of Automotive Engineers Australasia's 2006 Automotive Engineering Excellence Award.^[17] A modular design structure known within Holden as "Flex Vision" has been applied to the interior where fundamentally different components such as audio units and instrument clusters can be swapped out for the different Commodore variants, creating radically varied interior look and feel without much higher costs.^[5] The upshot of this is much greater differentiation between the variants than the outgoing model creating three distinct interior looks, dubbed: Functional, Performance and Luxury. The closely related long-wheelbase Holden WM Statesman and Holden WM Caprice feature a fourth interior type referred to as Prestige.^[1]

Additional detail touches were added to the VE, such as a new four-strut hinge system for the boot (as used on upmarket European models) to replace space intrusive, much maligned "gooseneck" hinges as used on previous Commodores.^[1] High-specification variants see expandable door pockets and a Saab Automobile-like "blackout" feature which illuminates only the speedometer at night to enhance driver focus on the road.^[5] An innovative flush-fitting handbrake set into a symmetrical centre console means the lever can be easily reversed to sit on the opposite side of Center console (automobile) for Driving on the left or right export markets, minimising redesign costs.^[5]

Engine and mechanicals

Image:2006-2007 Holden VE Calais cut-away.jpg

Six-cylinder variants receive a revised version of the Australian-built GM High Feature engine. Power has increased over the VZ Commodore and engine noise reduced by using new timing chains, among other modifications. Fuel economy in automobiles figures for variants utilising the 180 kilowatt (241 hp) V6 show a small reduction in consumption over the previous Alloytec engines, bringing it into line with its then current rival, the Ford BF Falcon at 10.9 L / 100 km (21.6 mpg U.S. / 25.9 mpg Imperial gallon). Fuel consumption results for other variants are mixed when compared to VZ models, due primarily to increased weight.^[18]

An updated version of the long-serving four-speed automatic transmission remains for the 180 kilowatt (241 hp) V6. A modified version of the GM LS engine#L76 engine is also carried-over, producing an extra 10 kilowatts (13 hp) of power. This new engine, designated (GM LS engine#L98) does not readily support fuel-saving Active Fuel Management technology, unlike the L76.^[19]

In October 2006, Holden introduced a dual-fuel version of the Alloytec V6, able to run on both petrol and autogas. Featuring an advanced Sequential Vapour Gas Injection (SVGI) system and hardened valve seats to cope, the new V6 produces five kilowatts (7 hp) and five newton metres (5 foot-pound force) less than the conventional V6 when run on LPG, for a total of 175 kilowatts (235 hp).^[20] Although LPG prices are lower, the engine uses a large 100 kilogram (220 lb) cylindrical gas tank which causes decreased boot space and slightly increased fuel consumption.

Holden was able to take advantage of a loophole in Government of Australia legislation, allowing an AU$2,000 rebate on LPG installation because the unit is fitted post-production by Holden's customisation arm HSVi. Normally, people would only be entitled to a AU$1,000 rebate for new cars pre-installed with LPG.^[21] The dual-fuel option is available on the Commodore Omega, Berlina and the soon to be discontinued Holden VZ Commodore#Commodore Executive station wagon.^[22]

Transmission options comprise of the Aisin AY6 transmission and Borg-Warner T-56 transmission six-speed manual transmission, the four-speed automatic GM 4L60-E transmission, and the five-speed automatic GM 5L40-E transmission. The GM 6L80 transmission six-speed automatic transmission is offered on variants sporting the 6.0 litre V8 engine. Both the five and six-speed automatics feature tiptronic controls allowing manual gear selection. Having undergone significant revisions, the T-56 gains extra manual transmission#Synchromesh, shorter clutch action and a more tightly-spaced M10 gearset shared with the Chevrolet SSR.^[23]

New double-pivot MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link suspension independent suspension have been introduced to replace the previous simple MacPherson strut design front and much criticised trailing arm rear suspension for dramatically improved ride and handling.^[5]

Powertrain
Engine	Displacement^[24]	Power^[25]	Torque	Transmission
3.6 L Alloytec V6	3,564 Cubic centimetre (217 Cubic inch)	180 Watt (241 Horsepower) @ 6,000 rpm	330 Newton metre (243 Foot-pound force) @ 2,600 Revolutions per minute	4-speed GM 4L60-E transmission Automatic transmission
3.6 L LPG Alloytec V6^[26]		175 kW (235 hp) @ 6,000 rpm	325 N·m (240 ft·lbf) @ 2,600 rpm	4-speed GM 4L60-E transmission Automatic transmission
3.6 L High Output Alloytec V6		195 kW (262 hp) @ 6,500 rpm	340 N·m (251 ft·lbf) @ 2,600 rpm	6-speed Aisin AY6 transmission Manual transmission
3.6 L High Output Alloytec V6		195 kW (262 hp) @ 6,500 rpm	340 N·m (251 ft·lbf) @ 2,600 rpm	5-speed GM 5L40-E transmission#5L40-E automatic
6.0 L Generation 4 Alloy V8^[27]	5,967 cc (364 cu in)	270 kW (362 hp) @ 5,700 rpm	530 N·m (391 ft·lbf) @ 4,400 rpm	6-speed Borg-Warner T-56 transmission manual
6.0 L Generation 4 Alloy V8^[27]	5,967 cc (364 cu in)	270 kW (362 hp) @ 5,700 rpm	530 N·m (391 ft·lbf) @ 4,400 rpm	6-speed GM 6L80 transmission automatic

Specification levels

Image:2007 Holden VE Calais V-Series 01.jpg and seven-spoke alloy wheels.]]

Commodore Omega

Replacing the outgoing Commodore Executive and Acclaim, the Omega offers a halfway point in terms of equipment levels.^[28] The most significant gain over the Executive is the Robert Bosch GmbH Electronic Stability Control (ESP) 8.0 system, now standard across the range.^[13] Like all VE models, the Omega uses a spacesaver spare tyre. A full-sized, matching 16 inch (400 mm) spare tyre is available as an optional extra.^[29]

Commodore SV6

Building on the Omega, the SV6 is equipped with the more powerful High Output variant of the Alloytec V6 engine, coupled to an Aisin six-speed manual transmission. Air conditioning, a key feature missing on the Omega, comes standard on the SV6. A body kit and sports suspension similar to the V8 Commodore SS/SS V variants is also fitted. The SV6 sports the Performance interior look, characterised by an accentuated matte black centre console and red lighting, as opposed to the silver Functional-style interior of the Omega.^[29]

Image:Holden V-Series logo.jpg

Commodore SS

Offering similar equipment levels to the SV6, the Commodore SS uses the 6.0 litre V8 engine and T-56 six-speed manual transmission. The SS is recognisable from its quad Exhaust pipe in place of the SV6 dual outlets. The resulting specification level is much higher than the outgoing minimalist Holden VZ Commodore#Commodore SV8 and only missing a few cosmetic touches of the previous flagship Holden VZ Commodore#Commodore SS.^[29]

Commodore SS V-Series

Sitting at the top of hierarchy in the sports sector, the SS V-Series represents the first time this type of naming has been applied to Holden products. The V-Series naming is reminiscent of the Cadillac V-Series on selected Cadillac models, another member of the General Motors family. The badge design on the bootlid bears strong resemblance to the ones used by Cadillac. But whereas Cadillac uses it to signify high-performance versions of its products, Holden V-Series variants boast extra features. The V-Series variants were introduced, largely due to a fully optioned Holden VZ Commodore#Commodore SS in the VZ range being rather successful.^[30]

Based on the Commodore SS variant, the SS V offers extra luxuries at a similar price point to the old SS. Inside, the SS V is recognisable by the metallic look pedals and instruments matched with the exterior colour. Additionally, the entire dashboard can be optioned in a range of loud colours: bright red, orange or black.^[8] The SS V exterior is equally adventurous, exhibiting five-spoke 19 inch (480 mm) alloy wheels and the option of larger 20 inch (500 mm) wheels: the largest wheels ever fitted to a Holden car.^[29]

Image:2006-2007 Holden VE Calais V-Series interior.jpg-finished highlights.]]

Berlina

Priced lower than the outgoing model, the second tier Berlina retains a similar amount of equipment. The exterior styling is similar to the Omega but gaining extra touches such as front Automotive lighting#Foglamps and seven-spoke 17 inch (430 mm) alloy wheels. It features the Luxury-type interior with a large liquid crystal display centre display and is the only model in the VE range that features wood grain highlights.^[29]

Calais

Like the Berlina, the Calais retains the features of the outgoing model but at a significantly lower price point. Offering a blend of luxury and sporting character, it pairs the High Output Alloytec V6 engine of the SV6 with the five-speed automatic transmission. Unlike the previous model Calais which featured a semi-sport suspension setup known as FE1.5, the VE shares the Commodore SS/SS V stiff sports suspension.^[29]

Calais V-Series

Based on the Calais, the V-Series edition shares Luxury-style interior, but adds real aluminium highlights. Being the flagship of the Commodore range, it comes with everything the VE has to offer and serves as a stepping stone to the luxury long-wheelbase Holden WM Statesman/Holden WM Caprice range.^[29]

Market

Image:2008 Pontiac G8 GT Chicago ShowCar.JPG under the Pontiac nameplate.]]

Australian sales^[31]
Month/year	Units sold
October 2006	5,455^[32]
November 2006	5,238^[33]
December 2006	5,276^[34]
January 2007	3,474^[35]
February 2007	5,544^[36]
March 2007	5,752^[37]
April 2007	4,724^[38]
May 2007	5,001^[39]
June 2007	5,588^[40]

At the time of launch in Australia, Ford Motor Company Ford BF Falcon directly competed with the VE Commodore. Ford has since revised its Falcon line-up, and in November 2006 Toyota released their key Toyota Aurion model to the Australian market.^[41] The Mitsubishi 380 may also indirectly compete with the Holden Commodore.^[42]

The VE Commodore was well received in the Australian market, where it has consistently outsold rivals in the large car segment. Its position as Australia's outright best selling car was challenged in 2007 by the Toyota Corolla in the face of increasing Gasoline usage and pricing,^[35] and later by the launch of an all-new model.^[40] However, as petrol prices have stabilised, the Commodore has generally maintained a consistent lead over the Corolla, and sales are nearly double that of its closest segment competitor, the Ford Falcon.^[42]

Market for the VE Commodore extends further than Australia. Designed with export markets in mind, VE Commodores are sold in New Zealand, Brazil, the Middle East and South Africa. For the latter two markets, they are rebadged as the Chevrolet Lumina (Australia) and marketed alongside the Holden WM Statesman/Holden WM Caprice-based Chevrolet Caprice (Australia).^[43] Since 2007, sales of the Berlina have commenced in Brazil, where it is sold as the Chevrolet Omega.^[44] Shanghai GM announced that a WM Statesman derived Buick Park Avenue (China) will be manufactured for the People's Republic of China market, utilising Australian-built versions of the GM High Feature engine. The Park Avenue replaces the Buick Royaum; a rebadged version of the Holden WL Statesman.^[45] This announcement came only days after a multi-million dollar deal was made to market the WM Caprice in South Korea as the Daewoo L4X.^[46]

GM and Holden confirmed V6 and V8 versions of the Commodore will be exported to the United States as the 2008 Pontiac G8 to replace the ageing Pontiac Grand Prix, in a deal to last the life cycle of the car.^[47] This announcement coincided with a Pontiac unveiling at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show. VE Commodores have also been sampled by Opel in Germany, while Opel's equivalent in the United Kingdom, Vauxhall Motors have commenced sales of the HSV Clubsport R8, badged as the Vauxhall VXR8.^[48]

Issues and criticism

The fitment of a space-saver tyre to all models across the range has come under heavy criticism, as Holden is the first manufacturer to fit a temporary spare tyre to an Australian-built car. The tyre can be driven for 500 kilometres (300 mi) at a maximum speed of 80 kilometres per hour (50 mph). Concerns have been raised by the public over its usefulness in remote Australian outback areas, far from any tyre repair centres and asserts that it is a cost-cutting measure.^[49] Similar concerns have been raised in the media, although Holden maintains that this is a weight-saving feature and allows for full-size spare tyres to be purchased at an additional cost.^[50]^[51]

On the base Omega model, air conditioning is an extra-cost option. Critics have seen this as unforgivable considering Australia is a country well known for its overall hot climate and especially since its Ford Falcon and Toyota Aurion rivals have it as standard.^[52]

Concerns have also been levelled at VE Fuel economy in automobiles figures, where the heavier body has negatively impacted and produced mixed official fuel economy results, particularly for V8 engine variants.^[53] Arch-rival Ford has taken advantage of this to criticise the Commodore, as its latest Ford BFII Falcon update brings improved fuel consumption figures of 10.7 L / 100 km (22.0 mpg U.S. / 26.4 mpg imp) for the base XT model and 10.2 L/100 km (23.1 mpg U.S. / 27.7 mpg imp) with an optional six-speed automatic.^[54]^[55] Real-world testing has confirmed the difference in fuel consumption.^[51]^[56]

The introduction of the new model has resulted in a few embarrassing "teething" issues. The Commodore has been recalled twice since its release. The initial October 16 2006 recall affecting 1,521 V8 Commodore, Holden WM Statesman and Holden WM Caprice models involved a faulty fuel hose, causing a fuel smell to enter the cabin.^[57] A second November 10 2006 recall affecting 12,830 early-build Commodores, Statesmans and Caprices resulted from defective rear seatbelt anchors.^[58]

The Australasian New Car Assessment Program crash test results rates the VE lower in the offset frontal impact test than the previous generation Commodore. The overall crash score was marginally higher than the outgoing VZ, for a rating of four stars out of a possible five.^[59]

Notes and references

^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g Robinson, Peter L. (2006). AutoBiography. Focus Publishing. pp. 212, 12, 205, 54, 55–56, 53, 81–82. ISBN 1921156104.
^ "Holden VE Ute and Wagon". CarAdvice.com.au Pty Ltd. 2006-08-03. Retrieved 2007-01-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)
^ Heasley, Andrew (2006-07-17). "New Commodore $1bn in the making". The Age. Retrieved 2007-04-03. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)
^ "2006 Wheels Car of the Year". Wheels magazine. 2007-02-01. Retrieved 2007-03-10. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f "VE Commodore eMag" (PDF). Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2006-10-31. {{cite web}}: External link in |work= (help)
^ "Holden VE Commodore Launched". CarAdvice.com.au Pty Ltd. 2006-07-16. Retrieved 2006-10-31. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)
^ "Commodore VE: Tested to destruction". News Limited. 2006-07-26. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d Newton, Bruce; Robinson, Peter; McCarthy, Mike; McKay, Peter (October 2006), "2006 Collector's Edition VE Commodore: The Full Story", Wheels magazine, Australian Consolidated Press: 34–41, 44–46, 32, 94 {{citation}}: External link in |journal= and |publisher= (help)
^ Hull, Nick (2006-07-28). "First Sight: Holden VE Commodore and Statesman". Car Design News Ltd. Retrieved 2007-01-27. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)
^ Butler, Glenn (2006-07-17). "VE NEWS: Design Story - Exteriors". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2006-10-31. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ Newton, Bruce (2006-07-25). "VE NEWS: 30 minutes with Tony Hyde". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2006-10-31. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ "Sophisticated new suspension system for Commodore". Holden New Zealand. 2006-07-24. Retrieved 2006-10-31. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ ^a ^b Knowling, Michael (2006-08-28). "VE Commodore Tech Overload". autospeed.drive.com.au. Retrieved 2007-03-06. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)
^ Hagon, Toby (2006-07-17). "VE NEWS: Inside the Commodore". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-03-29. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ Hagon, Toby (2006-07-25). "VE NEWS: VE Commodore a body-builder". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-04-11. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ Newton, Bruce (2006-07-25). "VE NEWS: Crash costs down for VE Commodore". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2006-11-01. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ "Automotive Engineering Excellence Awards 2006". Society of Automotive Engineers Australasia. Retrieved 2006-11-01. {{cite web}}: External link in |publisher= (help)
^ "Holden VE Commodore: fuel economy figures". Holden New Zealand. 2006-07-24. Retrieved 2006-10-27. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ Newton, Bruce (2006-09-20). "Holden Calais V V8". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-01-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ "Holden Dual Fuel now in VE range LPG". CarAdvice.com.au Pty Ltd. 2006-10-19. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)
^ "LPG Vehicle Scheme". AusIndustry. Retrieved 2006-12-11.
^ "Factory Fitted LPG System". Southgate Holden. 2006-12-01. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)
^ "New six-speed automatic transmission for V8 Commodores". Holden New Zealand. 2006-07-24. Retrieved 2006-10-27. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ "VE Commodore Specifications" (PDF). Holden. Retrieved 2007-07-16. {{cite web}}: External link in |publisher= (help)
^ All power figures are measured in accordance with the World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations.
^ Performance figures attained when running on LPG. The engine will produce the same figures as the Alloytec 180 V6 when run on petrol.
^ Performance figures attained when running on 98 octane rating premium unleaded fuel. Using 91 RON fuel will result in slightly lower power and fuel economy.
^ "The Holden Heritage - 13th Edition, part three" (PDF). General Motors. pp. 29–30. Retrieved 2007-04-29. {{cite web}}: External link in |publisher= (help)
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g McKinnon, Bill (2006-08-19). "Holden VE Commodore". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 2007-03-09. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ Hagon, Toby (2006-07-16). "New names, features for VE Commodore". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-02-24. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ Sales figures cover shifted units of both VE sedans and Holden VZ Commodore station wagons.
^ Spinks, Jez (2006-11-03). "Commodore thrashes Falcon in October sales". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ "Commodore, 380 lose ground in car sales figures". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 2006-12-05. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ "New Car Sales Stats". New Zealand Automobile Association. Retrieved 2007-06-25.
^ ^a ^b "Smaller cars power ahead". News Limited. 2007-02-09. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ Sturrock, Peter (2007-03-06). "Record Motor Vehicle Sales in February". Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)
^ Sturrock, Peter (2007-04-04). "All-Time Record First Quarter for Car Sales". Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)
^ Spinks, Jez (2007-05-07). "Commodore clear leader as record sales run ends". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ Porter, Ian (2007-06-06). "Large-car sales bounce back". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ ^a ^b Spinks, Jez (2007-07-04). "New Corolla pips Commodore in sales debut". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-07-04. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ Stanford, James (2006-10-20). "Ford Falcon BF MkII: back in the fight". News Limited. Retrieved 2007-02-21. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ ^a ^b Montgomery, Garth (2006-11-03). "Holden VE Commodore sales fail to revive market". News Limited. Retrieved 2007-02-21. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ "First Look : 2007 Chevrolet Lumina". Drive Arabia. Retrieved 2006-11-24.
^ Pettendy, Marton (2007-07-05). "Commodore goes to Rio". John Mellor Pty Ltd. Retrieved 2007-07-06. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)
^ Dornin, Tim (2007-04-11). "Holden to export engines to China". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-04-15. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ Sinclair, Mike. "Holdens to Korea -- it's official". ninemsn. Retrieved 2007-04-08. {{cite web}}: External link in |publisher= (help)
^ Butler, Glenn (2007-02-08). "Holden confirms Pontiac deal". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-02-08. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ Thorp, Chris (2007-03-06). "Vauxhall unleashes all-new supersaloon". Dennis Publishing Limited. Retrieved 2007-07-16. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)
^ Dowling, Joshua (2006-07-21). "VE NEWS: Commodore's $3500 tyre change". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 2007-03-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help); Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
^ "VE NEWS: Did Holden mislead over tyres?". The Sydney Morning Herald. 2006-07-21. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ ^a ^b McGrath, Gavin (2006-08-25). "BF Falcon vs VE Commodore". News Limited. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help); Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
^ "Holden VE Commodore Pricing". CarAdvice.com.au Pty Ltd. 2006-07-20. Retrieved 2007-03-06. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)
^ Butler, Glenn (2006-07-24). "Mixed results for Commodore fuel economy". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ Hudson, Jaedene (2006-08-18). "Ford taunts Holden over fuel consumption". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ Hepworth, Kevin (2006-10-04). "Ford Falcon BF II: pricing, testdrive". News Limited. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)
^ King, Philip (2006-10-25). "Holden v Ford". The Australian. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help); Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
^ "Holden Commodore VE & WM Series - Fuel Hose". Product Recalls Australia. Retrieved 2006-11-12.
^ Pettendy, Marton (2006-11-10). "Holden recalls VE Commodore - again". John Mellor Pty Ltd. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)
^ Downling, Joshua (2007-06-15). "Why don't we build a five-star car?". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

Category:2000s automobiles Category:Full-size vehicles Category:Holden Commodore Category:Rear wheel drive vehicles Category:Sedans

nl:Holden VE pt:Holden VE Commodore

[AutoBiography-1] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g Robinson, Peter L. (2006). AutoBiography. Focus Publishing. pp. 212, 12, 205, 54, 55–56, 53, 81–82. ISBN 1921156104.

[2] "Holden VE Ute and Wagon". CarAdvice.com.au Pty Ltd. 2006-08-03. Retrieved 2007-01-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)

[3] Heasley, Andrew (2006-07-17). "New Commodore $1bn in the making". The Age. Retrieved 2007-04-03. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)

[4] "2006 Wheels Car of the Year". Wheels magazine. 2007-02-01. Retrieved 2007-03-10. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[DriveVEMag-5] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f "VE Commodore eMag" (PDF). Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2006-10-31. {{cite web}}: External link in |work= (help)

[6] "Holden VE Commodore Launched". CarAdvice.com.au Pty Ltd. 2006-07-16. Retrieved 2006-10-31. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)

[7] "Commodore VE: Tested to destruction". News Limited. 2006-07-26. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[WheelsVEMag-8] Newton, Bruce; Robinson, Peter; McCarthy, Mike; McKay, Peter (October 2006), "2006 Collector's Edition VE Commodore: The Full Story", Wheels magazine, Australian Consolidated Press: 34–41, 44–46, 32, 94 {{citation}}: External link in |journal= and |publisher= (help)

[9] Hull, Nick (2006-07-28). "First Sight: Holden VE Commodore and Statesman". Car Design News Ltd. Retrieved 2007-01-27. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)

[10] Butler, Glenn (2006-07-17). "VE NEWS: Design Story - Exteriors". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2006-10-31. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[11] Newton, Bruce (2006-07-25). "VE NEWS: 30 minutes with Tony Hyde". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2006-10-31. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[12] "Sophisticated new suspension system for Commodore". Holden New Zealand. 2006-07-24. Retrieved 2006-10-31. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[overview-13] Knowling, Michael (2006-08-28). "VE Commodore Tech Overload". autospeed.drive.com.au. Retrieved 2007-03-06. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)

[14] Hagon, Toby (2006-07-17). "VE NEWS: Inside the Commodore". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-03-29. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[15] Hagon, Toby (2006-07-25). "VE NEWS: VE Commodore a body-builder". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-04-11. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[16] Newton, Bruce (2006-07-25). "VE NEWS: Crash costs down for VE Commodore". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2006-11-01. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[17] "Automotive Engineering Excellence Awards 2006". Society of Automotive Engineers Australasia. Retrieved 2006-11-01. {{cite web}}: External link in |publisher= (help)

[18] "Holden VE Commodore: fuel economy figures". Holden New Zealand. 2006-07-24. Retrieved 2006-10-27. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[19] Newton, Bruce (2006-09-20). "Holden Calais V V8". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-01-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[20] "Holden Dual Fuel now in VE range LPG". CarAdvice.com.au Pty Ltd. 2006-10-19. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)

[21] "LPG Vehicle Scheme". AusIndustry. Retrieved 2006-12-11.

[22] "Factory Fitted LPG System". Southgate Holden. 2006-12-01. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)

[23] "New six-speed automatic transmission for V8 Commodores". Holden New Zealand. 2006-07-24. Retrieved 2006-10-27. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[24] "VE Commodore Specifications" (PDF). Holden. Retrieved 2007-07-16. {{cite web}}: External link in |publisher= (help)

[25] All power figures are measured in accordance with the World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations.

[26] Performance figures attained when running on LPG. The engine will produce the same figures as the Alloytec 180 V6 when run on petrol.

[27] Performance figures attained when running on 98 octane rating premium unleaded fuel. Using 91 RON fuel will result in slightly lower power and fuel economy.

[28] "The Holden Heritage - 13th Edition, part three" (PDF). General Motors. pp. 29–30. Retrieved 2007-04-29. {{cite web}}: External link in |publisher= (help)

[features-29] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g McKinnon, Bill (2006-08-19). "Holden VE Commodore". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 2007-03-09. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[30] Hagon, Toby (2006-07-16). "New names, features for VE Commodore". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-02-24. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[31] Sales figures cover shifted units of both VE sedans and Holden VZ Commodore station wagons.

[32] Spinks, Jez (2006-11-03). "Commodore thrashes Falcon in October sales". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[33] "Commodore, 380 lose ground in car sales figures". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 2006-12-05. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[34] "New Car Sales Stats". New Zealand Automobile Association. Retrieved 2007-06-25.

[Toyota_Corolla_1-35] "Smaller cars power ahead". News Limited. 2007-02-09. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[36] Sturrock, Peter (2007-03-06). "Record Motor Vehicle Sales in February". Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)

[37] Sturrock, Peter (2007-04-04). "All-Time Record First Quarter for Car Sales". Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)

[38] Spinks, Jez (2007-05-07). "Commodore clear leader as record sales run ends". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[39] Porter, Ian (2007-06-06). "Large-car sales bounce back". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[Toyota_Corolla_2-40] Spinks, Jez (2007-07-04). "New Corolla pips Commodore in sales debut". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-07-04. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[41] Stanford, James (2006-10-20). "Ford Falcon BF MkII: back in the fight". News Limited. Retrieved 2007-02-21. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[sales-42] Montgomery, Garth (2006-11-03). "Holden VE Commodore sales fail to revive market". News Limited. Retrieved 2007-02-21. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[43] "First Look : 2007 Chevrolet Lumina". Drive Arabia. Retrieved 2006-11-24.

[44] Pettendy, Marton (2007-07-05). "Commodore goes to Rio". John Mellor Pty Ltd. Retrieved 2007-07-06. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)

[45] Dornin, Tim (2007-04-11). "Holden to export engines to China". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-04-15. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[46] Sinclair, Mike. "Holdens to Korea -- it's official". ninemsn. Retrieved 2007-04-08. {{cite web}}: External link in |publisher= (help)

[47] Butler, Glenn (2007-02-08). "Holden confirms Pontiac deal". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-02-08. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[48] Thorp, Chris (2007-03-06). "Vauxhall unleashes all-new supersaloon". Dennis Publishing Limited. Retrieved 2007-07-16. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)

[49] Dowling, Joshua (2006-07-21). "VE NEWS: Commodore's $3500 tyre change". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 2007-03-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help); Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)

[50] "VE NEWS: Did Holden mislead over tyres?". The Sydney Morning Herald. 2006-07-21. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[VEreview-51] McGrath, Gavin (2006-08-25). "BF Falcon vs VE Commodore". News Limited. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help); Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)

[52] "Holden VE Commodore Pricing". CarAdvice.com.au Pty Ltd. 2006-07-20. Retrieved 2007-03-06. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)

[53] Butler, Glenn (2006-07-24). "Mixed results for Commodore fuel economy". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[54] Hudson, Jaedene (2006-08-18). "Ford taunts Holden over fuel consumption". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[55] Hepworth, Kevin (2006-10-04). "Ford Falcon BF II: pricing, testdrive". News Limited. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

[56] King, Philip (2006-10-25). "Holden v Ford". The Australian. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help); Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)

[57] "Holden Commodore VE & WM Series - Fuel Hose". Product Recalls Australia. Retrieved 2006-11-12.

[58] Pettendy, Marton (2006-11-10). "Holden recalls VE Commodore - again". John Mellor Pty Ltd. Retrieved 2006-11-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= (help)

[59] Downling, Joshua (2007-06-15). "Why don't we build a five-star car?". Fairfax Media. Retrieved 2007-06-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); External link in |date= and |publisher= (help)

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