2010 Commodore facelift - Leaks - Part 3

[Moderators]

This is a continuation thread, the old thread is 137815

[Moderators]

This is a continuation thread, the old thread is 136467

[Marco]

I think it's more that ultimately everyone (who isn't buying a HSV) wants an SS. The SV8 badge just didn't have the same cachet (or long history) that the SS badge does. Coming to the market with an SS for $45k when the previous model was more like $52k was a pretty good call from Holden too (even if a VE SS is a bit de-specced compared to a VZ SS).

I said for years that if Holden put the SS seats in the SV8 then I'd buy one, and I guess that's basically what they did with the VE SS...so I did :)

[steves87]

i agree that it is very closely specced to an sv8.... but in the end the badge on the back says SS :)

[Spoolin]

You know what's going to be absolutely funny....

When all the FPV panda haters see the front bar of the new HSV's.....
Price less :flipoff:

[Zero5]

This should be interesting. Looks like the VE II will get a run on Monday at Queensland Raceway when Whincup tests 888's new car. I'm sure some pics will be around after that.

http://www.speedcafe.com.au/2010/08/27/whincup-to-shakedown-lowndess-new-ve-ii/

[planetdavo]

This should be interesting. Looks like the VE II will get a run on Monday at Queensland Raceway when Whincup tests 888's new car. I'm sure some pics will be around after that.

http://www.speedcafe.com.au/2010/08/27/whincup-to-shakedown-lowndess-new-ve-ii/

Not so sure there will be anything much to gain from these pics, since the race cars don't use the road car bumper design, alloy wheels or remodelled dash centre, the only obvious areas VE2 changes. The headlight "restyling" is so minor it will be lucky to be visible on a striped and sponsored race car.

[pmac]

Not so sure there will be anything much to gain from these pics, since the race cars don't use the road car bumper design, alloy wheels or remodelled dash centre, the only obvious areas VE2 changes. The headlight "restyling" is so minor it will be lucky to be visible on a striped and sponsored race car.

the Komatsu (888) and the NGK (HRT) stickers will virtually block out any bits of the new headlight, only Jack Daniels racing probably the only car further up the holden pecking order where their is a clear headlight. wonder if they will use the new boot?

[Aus8]

the Komatsu (888) and the NGK (HRT) stickers will virtually block out any bits of the new headlight, only Jack Daniels racing probably the only car further up the holden pecking order where their is a clear headlight. wonder if they will use the new boot?

Jack Daniels/Kelly Racing are no longer sponsored by Holden as of the start of the year (Due to the money going to poach 888) So I am not sure if they are going to flick to the new bits too quick? Sounds like there isnt much on the race car anyway as you say.

[planetdavo]

You can pretty much guarantee the race car will look the same as the current one, as they wont release a different looking race car to the public before they even launch the road car!
"Marketing reasons" for calling it VE2 comes to mind...:yup:

[Zero5]

OK Then - spot the difference..

These are the initial pics, there should be more later once the cars hit the track. Very hard to see much change.

http://www.speedcafe.com.au/2010/08/30/commodore-ve-ii-to-make-track-debut-today/

[Marco]

Why would they go to the trouble of changing the bootlid pressing just to put a barely noticeable lip in it? Surely Holden's development money would have been better spent on something else?

[V-Car]

Why would they go to the trouble of changing the bootlid pressing just to put a barely noticeable lip in it? Surely Holden's development money would have been better spent on something else?

What development money?
They are running on the smell of an ethanol rag these days. ;)
GMNA has far more pressing issues to spend their money on than a small 'foreign' outpost like Holden.

The US taxpayer has to be paid back for bailing GM out....shame the Australian taxpayer doesnt see any of their money that the gov. here dishes out to Toyota, Ford and Holden to keep them afloat.

[Ghia351]

What development money?
They are running on the smell of an ethanol rag these days. ;)
GMNA has far more pressing issues to spend their money on than a small 'foreign' outpost like Holden.

The US taxpayer has to be paid back for bailing GM out....shame the Australian taxpayer doesnt see any of their money that the gov. here dishes out to Toyota, Ford and Holden to keep them afloat.Actually the federal and state governements do get some of their industry support funds back, as income tax from employees, which would number how many tens of thousands of workers as regular tax payers directly employed by the three companies and all their suppliers, company tax (when they're in the black), payroll tax, gst revenue, export $, and then there is all the money the feds save in NOT having to pay unemployment benefits , retraining schemes etc...

[XLR8 V8]

Holden will be making an important announcement and reveal the VE II at a Media event tomorrow morning at 9am at Fishermans Bend.
The announcement includes the release of Australia's first locally built flex fuel (E85) car, as well as a new niche export program with GM do Brasil.

[cozbyrt]

Holden will be making an important announcement and reveal the VE II at a Media event tomorrow morning at 9am at Fishermans Bend.
The announcement includes the release of Australia's first locally built flex fuel (E85) car, as well as a new niche export program with GM do Brasil.

I'm looking forward to the reveal of the VE II. I am also curious by the niche export program and what that includes.

[SCiFiRE]

images are up.

http://gm.wieck.com/forms/gm/wieck_search

[The-V8-Power]

It has already been released over on GMInsideNews.

Info on touch screen:
Perhaps the most notable difference is a new 6.5" LCD in the revised interior. Holden has dubbed the system "Holden-iQ." Holden iQ features Bluetooth connectivity, auxiliary and USB ports so that Holden customers can stay connected with all of their consumer electronics. The iQ system is on all Commodores.

Ill only post a few photos so people I don't ruin it all for everyone.


http://www.gminsidenews.com/forums/gallery/data/606/medium/16585-014_01.jpg

http://www.gminsidenews.com/forums/gallery/data/606/medium/16541-240_01.jpg

Source: http://www.gminsidenews.com/forums/f70/its-official-holden-ve-series-ii-95103/ (http://www.gminsidenews.com/forums/f70/its-official-holden-ve-series-ii-95103/)

[SCiFiRE]

Media releases:
http://media.gm.com/content/media/au/en/news.brand_holden.html

[XLR8 V8]

Webcast will begin at 9am.
http://www.webtronwebcast.com/holden/video/

Note: Watching this link before 9am will show the last webcast (release of SIDI engines)

[moconn20]

Info on touch screen:


It doesnt actually say anywhere that it is a touchscreen though?

[Marco]

No more manual SS Sportwagons? Can't see it listed here (but still a manual SSV wagon):
http://media.gm.com/content/Pages/news/au/en/2010/0831_Commodore3/_jcr_content/rightpar/sectioncontainer_1/par/sectioncontainer/par/download/file.res/Fuel%20efficiency%20data.pdf

[Smitty]

It doesnt actually say anywhere that it is a touchscreen though?

it does here...

http://theage.drive.com.au/motor-news/holden-commodore-ve-series-ii--model-by-model-20100830-1473r.html

and much more info too...plus pics
http://theage.drive.com.au/photogallery/holden-commodore-ve-series-ii/20100830-146wt.html

[SCiFiRE]

It doesnt actually say anywhere that it is a touchscreen though?
it is:

The Holden-iQ system brings music, telephone and satellite navigation features to Series II models in one clear, user-friendly arrangement.
The focus of the system is a fully integrated, 6.5-inch full colour multifunction LCD touch screen mounted in the centre stack of all vehicles across the Series II range.





No more manual SS Sportwagons? Can't see it listed here (but still a manual SSV wagon):
http://media.gm.com/content/Pages/news/au/en/2010/0831_Commodore3/_jcr_content/rightpar/sectioncontainer_1/par/sectioncontainer/par/download/file.res/Fuel%20efficiency%20data.pdf

Nice spot. I hope it's just an oversight.

[moconn20]

http://smh.drive.com.au/motor-news/holden-launches-new-commodore-20100830-14733.html



When it joins showrooms next month, the VE Series II Commodore will include a hard-drive multimedia system that can store as many as 15 music CDs for playback, as well as featuring integration for plug-in music devices.

...gains in fuel economy ranging from 2 per cent for the 3.0-litre V6 version up to 12 per cent for the bigger 6.0-litre V8 models

Meanwhile, the circular lion badge gracing the front of all models appears to have grown in size...

[falcom]

I usually get excited when a new model Commodore comes out but this update is leaving me feeling a bit flat.

I cannot help but feeling that this update is too little,too late.

I cannot see how this update will carry Commodore through to 2013 unless they give huge discounts.

[steves87]

anyone found a 'blowup' picture of the V8 badge yet, it looks different maybe its an e85 badge?...:confused:

[Marco]

Omega looks to have gained proper door grips now.

/trainspotter

[Smitty]

http://images.theage.com.au/2010/08/30/1875492/Holden-SS-V-Calais-V_4_600-600x400.jpg

http://images.theage.com.au/2010/08/30/1875400/holden-SS-Sedan_1_600-600x400.jpg



the SSV gets the fugly nostrils and compulsory red trim...what are they thinking?
http://images.theage.com.au/2010/08/30/1875498/Holden-SS-V-Calais-V_11_600-600x400.jpg

[SCiFiRE]

quick comparison

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_150OXmz_-zc/Swezgk_6OVI/AAAAAAAACEI/9WHhzxx3KIs/31-VE_SS_V-01.jpg

http://images.theage.com.au/2010/08/30/1875400/holden-SS-Sedan_1_600-600x400.jpg

[jonohoang]

colour screen throughout the range is pretty cool :)
exterior looks pretty much the same though, not that its a bad thing as its still a very good looking car

[macca_779]

No mention of E85 economy figures in the press release. In fact it was avoided when asked and Mike replying with, "we don't have any figures only estimates". Political Filter off. The economy is shit..
But we already knew that and it is expected with E85. I was just hoping to hear how much extra usage there would be.

[pmac]

the base models look alot better in series 2 and those circle vents dont look too bad, not my cup of tea but they will do. But the new calais front end :spew:

wheres the LWB cars?

[Marco]

Those new SV6/SS wheels are hot though. Very Ferrari 599.

Not so much the SSV wheels, but they might grow on me.

[vyls1wa]

the flat bottom sounds interesting, see how tricky thats gona make aftermarket exhausts

[vr5speedv6]

Interesting fuel economy figures for the v8 manual with a 12% improvement now beating the auto!
Does this mean AFM for the manuals?

[ti0350]

Looks like no power upgrade though on V8's manuals are 270kw and autos are 260kw

[ATOMICSS]

Good to see an update model that actually improves the car. So often the first model of a platform is the best looking with gradual declines thereafter as they make change seemingly just for the sake of change. Good job Holden.

There Seems to be a lot of series 1 stock still unsold though, which are already heavily discounted to shift. Wonder how much cheaper the series 1 will get soon?

[calais190]

THANK GOD there are no DRLs!!!!

[csv rulz]

I really like it, i think they have done a good job of evolving an already good looking car. I also like the look of the new interior. Calais looks a lot like the new 5 series in my opinion.

[mustanger]

THANK GOD there are no DRLs!!!!

Don`t worry........DRL`s are only on premium cars.........Holden should get them in 2028....:lol:

[steves87]

anyone found a 'blowup' picture of the V8 badge yet, it looks different maybe its an e85 badge?...:confused:

Just found it, "series II"

[falcom]

I predict that within 12 months Cruze will be outselling Commodore.

If not overall definetely with private sales.

[mac06]

the SSV gets the fugly nostrils and compulsory red trim...what are they thinking?
http://images.theage.com.au/2010/08/30/1875498/Holden-SS-V-Calais-V_11_600-600x400.jpg

It's no different to Series 1 where the red trim is an option. Onyx is still available, just not shown in the picture Holden released. I can't wait to see one in the flesh. From the pics so far I think it's a nice freshen up on the outside and an even better upgrade on the inside.

[mac06]

No more manual SS Sportwagons? Can't see it listed here (but still a manual SSV wagon):
http://media.gm.com/content/Pages/news/au/en/2010/0831_Commodore3/_jcr_content/rightpar/sectioncontainer_1/par/sectioncontainer/par/download/file.res/Fuel%20efficiency%20data.pdf

Must be an oversight. The model lineup pdf shows it is available in manual.

http://media.gm.com/content/Pages/news/au/en/2010/0831_Commodore1/_jcr_content/rightpar/sectioncontainer/par/sectioncontainer/par/download_1/file.res/Series%20II%20model%20line%20up%20and%20feature%20 highlights.pdf

[jono_xuv53]

SSV gets the chrome strip near the rear numberplate, it definately is touchscreen and the calais front is:spew:

[steves87]

My current gps has the traffic alert function on it, love it!
i ve noticed this comes in the ssv built in gps, its a bloody good feature

[pro-logic]

Does anybody find in weird that the 3.0L and 6.0L engins are the ones that are E85 compatible, and the 3.6 which will be in the "cheap performance" line SV6 is not E85 compatible?

[macca33]

Don`t worry........DRL`s are only on premium cars.........Holden should get them in 2028....:lol:
What Johnny, on 'premium' VR / VS / VT execs??? MOST people hated the DRLs on HSV E2, now, it seems, EVERBODY wants them - on their VR / VS / VT....and some on the VEs...:hide:

[SCiFiRE]

Must be an oversight. The model lineup pdf shows it is available in manual.

http://media.gm.com/content/Pages/news/au/en/2010/0831_Commodore1/_jcr_content/rightpar/sectioncontainer/par/sectioncontainer/par/download_1/file.res/Series%20II%20model%20line%20up%20and%20feature%20 highlights.pdf

Not necessarily, It's lumped in with the SS sedan.
The SV6 sedan/sportwagon section also says optional manual... but you've only ever been able to get auto v6 Sportwagons.



SSV gets the chrome strip near the rear numberplate, it definately is touchscreen and the calais front is:spew:

I thought the Calais looked pretty good...



Does anybody find in weird that the 3.0L and 6.0L engins are the ones that are E85 compatible, and the 3.6 which will be in the "cheap performance" line SV6 is not E85 compatible?

Wow... I didn't notice that. That is strange, won't be E85 until 2012!?

[seldo]

What Johnny, on 'premium' VR / VS / VT execs??? MOST people hated the DRLs on HSV E2, now, it seems, EVERBODY wants them - on their VR / VS / VT....and some on the VEs...:hide:Well - they are the latest and greatest techo thing....Volvo introduced them as standard equipment across the range in 1978...:1peek:

[super coach]

was just reading through the Media Kit in the line up section and noticed that the colour "Wildfire" is making a return. If that is true yyyyiiiipppeeeeeeee I LOVE that colour and would def buy a SSV Sedan in that colour!

[bonners]

"iPod® integration is standard in all Series II vehicles, controlled through the Holden-iQ system"

I wonder how integrated. Would be good if it could be retro fitted to series 1 VE's somehow.

[jaykay]

Those new SV6/SS wheels are hot though. Very Ferrari 599.

Not so much the SSV wheels, but they might grow on me.
Anyone have a pic of the SSV ?

[moconn20]

anyone found a 'blowup' picture of the V8 badge yet, it looks different maybe its an e85 badge?...:confused:

The images below of the SV6 and SS seem to have the same badge, so theres obviously no V8 badge any more, and SV6 doesnt have E85... so my guess is Series 2 badge.

http://images.theage.com.au/2010/08/30/1875492/Holden-SS-V-Calais-V_4_600-600x400.jpg

http://images.theage.com.au/2010/08/30/1875400/holden-SS-Sedan_1_600-600x400.jpg


Political Filter off. The economy is shit..
But we already knew that and it is expected with E85. I was just hoping to hear how much extra usage there would be.

From here: http://smh.drive.com.au/motor-news/holdens-elder-statesman-retired-20100830-146wg.html
... is a bit of an idea...
"Holden has not released details of fuel consumption for E85 fuel, which is typically about a third higher than for petrol alone."


I noticed the SSV Sportwagon is now being listed as having 11 speaker sound system with subwoofers according to this...
http://media.gm.com/content/Pages/news/au/en/2010/0831_Commodore1/_jcr_content/rightpar/sectioncontainer/par/sectioncontainer/par/download_1/file.res/Series%20II%20model%20line%20up%20and%20feature%20 highlights.pdf


It's interesting, now looking at them, to see what has and hasnt changed compared to the speculation we've seen over the past few months.

Remember the suggestion of the optional sports package, with Brembo's? thats a bit of a let down.



Anyone have a pic of the SSV ?

yep... and no lip spoiler.
http://images.smh.com.au/2010/08/30/1875494/Holden-SS-V-Calais-V_10_600-600x400.jpg

[GODSMACK]

So how long will E85 remain approx 20cpl cheaper than regular fuel?

We all saw what happened to diesel prices once turbo diesel's etc became ever so popular..

If the price of E85 remains 20cpl cheaper than regular fuel, then it might just work out to be cheaper to run, but if the govt gets greedy and raises the excise on E85, god help those people running on E85, paying the same as regular unleaded, yet burning up to 30% more fuel for the same number of KM's.

Only time will tell..

[super coach]

I could be wrong here correct me if wrong, but someone said that MY09 MY10 Calais and/or Calais V lost the 8 way electric passenger seats only? It seems to have made a return with series II and seems that both now have a 3 memory postion setting on both front seats, something that thwe Statesman now Caprice doesnt have. wonder about the glove box light and adjustable font door bins on Calais V.........

[TumTum]

With all the focus on E85 and touch screens etc, Holden have very quietly left the GM 4L60-E four speed transmission in the LPG models along with the VZ 3.6 Alloytec motor.

Maybe us long distance LPG drivers don't make up a big number of buyers, but surely we've been patient long enough. In a brand new car, I'm not interested in a four speed automatic. Period. :vpo:

[Smitty]

It's no different to Series 1 where the red trim is an option. Onyx is still available, just not shown in the picture Holden released. I can't wait to see one in the flesh. From the pics so far I think it's a nice freshen up on the outside and an even better upgrade on the inside.

you missed the point with the Series II SSV...
the red console/dash colour is STANDARD...irrespective of the seat colour
according to the press release

[moconn20]

you missed the point with the Series II SSV...
the red console/dash colour is STANDARD...irrespective of the seat colour
according to the press release

I find that hard to believe... it would be a very stupid move to have red interior with a green or blue car.

[seedyrom]

I was told Holden is retiring "stale" namebrands, like the dropping of statesman.

But Berlina is back?

Oh man :doh:

[mac06]

you missed the point with the Series II SSV...
the red console/dash colour is STANDARD...irrespective of the seat colour
according to the press release

I think the press release can be read two ways. To me it means the red interior is an option you can't get with SV6 or SS, only the SS-V. The razor grey lower IP interior on the SV6 or SS is available on the SS-V too. Note too the press release says the Calais V only gets 19" alloy wheels over the Calais, but that's only half the story. It gets way more than that, it's just not stated.


Calais V-Series Builds on Calais features with –
 New bigger 19-inch twin five spoke machined alloy wheels

[SCiFiRE]

sorry, mis-post

[seedyrom]

LOL. I was sure it had :doh:

Sorry ... i thought Holden dropped "Berlina" when they released Calais and Calais-V. (As they have done with the Statesman)

Now I realise that the -V designation means even less

Cheers

[Ghia351]

What did Holden do to drop the V8 fuel consumption from 13.7-12.2L/100km in the more powerful non-AFM version over the automatic AFM models, down by 0.3? In fact the fuel use drop in the V8 manual utes is even greater, down by 1.7L/100km and now better then the less powerful auto AFM version.

[Darkrayne]

Not a fan at all of the new front ends :\..

[GRC888]

Interior changes are a positive improvement but I am sure glad I chose my current G8 SSV Sportwagon.

The changes to the front are far too subtle to differentiate new from old for "non-enthusiasts".

[Deco28]

I really like it.

One gripe witt he caprice and Caprice-V. The Caprice has 11 speaker system and the V has 10 speaker system o.o even if it is Bose....

[teamkiwi]

I think the press release can be read two ways. To me it means the red interior is an option you can't get with SV6 or SS, only the SS-V. The razor grey lower IP interior on the SV6 or SS is available on the SS-V too. Note too the press release says the Calais V only gets 19" alloy wheels over the Calais, but that's only half the story. It gets way more than that, it's just not stated.

Calais V-Series Sedan and Sportwagon
Builds on Calais with:
 Optional 6.0-litre Generation IV Alloy V8 engine
 Full colour mapping satellite navigation with traffic alerts
 Rear camera
 Front and rear park assist
 New 19-inch machined alloy wheels (4)
 Chrome finish bodyside mouldings 9-speaker sound system
 Sports profile leather wrap steering wheel; multifunction, includes satellite navigation control
 Heated exterior mirrors with ‘puddle’ lamps and position memory
 11-speaker sound system, including sub-woofers
 Projector headlamps
 Door entry lamps
 Rain sensing windscreen wipers

[nickh]

wow not a huge upgrade considering its cost nearly 100 million for this upgrade..


Very poor form on the exterior packages.. very poor form indeed.

[Darkrayne]

As soon as I saw the front end.. i thought WRX & Toyota looking.. spew!... :(

[Plenty]

yep... and no lip spoiler.
http://images.smh.com.au/2010/08/30/1875494/Holden-SS-V-Calais-V_10_600-600x400.jpg

Thank GOD!!!!

Why do we want an SS that looks like an OMEGA?

[Goggles]

looks alright - the best feature is the touchscreen.

a bit disappointed that the V8s don't get more power.

does the SSV G8 continue as an option?

[jai]

Good to see VE in yellow... Ive only seen a handful..

now if someone can convince someone at HSV they want a GTS in that... we might just have an eligable GTS-R remake on our hands :)

JK

[planetdavo]

Careful everyone. Many of you are STILL judging everything off 2 dimensional photos and a bit of press blurb. Haven't you learnt from past experiences how often this goes horribly wrong, once you actually see something in the metal and plastic?
Every single Commodore model since internet access became widespread and forums exploded like an STD have been slagged off by an element of the forum community, even though several of those models became widely admired after release...:confused:

[SSVWagon]

Ok, so the interior is a vast improvement, and the S-series round vents actually seem to work well with the new centre stack...
... but what really pleases me is that the subtle exterior changes will not rapidly date my current VE Series 1 !!

[NickVR]

I like the new look. They haven't gone too far with the change which is good. The vents in the Sports models I am not sure about but I am sure will grow on me.

[theVman]

I cant say I am dissapointed. Its a very subtle change similar to VY to VZ where they have just rounded a few sharp edges. I wouldn't mind a series 1 or series 2 VE to be honest. Unlike HSV's latest E2.

Inside is not bad. Not a fan of the red interior they used and dont expect that would be standard across the board.

While I dont mind the new wheels on the SV6 and SS I cant help but think they go against the styling of the series 2. Where they have rounded the outside the wheels are too sharp and just dont work as well in my opinion. Not hard to change though.

[Fnomna]

The images below of the SV6 and SS seem to have the same badge, so theres obviously no V8 badge any more, and SV6 doesnt have E85... so my guess is Series 2 badge.

http://images.theage.com.au/2010/08/30/1875492/Holden-SS-V-Calais-V_4_600-600x400.jpg

http://images.theage.com.au/2010/08/30/1875400/holden-SS-Sedan_1_600-600x400.jpg




Let me enhance that photo like they do on TV...
http://i36.tinypic.com/sqo03t.jpg

[Marco]

I see the press release says the SV6 now has "sports front seats" - I wonder if these are SS seats? Because there's no way that the current retrimmed Omega seats can be described as sports seats, that's for sure...it's one of the biggest letdowns about the SV6 compared to the XR6.

(Yeah, I know the SV6 is all about the SS look without worrying too much about the performance...)

[V28VX37]

quick comparison

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_150OXmz_-zc/Swezgk_6OVI/AAAAAAAACEI/9WHhzxx3KIs/31-VE_SS_V-01.jpg

http://images.theage.com.au/2010/08/30/1875400/holden-SS-Sedan_1_600-600x400.jpg

Yeah yeah I shouldn't judge based on photos & first impressions but I'll do just that ... not a fan. One of the things I liked best with the original VE front was the angular look and sharp edges, combined with the massively flared guards.

A bit like HSV E2's, the Series 2 now looks like a mishmash of different styles with its more rounded front bar combined with the unchanged sheet metal. Oh well, let's see what the VF brings...

Ps. I reserve the right to change my opinion at any time :rofl:

[falcom]

A couple of things they could have done that would not have cost too much is:

1: Change the steering wheel design to a more modern look and reduce its size.(Especially the sports models)

2: They changed the front lights anyway so why not make a bigger change so that it will be easier to tell it is a new model.

3: Since they could not afford to change rear taillights shape and placement they could have at least redesigned the current lights so again it would be easier to tell it is a new model.

I showed my wife a picture of the VEII and she thought it was still the old model,then I showed her interior pictures and she thought the interior of the Cruze looked more modern.

[iloveholden]

I like it, except for the rims on the blue SS, look good on the go but not stationary in the photos anyway.

Will wait to see these in the flesh before i make my full judgment.

[Caprice270]

Thumbs down from me.

Wheel design has gone backwards IMO. They look like Kmart Tyre & Auto discount specials.

[747]

Now you know why it's a VE Series II and not a VF. Now back to retail price for 2-3 weeks and back to the huge discounts to move stock.

[Wonky]

I'll reserve final judgement till I see them in the flesh but so far not a fan. I think the new SV6/SS/SSV front looks soft compared to the series 1 which I much prefer, to me the vents in the dash look hideous and don't like the SSV rims. Do like the SS rims though. :)

[vicarious]

they also could of done something with the bee sting aerial & honeycomb plastic, (its hard to keep clean)

[Mikey]

A couple of things they could have done that would not have cost too much is:

1: Change the steering wheel design to a more modern look and reduce its size.(Especially the sports models)

2: They changed the front lights anyway so why not make a bigger change so that it will be easier to tell it is a new model.

3: Since they could not afford to change rear taillights shape and placement they could have at least redesigned the current lights so again it would be easier to tell it is a new model.

I showed my wife a picture of the VEII and she thought it was still the old model,then I showed her interior pictures and she thought the interior of the Cruze looked more modern.Although I do look some of the newer elements of the VE II, I couldn't agree with your observations more. In particular No 3: after all HSV managed it from day 1 and they are just a boutique car maker. The VE rear lends itself to all sorts of possibilities without any metal changes.

Look what Chrysler did in the 70's with the valiant updates.
http://herman.coomans.net/hardtops/shzvhrearlarge.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn76/EBSpac/brentonsebfalcon005.jpg
In this case a new boot lid and bumper (now plastic) was needed to pull this of and the new corners (also easily made from plastic now) are made from steel, but the fact remains that HSV did it with no metal alterations at all.

Perhaps someone could photo shop something that Holden could have done cheaply in plastics to match the overall subtle changes and without it clashing with the current HSV unit.

Cheers Mikey

[jonohoang]

I see the press release says the SV6 now has "sports front seats" - I wonder if these are SS seats? Because there's no way that the current retrimmed Omega seats can be described as sports seats, that's for sure...it's one of the biggest letdowns about the SV6 compared to the XR6.

(Yeah, I know the SV6 is all about the SS look without worrying too much about the performance...)

Reading from the press release, it looks like it will receive the SS seats.

"New SS-style sports front seats for SV6 with deep bolsters and body-hugging contours"

I've always thought the big let down was the seats in the sv6 and unable to option up a colour screen. The series 2 seems to solve this, which would make this my next car :)

[SUPERH2377]

Ithink the front bumper design is a cast off from the pontiac G8 GXP
IT has the bulge underneath the headlights
the fog lights and air intake below areas and the semi swoopy lines
love the new non SSV inside, the red looks cheap & nasty
the K.I.S.S theory

[gmeup]

have they made any changes to engine, suspension or transmission. As far as i can see the only difference is the centre console has a new touch screen stero the rest of the car looks pretty much like a 2006 VE.

[The-V8-Power]

For those that think that the red interior on the SS-V is standard. The video in this link seems to prove otherwise. This yellow one has the onyx interior colour scheme.

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/national/holden-unveils-ve-series-ii-upgrade-to-commodore-range/story-e6frf7l6-1225912201440

The Calais looks pretty smart too in it, although not too sure on the little curve at the bottom of the light yet.

http://resources0.news.com.au/images/2010/08/31/1225912/324808-holden-commodore.jpg

[iloveholden]

mmm im thinking a black calais could be the looker of the bunch!

[korrupt]

For those that think that the red interior on the SS-V is standard. The video in this link seems to prove otherwise. This yellow one has the onyx interior colour scheme.

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/national/holden-unveils-ve-series-ii-upgrade-to-commodore-range/story-e6frf7l6-1225912201440

The Calais looks pretty smart too in it, although not too sure on the little curve at the bottom of the light yet.

http://resources0.news.com.au/images/2010/08/31/1225912/324808-holden-commodore.jpg
looks like a smiley face...

[steve_t]

looks like a smiley face...

+1. Like a panda bear with a grin

[SS V8]

Careful everyone. Many of you are STILL judging everything off 2 dimensional photos and a bit of press blurb. Haven't you learnt from past experiences how often this goes horribly wrong, once you actually see something in the metal and plastic?
Every single Commodore model since internet access became widespread and forums exploded like an STD have been slagged off by an element of the forum community, even though several of those models became widely admired after release...:confused:


True True true Davo but when the 2D photo is 99% the same car is it any wonder its coping criticism.
After 4 years is this the best GM can do?
E85 in 100 service stations Australia wide, maybe in 5 years time when we can meet supply demands, but not in 2010 with one refiner. :confused:

As for the wankotainment sytem, that's like buying a 60" Full HD 3D TV to listen to the sound system. You buy it for the picture quality, same with a new car, the looks differentuation from the superseded model and usually "more" power. Opps did I not mention that...no power increase?
A new plastic bumper that could have been done mid cycle in 2008 like this update should have been, slightly changed headlights, same taillights and KMart looking rims.

I thought the E2 was a bit over the top but at least it "does" stand out, like it or not, and not Holden or Ford have anything from which to confuse it with.

I can't wait to see the E3 at the end of September, I live in hope HSV will raise the bar again. :goodjob:

With VE2 bound to get even a minimal price rise (although it doesn't deserve one) the current G8 front SSV, GXP Sedan or Ute for mid $40k Drive-Away deals with the extras maybe the way to go.

[falcom]

Normally when a new model is released the post count for a thread would be well into the hundreds by now.
I guess this shows the lack of excitement regarding VEII.

[moconn20]

Opps did I not mention that...no power increase?


So if theres a power increase every time a new model is released, where does it stop? Will be be driving 1000kw commodores in x years time?

They've achieved a 12% fuel economy reduction which is pretty good for a well established V8, and given the current "climate" and customers "needs" as all of their research suggests (even if the media beats it up) fuel economy is becoming a number one concern for new car buyers.

Seriously, if there was a power increase it would be maybe 10kw? Whats 10kw's worth these days?


Ithink the front bumper design is a cast off from the pontiac G8 GXP

You reckon? I dont see it.

http://images.smh.com.au/2010/08/30/1875489/Holden-SS-V-Calais-V_8_600-600x400.jpg
http://www.speakingofcars.com/wp-content/gallery/blog-photos/2009_pontiac_g8_gxp.jpg

[Party Pete]

They've achieved a 12% fuel economy reduction which is pretty good for a well established V8, and given the current "climate" and customers "needs" as all of their research suggests (even if the media beats it up) fuel economy is becoming a number one concern for new car buyers.




Do you reckon that fuel economy is the number one priority of V8 buyers? I would think most buyers of the V8s would prefer 12% more power than 12% more economy. I certainly would.

[vysandman]

I actually don't mind the new shape. I think they could have gone further but it is still an improvement. The Series 1 front bar didn't blend in with the guards whereas the new one seems to. It still needs more refinement around the tail light area and either a lip spoiler or a redesigned one because the current one doesn't suit it at all (plus I'm a bit over rear spoilers on everything).
You can't please everyone and the HSV E1/E2 debates on here are testament to that. Changes often tend to grow on you though. I remember when I bought my VS Maloo and I tried to order it without the sailplane and HSV would not do it for me, after I had it for a while, I thought it was one of the features that made the car look so good.
The VE2 might not be the improvement I was expecting but still an improvement none the less.

[vicarious]

has there been any reports of the radio being digital?

[Fnomna]

http://resources0.news.com.au/images/2010/08/31/1225912/324808-holden-commodore.jpg

The bottom section reminds me of VY which I wasn't too keen on.

[mjrandom]

There was an earlier post saying that new part numbers were listed for the E3 rear wings. I assumed that was because of some change to the bootlid design but it doesn't look as though the boot is any different to me so maybe new design for the sake of new design on the E3?

Oh and I quite like them, subtle changes that make the shape look stronger. The Calais looks a bit flaccid though which is a pity. Anyway need to see them in the metal as it were.

[HSVMAN]

Normally when a new model is released the post count for a thread would be well into the hundreds by now.
I guess this shows the lack of excitement regarding VEII.

It's not a new model, its a model upgrade. When Holden were upgrading every 18 months or so punters were complaining. They have already upgraded engines and transmissions across the range (including HSV who have already upgraded their look) so the main changes are cosmetic at most with some new toys and upgraded interiors which is inline with future plans at this stage

[OFDHZY]

I quite like it... pitty its a year to latefor me:vpo:

[Marco]

I'm not completely sure about the turned-up headlight corners, but I'm not sure why there's so much objection to the rest of it.

It's different, not necessarily better. That's the way it goes with facelifts. The point really is to give marketing a reason to talk to people about the Commodore again (ie, there wouldn't be much mileage in putting out a press release saying "Commodore still on sale, go buy one" but there's much more mileage in putting out one that says "new Commodore better than ever, 999 improvements across the range" or whatever).

Ultimately there are some real improvements, the new look is not a lot different to the old which is good for the resale value of earlier VEs, Holden got a reasonable facelift on the cheap at a time when there's not much money around, they haven't totally stuffed the styling, and it gives marketing a way to sell more Commodores. Win-win.

[Marco]

Do you reckon that fuel economy is the number one priority of V8 buyers? I would think most buyers of the V8s would prefer 12% more power than 12% more economy. I certainly would.

I wouldn't.

Maybe I'm getting old and should just get a Camry, but I doubt I'd notice 12% more power 90% of the time. I'd notice 12% better economy every day.

Again, marketing. Holden would get crucified by sections of the media if it didn't do something about the V8's fuel consumption. The days of more horsepower every year and damn the fuel economy are over, guys...

[CLUBRED]

Any more pics of the Calais?

[moconn20]

Any more pics of the Calais?

http://images.smh.com.au/2010/08/30/1875395/100831---Calais-V_2_600-600x400.jpg

http://images.smh.com.au/2010/08/30/1875493/Holden-SS-V-Calais-V_1-600-600x400.jpg

http://images.smh.com.au/2010/08/30/1875490/Holden-SS-V-Calais-V_2-600-600x400.jpg

http://images.smh.com.au/2010/08/30/1875452/Holden_SeriesII_Calais_Int2_600-600x400.jpg

[falcom]

Although it seems most people are underwhelmed with the VEII, the change which is most significant is the 12% decrease in fuel economy of the V8.

Does anybody know how they achieved this?

It also looks as if Ford may have caught Holden with its pants down with the introduction of its new V8 next month as it looks like Holden's reign as V8 king may be over.If all reports are correct the XR8 will have 315kw which will smack the Commodore's 270kw out the water.

Lets hope Holden has a reply to this and quick.

[HRTSV8]

If i was buying the wagon now would of had to get the Calais V over the SSV and change the bumper!!! Not a fan of the SSV interior at all. Or buy the SSV and replace the vents and stripes over as the calais looks way better

[Party Pete]

I wouldn't.

Maybe I'm getting old and should just get a Camry, but I doubt I'd notice 12% more power 90% of the time. I'd notice 12% better economy every day.

Again, marketing. Holden would get crucified by sections of the media if it didn't do something about the V8's fuel consumption. The days of more horsepower every year and damn the fuel economy are over, guys...

Each to their own and i am not trying to have a go at your priorities. It is just it seems to me that with the V6 pumping out 210kw I wonder how many economy minded people would by the V8 in the first place. Of course, I agree that you probably won't be noticing the horsepower difference either. Time will tell how much effect the on paper horsepower disadvantage will have on buyers.

[Caprice270]

Seems to me that the headlight revision is inspired from the usual source:

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm257/Caprice270/2112.jpg

[HSVMAN]

[QUOTE=Caprice270;1783294]Seems to me that the headlight revision is inspired from the usual source:

Oh my God you're right! It even has driving lights at the front and correct if I'm wrong but the front wheels are on both sides - just like the BMW!

[QIKMIK]

Why is it that the second child is never quite as good looking as the first...

Nicole Kidman -> Antonia

Elle Macpherson -> Mimi

E Series HSV -> E2

VE -> VE II

From what I've seen, there are some good updates (flat undertray, touch-screen, new wheels) but it doesn't look quite right. Personal opinion, but I'll wait 'til they're on the showroom floor before judging further.

Mick

[SCiFiRE]

Why is it that the second child is never quite as good looking as the first...

Nicole Kidman -> Antonia

Elle Macpherson -> Mimi

E Series HSV -> E2

VE -> VE II



not always the way,

VT -> VX
VYII -> VZ (Tough i suppose there were some sheetmetal changes there)
i think were both major improvements.

[planetdavo]

It also looks as if Ford may have caught Holden with its pants down with the introduction of its new V8 next month as it looks like Holden's reign as V8 king may be over.If all reports are correct the XR8 will have 315kw which will smack the Commodore's 270kw out the water.

Lets hope Holden has a reply to this and quick.

Depends if they actually need it.
Ford's V8 has "technically" been more powerful in most Ford/FPV models for many years now, yet proved to be inferior in the real world.
We'll know once the Coyote is actually driven in the real world.

[planetdavo]

True True true Davo but when the 2D photo is 99% the same car is it any wonder its coping criticism.
After 4 years is this the best GM can do?
E85 in 100 service stations Australia wide, maybe in 5 years time when we can meet supply demands, but not in 2010 with one refiner. :confused:

As for the wankotainment sytem, that's like buying a 60" Full HD 3D TV to listen to the sound system. You buy it for the picture quality, same with a new car, the looks differentuation from the superseded model and usually "more" power. Opps did I not mention that...no power increase?
A new plastic bumper that could have been done mid cycle in 2008 like this update should have been, slightly changed headlights, same taillights and KMart looking rims.

I thought the E2 was a bit over the top but at least it "does" stand out, like it or not, and not Holden or Ford have anything from which to confuse it with.

I can't wait to see the E3 at the end of September, I live in hope HSV will raise the bar again. :goodjob:

With VE2 bound to get even a minimal price rise (although it doesn't deserve one) the current G8 front SSV, GXP Sedan or Ute for mid $40k Drive-Away deals with the extras maybe the way to go.

Hell of a lot of opinions from a few photos and some press release!
Yes, cars OFTEN look far better in the metal, just like boobs look better in the flesh...:yup:
The internet is full of whingers, and whingers always try to make the most noise, even if the basis of their argument is off just a few photos or a bit of text, rather than a fully informed opinion.
Re E85, why bag someone for being an early adopter? If no-one starts something, nothing will EVER get off the ground! :confused:
Imagine if no-one ever wanted to be the first to fit a turbo, or make a coupe, or fit a CD player, or whatever? Hell, even launch a plasma TV!

[CLUBRED]

Cheers moconn20..

[calaisrat]

Anyone else think the model to benefit from the revamp the most (visually anyway) is the Berlina ?

I dont mind the sports models, not a fan of the Calais but the berlina looks just that little bit neater and cleaner.

Just needs some decent wheels and motor and its a winner, too bad they dropped the V8 option.

http://www.themotorreport.com.au/content/image/2/0/2011_holden_ve_series_ii_2_commodore_25_berlina-4c7c416d9c186-615x350.jpg

[Deco28]

The Berlina does look nice!

I really don't mind the calais though.

Except, the Calais interior looks identical to the Omega interior?

[NickVR]

Anyone else think the model to benefit from the revamp the most (visually anyway) is the Berlina ?

I dont mind the sports models, not a fan of the Calais but the berlina looks just that little bit neater and cleaner.

Just needs some decent wheels and motor and its a winner, too bad they dropped the V8 option.



Also they got rid of the chrome surrounds on them too. They don't have half of it on the late VE1 (doors only chrome window moulding) and VE2 has nothing at all. Can't wait to get into a new Berlina, it does look good.

[theVman]

Yeah the Berlina doesnt look too bad. It has always been the bland one which is a change. Wish it had the black background lights though.

I just hate how the badge on the Calais cuts into the chrome strip on the bonnet. To me that is a bit dicky. The grille on the Berlina is a lot nicer.

[COSMOS]

They have 'de-contented' it... no more chrome trim around the glasshouse on the side. I guess production versions may still have it as I saw an Omega and it has the chrome strip along the top of the door skin only.

[moconn20]

First public appearance, October Long Weekend...


Holden Lion eMagazine September 2010 (http://www.holden.com.au/microsites/holdenelion/10Sep?utm_medium=edm&utm_source=elion&utm_campaign=elionseptember10&utm_content=HoldenLionPara1#/10/)



As a major sponsor, Holden has chosen "Deni" for the first public showing of its brand new Series II Commodore range, the first Australian-made flex fuel vehicles that can run on Bio-ethanol, a fuel made from up to 85% ethanol and 15% petrol.

[GRC888]

Latest Motor mag received today states FE2 has been stiffened in VE2 sports models for flatter cornering.

[NickVR]

Apparently there is some launch goodies there offering @ $1,500, pretty good price for what you get.

There will be a new Redline option on the SSV which includes, unique 19” Alloys, front Brembo brakes, FE3 (custom suspension) and a few chrome trim bits.

[DCV1NU]

There will be a new Redline option on the SSV which includes, unique 19” Alloys, front Brembo brakes, FE3 (custom suspension) and a few chrome trim bits.

Holden should've fitted these as stardard on the series 2 ssv models.

[OFDHZY]

Holden should've fitted these as stardard on the series 2 ssv models.

I totally agree.. they should rally make the SSV more upmarket than the SS (SV8)..... P.s i think all those extras will be more than $1500 when you consider they want over $3000 for a ute hard lid!!!! we can only hope...

[vicarious]

Latest Motor mag received today states FE2 has been stiffened in VE2 sports models for flatter cornering.

if it gets anymore stiffer, the plastics in the dash will rattle/creak even more than they do now:vpo:

[NickVR]

Holden should've fitted these as stardard on the series 2 ssv models.

I agree, just something to set it apart from the SS. Then the SS can have these as an option or not at all.

[Dagabond]

Why is it that the second child is never quite as good
Nicole Kidman -> Antonia


Have you seen the scrawny haggard rat lately...I'd prefer Antonia....


NO Keyless entry/ignition...:doh:

Wonder if the new screens allow sceensavers...cant wait to see an SS dash with a big toothy grin...

[747]

I am trying to be objective with this update model. I see the problem being that we are seeing a lot of innovation in other cars, but not with Holden.

There may be 50% buyers that will buy a Holden anyway, but to be successful Holden needs to attract that other 50% than can be swayed to the huge variety of other cars available.

To me it's too much of the same, no real innovation and not enough wow factor:soap:

[smokey777]

NO Keyless entry/ignition...:doh:



no keyless entry lol no way....

[falcom]

I am trying to be objective with this update model. I see the problem being that we are seeing a lot of innovation in other cars, but not with Holden.

There may be 50% buyers that will buy a Holden anyway, but to be successful Holden needs to attract that other 50% than can be swayed to the huge variety of other cars available.

To me it's too much of the same, no real innovation and not enough wow factor:soap:

I agree 747.

[Plenty]

if it gets anymore stiffer, the plastics in the dash will rattle/creak even more than they do now:vpo:

I find the current car almost perfectly damped, doesn't crash over bumps, soaks most of them up, not bad for a "sports" oriented car, as for the plastics mine don't creak at all.

[HSVMAN]

...To me it's too much of the same, no real innovation and not enough wow factor:soap:

Any suggestions instead of complaints?

[Dagabond]

no keyless entry lol no way....

As in proximity entry...

Quick and convenient, the Smart Entry & Start system means if you have the key fob in your pocket or bag, you just need to touch a front handle to unlock the doors and press a button on the dash to start the car.


Similiar to a TOYMOTA AURION....

[Party Pete]

GM has keyless entry in the states so GM has the know how. Having said that, it is probably a bigger change than it appears on the face of it as Holden's security system relies on a physical connection between the key and the car. Even little things like not having a starter button yet adds to the cost of putting in such a system. The question is why Holden didn't allow for this technology when the VE came out. It isn't particularly new or cutting edge stuff.

[planetdavo]

Were you actually going to be in the market for one 747, or you are just being a standard negative forum member that's always looking for something "wrong", not something "right"?

[747]

Were you actually going to be in the market for one 747, or you are just being a standard negative forum member that's always looking for something "wrong", not something "right"?

What I said was "I am trying to be objective with this update model. I see the problem being that we are seeing a lot of innovation in other cars, but not with Holden"

Maybe you tell me what is so right with the updated model? The fact is all the Australian built cars Aurion, Falcon and Commodore and now several years old in their generation.

All 3 are heavily discounting with factory money to try and move them. We are seeing increasing competition from a number of imported manufacturers.

There may be nothing wrong with the VE Series II and I appreciate GM has little money to throw at new development right now BUT the very subtle change will ultimately result in a struggling market share and tight margins.

Remember the update from VN to VP? It wasn't until VR that Commodore sales recovered. When there is little metal change buyers expect some real innovation.

IMO there is a number of issues effecting Commodore's success in Australia. Apart from value perceived in a number of imported vehicles the number one issue with 80% of all car buyers is fuel economy. This E85 development still doesn't not show any real benefit. Where's the fuel economy figures? More to the point - where's the diesel turbo?

Then there is the wagon sales - what a failure. Great looking car but it's losing sales to the SUV market by the thousands. Sadly the wagon is just not big enough. Reality is even Holden will admit Commodore is losing sales to Captiva and even Cruze, and even the diesel Epica

http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/0/67D9CE7DEC99DF54CA2577660009A5A4/$file/Private_buyers_drive_record_market_graph_large2.jp g?OpenElement

Do I have all the answers? NO. But I do know that Commodore struggles and to ensure its survival as a model built in Australia the more pressure put on Holden to introduce some real innovation the better.

So rather than stick my head in the sand and pretend the VE II is a "world leading development that will dominate the sales charts" I can at least try and be objective and realistic. And Holden wonders why long term Golden dealers are taking on other franchises

[ti0350]

GM has keyless entry in the states so GM has the know how. Having said that, it is probably a bigger change than it appears on the face of it as Holden's security system relies on a physical connection between the key and the car. Even little things like not having a starter button yet adds to the cost of putting in such a system. The question is why Holden didn't allow for this technology when the VE came out. It isn't particularly new or cutting edge stuff.

The G8's had remote start on them so Holden already have to technology there for the VE, think it's just like we dont get tyre pressure monitors and the G8 did.

[steve_t]

What I said was "I am trying to be objective with this update model. I see the problem being that we are seeing a lot of innovation in other cars, but not with Holden"

Maybe you tell me what is so right with the updated model? The fact is all the Australian built cars Aurion, Falcon and Commodore and now several years old in their generation.

All 3 are heavily discounting with factory money to try and move them. We are seeing increasing competition from a number of imported manufacturers.

There may be nothing wrong with the VE Series II and I appreciate GM has little money to throw at new development right now BUT the very subtle change will ultimately result in a struggling market share and tight margins.

Remember the update from VN to VP? It wasn't until VR that Commodore sales recovered. When there is little metal change buyers expect some real innovation.

IMO there is a number of issues effecting Commodore's success in Australia. Apart from value perceived in a number of imported vehicles the number one issue with 80% of all car buyers is fuel economy. This E85 development still doesn't not show any real benefit. Where's the fuel economy figures? More to the point - where's the diesel turbo?

Then there is the wagon sales - what a failure. Great looking car but it's losing sales to the SUV market by the thousands. Sadly the wagon is just not big enough. Reality is even Holden will admit Commodore is losing sales to Captiva and even Cruze, and even the diesel Epica

http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/0/67D9CE7DEC99DF54CA2577660009A5A4/$file/Private_buyers_drive_record_market_graph_large2.jp g?OpenElement

Do I have all the answers? NO. But I do know that Commodore struggles and to ensure its survival as a model built in Australia the more pressure put on Holden to introduce some real innovation the better.

So rather than stick my head in the sand and pretend the VE II is a "world leading development that will dominate the sales charts" I can at least try and be objective and realistic. And Holden wonders why long term Golden dealers are taking on other franchises

So you're basically saying they need to launch VF now? You're absolutely right in the GM doesn't have the funds to do hugely innovative things currently, but that without innovation, they're always playing catch-up.
I think the E85 flex-fuel capability is very innovative for our market, but I don't think E85 is available in NZ yet.

Is your Vfacts graph comparing June 2010 to June 2009 for the blue bars? If so, that's interesting reading

[Big_Valven]

Reality is even Holden will admit Commodore is losing sales to Captiva and even Cruze, and even the diesel Epica

I highly doubt that considering the Epica has been dead for some time now.

Thing is Holden will be better off once they actually start building the Cruze in Australia... but they are over a year late with that and no actual start date in sight... what on earth is the go with that?

[747]

One of the things we often forget is how incredibly good value new cars are today compared to 20 years ago. 20 years ago a VN executive was a fairly bare car. If you could afford a Calais at least you got crusie control and power windows as standard.

Consider incomes 20 years later are almost 3 times higher and that a base Omega has more standrad features than a 1990 Calais and is effectively less than half the price (after CPI adjustment).


THEN
1990 Calais 4sp Automatic Unleaded Multi-point injected 6cyl 3.8 3791cc
Price When New (RRP)+ $36,004

125kw
1 year warranty

No climate control, no cd player, no abs, no IRS, zero airbags, no traction control

NOW
2010 VE Commodore Omega 6sp Semi-Automatic Direct Injection 6cyl 3.0 2997cc
Price When New (RRP)+ $39,990

190kw
3 year warranty
Brake Assist
ABS (Antilock Brakes) CD Player
Air Conditioning Control - Electronic Stability
Airbags - Driver & Passenger (Dual) Control - Traction
Airbags - Head for 1st Row Seats (Front) Cruise Control
Airbags - Head for 2nd Row Seats EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution)
Airbags - Side for 1st Row Occupants (Front) Power Steering
Alarm Power Windows - Front & Rear
Audio - Aux Input Socket (MP3/CD/Cassette)

Suddenly makes an SSV looklike a bargain

[moconn20]

The G8's had remote start on them so Holden already have to technology there for the VE, think it's just like we dont get tyre pressure monitors and the G8 did.

Remote start is very different to keyless entry... and remote start is illegal in Australia.



I highly doubt that considering the Epica has been dead for some time now.

Although they had so much left over stock they were still offering factory specials on them up untill 2 months ago

[HSVMAN]

747, Holden have introduced several important upgrades to the first series of VE, such as engines, transmissions, bluetooth etc. HSV have undergone a facelift already.
The VEii technology inclusions and cosmetic changes ad to an already impressive list of improvements since VE was introduced just 4 years ago.
Prior to that many existing owners constantly complained of the number of series changes from VT - VZ claiming (and rightly so) premature depreciation of previous models each time a new series was announced.
Personally I think they have gone about things way better this time.
The effect on Commodore sales of SUV's and other model choices is the same for all brands. To have remained the most popular choice of car is a remarkable feat given the quality and variety of opposition.
Apart from maybe a radical change of look and the inclusion of a few more technical goodies, what can you see as an added advantage of doing so?
One must consider cost vs return on sales and for me, a keyless start is nothing more than a novelty and convenience - certainly not a decision changing feature.
The added benefit of features such as Sat Nav and reverse cameras is a biggie, as is a downloadable hard drive.
For a genuinely interested buyer or current owner of a late model commodore, the changes make enough of a difference to satisfy or persuade without seriously effecting the resale of previous models - more than usual.

[Party Pete]

If by remote start you mean that you can start the car from a remote from outside the car it may well be illegal here but I think what is being referred to is keyless start which has been an option feature on BMW and Mercedes in Australia for many years. That is, being able to start the car when the key is in the immediate proximity of the car without having to actually insert it in the ignition.

[HSVMAN]

If by remote start you mean that you can start the car from a remote from outside the car it may well be illegal here but I think what is being referred to is keyless start which has been an option feature on BMW and Mercedes in Australia for many years. That is, being able to start the car when the key is in the immediate proximity of the car without having to actually insert it in the ignition.

I have had vehicles with keyless remote/start. While there are good points they can be a pain in the ass. For example someone can open your locked vehicle if you in close proximity to it - and even start it in some models.

[747]

HSVMAN - Only the more expensive models will get the smart satellite navigation system , and a reversing camera. These are great innovations and on a volume basis would be no more than $500-$1000 cost. It would have been a huge step forward to make them standard across the range.

I still advocate a diesel turbo with around 150kw and 400nm+, could potentially have boosted annual volumes by 20%. Sadly the money wasn't there to make such development

The media is talking a lot about the E85 . Holden still hasn't publicly released fuel figures. E85 is about 20% less expensive but some vehicles have actually shown up to a 30% increase in fuel burn - meaning that there are no savings whatsoever. I am really waiting for Holden to publish some real world analysis of potential fuel savings - this could make or break the VE II

http://news.drive.com.au/drive/motor-news/biofuel-commodore-comes-at-a-cost-20100830-1472w.html

Fair use extract - "New Commodore promises to be kinder to the environment, but not to your wallet. Holden’s new bio-fuel Commodore will emit 40 per cent less CO2 over its life cycle but is expected to drink a third more fuel than the regular petrol equivalents

[Deco28]

HSVMAN - Only the more expensive models will get the smart satellite navigation system , and a reversing camera. These are great innovations and on a volume basis would be no more than $500-$1000 cost. It would have been a huge step forward to make them standard across the range.

I still advocate a diesel turbo with around 150kw and 400nm+, could potentially have boosted annual volumes by 20%. Sadly the money wasn't there to make such development

The media is talking a lot about the E85 . Holden still hasn't publicly released fuel figures. E85 is about 20% less expensive but some vehicles have actually shown up to a 30% increase in fuel burn - meaning that there are no savings whatsoever. I am really waiting for Holden to publish some real world analysis of potential fuel savings - this could make or break the VE II

http://news.drive.com.au/drive/motor-news/biofuel-commodore-comes-at-a-cost-20100830-1472w.html

Fair use extract - "New Commodore promises to be kinder to the environment, but not to your wallet. Holden’s new bio-fuel Commodore will emit 40 per cent less CO2 over its life cycle but is expected to drink a third more fuel than the regular petrol equivalents

They have already said they won't have any fuel figures as there is no standard. Holden has however said the fuel economy will be worse, but it's an option for those wanting to be more green and it will only cost an extra few hundred per year if prices stay 20c lower.

The idea of E85 isn't to save you money, but to give you the option of releasing less CO2 emissions. Also for the extra performance :D.

[747]

They have already said they won't have any fuel figures as there is no standard. Holden has however said the fuel economy will be worse, but it's an option for those wanting to be more green and it will only cost an extra few hundred per year if prices stay 20c lower.

The idea of E85 isn't to save you money, but to give you the option of releasing less CO2 emissions. Also for the extra performance :D.

Yes but what is the kw output of the E85 engines??

[Party Pete]

I have had vehicles with keyless remote/start. While there are good points they can be a pain in the ass. For example someone can open your locked vehicle if you in close proximity to it - and even start it in some models.

I agree that some can be though BMW's implementation is pretty good because it only activates the lock from about a metre from the car and you have to be inside it for it to start. Of course, at its price point you expect no less.

[C4B]

I have had vehicles with keyless remote/start. While there are good points they can be a pain in the ass. For example someone can open your locked vehicle if you in close proximity to it - and even start it in some models.

I don't know about some makes, but with my car the keyless entry will only work if you are standing within a metre of the door you're trying to open. So even if you are leaning on the bonnet of the car the doors won't unlock.

Same with the keyless start. The ignition will not activate unless the fob is physically inside the cabin (I've tried starting it by standing at the open door and reaching in with my foot on the brake and it won't start until the fob is inside the car).

Best of all, if someone ever car-jacks you, they will be able to drive off and once they switch it off, it'll never start again.

After having keyless entry and keyless start I'd never buy a car without it.

[Dagabond]

at its price point you expect no less.

35K for an Aurion with it....:confused:

...yes I know thats not what you meant.:p

[sjhugh]

I have had vehicles with keyless remote/start. While there are good points they can be a pain in the ass. For example someone can open your locked vehicle if you in close proximity to it - and even start it in some models.

Name the vehicles you have had that uses the technology in this manner.

As others have pointed out, you are either talking about remote start or some seriously cheap entry system as Keyless Entry/Start in both BMW and Mercedes requires you to be in the driver’s seat of the vehicle with the remote key before they will start. No ifs or buts about it.

Also the Start/Stop buttons can be easily ejected to reveal a standard key ignition switch behind if you have a sensor or remote battery failure. Well standard key in the BMW/Mercedes sense, the key FOB’s they supply have nothing in common with those provided for the Holden product. For example you can’t get a key cut for a BMW/Mercedes, there is nothing to cut as the end of the remote unit itself is inserted into the ignition slot and works on electronics only. There is no long silver cut to match pin involved. BMW doesn’t even turn like a standard key, it clicks in and out.

Even remote opening and closing of the windows and sunroof in a Mercedes requires line of site to the sensor. The BMW is more forgiving in this area as you can open and close them from any position around the vehicle.

It’s all about serious built in security and not a matter of pretending or hoodwinking the buyer into believing they have you beaut new technology while in fact supplying a poor cheap technology lacking copy.

Holden in my opinion is streets behind the competition when is comes to innovation. Even these new touch screens are old hat. You still need to take your eyes off the road to press the appropriate section on the screen which has no safety improvement over pressing a function button located at the side of the screen. Much cheaper cars from almost every other offshore manufacturer have had USB, Bluetooth and iPod integration for some years now, so nothing startling there. Holden doesn’t offer much in innovation, what they do eventually offer is features other car companies have long since made standard. And navigation as standard in some models, for 60,70, 80, 90 thousand dollars, well woppy do and about bloody time.

I’m a Holden man through and through who also happens to be an annual new car buyer but when is comes to putting my own money into a car, I look for value in the package. I’ve given up on loyalty when it comes to my hard earned cash. No car company has ever been loyal to me. Value for money is also the driving force of the ‘Average Joe’ buyer and the sales figures show Commodore is not high on their list. If you take the number of Commodores sold each year and compare it to all new passenger vehicles sold, the percentage representing Commodores is very low. A lot of new car buyers are finding many other alternatives on which to spend their money and it’s not hard to figure out why. Commodore as the leading single passenger car sold can thank its lucky stars for the number of cheap fleet car sales it achieves. If they along with Ford didn’t produce the cheapest V8 equipped bricks available in this country compared to the import competition, I would never consider buying a Holden.

As for brand loyalty, in the majority of cases that’s car enthusiast talk for what I can afford or the young Fox Mulder second hand car buyers who’ve never experienced anything else and live in a world where, ‘I Want To Believe’.


Were you actually going to be in the market for one 747, or you are just being a standard negative forum member that's always looking for something "wrong", not something "right"?

I’m one of these standard negative forum members that‘s always looking for something “wrong’, not something right”. I’m also a long term new car buyer that couldn’t care less about cosmetic upgrades but believes Holden with the Commodore in particular is always lagging behind the competition when it comes to standard features and innovation. If I were to just accept what is offered up as a new Commodore buyer and not voice my dissatisfaction to the dealers and Holden and instead turned my attention to imported vehicles like so many consumers are now doing, there will eventually be no new Commodores sold. Power to the voice of the people who actually buy the cars new I say, without us there is no second hand market. BS to the fan boys who through their blind passion, try and stifle criticism to the slow strangling detriment of the local car manufacturing industry.

[Knight Phlier]

Best of all, if someone ever car-jacks you, they will be able to drive off and once they switch it off, it'll never start again.


This could be counter productive - if the would be scumbag knows about keyless entry on commodores (If they're carjackers they would know unless they are too high and forget), your more likely to get stabbed, smacked, shot or jabbed for your keys.... Especially if you resist..

For me, this is why insurance is there but understand some people would be more protective over their pride and joy in that situation.

[ti0350]

Remote start is very different to keyless entry... and remote start is illegal in Australia.


Didnt relise remote start was illegal in Aus, my mate in the states just bought a G8 so he sent me this long ass email telling me everything about his car.
He said his G8 has remote keyless entry but going on how he described it they call pressing the unlock button on your key remote keyless entry.
He said to start the car by remote he has to press and release the lock button then straight away hold the remote start botton on key for 4 or 5 secs and bingo car starts.
He also said he has to stick the key in the ignition and turn it to the on position before driving off. Dont know what happens if you dont put the key in my mate has been to affraid to try it.

[Knight Phlier]

As others have pointed out, you are either talking about remote start or some seriously cheap entry system as Keyless Entry/Start in both BMW and Mercedes requires you to be in the driver’s seat of the vehicle with the remote key before they will start. No ifs or buts about it.


Wow, sounds like a cool feature. How much is a replacement key if i loose mine?

And where do I get a BMW or Merc with the power to boot from an SS/XR for 50 grand new?

Interesting post but it is easy to criticise Holden/Ford when your comparing them to cars that cost 2-3 times as much?

[HSVMAN]

HSVMAN - Only the more expensive models will get the smart satellite navigation system , and a reversing camera. These are great innovations and on a volume basis would be no more than $500-$1000 cost. It would have been a huge step forward to make them standard across the range.

I still advocate a diesel turbo with around 150kw and 400nm+, could potentially have boosted annual volumes by 20%. Sadly the money wasn't there to make such development

The media is talking a lot about the E85 . Holden still hasn't publicly released fuel figures. E85 is about 20% less expensive but some vehicles have actually shown up to a 30% increase in fuel burn - meaning that there are no savings whatsoever. I am really waiting for Holden to publish some real world analysis of potential fuel savings - this could make or break the VE II

http://news.drive.com.au/drive/motor-news/biofuel-commodore-comes-at-a-cost-20100830-1472w.html

Fair use extract - "New Commodore promises to be kinder to the environment, but not to your wallet. Holden’s new bio-fuel Commodore will emit 40 per cent less CO2 over its life cycle but is expected to drink a third more fuel than the regular petrol equivalents

Sat Nav - yes I know and maybe it would be great across the range. Holden havent exactly been forward with the inclusion of the simple luxuries such as electric windows (only standard for past 5 or 6 years) and my SV6 still doesnt have auto electric ffs.

E85 is a huge distraction and i agree with you on that one.

Diesel turbo - another very good suggestion and one Holden have dodged for some time.

Ford Mondeo sales now rely on their turbo diesel models

[moconn20]

If by remote start you mean that you can start the car from a remote from outside the car it may well be illegal here but I think what is being referred to is keyless start ...

Thanks i know what keyless start is.... i was pointing out to ti0350 that remote start and keyless start are completely different, so the fact that the G8's have remote start is irrelevant to the argument that Holden should have implimented keyless entry/start.

[SCiFiRE]

HSV E3 info is starting to come out, has some funky options with the new stereo/computer.
(don't know how useful racetrack data-logging is in a grange... lol)

http://news.drive.com.au/drive/motor-news/hsv-e3-adds-race-car-technology-20100904-14uxu.html

[korrupt]

HSV E3 info is starting to come out, has some funky options with the new stereo/computer.
(don't know how useful racetrack data-logging is in a grange... lol)

http://news.drive.com.au/drive/motor-news/hsv-e3-adds-race-car-technology-20100904-14uxu.html
Looks a tiny bit amateurish...

http://images.theage.com.au/2010/09/03/1905267/HSV-Grange_driver_2_600-600x400.jpg

[Deco28]

Sat Nav - yes I know and maybe it would be great across the range. Holden havent exactly been forward with the inclusion of the simple luxuries such as electric windows (only standard for past 5 or 6 years) and my SV6 still doesnt have auto electric ffs.

E85 is a huge distraction and i agree with you on that one.

Diesel turbo - another very good suggestion and one Holden have dodged for some time.

Ford Mondeo sales now rely on their turbo diesel models

Diesel is a too expensive program for not very much return.

ALso it is widely known 767, that E85 produces better performance. Holden says this on their own website. Figures for it, there is no standard, so they can't give any.

[bonners]

HSV E3 info is starting to come out, has some funky options with the new stereo/computer.
(don't know how useful racetrack data-logging is in a grange... lol)

http://news.drive.com.au/drive/motor-news/hsv-e3-adds-race-car-technology-20100904-14uxu.html

I agree. I'm all for it but I wouldn't have thought the Grange was the correct model to 'announce' it with

[SCiFiRE]

Looks a tiny bit amateurish...
...snip...


Yeah it does look a bit like a quickly made flash-based game....
Hopefully looks a bit nicer on the small screen in the car.

[Goggles]

is it me or does the touchscreen in the grange in the following pic look too low compared with the VE Series 2?

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m117/goggles13/HSV_Grange-03_600-600x400.jpg

[moconn20]

is it me or does the touchscreen in the grange in the following pic look too low compared with the VE Series 2?


Not to mention the plain looking gaugeless dash.
Pics for comparison...

http://images-2.drive.com.au/2010/08/30/1875498/Holden-SS-V-Calais-V_11_600-600x400.jpg
http://images-2.drive.com.au/2010/09/03/1904374/HSV_Grange-03_600-600x400.jpg

And some more Grange photos...
http://images-2.drive.com.au/2010/09/03/1904372/HSV_Grange-01_600-600x400.jpg
http://images-2.drive.com.au/2010/09/03/1904371/HSV_Grange-02_600-600x400.jpg

[jaykay]

6 parking snesors front and rear on the Grange....and 325kW mmmmmm

[HSVMAN]

1. Name the vehicles you have had that uses the technology in this manner.

2. As others have pointed out, you are either talking about remote start or some seriously cheap entry system as Keyless Entry/Start in both BMW and Mercedes ........

3. Holden in my opinion is streets behind the competition when is comes to innovation. .......
Holden doesn’t offer much in innovation, what they do eventually offer is features other car companies have long since made standard. And navigation as standard in some models, for 60,70, 80, 90 thousand dollars, well woppy do and about bloody time.

4. I’m a Holden man through and through who also happens to be an annual new car buyer but when is comes to putting my own money into a car, I look for value in the package...

5. Commodore as the leading single passenger car sold can thank its lucky stars for the number of cheap fleet car sales it achieves. If they along with Ford didn’t produce the cheapest V8 equipped bricks available in this country compared to the import competition, I would never consider buying a Holden.

6. As for brand loyalty, in the majority of cases that’s car enthusiast talk for what I can afford or the young Fox Mulder second hand car buyers who’ve never experienced anything else and live in a world where, ‘I Want To Believe’.

7. I’m one of these standard negative forum members that‘s always looking for something “wrong’, not something right”. .......


Thanks for your lengthy and somewhat meaningless response that spoke more about you than the car.
I've taken the liberty to edit and highlight your points for easy reference:

1. Volkswagen
2. I know what I am talking about thanks :)
3. Which particular competition are you referring to? And perhaps you are right in some areas but really, is it worth the emotion you seem to be displaying? They are only cars and what was that about fanbois?
4. If it is value you are looking for (and it seems you have no argument about value) what exactly is your complaint if you keep going back to Holden again?
You want the equivalent of E500 or 545i gizmos in an SS-V?
If it is truly value that you are after, why do you replace your car annually?
5. So its actually "cheap" you are after now as well?
6. It would seem that there is a little more than a casual dig at a certain brand at play here...
But just for you, there is such a thing as Brand loyalty among those who can buy something of higher value if they wanted. It's also called modesty
7. You got that right

[Evman]

6 parking snesors front and rear on the Grange....and 325kW mmmmmm

Auto park hardware maybe?

[macca_779]

Auto park hardware maybe?

Nah, I heard that rumour too.. But its been confirmed to be BS by a reliable contact.

[Grant]

Nah, I heard that rumour too.. But its been confirmed to be BS by a reliable contact.

Sensors confirmed to be for lane departure warning:


The Grange will also come standard with a new lane departure warning system, which uses ultra-sonic sensors on each corner to detect other vehicles in its blind spot. The so called Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA) can be switched off via the EDI touchscreen.

[Evman]

^^ Dang. Will be interesting to see how the lane departure system goes. The barges do have massive blind spots and it's not easy to see even when turning your head to look.

[Deco28]

The provided grange interior photo is of the old Caprice/grange.

I'm pretty sure it was updated as well wasn't it?

[SCiFiRE]

The provided grange interior photo is of the old Caprice/grange.

I'm pretty sure it was updated as well wasn't it?

Haven't seen any photos of an updated Caprice interior... Infact other than the wheels I'm struggling to pick a different externally either.

[Deco28]

Haven't seen any photos of an updated Caprice interior... Infact other than the wheels I'm struggling to pick a different externally either.

Yeh, the Caprice hasn't changed its looks, the grange obviously has though.

I'd say the interior shot for the grange up there is wrong.

[V-Car]

I'd say the interior shot for the grange up there is wrong.

It looks like the old dash with new graphics on the screen, so maybe the series II Caprice/Grange dash is the same as the series I, except for the screen.
Maybe its no coincidence that Holden havent shown any interior shots of the new Caprice! ;)
Should we have a quick whip around to get a few bucks together for Holden to do a VF? The way its going, there wont be one.

[747]

This is the stock Grange photo that was released to the press. Surely they wouldnt release the wrong photo?

http://www.caradvice.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/2011-HSV_Grange-interior-625x469.jpg

[pmac]

[QUOTE=747;1785523]This is the stock Grange photo that was released to the press. Surely they wouldnt release the wrong photo?

http://www.themotorreport.com.au/content/image/2/0/2011_hsv_grange_wm3_australia_06_interior-4c84675d43c06-1280x1024.jpg

if you look closley the buttons on the side are different and the radio station buttons are missing along with the bose logo, so its defiently new

what i want to know is whats the thing in the LHD handbrake cutout area?

[Deco28]

Why update the Commodore interior and not the damn flagship interior....

[Goggles]

Why update the Commodore interior and not the damn flagship interior....

agree - it makes no sense for Holden to produce a dashboard for the Commodore with a higher screen for safety, and not for the flagship models.

[SCiFiRE]

agree - it makes no sense for Holden to produce a dashboard for the Commodore with a higher screen for safety, and not for the flagship models.

hmm... G8s weren't allowed to have satnav because the screen was too low for US regulations... another push for US export on the way?

[Deco28]

hmm... G8s weren't allowed to have satnav because the screen was too low for US regulations... another push for US export on the way?

Maybe so, but you'd still think they could transfer the new Calais interior at the very least into the Caprice....

[caz375]

is it me or does the touchscreen in the grange in the following pic look too low compared with the VE Series 2?

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m117/goggles13/HSV_Grange-03_600-600x400.jpg


What happened to the unique Statesman and Caprice dash ? Or do HSV use the Calais dash instead ?

http://files.conceptcarz.com/img/Holden/Holden-Caprice-Interior-2009_Image-014-800.jpg

[cozbyrt]

hmm... G8s weren't allowed to have satnav because the screen was too low for US regulations... another push for US export on the way?

I sure hope so!

[Stevotski]

well most of my gripes have been addressed so congratulations Holden for listening to customers

* Lumina had larger wheels than a Calais - FIXED
* Loss of electric slide passenger seat in Calais MY10 - FIXED
* Loss of sports front seats in VE SV6 compared to VZ - FIXED
* Dual zone climate in SV6 - FIXED (and then some)

I guess time will tell if the infamous glovebox light is out or in this time :rofl:

Looks like a SV6 sportwagon is next for me :goodjob:

[steve_t]

[QUOTE=747;1785523]
what i want to know is whats the thing in the LHD handbrake cutout area?

Kinda looks like it could be a 12V accessory socket. If it is, it's a weird place to have it

[moconn20]

The provided grange interior photo is of the old Caprice/grange.

I'm pretty sure it was updated as well wasn't it?

They wouldnt put a HSV logo on the steering wheel if it was a Caprice.

[pro-logic]

Looks like a SV6 sportwagon is next for me :goodjob:
Just remember, it won't have E85 comparability till 2012...

[calaisrat]

Kinda looks like it could be a 12V accessory socket. If it is, it's a weird place to have it

Thats the MRC button.

Its different to where its located in the GTS.

[steve_t]

Thats the MRC button.

Its different to where its located in the GTS.

So that's not the MRC button next to the TC button in front of the gear selector?

[korrupt]

So that's not the MRC button next to the TC button in front of the gear selector?
that would be front parking sensors and TC buttons.

[steve_t]

that would be front parking sensors and TC buttons.

Oh yup. Cool. Ta. After I posted I wondered if it might be a seat heater button or something. Sorted. Cheers

[wally01]

I should have my phone out on the way to work in the morings i have been seeing these 2 to 3 times a week ,this morning was a Voodoo wagon e2 going back to the elizabeth plant would be my guess looked different ,the wheels this time around i should take more notice ..

[VX2VESS]

http://media.smh.com.au/drive/car-news/inside-line--new-wrx-and-hsvs-playstation-dash-1913004.html

[seedyrom]

Does driving the car around a racetrack void it's warranty?

[Evman]

It's taking a very pessimistic point of view but how many people are going to try and get the biggest oversteer angle, highest g forces, etc on the street? In the FPV Coyote thread people say that 90% of cars remain standard. I'm betting over 99% of cars will never see a track of any kind. It's an interesting gimmick but I think the money should have been spent elsewhere.

[tmob]

It's taking a very pessimistic point of view but how many people are going to try and get the biggest oversteer angle, highest g forces, etc on the street? In the FPV Coyote thread people say that 90% of cars remain standard. I'm betting over 99% of cars will never see a track of any kind. It's an interesting gimmick but I think the money should have been spent elsewhere.

Ev your spot on the money...
Maybe, Maybe I would be interested in over steer angle, g-forces & track data when driving an R8 or GTS (or F6/GT for that matter). Not when driving a luxury limo/saloon.
My first thought is that the Grange is attempting to become sporty - so where's the luxury model?

No doubt the tacky EDI will feature across the HSV range. Perhaps holding off, and announcing it in conjunction with the R8 / GTS might not have been a silly idea...

[moconn20]

Does driving the car around a racetrack void it's warranty?

I think its funny they have the Mount Panorama circuit loaded into it...

"Hey check it out guys! I averaged 59km/h around the mountain... top speed was 61km/h but i backed off down Conrod because there was a HWP hiding behind the tyre barrier."

[Marco]

Anyone seen any more pictures posted anywhere? Really interested in the Calais interior in particular.

[SCiFiRE]

Marco >
Pretty much all pictures available are here: http://gm.wieck.com/forms/gm/*query?ws4d_nav=true&search_criteria=2011&images=256&source=holden&page=1
Click 'download' for high res versions, There is one of the calais V dash on the first page.

[Goggles]

I'm intrigued by the new sound system in the VE2. It is claimed that it has a hard drive capable of storing the equivalent of 15 audio CDs. That equates to a hard drive of 9Gb which seems to be very small. My BlackBerry has more memory!! What isn't the VE2's hard drive much bigger?

[Northy]

I'm intrigued by the new sound system in the VE2. It is claimed that it has a hard drive capable of storing the equivalent of 15 audio CDs. That equates to a hard drive of 9Gb which seems to be very small. My BlackBerry has more memory!! What isn't the VE2's hard drive much bigger?

If you read the fine print its a Flash drive not a hard drive so this suggest solid state which is heaps better for moving objects. Mabey it was a cost issue?

[vyls1wa]

but who really is gona sit there and search through 10 plus gig worth of music while driving, 15 cds worth of music is plenty.

[YellahVEII]

I'm intrigued by the new sound system in the VE2. It is claimed that it has a hard drive capable of storing the equivalent of 15 audio CDs. That equates to a hard drive of 9Gb which seems to be very small. My BlackBerry has more memory!! What isn't the VE2's hard drive much bigger?
Trying to remember where I read it, but i'm pretty sure it plans to store it on 1GB worth of flash memory. So its going to have to be compressing to mp3 or such. Quite disappointing when you look at how cheap say 8GB of flash memory. which in theory could could store up to 120 CDs.

[Northy]

Trying to remember where I read it, but i'm pretty sure it plans to store it on 1GB worth of flash memory. So its going to have to be compressing to mp3 or such. Quite disappointing when you look at how cheap say 8GB of flash memory. which in theory could could store up to 120 CDs.

Might have to be my first mod, give the unit more storage.

[hallyoz]

It would be more useful if you could store 9 gb of MP3's on it. Would be a great feature instead of needing to plug in an iPod.

[steve_t]

In vehicles with iPod/iPhone integration, where does the iWhatever get stashed?

[SCiFiRE]

Trying to remember where I read it, but i'm pretty sure it plans to store it on 1GB worth of flash memory. So its going to have to be compressing to mp3 or such. Quite disappointing when you look at how cheap say 8GB of flash memory. which in theory could could store up to 120 CDs.

I remember reading that too,
It's weird because the media report actually says the virtual CD system is capable of reading Mp3 cds. I suppose we'll have to wait and see how it works to get a true idea

EDIT:

In vehicles with iPod/iPhone integration, where does the iWhatever get stashed?

seen a picture of this somewhere, the ipod/USB is in the glovebox. It's also USB-stick capable, so i think personally I'll just have a usb stick full of MP3s just for the car.

[Ghia351]

In vehicles with iPod/iPhone integration, where does the iWhatever get stashed?
In my G6ET there is a pouch in the armrest with an Ipod connector inside. The icc wheel (radio/menu selector) control then mimmicks an ipod wheel with all the ipod info appearing on the 7" icc screen. The regular 6-stack cd player is also an mp3 player. I'd rather the ipod method, something like my wife's ipod classic iirc holds 120GB.

[zacaxel1975]

I am glad to hear the redline option with bigger brakes and FE3 (lowered??) suspension is available on the Calais V. :goodjob:

[GMH-TWR]

I am glad to hear the redline option with bigger brakes and FE3 (lowered??) suspension is available on the Calais V. :goodjob:

Unfortunately FE3 is same height as FE2, 720mm fender to ground

[SCiFiRE]

I remember reading that too,
It's weird because the media report actually says the virtual CD system is capable of reading Mp3 cds. I suppose we'll have to wait and see how it works to get a true idea

EDIT:


seen a picture of this somewhere, the ipod/USB is in the glovebox. It's also USB-stick capable, so i think personally I'll just have a usb stick full of MP3s just for the car.

Damn it, I meant centre console, not glovebox.

[Evman]

A lot of buyers don't want lowered cars. One of my uncles has a WM Caprice and wont lower it because it already scrapes on some curbs he drives up on (to park) :(

[super coach]

The Redline Edition Calais V-Series and SS V-Series sedan, Sportwagon and Ute will take up top positions in Holden’s updated VE Series II range, to be launched later this month.



Intended for enthusiast drivers, Redline Edition models offer high-level braking and sports handling capabilities to match their powerful 6.0-litre V8 credentials.



Advanced chassis dynamics come courtesy of specialist Holden engineers, who developed a track-inspired FE3 super sports suspension set-up* to complement the extra stopping power of four-piston Brembo high performance front brakes.



The Redline Edition range is further distinguished by exclusive forged and polished 19-inch alloy wheels, matched to low profile tyres.



Holden also raises the bar with the inclusion of full colour mapping satellite navigation

and a rear camera** as standard equipment in V-Series models, which feature the new multimedia touch screen Holden-iQ system and smart interior treatments.



All Redline Editions are compatible with bio-ethanol, also known as E85, an emission-reducing ‘fuel of the future’ that already powers V8 Supercars.

Holden Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Aftersales John Elsworth said the Redline Edition introduced added excitement to the company’s high-feature luxury performance range.



“We know the performance enthusiasts who drive Holden sports vehicles enjoy the way the engine performs with the exhilarating V8 engine performance of our sport models,” Mr Elsworth said.



“We know that their interest goes beyond straight-line power and torque though. They’re looking for a satisfying overall driving experience with superior chassis dynamics.



“With the Redline Edition, we set out to improve that experience for them, to provide the ultimate sports ride by introducing features we know they’ll value the most - track-inspired handling for great road connection and control combined with awesome stopping power.




*FE3 suspension exclusive to sedan. **Rear camera – excludes Ute.





Redline Edition features include:



Brembo high-performance brakes

Front brakes feature four-piston, two-piece aluminium front callipers and 355mm

rotors, pillar-vented for improved cooling and durability.



Forged alloy wheels


Redline Calais V Wheel
High-strength ten-spoke 19-inch forged alloy wheels are exclusive to V-Series Redline Editions. Ultra high-performance low profile tyres provide outstanding grip and handling in wet and dry conditions.



FE3 Super Sports Performance Suspension

A true driver’s car set-up. High-performance tuned dampers and stiffer stabiliser bars

provide excellent road connection and control. (SS-V Series Redline Edition sedan and Calais V-Series Redline Edition sedan.)



Chrome window surround

Sedan only



Inflator kit

A tyre inflator kit is mandatory fitment on the SS-V Series Redline Ute.

Model line-up Calais V-Series Sedan – Redline Edition

Calais V-Series Sportwagon – Redline Edition

SS V-Series Sedan – Redline Edition

SS V-Series Sportwagon – Redline Edition

SS V-Series Ute – Redline Edition

Colour Selection * Denotes new colour




Alto Grey – new mid toned grey with silver highlights*

Hazard – head turning bright solid yellow*

Sizzle – bright metallic red* Heron – solid white

Karma – an architectural blue with metallic highlights

Nitrate – a classic silver metallic

Phantom – metallic black with silver highlights



Pricing $2500 on top of standard vehicle RRP

[Mikey]

A lot of buyers don't want lowered cars. One of my uncles has a WM Caprice and wont lower it because it already scrapes on some curbs he drives up on (to park) :(Just had my E2 lowered (2 weeks ago) and I too was also worried because no matter how hard I tried, at the standard HSV height it seem to scrape a fair bit. Since my car has been lowered though I find that the car is more stable through dips and gutters and I actually now seem to scrap less because the front doesn't seem to bounce as much when provoked.

Cheers Mikey

[SCiFiRE]

Redline wheels look like G8 GXP alloys.

[Mikey]

From the Adelaide Now website.
http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/workers-celebrate-jobs-stability-at-holden/story-e6frea83-1225916865658?from=public_rss

Workers celebrate jobs, stability at Holden STUART MARTIN, MOTORING EDITOR From: The Advertiser September 10, 2010 12:54AM Holden director of manufacturing operations Martyn Cray and John Camillo from the AMWU with the VEII SS. Picture: Calum Robertson Source: AdelaideNow

AFTER months of uncertainty, the revival of the northern suburbs has begun with news an extra 50 workers will hit the factory floor at Holden's Elizabeth plant from November.
The Adelaide-based manufacturer will return its 2300-strong workforce to full-time status and has opened its doors to recruit the new staff, but former employees who took hardship packages are ineligible for re-employment.

Estimates earlier this year had suggested 30 new staff would be required at Elizabeth as production of the Commodore VE Series II gets under way and preparations for production of the Cruze sedan and hatchback continue ahead of the start date in February next year.

Holden executive director of manufacturing operations Martyn Cray said the company would return its existing workforce to full time and hire workers on contract as a cautious approach.

"We have to start slowly but we are on the way back, we have to take small steps - it's important that we initially hire people on contract and when there's more confidence then we'll look for more permanent solutions," he said.

"With regard to US police orders, that starts in October - we'll just have to see what the tenders give us, when we have some idea then we could be standing here again."

Mr Cray said the arrival of the VEII had boosted morale within the plant.

"There's a real sense of excitement at Elizabeth - we started building Series II Commodore this week and we're very happy with all the work being done to introduce Holden Cruze to the production line early next year," he said.

Suggestions local components suppliers had been locked out of tendering for Cruze contracts were rejected by Mr Cray.

Australian Manufacturing Workers Union SA state secretary John Camillo paid tribute to the company and the workers.

"We had members suffering through all sorts of emotional and financial difficulties, they were up to the challenge to see a positive announcement being made by Holden today," he said.

Industry and Trade Minister Tom Koutsantonis said the announcement showed Holden was back on track.

"This is another shot in the arm for the SA car industry, which hit a bumpy road during tough global economic times," he said
Cheers Mikey

[steves87]

Will the redline option add any weight ontop of the SSv's extra weight (over SS) ?

[moconn20]

Redline wheels look like G8 GXP alloys.

pics? :jester:

[The-V8-Power]

pics? :jester:
Here ya go mate. That yellow sure does stand out.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs643.snc4/60365_431653664897_5730024897_4788441_1991528_n.jp g

[moconn20]

Here ya go mate. That yellow sure does stand out

Eww, so do the rims. They dont suit at all.

So let me get this right...

If you get the Sedan you get the lot for $2500...

If you buy the ute, you still pay $2500 but miss out on FE3 suspension and stiffer stabiliser bars, you dont get the reversing camera, and no chrome window surrounds. That sounds like great value :jerk:

[steve_t]

Bugger. Why do they all look ugly to me? Esp that yellow! I guess I'm getting old and starting to hate change. In saying that, the HSV E2 is growing on me... slowly.

[Marco]

The blue Calais in that pic really does just look like someone's dropped an Omega onto big rims. It doesn't really suit the Calais image.

Come to think of it, the rims don't suit the SSV either.

Pity, the rest of the package sounds like a winner.

[SUZUKI MALISHA]

ahhhh they look horrible i think.....first impesssions not good. Wheels look outa place and colours are not very flattering....meh

[super coach]

After reading this Holden must take ute drivers as idiots!!!!! they wont inlcude a camera but you can get one as an option and NO spare wheel cos they think we want to go faster so they give us a stupid pump....!?!?!?!?!?!

thoughts anyone?




Pontiac GXP lives on as Holden Redline

words - Joshua Dowling

Aussie export model is re-incarnated in Series II Commodore line-up
Holden has managed to stoke another special edition out of the embers of the axed Pontiac export program.

After letting HSV do a limited run of cars using some of the Pontiac GXP sports sedan's go-fast bits, Holden has reclaimed some of the high ground to create high performance versions of the Calais-V and SS-V.

It's called Redline and is $2500 option on the top-line Calais-V and SS-V sedans – and SS-V wagon and ute variants.

While the HSV GXP was powered by the LS3 6.2-litre V8, the new Calais-V and SS-V Redline editions will be powered exclusively by Holden's E85-compatible 6.0-litre V8 which is just 0.2 of a second slower than the HSV equivalent, according to independent testing (0 to 100km/h in 5.5 seconds compared to 5.3 for the HSV).

But the Redline range gets the rest of the best, with race-bred four-piston Brembo brake calipers on 355mm discs up front and lightweight multi-spoke 19-inch GXP wheels on all models.

Meanwhile, the SS-V sedan gets the same sports suspension tune used on the export Pontiac GXP and HSV GXP.

Touch screen satellite navigation and a rear camera are standard on all Redline models except the ute, which comes with a navigation system but a rear camera is optional.

The Redline ute also misses out on a spare wheel and tyre – even a space saver – and instead must make do with an inflator kit.

"We know that performance enthusiasts who drive Holden sports vehicles … have an interest beyond straight line power. They're looking for a satisfying overall driving experience," said Holden executive director of sales and marketing, John Elsworth. "With the Redline edition we hope to improve that experience for them."

[seedyrom]

"They're looking for a satisfying overall driving experience,"


What is your issue?

It clearly states that Holden care about the driving experience, not the experience when you've got a puncture at 9pm, 60kms out from the nearest town

[DCV1NU]

The redline edition dont look to bad at all, i wouldnt mind upgrading to a sportwagon edition in poison ivy...too bad that colour isnt available tho even tho the sportwagon in the above pic is poisen ivy:confused:.

[steve_t]

What is your issue?

It clearly states that Holden care about the driving experience, not the experience when you've got a puncture at 9pm, 60kms out from the nearest town

LOL. Obviously the bin of leftover pontiac bits didn't contain spare wheels and tyres. :jester:
Inflator kit = $40. Spare wheel+tyre = $500+
Marketing spin - we know you want to go faster so we cut the weight :goodjob:


"They're looking for a satisfying overall driving experience," translation "sorry the car is slightly slower"

[benniemc]

From the Holden Facebook page:

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs626.snc4/58618_431712359897_5730024897_4789298_1201131_n.jp g

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs331.ash2/61155_431712384897_5730024897_4789300_7941462_n.jp g

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs331.ash2/61155_431712379897_5730024897_4789299_5661857_n.jp g

[moconn20]

The redline edition dont look to bad at all, i wouldnt mind upgrading to a sportwagon edition in poison ivy...too bad that colour isnt available tho even tho the sportwagon in the above pic is poisen ivy:confused:.

Have i missed something? Pretty sure you can get an SSV sportwagon in Poison Ivy... and i dont think the list on the previous page is suggesting that voodoo and poison ivy cars cant be fitted with the reline package.

[planetdavo]

Hasn't this thread gone on to prove what a depressingly negative portion of society infest forums.
Of course, we all know many of you expect an LS9 powered SSV for 50K...:rolleyes:
You win some, you lose some. If you win everything in the car industry, up goes the price...:idea:
Funny that. If you don't like the changes you buy something else.
But, hang on! Many making all these negative comments aren't even in the market for one...:spew:

[SUPERH2377]

will holden do the redline rims in a black ,like the mule we seen on so many pictures as they suited the car as people commented on this thread

[calaisrat]

How popular would this option be ?
I cant imagine anyone who would want to modify there car bothering when most of the upgrades are things that you would change on the car anyway.

Its a good idea to offer it and see how it goes though, I doubt it will cost very much for Holden to add the extras.

[Marco]

But, hang on! Many making all these negative comments aren't even in the market for one...:spew:

So...?

We comment on lots of cars every day in this and other forums - are we to restrict ourselves to commenting only on cars we're thinking of buying?

[DCV1NU]

and i dont think the list on the previous page is suggesting that voodoo and poison ivy cars cant be fitted with the reline package.

Judging by the other special editions like the 60th anniversary version ssv, seems like the only colours that will be available are the ones listed.

[calaisrat]

woops wrong thread

[moconn20]

Judging by the other special editions like the 60th anniversary version ssv, seems like the only colours that will be available are the ones listed.

i still find it hard to believe poison ivy wouldnt be available if they are using a shot of it with the redline package in their promotional photos.

[Marco]

How popular would this option be ?
I cant imagine anyone who would want to modify there car bothering when most of the upgrades are things that you would change on the car anyway.

Its a good idea to offer it and see how it goes though, I doubt it will cost very much for Holden to add the extras.

I'd go for it if I was buying an SSV today. I don't like the wheels, but $2500 for better brakes and suspension sounds like a good buy to me - and they're not things that I would really consider changing on a new car from day one (although I might later as those parts wore out).

[Djbarnstar]

i wonder what the brakes will be like?

[hallyoz]

Am I right in thinking that the sat-nav and reverse camera is not part of the Redline pack? These are actually standard on SS-V and Calais-V in Series 2? That is why the SS-V ute does not get the camera unless optioned.

[SSVWagon]

Hasn't this thread gone on to prove what a depressingly negative portion of society infest forums.
Of course, we all know many of you expect an LS9 powered SSV for 50K...:rolleyes:
You win some, you lose some. If you win everything in the car industry, up goes the price...:idea:
Funny that. If you don't like the changes you buy something else.
But, hang on! Many making all these negative comments aren't even in the market for one...:spew:


Good point well put !

Lets face it, Holden must be doing something right when they're producing cars people want, have great marketing in all the right places and consistently shift 1000+ more units than the FG every month !

[smokey777]

A lot of buyers don't want lowered cars. One of my uncles has a WM Caprice and wont lower it because it already scrapes on some curbs he drives up on (to park) :(

how do you mean "alot" dont you mean most?

[Evman]

how do you mean "alot" dont you mean most?

I've never done a survey to get exact numbers

[moconn20]

Some initial E85 fuel figures...


Fuel use running on E85 is between 25 and 40 per cent more than when running on regular petrol, which is still an option for those who prefer.


The 3.0-litre V6 that's now tuned to run on E85 (or any blend of petrol and up to 85 per cent ethanol) feels the same as before....
Scrolling through the onboard trip computer the fuel range hovers a little over 400km on a full tank and E85 fuel use in a mix of city and highway driving hovered around 14 litres per 100km (L/100km).

Fuel consumption on the V8 can be more fearsome running on E85. At one stage after taking off in slow traffic I saw the trip computer register 49L/100km, although it settled down to 17 or 18L/100km before hovering around 13.5L/100km on a gentle country road run.


And apparently the Ipod conectivity is wireless, which i didnt realise...

all cars now have Bluetooth and can link wirelessly to iPods


and here's an interesting point about the redline package... value for money you think?

The V8-powered Holden SS-V Redline will sell for $57,790 as a manual or $59,790 as an automatic (plus on-road costs).

HSV recently sold a limited edition GXP sedan – complete with a 317kW 6.2-litre V8 – for $61,990 driveaway, making the more powerful HSV around $4000 cheaper (accounting for on-road costs) than the Holden Redline package

[jono_xuv53]

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs331.ash2/61155_431712379897_5730024897_4789299_5661857_n.jp g

in the last picture i looked at it for a split second and i thought i was looking at a vy berlina or calais one of those two vy models, can't remember. the whole front reminded me of it:smilesandbanana:

[smokey777]

I've never done a survey to get exact numbers

lol ya i wasnt being sarcastic to you just making a point that 90% of population dont care about what we do lol

[bundys]

looks alot nicer than the series 1. cant wait to see em in person

[MrCV5700]

Still can't believe they did not include a Start Go Option and LED's. Flash hardrives is a waste of time as most will run there music of an external hardrive source.