Is this what the VE Commodore will look like?

[V82xist]

I think this is a preview to the VE Commodore what do you guys think.
http://autoweek.com/images/news/101553

[Padina]

That looks shocking.. reminds me sorta of the Fords AU!! Fk that. if thats the case, we'll see the VZ's break the sales records.

[team illucid]

what a piece of cr@p - from my wife as well

[Danv8]

I think this is a preview to the VE Commodore what do you guys think.
http://autoweek.com/images/news/101553


Hmmm I dunno it will look like that the front end does need a rework.

[HERCULES]

LOL agreed.
Looks too much like a european stylish car.
It doesn't have that mean look that Holden and HSV have at the moment.
But this is just horrible.

[V82xist]

Just saw this here --> story (http://autoweek.com/news.cms?newsId=101553) and thought it was interesting. I know it's a mid size car but I wouldn't be surprised if some of the looks might be similar.

[biante12]

Need to loose the BUG EYE lights, bling wheels are different, hopefully the saturn isnt the base for the commodore

[phat-dave]

I'll go out on a limb here and I'm going to ask for two.

I like it, I like it alot, but please give me the LS2 or a TT Alloywank :eek:

[V-Car]

There are alot of GM/Opel styling clues in this new Saturn, probably because it is built on the same FWD/AWD Epsilon platform that underpins the Opel Vectra and Signum, as well as the Chevy Malibu and Maxx (Vectra/Signum equivalents) Saab 9-3 and Pontiac G6.
It seems to be the way GM's styling is heading these days, looking at the Vectra and Astra that we know here, so yes, the VE will probably have a similar GM corporate look.

[FunkyPig]

This is a medium sedan only for the USA, why would anyone speculate that the VE will look like this? I remember someone does this when ever a GM car (or concept) is shown. "Oh look this is the VE!" Someone will always say.

I see a little Opel Astra in the headlights, and Chev Cobalt (new Malibu) in the doors. To be honest I have no problem with the looks of this car, in fact I like them.

If people are going to complain about something like this, I wonder what will happen when the VE does arrive and doesn't look bland and boring (assuming and hoping this is the case). Is everyone going to jump on the "oh its so ugly" bandwagon? Face it, big lights are the fashion, and I would bet VE will have much bigger lights than any Commodore before it.

The biggest problem with this Saturn concept I think, is that I am all but certain the production car will be watered down and not look as good.

-FunkyPig

[PepeLePew]

I like it a lot!

[paul05]

scary,has anybody seen pictures of the 04 mitsubishi galant ,it's the twin.
i don't mind the look,quit nice but if all cars are going to look the same whats the point.picture of the galant is on the performance forum under the thread mitsubishi ,where are they going.worth a squiz.

[JT]

YUK!:spew:

[VZSS_Freak]

Dont mind it at all really, defintly borrowing the headlights from the new astra, probably will sell in its droves in america though

[VZSS_Freak]

From Auto Week Website,

"Saturn has included a 250-hp 3.6-liter double overhead cam engine with variable-valve timing teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual tap up/tap down shift controls"

Now this we might get in the VE, and yippie if we do, a six speeder would be fantastic!

Cheers

[V82xist]

From Auto Week Website,

"Saturn has included a 250-hp 3.6-liter double overhead cam engine with variable-valve timing teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual tap up/tap down shift controls"

Now this we might get in the VE, and yippie if we do, a six speeder would be fantastic!

Cheers

You bet, especially if the 6 speeder is put behind the LS2 :D

[xr8_forever]

Looks to me a bit like the Chrysler Neon from a few years back.

[V-Car]

scary,has anybody seen pictures of the 04 mitsubishi galant ,it's the twin.
i don't mind the look,quit nice but if all cars are going to look the same whats the point.picture of the galant is on the performance forum under the thread mitsubishi ,where are they going.worth a squiz.

Get used to the look of the Galant, because word is that it IS the next Magna, virtually unchanged. ;)

[paulvdb]

I personally reckon that the Torana front was a MUCH closer guide to VE. You can see where the lines/creases have been moving VT->VZ and where they were on the Torana. It really makes sense if you can imagine the lines gradually moving from a more horizontal focus at the front to a more vertical "edge-driven" design.

The pics in this post are a bit too organic to be VE-ish. Also, re the lights, given the raspberry that everyone gave Itsibitsi for doing this, SURELY GM wouldn't make the same mistake. The Commodore is their biggest selling car. I cannot imagine that after watching Ford screw everything up with AU and Itsibitsi complete wreck sales of the Magna, that they could also make that mistake - particularly given that the next Falcon is meant to be much nicer in the flesh than the BA. They wouldn't dare stuff up.

[Brendan24688]

YES!!! i absoultly LOVE it!!! it will grow on everyone eventually. i think its a step in the irght direction. PLEASE!!!

[dmhhsv]

If commodores start to look this soft we may as well all go and buy magnas now while there cheap :lol:

[V82xist]

Looks to me a bit like the Chrysler Neon from a few years back.
Really...I don't see it. Oh hang on your right they have both got round wheels. :D

http://www.zipit.com.au/v82xist/saturn.jpg

[Marco]

I don't think we should read too much into it. After all, the VB, VN and VT Commodores didn't follow US styling trends - they were always closer to what Opel was doing.

So I think the VE will be more Opel-like again, although Holden will be aware that plenty of people dislike the new Vectra and big headlights are never really a favourite, so they won't be following the look too closely if they are smart - just some cues and the overall theme. Kind of like what the Torana turned out like (although I personally see a lot of 3 series in the Torana).

[Febs]

Hope not.

Personally, I reckon this (http://www.webwombat.com.au/motoring/news_reports/images/holden-aims-04-2-big.JPG)
is what the front end will look like. :)

[plonkerchops]

the overall body shape is quite nice , almost Audi shaped , however the front end is:spew:
I think its the headlghts forming part of the top of the guard which buggers it

[kane_tools]

Here is the Opel version
New 2006 Omega
http://www.germancarfans.com/spyphotos.cfm/spyphotoid/6040505.001/opel/1.html

[crYnOid]

Here is the Opel version
New 2006 Omega
http://www.germancarfans.com/spyphotos.cfm/spyphotoid/6040505.001/opel/1.html


"2005 Opel Omega artist rendering" ie. photochop. therefore, means nothing.

[Esci]

Well if that's the VE inspiration I'd be quite happy. I like it

[Drizt]

personally not a big fan...

but bring on a v8 torana and ill buy one

[GM350]

I personally reckon that the Torana front was a MUCH closer guide to VE. You can see where the lines/creases have been moving VT->VZ and where they were on the Torana. It really makes sense if you can imagine the lines gradually moving from a more horizontal focus at the front to a more vertical "edge-driven" design.

The pics in this post are a bit too organic to be VE-ish. Also, re the lights, given the raspberry that everyone gave Itsibitsi for doing this, SURELY GM wouldn't make the same mistake. The Commodore is their biggest selling car. I cannot imagine that after watching Ford screw everything up with AU and Itsibitsi complete wreck sales of the Magna, that they could also make that mistake - particularly given that the next Falcon is meant to be much nicer in the flesh than the BA. They wouldn't dare stuff up.

I agree, I see the new VE adopting the new torana lines front to back.

[kane_tools]

"2005 Opel Omega artist rendering" ie. photochop. therefore, means nothing. Duh!!
All I was showing is the Opel version of the SAME CAR already pictured here (Saturn).
Which our Commodore has always traditionally been based on!

[V-Car]

Duh!!
All I was showing is the Opel version of the SAME CAR already pictured here (Saturn).
Which our Commodore has always traditionally been based on!

Kane, im afraid you were wrong with that pic you posted.
That (artists impression) of the next Omega, if built, will be on the VE Commodores Zeta platform....totally different to the Saturn Aura which is built on the FWD Epsilon platform that we already see under the Opel Vectra/Signum, Saab 9-3, Chevy Malibu/Maxx and Pontiac G6.
The Commodore has never been based on a FWD Vectra platform.
Please refer back to previous posts in this thread.
If you wanted to post a pic of the Opel version of the SAME CAR pictured here (Saturn) then look no further than a pic of the current Vectra that is already sold here. :)

[Nobby]

I think this is a preview to the VE Commodore what do you guys think.
http://autoweek.com/images/news/101553

Looks alright, the lights are little much though.

[HSV ENHANCED VT]

That ain't the VE, loolk at it! its to small, especially the bonnet, you can't fit a V8 under that, not even a V6! I would never buy a commodore again it that was the new commodore. Keep Looking People! :bash:

[VS_SeV]

I think this is a preview to the VE Commodore what do you guys think.
http://autoweek.com/images/news/101553
I believe someone from Holden fell in love with the DAIHATSU SIRION...


http://photos.carsales.com.au/2589593.jpg

[V-Car]

you can't fit a V8 under that, not even a V6! Keep Looking People! :bash:

Keep looking HSV ENHANCED VT, because its got a 3.6 Alloytec V6 under it! :bash: ;)

[muzza]

It kinda looks like an audi A6 (wheel arches and glasshouse) with an Astra front.

The indicators above the headlights inside the glass is so BMW 7/5 series- and I dont reckon they look real good.

I think one of the best aspects of the look of the current VT-VZ series is the front wheel arches, but everyone now seems to be going to german style circular blisters around the wheels, which will date fairly quickly IMHO.

I reckon Torana and Vectra will be the best indicators of where Holden are heading - the VZ front with the emphasis on the pseudo-shield between the headlights and lower is the best hint that Holden are trying to link it to the VE looks and acheive some continuity there.

[Jag530G]

Keep looking HSV ENHANCED VT, because its got a 3.6 Alloytec V6 under it! :bash: ;)

The fact that it has a Alloytec under the bonnet doesnt mean anything, the next mid size Saabs, Alfas and Opels will use it as well, in FWD applications.

The VE will be just like every other Commodore ever built, it will be based on the styling of European Opels (Old f@rts please note the similarity of the EJ/EH Holden and the early 60's Opel Kaptain). Expect to see the Vectra/Torana styling throughout.

I think a big and vast improvement to the VE over all Commodores before it will be a longer wheelbase that is used to push the front wheels closer to the front of the car, if you read the Wheels article on the Torana, they made mention of this. In proportion Commodores do have large front overhangs, the VT-VZ is truly shocking and I believe it contributes to the leaning-on-outside-front-tyre sensation you get going around corners

[V-Car]

Never said it did, was just pointing out that a V6 did fit....just like it does in all the other Epsilon vehicles before this Saturn.
Anyhow, its irrelevent, the Saturn has nothing to do with the next Commodore.
BTW, it was Opel Kapitan, not Kaptain. :p ;)

[TriShield]

That's a Saturn cooked up for the North American market only guys, and as far as Saturns go it looks really damn good. Don't go looking for any VE Commodore in that design, completely unrelated vehicles.

If anything, I think the VE will resemble the Torana concept, a good thing.

[MALATO]

Here are some more pics that you might be interested in?
I have heard that the VE will have a similar narrower wheel track & higher roof line as can be hinted to in the following front & rear pics. (Rumour can from within HOLDEN's Elizabeth plant.) Guess only time will tell but i certainly hope not!

http://www.haroc.1337thing.com/ls1/MALATO/AURA/X05CC_ST025.jpg http://www.haroc.1337thing.com/ls1/MALATO/AURA/X05CC_ST024.jpg http://www.haroc.1337thing.com/ls1/MALATO/AURA/X05CC_ST010.jpg http://www.haroc.1337thing.com/ls1/MALATO/AURA/X05CC_ST009.jpg http://www.haroc.1337thing.com/ls1/MALATO/AURA/x05cc_st008.jpg http://www.haroc.1337thing.com/ls1/MALATO/AURA/X05CC_ST016.jpg http://www.haroc.1337thing.com/ls1/MALATO/AURA/X05CC_ST017.jpg http://www.haroc.1337thing.com/ls1/MALATO/AURA/X05CC_ST019.jpg

[JazzaT]

YUCK! That saturn's interior is HORRIBLE!!!

And it's not the VE. Read the first page.

[ABS]

I like the overall proportions of the exterior although the tail lights look yuck and the wheels are pukey. Inside looks horrible, low-rent and cramped, definitely an American car then...

I recon the VE will look alot closer to the Torana concept car.

[Sly]

I wonder why this is a right hand drive vehicle? I guess GM must be considering the potential for this to replace the slow selling Vectra for the Australian market.

[Rick76]

I wonder why this is a right hand drive vehicle? I guess GM must be considering the potential for this to replace the slow selling Vectra for the Australian market.

Its LHD, look at all the other pics ;)

When I first saw the seats the first thing that came to mind was the old HZ Kingswood :lol:

[StormVX]

2006 model camry tail lights.

yeah the seats are pre 70's!

I don't recon it's it anyway.

the torana looks a bit too VZ i think. the change from VL to VN was huge, as was the change from VS to VT. i think the change might be bigger than the look of the torana.

my 2 cents...

[GTS LSA]

I may only be a newby to this site.....but I still appreciate a good body.....& this aint one of em........looks like my VYII Maloo will be with me for a long time :)

[GM350]

I don't mind the saturn shape and dimensions, side view looks good, but the interior is puke marterial so too the front and back ends.

[HSVMAN]

Here is the Opel version
New 2006 Omega
http://www.germancarfans.com/spyphotos.cfm/spyphotoid/6040505.001/opel/1.html
Much more like it - cross with the Torana concept and you are looking at a new VE - certainly not the pic at start of this thread.
VE front is a continuation of the VZ bonnet/grill styling (which is a hint of the next generation Commodore) so the Omega and Torana are far closer to the final "look" :)

[mavss]

The 2006 Omega picture has been posted before and it's pretty much been confirmed that the VE will not look like this.

[MALATO]

YUCK! That saturn's interior is HORRIBLE!!!

And it's not the VE. Read the first page.

No one said it was the VE! We just stated that it may have some styling clues of what is to come.

[GTS JaZzA]

that looks to high and narrow to be a commodore. i dont mind the back, but the front reminds me of an old lady getting her eyebrows raised so she always looks surprised :D

[plonkerchops]

Its LHD, look at all the other pics ;)

When I first saw the seats the first thing that came to mind was the old HZ Kingswood :lol:

heheheheh bloody brilliant, I had an HJ Belmont which had bench seats just like that too :cool: :D

[maxter]

Has anyone read this article... It may make the whole debate immaterial...

America's Holden... (http://www.smh.com.au/news/National/Holdens-American-dream-building-the-ute-in-the-land-of-the-free-market/2005/01/11/1105423490178.html)

Jeez I hope not, given what has been done to the Monaro.

[HSVMAN]

The 2006 Omega picture has been posted before and it's pretty much been confirmed that the VE will not look like this.
Cant find any confirmation of that one my friend. I have it on good authority the design cues and styling for VE. I havent seen one of course but then remember who bought the VZ pics to this site..... ;)

As for future assembly of Holdens, America will get what they want we will get what we want (well, what Holden wants...)

[Nobby]

Has anyone read this article... It may make the whole debate immaterial...

America's Holden... (http://www.smh.com.au/news/National/Holdens-American-dream-building-the-ute-in-the-land-of-the-free-market/2005/01/11/1105423490178.html)

Jeez I hope not, given what has been done to the Monaro.

That sucks. If GM make the Commodore overseas, Falcon will become the largest selling brand in Australia for sure. I for one (Ford bias aside) wouldn't buy a US Commodore, nor would many diehards here, I'm sure.

For many reasons, I hope this doesn't happen.

[Dacious]

Don't get panties in twist yet. The article said some Holdens may be made in the US. Not the Commode. Given the Monaro was going to be finished as of '04 until the GTO came along, we can't really complain. VZ Monaro is a miracle car - it was never meant to exist. Get 'em while they're hot. As Bobgeniii noted a while ago, Holden never signed off on an Oz-made VE coupe. If it is made, it will be in the US.

All they are saying is low volume cars like the coupes and stretched cars, which they could sell many more of in the States, may be made there. Anyone in manufacturing will tell you, the less variants, the more efficient your plant, the larger quantities you make. So Holden makes 4-doors and commercials, and the yanks make the luxo-barges and coupes, which are big sellers there. It would probably help rather than hinder the sales of Statos and Caprices, even in Oz.


Downtime and lost production is caused when the line has to changed over to a new combo of parts and procedures. Holden has had an embarrassment of riches, but it must be a PITA to run and administer. Not to say I wouldn't like the Oz Monaro to continue, but its' days were numbered anyhow.


Making the Commodore there and importing would make no sense due to high labour costs in the US. Holden would probably like the factory space back - there's no doubt that the whole plot is getting complicated with Holdens, Chevs, Vauxhalls, Pontiacs, Daewoos coming out of one plant!

[JohnS]

Don't get panties in twist yet.

All they are saying is low volume cars like the coupes and stretched cars, which they could sell many more of in the States, may be made there.

Dacious if you read the article it says the ute may be made in the US as well. Thank you for your explaination but the simple fact is the GM USA has a deal with the USA trade unions that such commercial vehicle sold in the US will be built in the US only.


Anyone in manufacturing will tell you, the less variants, the more efficient your plant, the larger quantities you make.

Thank you for the school boy answer but don't you manufacturing essentially the same product in two different plants adds costs?

A few issues spring to mind, if the VE becomes a big seller in the US how will the US influence it design in the future and will i like it, will commodores be built in Australia at all in 5 years and what impact does the new US/Australia FTA have on this.

[Evil LS1]

I'm all for the yanks making the Monaro as long as we get a cheaper car due to economies of scale. Look at the EVO VIII - priced drop 20K once they started selling it in the USA. Monaro should be around the low $50K mark not $60K.

[HSVMAN]

Dacious if you read the article it says the ute may be made in the US as well. Thank you for your explaination but the simple fact is the GM USA has a deal with the USA trade unions that such commercial vehicle sold in the US will be built in the US only.
Thank you for the school boy answer but don't you manufacturing essentially the same product in two different plants adds costs?
A few issues spring to mind, if the VE becomes a big seller in the US how will the US influence it design in the future and will i like it, will commodores be built in Australia at all in 5 years and what impact does the new US/Australia FTA have on this.
Dacious is right on the button, some of you are heading down a track that doesnt exist, therefore creating "what ifs" and invisible scenarios.
SOME models may be built overseas (but largely for those markets) at a later date and unless you plan on travelling to the states to buy one dont sweat it you will still be able to buy your beloved Aussie built and specced Commy here :)
Meanwhile if you prefer, you will more than likely be able to purchase a US built RH drive Buick or Vette down under....

[JohnS]

Dacious is right on the button, some of you are heading down a track that doesnt exist, therefore creating "what ifs" and invisible scenarios.

Sorry this track does exist according to someone has probarly has a bit more info than you... Holden chairman and managing director, Denny Mooney, read the article.


SOME models may be built overseas (but largely for those markets) at a later date and unless you plan on travelling to the states to buy one dont sweat it you will still be able to buy your beloved Aussie built and specced Commy here :)

The article implies that some models will be built exclusively overseas... because the The Elizabeth factory operates 24 hours a day and produces one of the most diverse range of cars in the world - up to 14 models and they would like to reduce the number of models built in Elizabeth.


Meanwhile if you prefer, you will more than likely be able to purchase a US built RH drive Buick or Vette down under....

HSVMAN are heading down a track that doesnt exist, therefore creating "what ifs" and invisible scenarios :D

[Dacious]

Sorry this track does exist according to someone has probarly has a bit more info than you... Holden chairman and managing director, Denny Mooney, read the article.

The article implies that some models will be built exclusively overseas... because the The Elizabeth factory operates 24 hours a day and produces one of the most diverse range of cars in the world - up to 14 models and they would like to reduce the number of models built in Elizabeth.

HSVMAN are heading down a track that doesnt exist, therefore creating "what ifs" and invisible scenarios :D

And the two models are: Statesman and coupe. They sell less than 10K each of these in Oz, but they're fiddly and relatively expensive cars to build here due to low volume - more limos go overseas than are sold here and potential sales in the US are probably 30-40K per annum. A home grown 'GTO' especially available in more option levels and lower priced, and potentially in a lesser V6 version, would sell up to or more than 100,000.

It would not be cost effective to re-import the Ute to a dollar conscious market, not when we are building tens of thousands of them. Australia has a market for 4-door Crewcabs because other than smaller Japanese jobbies that's all there is - the US has pickups with seating for 4 or 5 or more coming out the wazoo, mostly much bigger than ours, but including V8 Toyotas and Nissans; and the market is much more diluted with GM's own devices like the SSR and Silverado.

Not saying the US pickups may not be designed here, but likely built in parallel. And as for buying RHD Buicks and Corvettes, it's happening - the RHD Corvette is a reality. Even the Mustang has, for the first time, been engineered to be built RHD in the new model, mostly because the chassis it is built on allows it - it is the same basic unit you find under 4-door Jaguars and in the US Lincoln sedans. So Ford fans may have a two-door to hang their hat on.

Holden can use the potential capacity to build more 4-doors and commercials, where both vehicles sell for a handsome profit, and provide export credits too.

[JohnS]

Dacious I certianly hope GM follow your plan. Note that export credits can also be earnt building V6s, etc.

As for a RHD corvette being a reality i wish you were right. GM has announced that it will be selling the LHD corvette in the UK... why is that?

[Dacious]

Dacious I certianly hope GM follow your plan. Note that export credits can also be earnt building V6s, etc.

As for a RHD corvette being a reality i wish you were right. GM has announced that it will be selling the LHD corvette in the UK... why is that?


The UK is part of the European Union, and part of that included the removal of trade barriers and the adoption of common product legislation, safety laws etc. Why French cars no longer have yellow headlights. Brittain used to have laws like us, which barred LHD vehicles being registered unless over a certain age. That's all out the window now - you can go buy a LHD vehicle and register it in Brittain without any issues at all.

Go there in summer - you see so many LHD cars from Europe on the road it obviously makes no never-mind which side the driver is on. Also means a huge grey-import market of hi-po LHD cars in Brittain.

[HSVMAN]

Dacious I certianly hope GM follow your plan. Note that export credits can also be earnt building V6s, etc.

As for a RHD corvette being a reality i wish you were right. GM has announced that it will be selling the LHD corvette in the UK... why is that?
Ditto what Dacious said :)
And then think twice before making sarcastic comments without being in the know. Majority of people here can contribute what they believe to be the facts without petty criticism of those that might appear to be contributing otherwise - innocently or not :)

[JohnS]

The UK is part of the European Union, and part of that included the removal of trade barriers and the adoption of common product legislation, safety laws etc. Why French cars no longer have yellow headlights. Brittain used to have laws like us, which barred LHD vehicles being registered unless over a certain age. That's all out the window now - you can go buy a LHD vehicle and register it in Brittain without any issues at all.

Go there in summer - you see so many LHD cars from Europe on the road it obviously makes no never-mind which side the driver is on. Also means a huge grey-import market of hi-po LHD cars in Brittain.

Yes I know it is legal to drive LHD cars in Britian, however if RHD corvettes are a reality as you say why would GM sell LHD corvettes in a RHD country such as Britain? Dacious you said in a previous post that RHD corvettes are a reality, how do you know this?

[JohnS]

Ditto what Dacious said :)
And then think twice before making sarcastic comments without being in the know. Majority of people here can contribute what they believe to be the facts without petty criticism of those that might appear to be contributing otherwise - innocently or not :)

Maybe you should read the article we are talking about and have your own opinion rather than just ditto what other people say then you contribute something too. :lol:

[Dacious]

Yes I know it is legal to drive LHD cars in Britian, however if RHD corvettes are a reality as you say why would GM sell LHD corvettes in a RHD country such as Britain? Dacious you said in a previous post that RHD corvettes are a reality, how do you know this?

Says so in this article here. I don't know for a fact that they will come here, but insiders have indicated they will, to be sold alongside HSV cars at HSV dealers. It isn't being done for us, but for the UK and Japanese market. Japan already consumes Harleys and Rickenbacker guitars at a rate second only to the US - anything US-made is hot currency there.

RHD Vettes (http://waw.wardsauto.com/ar/auto_first_corvette_righthanddrive/)

People in the UK can often get LHD and RHD versions of the same car at the dealer, and LHD is usually cheaper in Europe due to more LHD cars being built. Some people buy LHD cars because they spend a lot of time away from the UK driving on the Continent.

[SSbaby]

Says so in this article here. I don't know for a fact that they will come here, but insiders have indicated they will, to be sold alongside HSV cars at HSV dealers. It isn't being done for us, but for the UK and Japanese market. Japan already consumes Harleys and Rickenbacker guitars at a rate second only to the US - anything US-made is hot currency there.

RHD Vettes (http://waw.wardsauto.com/ar/auto_first_corvette_righthanddrive/)

People in the UK can often get LHD and RHD versions of the same car at the dealer, and LHD is usually cheaper in Europe due to more LHD cars being built. Some people buy LHD cars because they spend a lot of time away from the UK driving on the Continent.

Sorry to butt in...

That article is dated Aug 1, 2000.

I have read recently that the C6 Corvette has NOT been designed for RHD markets.

I stand corrected and am eager to have someone prove me wrong!

[HSVMAN]

Yep and we will see more models too like Korean 4x4 (badged & sold as chev), as mentioned earlier its all part of the global GM plan involving huge export opportunities for Holden. RH drive vettes will be this way soon :)

As per the original subject of this thread - ironically the new Falcon is remarkably similar to the VE in styling etc. Guess no surprises there but some designs including the pic shown ealier will be seen in very similar format badged Holden or Chev with exception of the horrible american spec interior :D
Whatever the final look its signed and sealed and no going back.

[JohnS]

RH drive vettes will be this way soon :)

What is your source of information?


- ironically the new Falcon is remarkably similar to the VE in styling etc.

How can you possibly know what the VE looks like?

[HSVMAN]

What is your source of information?

How can you possibly know what the VE looks like?

Source is knowing the right people to talk to..... that others cannot. If I said anymore I would jeopardise that privilege.

I could be wrong as I have not seen one and will not see one untill near the time but i have on good authority a reasonable amount of information... :)

[SSbaby]

New Models: Corvette C6 introduced to Europeans
23 Sep 04 16:29

General Motors, having re-launched Chevrolet as its entry-level (budget) brand in Europe with a range of re-labelled Daewoos, is keen to keep the Chevvy Corvette in its top-end portfolio. Hence a series of press releases on the all-new C6-series coupe and convertible that don't mention the name "Chevrolet" anywhere. The smaller, lighter, more aerodynamic more agile 'Vette - as road-tested here on 4Car earlier this summer - is capable of 0-60 in 4.1 seconds, and it comes either with a removable hard top roof panel or an electrically-operated fabric soft-top. It is fitted with the new 'small-block' 6.0-litre V8, giving 404 bhp and 546Nm of torque, and a new six-speed manual gearbox with optional close-ratio Performance Package. A five-speed auto is optional. The suspension is all-new, with the option of Magnetic Selective Ride Control, an adjustable damping system. Production has already begun in the US of the coupe, and convertible production begins in November; right-hand drive versions of either are not planned.
Source: http://www.channel4.com/4car/news/news-story.jsp?news_id=11121

[Dacious]

I will have to concede I don't know for a fact teh Corvette will be available in RHD. I believe it has been designed to be built that way, because such a decision would have to be made early in the design phase, pre the 2001 article. It would probably make not much difference to sales in Brittain because the car is a curio there anyhow.

They probably decided not to because their sums didn't add up on the sales. I have to say I don't think it would sell a heap here unless the HSV GTS wasn't around, which has similar performance and probably a good deal more practicality and not much less exclustivity for a similar price.

[JohnS]

Source is knowing the right people to talk to..... that others cannot.

Well you must be a very well connected individual to KNOW that GM will release a RHD corvette in Australia when GM states that have no plans for a RHD corvette. I will take it as gospel then what you say is our undeniable future :lol: :lol: :lol:


I could be wrong as I have not seen one and will not see one untill near the time but i have on good authority a reasonable amount of information... :)

You don't sound very confident here in support of the statement in made in your previous post...

[HSVMAN]

You don't sound very confident here in support of the statement in made in your previous post...

Answered your two questions in order - first Vette, 2nd VE.
If Vette arrives down under (and it is likely to) it will have to be RHD or converted to RHD. Lets just say for now it will be here. I cannot see it selling in numbers however either but what will be will be.
Best we agree to diagree :)

[JohnS]

I will have to concede I don't know for a fact teh Corvette will be available in RHD. I believe it has been designed to be built that way, because such a decision would have to be made early in the design phase, pre the 2001 article. It would probably make not much difference to sales in Brittain because the car is a curio there anyhow.

Dacious I wish it was fact :) .

I am not sure if the C6 platform was designed to accomodate RHD, anyone know? I understand that Bob Lutz has recently said the all GM will be designed to accomodate LHD and RHD.

[SSbaby]

Dacious I wish it was fact :) .

I am not sure if the C6 platform was designed to accomodate RHD, anyone know? I understand that Bob Lutz has recently said the all GM will be designed to accomodate LHD and RHD.

Hey I'm also disappointed...

1. That it won't be coming to Aus.
2. I can't afford one anyway.

But from what I have read, the Cadillac XLR and C6 share a common architecture but neither can/will be converted to RHD for cost (?) reasons.

[smoke]

We wont get the corvette or any upmarket US GM models! But they will get our coveted utes, monaros and statos. We will get base models, thats it. We are a small consumer and will lose out everytime!!!!!! As for the original post, that car is butt (yank) ugly and our preferences on exterior styling will be second to the rest of GMs customers. Get used to it!!!!!! :(

[MALATO]

Maybe the VE will look a little like this????

http://www.haroc.1337thing.com/ls1/MALATO/2006%20VE%20Commodore.JPG

[mavss]

I take it this is photochopped?

DOesn't look too bad at all.

WHat model is it meant to be? S-pack maybe.

Needs more aggressive wheels/body kit/exhaust to be SS.

How about a front-end look.

[BlackClubbie]

Looks like a Toyota with a Ford AU backside.

[JazzaT]

I love this new thing, whatever it is... Looks kinda like a 5 Series BMW, with VY tailights... What is it exactly? I'm thinking it's Japanese, coz it has dual exhausts... All the jap companies are using those lately...

[paulvdb]

Maybe the VE will look a little like this????


:eek: IS-200 nose, maxima bits, Magna rear - YUK it's a mess. I'm sure Holden wouldn't get the VE that wrong. If we want Japanese cars then we'll buy Japanese cars. The bumpers look American - my guess then is that this is a new American Japanese car.

[V-Car]

Settle down guys, its just a 2006 Impala, with front wheel drive....nothing to do with the VE at all.
But they do have the option of a 5.3 version of the gen III, sitting sideways up front.

http://www.chevrolet.com/impala06/

To me they look like Subaru Liberty (Legacy) copies.

[BlackClubbie]

Front wheel drive and twin exhaust... wow...

You know what the problem is with today's cars ?
They look very fragile. Ok. the monaro, vt, vx, vy, vz look tough and solid, even the fordies look tough, but you take a bloody camry for example, it looks like a big flimsy boat. Note, i am talking about looks, we all know Toyota is going to be #1 car maker very soon, and probably for good reasons.

[JazzaT]

interesting to see that the impala has a 3.9L version of the HFV6 (i'm guessing it's HFV6 anyway)... maybe this will be VE's 6er? also see that the 5.3L has DoD, but still only 4 speed auto...

[BlackClubbie]

There's your front wheel drive v8, mate :-)

[V-Car]

interesting to see that the impala has a 3.9L version of the HFV6 (i'm guessing it's HFV6 anyway)...

No, its just an OHV 60 degree cast iron block, aluminium heads from the 3500 family, and designated LZ9.
2 valves per cyl. but variable timing on both inlet and exhaust valves, it makes 178kw in 3.9 form, and 156kw in 3.5.

[JazzaT]

aaaah, ok... i got myself all excited. thanks for clearing that up.

[COSMOS]

in regards to the Saturn Aura - i have a few pics of the car taken for the NAIAS. I sat it in and found the interior to be very modern and very comfortable. Its a little bigger than an astra but dont know if its as big as a vectra (it may be).

Who wants to host the pics?

[trev/VUs]

It just doesnt say holden to me

[Dacious]

There's your front wheel drive v8, mate :-)

The 5.3 is the Caddy Northstar motor, not the LS1 or any derivative. The Northstar is a saga in itself - engineered in the days of 'don't touch for 100,000 miles' thinking like the Taurus (yeah, right!). When it breaks you throw it away. It is also a short motor designed for FWD applications, not hipo applications.
http://www.babcox.com/editorial/us/elements/100232.gif
Northstar motors are chain-driven, quad-cam VVT with cast-in non-replaceable liners, a split crankcase like a motorbike in place of main-bearing caps. Designed to throw-away when blownup or wornout.

[V-Car]

The 5.3 is the Caddy Northstar motor, not the LS1 or any derivative.

Dacious, im afraid thats not correct.
The Northstar is a totally different engine to the 5.3 LS4 derivatives of the GEN IV, just like the LS1 is a 5.7 derivative of the GEN III.

The Northstar is an aluminium DOHC 32 valve 4.6 litre engine.

The L33 and LS4 are an aluminium OHV 5.3lt engine.

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4.6L Northstar V-8 VVT

With its availability in the new Cadillac STS, the adaptability of the renowned 4.6L Northstar V-8 VVT shines brighter in 2005. Versions of the Northstar V-8 already power front-, rear-, and all-wheel-drive vehicles from Cadillac, including the DeVille, XLR and SRX, as well as the 2005 Pontiac Bonneville GXP. In the new Cadillac STS, the Northstar V-8 produces an estimated 320 hp (238 kw) and is expected to help the rear-wheel-drive model achieve 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) in less than 6 seconds. An all-wheel-drive STS model also is available with the 4.6L engine.

Variable valve timing for the engine’s intake and exhaust valves offers flexibility, fuel economy and reduced emissions, making the engine an efficient performer. The four-cam variable valve timing is a key element in the V-8’s control strategy, giving the engine wide-ranging flexibility. Additionally, electronic throttle control effectively coordinates the driver’s intentions with the actions of the various control components.
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Vortec 5300 V-8 (L33)

An all-aluminum version of the Vortec 5300 V-8 (L33) engine is available in Chevrolet 1500 Silverado Extended Cab and GMC Sierra Extended Cab models equipped with four-wheel drive and the short box. The 5.3L V-8 produces 310 hp (231 kw) and 330 lb.-ft. (447 Nm) of torque.

Constructed with an aluminum block and cylinder heads, this version of the Vortec 5300 V-8 is 100 pounds (45.4 kg) lighter than versions with an iron block. Reduced mass enhances handling and balance, as well as fuel economy.
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And in the Impala its called the LS4.

Impala SS and Monte Carlo SS receive the new LS4 5.3L V-8 with Displacement On Demand (DOD) technology to regulate between eight-cylinder and four-cylinder operation – providing up to 12 percent improved fuel economy in certain light-load driving conditions. The 5.3L V-8 produces 303 horsepower (226 kw) and 323 lb.-ft. (438 Nm) of torque.
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[Dacious]

Yep, you're right. My bad. I was thinking as it shares a similar body and design with the Pontiac Bonneville it had the same motor. It is indeed the DoD mill. Makes no never mind. Check sources before typing, I guess. :o

Some Impala styling elements might make it into VE, or probably more likely they're being designed in parallel so they'll show up.

[JohnS]

It is also a short motor designed for FWD applications, not hipo applications..

Caddy have just release a 4.4L 440hp supercharged version of the Northstar in a rwd car.

This engine is close to redundant for Caddy's purposes and will be replaced by a V8 version of GM's new HF V6 displacing around 4.7L in a couple of years. Not official but highly likely that Caddy will also have a v12 version of the HF v6 for a new ultra luxury sedan.