VE Discussion / General Thread PART 4

[XLR8 V8]

Please continue all VE General discussion in this thread.

[AndrewW]

Hey Andrew, keep your VY, and trade the Mazda in for a black SS-V A6. Solves the depreciation issue on the VY and gives you VE also!!.

Are you talking to me ?

If so, who are you, and how do you know I also have a Mazda ? <insert twilight zone smiley here ...>

Andrew.

[kayman]

You mentioned you had a mazda didnt you... :S

[silvervyss]

He has no choice but to hate it and post back here that he has now seen it and it still sucks. Anything else is a loss of face and would be admitting he's full of it. Therefore don't expect people who have been negative to change their tune just because they finally see it. Those people have to rubbish it because.

1/ Its a Holden so automatically rubbish.
2/ Its not what they bought so to justify their decision it must be crap.
3/ They said it was crap and admitting otherwise would reduce their status in their own minds, hence it must remain crap.
4/ Everybody else has it wrong and it actually is crap.

Surprising and all as it may seem I don't agree with you. The person in question already has an SS and his previous reply seemed quite reasonable i.e. he admitted his comments were only based on pictures (which I had already bagged him and others for) and didn't need to say he was going to see one today but did anyway.

Given everyone else's comments after seeing a real one I'd be very surprised if he still said the front looked like a BA, but even if he did it's still just personal opinion. And as I said last night, much and all as I think the VE looks great not everybody is going to like them, same as any car you care to name. Cars we may think are sex on wheels some people are going to hate (most likely for that very same reason).



1 - i drive a vy holden (4th one)
2 - not looking to upgrade this year (if i was, it would be another holden and not a vz)
3 - admitting that i was wrong; is not going to clash with my ego
4 - its my opinion

i still haven't had a chance to look at one bec. of work commitments (i am self employed), but i have freed up some time monday. i will reply with a honest answer; as i always do.

[hallyoz]

Andrew, sorry to freak you out!!! I didn't mean too, I thought you would realise who it is.

Think of another Andrew that has close links to your in-laws......

[AndrewW]

Andrew, sorry to freak you out!!! I didn't mean too, I thought you would realise who it is.

Think of another Andrew that has close links to your in-laws......

Aha, it all makes sense now.

Pretty sure I'd never mentioned the mazda on here ...

I thought I'd managed to pick up a stalker ;)

Andrew.

[calais v]

Hi Guys, First post. I have just ordered a Calais V with 6.00L. Can anyone confirm the V8 definitly comes with the LSD in the VE? My VY Calais did but the Holden website is confusing on the matter for the VE

[EddieVE06]

Just been reading cars guide and they have an article on the Aurion. They say it is going to have 204kw stock standard and is the 3.5-litre quad-cam V6 already fitted to the Lexus RX350. Hmmm... Fuel consumption of around 10lt/100km.

Sounds interesting. Can Holden or Ford match that? I bloody hope so :shock:

[jaykay]

Hi Guys, First post. I have just ordered a Calais V with 6.00L. Can anyone confirm the V8 definitly comes with the LSD in the VE? My VY Calais did but the Holden website is confusing on the matter for the VE
The brochures state the LSD is optional and is only available with sports suspension. Check this out with the dealer.

[calais v]

Thanks jkgmh
Have checked with the dealer and is an option. This is piss poor for a V8 without a slippery :vpo: As said before the VY and VX had it.
Have now modified my order to include LSD

[EddieVE06]

Thanks jkgmh
Have checked with the dealer and is an option. This is piss poor for a V8 without a slippery :vpo: As said before the VY and VX had it.
Have now modified my order to include LSD

Does anyone know what the on roads are to put either a sv6 or ss on the road? thanx

[jaykay]

Does anyone know what the on roads are to put either a sv6 or ss on the road? thanx
Not sure where you are but in the West the Stamp Duty is about 6%, dealer delivery varies and rego about $550 for 12 months.

I believe the Stamp Duty on the east coast is about 2%, so this alone can make a big diference.

[AndrewW]

Does anyone know what the on roads are to put either a sv6 or ss on the road? thanx

have a look at www.discountnewcars.com.au

choose the car you are after, and then click on 'Dealer Delivery and State Government charges - Click to View'

It gives a breakdown for each state.

This info is available elsewhere, but its the best state by state summary I've come across.

Cheers,

Andrew.

[jaykay]

have a look at www.discountnewcars.com.au

choose the car you are after, and then click on 'Dealer Delivery and State Government charges - Click to View'

It gives a breakdown for each state.

This info is available elsewhere, but its the best state by state summary I've come across.

Cheers,

Andrew.
Good find Andrew....

[EddieVE06]

have a look at www.discountnewcars.com.au

choose the car you are after, and then click on 'Dealer Delivery and State Government charges - Click to View'

It gives a breakdown for each state.

This info is available elsewhere, but its the best state by state summary I've come across.

Cheers,

Andrew.


Great...now i can really work out what is going to cost me

[HSVMAN]

Great...now i can really work out what is going to cost me

For what it's worth I'm guessing the decision to make LSD on some models (that normally had LSD standard) optional, is based on ESP being fitted standard....

[Bazza76]

Does anyone know what the on roads are to put either a sv6 or ss on the road? thanx

The dealer told me to add $3000 for the on roads ( we were talking about SSV at the time), above the RRP.:)

[Nickoff]

Got to see a Calais (silver) and SV6 (blue) in the flesh this afternoon. As a number of other people have commented, the VE is a lot nicer in the flesh than the pic's would indicate. I was concerned that the back end looked out of line with the rest of the car, however now that I've seen it, I'm a lot more comfortable. The rear end of the SV6 looks very sporty and the Calais is all class - very nice. I'm hoping to book a test drive next week.

[Angelo_XLR8]

just got a promo flyer for the VE in the mail and an sms inviting me to the launch at suttons homebush. FYI there are some omegas, calais and berlinas in the holding yard accross the road.
im scanning the flyer in now.

should be up in 5 mins

[Angelo_XLR8]

scanner kicked the bucket so i snapped em with my phone

http://www.alivanos.com/Image020.jpg

http://www.alivanos.com/Image015.jpg

excuse the poor quality. im about 2 go out.

[V-drive]

Seems the VE in the US has made even more of an impression.
From automotive news. "TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. -- General Motors will put the Chevrolet Camaro sports car into production in late 2008, and put it on sale in early 2009, CEO Rick Wagoner said today.

The Camaro will closely resemble the concept car unveiled in January at the Detroit auto show, Wagoner said at the Management Briefing Seminars here.

The new Camaro will be a rear-wheel-drive car with independent rear suspension. The car's styling work is being done in the United States, while the rear-drive platform is being engineered in Australia, Wagoner said. Buyers will have a choice of V-6 and V-8 engines, and manual and automatic transmissions."

[monaroCountry1]

Just been reading cars guide and they have an article on the Aurion. They say it is going to have 204kw stock standard and is the 3.5-litre quad-cam V6 already fitted to the Lexus RX350. Hmmm... Fuel consumption of around 10lt/100km.

Sounds interesting. Can Holden or Ford match that? I bloody hope so

Well we all know that the Aurion has nothing on the VE in terms of power (v8), performance and handling.

The big question is...........can the camry with a measly 117kw match the aurion with 200kw? Both will have roughly the same fuel consumption (camry with 9.9 and aurion with 10).

I also remember the Toyota aust boss talking up the camry fuel consumption (prior to release). After the revelation that the camry has the worst consumption in its class, he suddenly changed his tack...........consumption not important, but perception of effeciency is:karate: .

[Venom XR]

Seems the VE in the US has made even more of an impression.
From automotive news. "TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. -- General Motors will put the Chevrolet Camaro sports car into production in late 2008, and put it on sale in early 2009, CEO Rick Wagoner said today.

The Camaro will closely resemble the concept car unveiled in January at the Detroit auto show, Wagoner said at the Management Briefing Seminars here.

The new Camaro will be a rear-wheel-drive car with independent rear suspension. The car's styling work is being done in the United States, while the rear-drive platform is being engineered in Australia, Wagoner said. Buyers will have a choice of V-6 and V-8 engines, and manual and automatic transmissions."

GM execs have all driven VE, and one Pontiac exec was quoted as saying he wanted VE right now. A striped SS V, with the muscular look VE now has, would be better received in the US than the Monaro.

[monarocv8z]

I was at my holden dealer today and they got there first load of VE's into the showroom. gotta say is the ssv looks awesome in the flesh. I also drove past another dealer and they had there showroom full of cars..

[korrupt]

Barloworld Holden in Glen Waverley has the full range of Commodores available to look at. No driving until Monday. I was very impressed with what I saw. They have a Red Hot SS V with the red dash that looks really good. It isn't as bad as it looks in the pictures. The new steering wheels feel nice and grippy and the audio controls are quite easy to use. The info displayed on the big screen is clear and easy to read, so be good for Sat-Nav maps. According to the salesman, they still don't have a release date for Sat-Nav or Holden Assist yet. Will be heading back next week for a drive or two...

[COSMOS]

I have an invite for a launch event at Peninsula Holden Bankstown on Tuesday from 430-830pm. I cant go as I am at a work group hug for three days.

If someone wants the invite (doesnt have my name on it) and wants to come to Condell Park to collect it Sunday then PM me please.

[Desertraptor]

51990 for the SSV does that include all costs? The tag on the SSV up here had 61000 inc all on road costs. 10K in costs seems high?

[Carby650]

Heading out for this afternoon so will take a drive past the local dealer to have a look at one or 2. Problem is that they will be closed so wont be able to get up close and personal.

[matt.vzss]

Had a look at the full range at my local dealer today and i was impressed with what i saw, wasnt aloud to drive the cars until monday but i did pick up an invite to the launch on wed night when you will be able to drive them. Once driven its going to be time to open up the cheque book i feel and get my order in for an impulse blue SS-V.

[Carby650]

Had a look at the full range at my local dealer today and i was impressed with what i saw, wasnt aloud to drive the cars until monday but i did pick up an invite to the launch on wed night when you will be able to drive them. Once driven its going to be time to open up the cheque book i feel and get my order in for an impulse blue SS-V.

Nooooo.. Not Blue. Thats a Fraud colour... gotta be Red :headbang:

[BLACK expreSS-V]

Barloworld Holden in Glen Waverley has the full range of Commodores available to look at. No driving until Monday. I was very impressed with what I saw. They have a Red Hot SS V with the red dash that looks really good. It isn't as bad as it looks in the pictures. The new steering wheels feel nice and grippy and the audio controls are quite easy to use. The info displayed on the big screen is clear and easy to read, so be good for Sat-Nav maps. According to the salesman, they still don't have a release date for Sat-Nav or Holden Assist yet. Will be heading back next week for a drive or two...

Spoke to McGraiths Holden. Apparently big problems with the GPS accuracy - hence the delays. This sounds like a bit of a worry. All the doco says the release will be late 2006, surely something like that could have been sorted out pre-release?

They have no idea on price for the GPS systems, but have heard a rumour that retrofitting will be "difficult" , if not impossible (factory feature).

[jaykay]

51990 for the SSV does that include all costs? The tag on the SSV up here had 61000 inc all on road costs. 10K in costs seems high?
$51,990 is the RRP for a manual SSV. If you go auto it's $2k more and then on roads. Depends what they had on it for that $$$$. On roads should only be about $3 to $4k your way....

[Controltech]

Spoke to McGraiths Holden. Apparently big problems with the GPS accuracy - hence the delays. This sounds like a bit of a worry. All the doco says the release will be late 2006, surely something like that could have been sorted out pre-release?

They have no idea on price for the GPS systems, but have heard a rumour that retrofitting will be "difficult" , if not impossible (factory feature).

I have ordered a SSV with Sat Nav and have been assured that it is a dealer fitted option. Does anyone else have more info?

[payaya]

with all this talk about Toyota building boring cars, well here is a Lexus any company would be proud of.

Over 300KW and 550NM of torque from a 5.0L!

That torque figure is unusaully high for a 5.0L

http://www.nihoncarandbike.com/news-323-Lexus+IS500%2C+why+look+any+further%3F.html

[jaykay]

with all this talk about Toyota building boring cars, well here is a Lexus any company would be proud of.

Over 300KW and 550NM of torque from a 5.0L!

That torque figure is unusaully high for a 5.0L

http://www.nihoncarandbike.com/news-323-Lexus+IS500%2C+why+look+any+further%3F.html
And this is in the VE Discussion / General Thread because ????? :stick:

[payaya]

because Toyota was a big talking point to part 2 thread.

[AndrewW]

because Toyota was a big talking point to part 2 thread.

fantastic, so let's drag the thread completely off topic again ...

[monaroCountry1]

Originally Posted by payaya View Post
with all this talk about Toyota building boring cars, well here is a Lexus any company would be proud of.

Over 300KW and 550NM of torque from a 5.0L!

That torque figure is unusaully high for a 5.0L

http://www.nihoncarandbike.com/news-...urther%3F.html

Who cares about displacement...............not me

Oh I know lets compare about price and modability................please.

Please tell us the bargain basement price for that 300+kw toyota.

[BLACK expreSS-V]

I have ordered a SSV with Sat Nav and have been assured that it is a dealer fitted option. Does anyone else have more info?

That is good news, thanks for the info. I better go see another dealer.

How much was the satnav option? nobody seems to have a price, but if you ordered it, you must know...

[BlueVZSS]

That is good news, thanks for the info. I better go see another dealer.

How much was the satnav option? nobody seems to have a price, but if you ordered it, you must know...

When you build and price one on the Holden site it lists SAT NAV as a $1,990 option available late 06.

[Desertraptor]

The SSV what further options are there for the SSV to take it from $51990 to $61000? The only thing missing was SatNav and the fullsize spare.

If I ever buy it would be a SS with SatNav and fullsize spare. That covers my wants.

[BlueVZSS]

The SSV what further options are there for the SSV to take it from $51990 to $61000? The only thing missing was SatNav and the fullsize spare.

If I ever buy it would be a SS with SatNav and fullsize spare. That covers my wants.

Engine/transmission type:

Commodore SS V-Series 6.0L 6-speed manual Generation 4 Alloy V8 $51,990.00 RRP

or

Commodore SS V-Series 6.0L 6-speed automatic with Active Select Generation 4 Alloy V8 $53,990.00 RRP

Options:

Satellite navigation (available late 2006) $1,990.00 RRP
Rear seat overhead DVD player $1,290.00 RRP
Full size spare alloy wheel and tyre $250.00 RRP
Electric tilt and slide sunroof $1,690.00 RRP
Metallic paint $375.00 RRP

Total price: $59,585.00 RRP

I imagine that the rest is onroad costs.

[mavss]

Dropped into my local Holden dealer about 30 mins ago and found the main showroom windows covered up, except for strategically positioned gaps which allowed for a close-up sneek peak at the VE's inside.

When is the official release date anyway?

[SV805]

Dropped into my local Holden dealer about 30 mins ago and found the main showroom windows covered up, except for strategically positioned gaps which allowed for a close-up sneek peak at the VE's inside.

When is the official release date anyway?

Tomorrow 14/08/2006 you will be able to view, sitin and drive them at most dealers....Launchs at different dealers over next few days.

[ti0350]

I went to heartland holden yesterday and while I was looking at the used the cars I got talking to the salesman he says oh they VE in the showroom now in the new car division.. So I drag the wife and kids across only to find that the VE's in the showroom were actually I mint condition WB Statesman, a VN Calais and a fussion GTO.. :vpo:

[Black VU SS ute]

I got to see the ve's on saturday, out the back of my holden dealer, they look really good, the interiors not bad either, and the hand brake is a tad strange, as it looks part of the centre console, the rear brakes disc's I think are slightly bigger at the back than the front discs, but will find out on wednesday with the invite to the unvailing at the dealership :)

[korrupt]

Had a Chevy Lumina SS at my folk's place today. I missed it, but my brother got to drive it. Said it had the SS-V centre console, but everything else was SS, including the 18" wheels. Apparently it is a evaluation vehicle. He has photos, will try and get them up soon. Was a 6 speed auto version. He was very impressed with it, from the exhaust note to the transmission smoothness to the looks.

[BLACK expreSS-V]

Had a really good look at the VE range today at my friendly local dealership.

Saw the SS in the flesh. Sadly it was in white. The photos we saw a week ago were bad, sadly in real life it looks just as fat and ugly.

In all other colours they looked great, even the Omega in a nice colour has a really good shape. Please no more falcon comparisons, it really looks like a commodore bloodline in the flesh.

For the family guys - the boot was a let down. From all the talk about the BMW style hinges, I opened up the boot expecting I could fit a pile of luggage if needed. The boot was very long (from the back seat to the bumper, but not very deep, in fact you couldn't place large suitcases upright, they would have to be on their backs. May be an issue for the annual trip to QLD... The back seat seemed not much wider (if at all) over the VZ, but has more leg/knee room for adults, as the back of the front seats are arched inwards to give another inch for tall rear seat passengers.

For the sporty types - the exhaust is beautiful. The sounds is a dream. Okay its not like a 308 HQ with a cam, but it does have a rumble and has that nice dual system balanced V8 sound when you crouch down near the back number plate. A peep under the car showed a nearly fully symmetrical exhaust system from the headers right thru to the quad tailpipes.

Do I need the A6, or is the M6 better than the VZ ? well, I wasn't allowed to drive it, but just mucking around inside - the clutch pedal was extremely light and had about 3/4 of the movement a VZ has. The short shifter was another surprise, there was a lot less throw. I compared it to a VZ SS nearby and the movement felt a hell of a lot less, the stubby knob probably helped too. Can't wait to drive it, as it felt really good. (I really dont want to have to spend $2k on the auto).


Gotta get to bed, so I'll be fresh for the test drive tomorrow... :woohoo:

[jaykay]

Have the new ads for the VE started on TV yet ? I haven't seen any over here.

I would have thought they'd be on seeing tomorrow is the embargo lift day for viewing / driving / owning a new VE....

[Topher]

Watched a review of it on the car show last night at midnight.

Looked pretty nice, and it got to 250km/h pretty damn quickly. Glenn Ridge said a few nice things about it. didnt say anything bad but u know what australian car shows are like..

Havent seen one in the flesh yes but i might see one later today or something as i drive past holden dealer.

[EddieVE06]

Morning All

Had a drive of the SV6 on the weekend. A very nice car. Fundamentally, once you get in you know its a Commodore. Things have been changed but in the end its still the car we love. The SV6 drove very nicely, smooth trannie, nice sound from the exhaust, handles very well, and the dash isn't as bad as they say. It is easy to read.

Engine sounds a little thrashy towards the top end but all in all I'm impressed. Visually it is very imposing, looks nothing like a 380 or Ford however one thing i did not like is that it seems to sit to high at the front . When I mentioned this the response was.." We've had a few people say that already".
It looks higher at the front than the back.

The seats are lovely, the back seats seem more contoured also. Switch gear seems ok but is still very plasticey. As a whole I liked it very much.
The boot although being bigger is not as deep as the old model.

I asked whether it could be lowered a little from Holden factory and the answer was YES.

I also heard the SS being rolled out for someone else to drive and that thing sounds very very nice. Nothing silly just that low throbbing sound.

[AndrewW]

Just got to work after my early morning test drive (first VE test drive for this particular dealer)

Short Review:

Drove It.

Loved It.

Bought It.

Long Review:

External:

These things look awesome in the flesh. Very european (think BMW, Audi).

I test drove a manual SS with leather. Unfortunately, they had sold the auto SS-V so I have to wait until later in the week to try the auto.

Red is definitely the colour to get, in my opinion. I wanted to like the Impulst Blue, but it just looked a little light. It really needs to be a couple of shades darker.

Panel fit seemed to be very good, much improved on my VY.

The bumpers actually seemed to be attached with more than a paper clip and sticky tape, and resisted my attempts to flex them.

Exhaust:

From the moment the key was turned, I was sold. I swear the exhaust note alone will sell a fair few of these cars, and have aftermarket exhaust shops crying in there beer.

The exhaust has a nice throaty burble, that turns into a growl as redline approaches.

I would have to say that as much as I love my sureflo exhaust, the factory exhaust on the VE sounds better.

Interior:

It was confirmed that the red backlighting on the dash was standard and not changeable. This is my biggest misgiving, as I much prefer the green from the VY.

The materials in the dash are, shall we say, different. I think I prefer the VY dash, but I'm sure the VE will grow on me.

There was nothing terrible about the dash, I just didn't love it.

The hand brake looks really dicky, but luckily its out of eyeight when you are driving. The way that there is a handle where the left hand drive versions will have the handbreak looks fairly cheap and nasty.

The leather seats don't wrap around as much as the VY seats, but they are really comfortable, and funnily enough I didn't find myself sliding on them like I do in the VY.

The leather also seems to have a nicer feel.

The drivers seat goes much lower than the VY, I felt like I was riding on the car, not sitting in it when I got back into the VY.

Didn't really get a chance to try out the steering wheel controls, but I'm sure they will be easy enough to figure out.

Handling:

This thing is a bit of a weapon.

I was able to throw it through corners at crazy speeds and it just stuck to the road.

The steering is very direct, no slop at all in the wheel.

The gearbox is a gem, very short throws, nice light clutch with a low friction point. Its about time they finally got the gearbox right.

The car felt much faster than my edited VY.

Overall:

I love it, I'm sold.

I put a deposit down on the condition that I can find a purchaser for my current ride.

Was able to get a $2000 discount of RRP, but they weren't budging past there.

Andrew.

[jaykay]

Good write up Andrew. What are you buying, SS or SSV, auto or manual ?

John

[AndrewW]

SS definitely.

Manual more than likely.

I'm booked in to test drive the auto later in the week, but it will have to be very good to convince me to switch from the manual.

Andrew.

btw, jkgmh, change your avatar back to the old pic, or at least send me the full size original ;)

[EddieVE06]

Just got to work after my early morning test drive (first VE test drive for this particular dealer)

Short Review:

Drove It.

Loved It.

Bought It.

Long Review:

External:

These things look awesome in the flesh. Very european (think BMW, Audi).

I test drove a manual SS with leather. Unfortunately, they had sold the auto SS-V so I have to wait until later in the week to try the auto.

Red is definitely the colour to get, in my opinion. I wanted to like the Impulst Blue, but it just looked a little light. It really needs to be a couple of shades darker.

Panel fit seemed to be very good, much improved on my VY.

The bumpers actually seemed to be attached with more than a paper clip and sticky tape, and resisted my attempts to flex them.

Exhaust:

From the moment the key was turned, I was sold. I swear the exhaust note alone will sell a fair few of these cars, and have aftermarket exhaust shops crying in there beer.

The exhaust has a nice throaty burble, that turns into a growl as redline approaches.

I would have to say that as much as I love my sureflo exhaust, the factory exhaust on the VE sounds better.

Interior:

It was confirmed that the red backlighting on the dash was standard and not changeable. This is my biggest misgiving, as I much prefer the green from the VY.

The materials in the dash are, shall we say, different. I think I prefer the VY dash, but I'm sure the VE will grow on me.

There was nothing terrible about the dash, I just didn't love it.

The hand brake looks really dicky, but luckily its out of eyeight when you are driving. The way that there is a handle where the left hand drive versions will have the handbreak looks fairly cheap and nasty.

The leather seats don't wrap around as much as the VY seats, but they are really comfortable, and funnily enough I didn't find myself sliding on them like I do in the VY.

The leather also seems to have a nicer feel.

The drivers seat goes much lower than the VY, I felt like I was riding on the car, not sitting in it when I got back into the VY.

Didn't really get a chance to try out the steering wheel controls, but I'm sure they will be easy enough to figure out.

Handling:

This thing is a bit of a weapon.

I was able to throw it through corners at crazy speeds and it just stuck to the road.

The steering is very direct, no slop at all in the wheel.

The gearbox is a gem, very short throws, nice light clutch with a low friction point. Its about time they finally got the gearbox right.

The car felt much faster than my edited VY.

Overall:

I love it, I'm sold.

I put a deposit down on the condition that I can find a purchaser for my current ride.

Was able to get a $2000 discount of RRP, but they weren't budging past there.

Andrew.

I second the sweet sound of the SS. One turn of the key to fire it up and you just say to yourself......hmmm nice.

I thought the switch gear would be a little more solid and not as plastic as it feels.

Did you think the front sat a little high?

[AndrewW]

Did you think the front sat a little high?

Suspension wise ?

Yeah, I think the car as a whole sits a little high.

There is too much air between the tops of the tyres and the wheel arches.

The VE SS was sitting right next to a VZ SS, and the difference was quite noticable.

I think a set of sensibly lowered springs would be on the shopping list.

Andrew.

[jaykay]

Suspension wise ?

Yeah, I think the car as a whole sits a little high.

There is too much air between the tops of the tyres and the wheel arches.

The VE SS was sitting right next to a VZ SS, and the difference was quite noticable.

I think a set of sensibly lowered springs would be on the shopping list.

Andrew.
Lower it 3" and put on at least a set of 20" rims with 275 wide tyres.....

[Carby]

SS definitely.

Manual more than likely.

I'm booked in to test drive the auto later in the week, but it will have to be very good to convince me to switch from the manual.

Andrew.

btw, jkgmh, change your avatar back to the old pic, or at least send me the full size original ;)


Good write up - its good to get the feedback from drivers other than just reading Motoring experts reviews.

Sounds like you made a great decision!!

[EddieVE06]

Lower it 3" and put on at least a set of 20" rims with 275 wide tyres.....

Not sure how low you can go but i was told that it can be done by holden with camber adjusted accordingly for around the $1200 mark. i think 20-25 mm would be enough without have to stop to a crawl when going over speed humps.

Panel finish is top notch also.

[phantomsv8s]

The dealer in Canberra (Belconnen) advised me that I cannot lower it as it would mess with ESP. He said that it would void the warrenty.

[EddieVE06]

The dealer in Canberra (Belconnen) advised me that I cannot lower it as it would mess with ESP. He said that it would void the warrenty.

I think they had better work out what the go is before people start taking the word of a dealer as gospel. If it cant be lowered :bawl: then there will be some unhappy little vegimites. The SV6 and SS look too high for a sports enhanced car IMO and from what I can tell it seems to be a frequent comment going around.

I looked at the front end with the wheel turning out and it looked very weird, you could see the whole undertray, engine compartment and suspension. From that angle it looked like it had 3 bags of cement in the boot.

[barrycarr]

i just went and saw the SS V (red and a nickel) opposite southland vic dealer. thought they looked great and the wheel arch issue is not as bad as what i thought it would be reading on here. that dealer said everything is designed specifically for the SSV as is and lowering is not ideal, but if i did want mine lowered most likely HSV would put a walkinshaw suspension kit on it and wouldnt void warranty. but looking at it i am happy to leave it as is, they look and sound great.

[VY2 LS1]

I think that when I get one of these VE things, I am gunna leave it stock. There is too much good safety and balanced performance engineering now that has gone into them to screw around with, IMO.

I'll be happy with mid 13 quarters and 5.4 sec 0-100, for a VESS, given the improved 6Litre low down grunt and quad exhaust note. These numbers absolutely match the STi and the EVO 9, from a comfy 4 door $49K family sedan with a sunroof and the 19's option.

[AndrewW]

one important piece of trivia I found out this morning and forgot to put in my review:

The track stripes are $295 and go on the bonnet, roof and boot

I know there was conjecture on the boot in the past, but I saw it written right there in the pricing book.

btw, I am seriously considering red with the black stripes, but I want to see one in the flesh first.

Andrew.

[phantomsv8s]

does anyone have a photo of what it looks like on the boot???

[Fnomna]

VE NEWS: Commodore sales start today
http://www.drive.com.au/Editorial/ArticleDetail.aspx?ArticleID=19276&vf=3
(How about a new sticky thread now that they're in showrooms - for everyone's in-the-flesh experiences, ordering, etc. ??)

I went to the local dealer at lunch and had a quick look. Very impressed.
All I can say from walking around the cars is that there's no way you can mistake the VE for any other car. This was especially noticeable when I saw an Ignition SV6 pull up to the dealer.

There was
- Ignition SV6
- Ignition SS
- red SSV
- maroon Berlina
- black SV6
- grey Omega
- Impulse Omega

All very nice inside and out. Quality seems to be a whole leap ahead of the VZ that was sitting next to them.
But what I really wanted to see was a CalaisV. Saw one outside the factory in white. That or the red SSV would be my pick.

I then walked next door to the Ford dealer and could see straight away how very very different the two cars are. Even the headlights aren't really that much the same.
Then I drove past the Mitsubishi dealer down the road and the 380 tail lights look nothing like the VE ones in real life.

Now to drive one... :)

[OPPYLOCK]

Hi guys.
I'm a new member. I've been reading the forums for a couple of years now but the VE release has motivated me to get involved.(I'm lazy a sod)
I saw a black ss at a dealership last week and I must say I was most impressed.
I agree with what most of you have been saying, much improved panel fit, car sits too damn high, interior is a thousand times better and the body is much better looking in the flesh. I just wish you could delete that rear wing!:spew:
I'm going to the launch at Newcstle Holden this arvo and will let you my official position when I have viewed the whole range.

Cheers.

[SV805]

Launch day today 14th...SO I go along to the first dealer and all they have is one SSV in Nikel and one red omega. Both have been sold so no climbing all over it. SSV Looks very good though.

Drive 50 ks north and stop at the next dealer (I was heading that way). Go and see the guy there and ask him about the VE. He says that they don't have any at the moment and they have been delayed until Thursday. I say to him what about the white VE Belina that I just saw drive out the driveway ?. He says I didn't realise it had arrived yet, I am actually in the HSV department. I say HSV will need to have some good gear after seeing the SSV at previous dealer. He says Yes they will but don't have any info at this stage. I say, yeh all the details get released next Monday Yeh ?. He says I don't know I will have to find out. Thanks for all your help.
As I am leaving Belina pulls up out side so go to have a look. First thing I notice is this terrible fitting panel from the rear bumper to right hand side panel. I say to the guy, what's the go here, I thought the panel fit was going to be world class. He says Dunno might have been bumped. No marks.
I say to him has this got the 195Kw V6. He says I think so. I say its only the 4 speed auto is it.? He says No I think it has 5 speed auto.
Thanks again for all your help and info......I am now going to head the other way as I have an invite to preview cars at a third dealer at 6.00pm. Lets hope they 1. Have cars we can see and touch and drive. And 2 the sales guys have some idea about something to do with VE.

[SSV8pilot]

one important piece of trivia I found out this morning and forgot to put in my review:

The track stripes are $295 and go on the bonnet, roof and boot

I know there was conjecture on the boot in the past, but I saw it written right there in the pricing book.

btw, I am seriously considering red with the black stripes, but I want to see one in the flesh first.

Andrew.

Price doesn't include the cost of the spotty faced apprentice putting the decals on the car...something to haggle over I suppose

[AndrewW]

Price doesn't include the cost of the spotty faced apprentice putting the decals on the car...something to haggle over I suppose

That was the price I was quoted, fitted.

There are two options for the stickers, they can either be fitted at the factory or by the dealer.

I will be specifying factory fit, if I decide to get them.

Andrew.

[stew297]

Watched a review of it on the car show last night at midnight.

Looked pretty nice, and it got to 250km/h pretty damn quickly. Glenn Ridge said a few nice things about it. didnt say anything bad but u know what australian car shows are like..

Havent seen one in the flesh yes but i might see one later today or something as i drive past holden dealer.


Does anyone know if that is on the net anywhere to be watched?

[Jimmy2010]

there is pics of a black ss v and a blue ss here http://www.redbookasiapacific.com/au/carsforsale/index.php

[korrupt]

It will be on here soon - http://thecarshow.carpoint.com.au/

[korrupt]

Had a Chevy Lumina SS at my folk's place today. I missed it, but my brother got to drive it. Said it had the SS-V centre console, but everything else was SS, including the 18" wheels. Apparently it is a evaluation vehicle. He has photos, will try and get them up soon. Was a 6 speed auto version. He was very impressed with it, from the exhaust note to the transmission smoothness to the looks.

Here are some pics. The Chevy badge fills the front grille nicely.

http://members.optusnet.com.au/rlwilson/ve/lumina_front.jpg

http://members.optusnet.com.au/rlwilson/ve/lumina_up.jpg

http://members.optusnet.com.au/rlwilson/ve/lumina_rear.jpg

http://members.optusnet.com.au/rlwilson/ve/lumina_wheel.jpg

[AndrewW]

OK, its official. Holden suck :moon: (please read ahead before flaming ...)

I stopped in at Zupps on the way home tonight for a second look, and they had an SV6 in Black. Now up to this point the choice was between Red and Blue, but now I have no option but to order the SS in black.

This is the colour that was meant for these cars.

The black just makes the car look menacing, completely changes the character of the car.

So there you have it, Holden have finally made me go against my 'never own a black car' policy ...

Also, they had a barina sitting next to the VEs with the race stripes :doh:

Scratch that option off the list, there were bubbles visible under the decals, and there was a rough edge on the front edge of the decal above the windscreen. Looks like the let the work experience kid go at it with a stanley knife.

Now I know they probably had to shorten the decal to fit the barina, but it sure wasn't a good advertisment for the option.

Andrew.

[Bazza76]

Hi all, rocked up to the local zupps this morning to check out the ss. They were quiet at the time so got to take a red ss auto for a test drive. Gotta say say love the way handle, also very nice note when you get the revs up as well. With the auto, gonna take a little while to ge use to changing it with out a clutch.... kept reaching for one. Personal impression on the gear shifts is to probably put it in D (for drag :burnout: ) and leave it. Seems to take a bit of time changing gears in active select mode, (could be just me though, as never tried it before) Anyway, to keep it short. Couldn't leave without putting a deposit down on an SS-v Redhot.:woohoo:
Btw, saw that Barina with the racing stripes and have to agree, won't get them if thats going to be the finish of them.

[hallyoz]

I had a look at an SS (red) and a Berlina in Phantom Mica last Friday at Summit Holden in Brighton. Got some fleet pricing for both, and in my opinion if I buy one it will be a Berlina 6.0 with LSD. It came out a smidge under $45k on the road with national fleet discount. The SS was about $47k. I think the Berlina will be a great sleeper......

Now to sell the Mustang and get into the world of the novated lease!!

[AndrewW]

I had a look at an SS (red) and a Berlina in Phantom Mica last Friday at Summit Holden in Brighton. Got some fleet pricing for both, and in my opinion if I buy one it will be a Berlina 6.0 with LSD. It came out a smidge under $45k on the road with national fleet discount. The SS was about $47k. I think the Berlina will be a great sleeper......

Now to sell the Mustang and get into the world of the novated lease!!

you can't do that, you're going to buy my VY SS ... ;)

[Aus8]

OK, its official. Holden suck :moon: (please read ahead before flaming ...)

I stopped in at Zupps on the way home tonight for a second look, and they had an SV6 in Black. Now up to this point the choice was between Red and Blue, but now I have no option but to order the SS in black.

This is the colour that was meant for these cars.

The black just makes the car look menacing, completely changes the character of the car.

So there you have it, Holden have finally made me go against my 'never own a black car' policy ...

Also, they had a barina sitting next to the VEs with the race stripes :doh:

Scratch that option off the list, there were bubbles visible under the decals, and there was a rough edge on the front edge of the decal above the windscreen. Looks like the let the work experience kid go at it with a stanley knife.

Now I know they probably had to shorten the decal to fit the barina, but it sure wasn't a good advertisment for the option.

Andrew.

Since when was a Barina *Cough* DAEWOO *Cough* on anyones list?

Aus8

[Wonky]

Since when was a Barina *Cough* DAEWOO *Cough* on anyones list?

Aus8
Nah, he meant scratch getting decals on his VE after seeing the crap job they did with the decals they added to the Burrito.

[Aus8]

Nah, he meant scratch getting decals on his VE after seeing the crap job they did with the decals they added to the Burrito.

Ahhhh I see. I should have know there would be a explanation! :-)

[AndrewW]

Nah, he meant scratch getting decals on his VE after seeing the crap job they did with the decals they added to the Burrito.

yep, what he said.

[SSV8pilot]

yep, what he said.

Zupps Mt Gravatt? I have a VE SSV on order with them - Are you going to the dealer launch night?

[hallyoz]

Andrew, the thought of your VY crossed my mind, but the VE is just two tempting!! Have to wait and see what I get for the Muzzy though first.

[AndrewW]

Zupps Mt Gravatt? I have a VE SSV on order with them - Are you going to the dealer launch night?

Nope, Zupps Browns Plains.

Wouldn't buy another car off them, but they are convenient to go and look at new cars.

I did get a 'VIP Invite' to ring up and book a test drive .... pffft. There was a better range at Llewellyn's and I was able to rock up and drive one straight away yesterday morning.

I may have been sent an invite to Motorama Springwood's launch night, but I'll never know as they never managed to get my address entered correctly into their system in the 12 months I had my car serviced with them :doh:

Andrew.

[Wezza]

I went into Gerald Slaven Holden in Canberra yesterday for a closer look at the VE, they had an SS-V, SS, 2 x SV6's & a few Omegas. I was impressed with the fit and finish of the interior, the doors sound alot more solid than previous Commodores when you close them.

Also, the red dash is actually not too bad, i at first thought it was terrible in the pics, but honestly, i'd consider the red dash in a black SS if i were to buy one, it breaks up the interior a bit. I really like the look of the black SS-V very nice!! But like everyone said, they need to be lowered. Maybe they will settle a bit lower on their springs after a while? Though even if they did, i wouldn't imagine it would be much.

[davidred]

I popped into Zupps at Aspley yesterday afternoon and had a poke around the SS-V. My only disappointment is with the passenger side dash & glovebox. It just felt of really poor build quality. Very plasticy, hollow and the glove box kind of just popped into place instead of a nice resounding THUNK noise.

Other than that, the car is pretty damn amazing. Can't wait for my test drive tomorrow :woohoo:

[JohnVE]

Went to a dealer yesterday morning. Saw a couple of VEs (Omega, Berlina, SV6, SS and SS-V). SS-V looks pretty good. Like the Red SS a lot. Test drive (Red SS) is booked for this friday.

Sorry if this is a dumb question. The salesperson said "We'll take the car for a test drive on friday". Does that mean that he will come with me on the test drive? :vpo: Is that compulsory? Can they refuse to let me take the car if I want to drive alone.
Can someone who test drove a new VE reply?

cheers

John

[SV805]

John,

I have test driven many cars, VE tomorrow, but each dealer will be different as I have had some come with me and some let me take it out myself. Generally though they will want to come along and give you the spille and see what you think and ensure they get more than 10,000 ks out of a set of expensive tyres.

[JohnVE]

John,

I have test driven many cars, VE tomorrow, but each dealer will be different as I have had some come with me and some let me take it out myself. Generally though they will want to come along and give you the spille and see what you think and ensure they get more than 10,000 ks out of a set of expensive tyres.

Thanks for replying. I guess I just have to ask him to be quiet and leave me alone with my thoughts while I'm driving.

[Stevotski]

Does that mean that he will come with me on the test drive? :vpo: Is that compulsory? Can they refuse to let me take the car if I want to drive alone.


Depends on how dodgy you look :) Basically the car is the dealers property so it is their rules.

Local holden dealer lost a WL Stato that way (QLD police got her with spike strips at the border) :shock:

[AndrewW]

Thanks for replying. I guess I just have to ask him to be quiet and leave me alone with my thoughts while I'm driving.

Put it this way, would you hand the keys to a $50K car to someone you didn't know from a bar of soap and send them off, hoping they'll come back ?

A good salesman will do exactly what you have suggested.

Shane from Llewellyn's was excellent on my drive yesterday. He sat there quietly, and let me enjoy the drive. He was also agreeable when I suggested taking a detour down a nice twisty backroad.

Andrew.

[OPPYLOCK]

Went to my local dealership for the launch last night.
They had beer, wine, food and even some fire dancers!
All was looking good but then the presentation starts and after an hour of listening about their great astra and vectra models and the brand values they represent, I got jack of it and left before they even pulled the curtain on the VE.
After months of spy shots, dip feeding details, big launch suprises and airships I'd had enough!!!

[Carby650]

Ok I've just been down to my local dealer to get touchy feely with the car. got offered a drive but it is raining cats and dogs in Perth today and whilst this would've been a great environment to test drive I said I'd wait for a fine day. I actually went to 2 local dealers and not one had either a SSV or Calais-V so I was a bit dissapointed in that. But anyhows here are my thoughts.

Car looks sensational in the flesh. Black is great on the SS and I also saw a White SS which looked great. Generally not a white car person.
Seats are really nice and the back seats where large and comforatable. My son also sat in the back. He just fell into the seat it was that easy to get in and out. Build quality is the best I have ever seen on a Aussie car. Boot space is great with the new posiitoning of the struts.
Complaints.... hmmm. only minor. Hand brake isn't great to look at but also very neat the way it fold down out the way. To a degree the only time you see it is when its being used. Somebody here has also mention the glove box feel and I agree with their thoughts there. Very cheap feel. Almost felt cardboardy. Not sure if I like the very large Holden badges on the front grill. Bit of overkill me thinks. But thats all. 3 minor issues are all I could find. Have fallen in love with the new Commodore. I'll be very keen to see and drive a SSV auto. Holden you are on a winner here. Well done.
Carby650

[jaykay]

Ok I've just been down to my local dealer to get touchy feely with the car. got offered a drive but it is raining cats and dogs in Perth today and whilst this would've been a great environment to test drive I said I'd wait for a fine day. I actually went to 2 local dealers and not one had either a SSV or Calais-V so I was a bit dissapointed in that. But anyhows here are my thoughts.

Car looks sensational in the flesh. Black is great on the SS and I also saw a White SS which looked great. Generally not a white car person.
Seats are really nice and the back seats where large and comforatable. My son also sat in the back. He just fell into the seat it was that easy to get in and out. Build quality is the best I have ever seen on a Aussie car. Boot space is great with the new posiitoning of the struts.
Complaints.... hmmm. only minor. Hand brake isn't great to look at but also very neat the way it fold down out the way. To a degree the only time you see it is when its being used. Somebody here has also mention the glove box feel and I agree with their thoughts there. Very cheap feel. Almost felt cardboardy. Not sure if I like the very large Holden badges on the front grill. Bit of overkill me thinks. But thats all. 3 minor issues are all I could find. Have fallen in love with the new Commodore. I'll be very keen to see and drive a SSV auto. Holden you are on a winner here. Well done.
Carby650
Goldy Holden have an Impulse Blue SSV with semi auto gearbox. Saw it yetserday, also black SV6 with leather. Man the black is nice....

City Motors had one as well. Are you still interested in going to their launch at City's tomorrow night ? If so PM and I'll let you know shortly if I can get your invite.

John

[X BC X]

BG's has a red SSV out the front, they were backing it up onto stands this morning.

i agree, shit day for a test drive.

bc

[The_Senator]

Went to City Motors yesterday, and they have an impulse blue SS - 6 speed auto..

All i can say is that it REALLY does look so much better in the flash. It's poise and demeanor can not be appreciated by pictures - it must be experienced in the flesh..

Time for some tough decisions.. SS or SSV.. or dare i say, Calais V..

[SV805]

I went last night to a launch with the big screen showing of Astra Twin Top (COnvertable hard top) Captiva and the other car (Epica ?) to replace vectra I guess. After that they pulled the covers off an Ignition SS they then got Steven Richards to fire the SS up. Sounded great for a stock car, probably better as it was inside. We then got to climb all over Omega, Belina, SV6 couple of SS two SSV and Calais and Calais V.
Calais V very nice except no Manual. Would probably go 6 speed manual in Calais V if it was possible. Now it is between SS & SSV.
I too thought the glovebox was a bit week and even though the general fit and finish is far better than any previous models, There still seemed to inconsistency in the panel fit bewteen the rear bumper where it joins the side of the car. These gaps were quite different on different cars.
Although they do look like they ride a little high was not as bad as I was expecting after reading commenst on here.
Was going today for a drive but have got caught up so tomorrow get to dive the SSV but they only have 6 speed auto. No manual V* until 20/08/2006

[Carby650]

Went to City Motors yesterday, and they have an impulse blue SS - 6 speed auto..

All i can say is that it REALLY does look so much better in the flash. It's poise and demeanor can not be appreciated by pictures - it must be experienced in the flesh..

Time for some tough decisions.. SS or SSV.. or dare i say, Calais V..

I saw a white SS which had the red lights optioned into it and black leather. I quite liked the red. I can see that it could be a bit glarey on the eyes for some people but sod it. It is a sports car. Love the big gaurds. Whilst the boot is very big I will need to do the esky test on it. Must be able to fit the esky or else we have an issue !! :lol: The small boot opening could create a problem there. Gee I'm a picky bastard sometimes

[VX2VESS]

nice just had a look at some.

boot is big, and heaps more room down where the spare is as well.

[Carby650]

nice just had a look at some.

boot is big, and heaps more room down where the spare is as well.

yeh you can option it up with a plastic cover to use as storage in that wheel well. got the little book from the dealer with all the options. you could have a field day with those.

[Lad47]

Droped in to the Holden Dealer in Woden today had a quick look at the SV6 and SS. The SS was black looks very very nice, I chop of my left arm to get one if I could but I would need to buy and auto then. I thought the car although still large on the inside seems to look much smaller on the outside, not a bad thing at all just an observation. Must say though looks very impressive and has it's own look it does not really resemble anything too much. I think it has it's own damn sexy look. Will try and go for a test drive on the week end with my old man he has a VY SV8 which I plan to buy when he trades one day, he was thinking of trading on a good 2nd Monaro but after he seen the Red SSV with black stripes I think he might change his mind. He will sell the SV8 to me for trade in price, He would prefer me to get it then some greedy car dealer. So heres hoping.

[jaykay]

How did the red with black stripes look Lad47 ? Did you get a good look at the finish of the stickers and how they sat, i.e. any bubbles etc ?

I assume the sticker went over the boot and did not go onto the spolier ?

John

[Lad47]

How did the red with black stripes look Lad47 ? Did you get a good look at the finish of the stickers and how they sat, i.e. any bubbles etc ?

I assume the sticker went over the boot and did not go onto the spolier ?

John

No unfortunetly I did not see the Red SSV with stipes just saying my old man liked what he sore from the pictures. Only got to see a Black SS, Nickel SV6 and Grey Berlina. but was hoping to see the Red SSV with Stripes in the flesh as is everyone else. Hopefully they may have one on the weekend as it will be a differnet dealer then todays.

[NRD80Y]

Please don't shoot me for resurrecting this but........apparently Holden have issued a dealer bulletin confirming that the upgrade spare is ALLOY and not Steel.

Just clarifiying ths situation for all.

SSV8's comment I think got lost within a lot of other replys, I just wanted to confirm that this is true. Was in at the dealer just before and thay confirmed off the Holden bulletin that the upgrade is definatley an alloy

eg: If you upgrade and SS-V for $250, you get an SS-V 19" Alloy

Pretty good in my opinion for $250

BTW: Also found out I can only get 1 vehicle with a fleet discount as an employee of a National company :( I was hopping to get the discount on both :(

[holdennutta]

I went for a bike ride down to Armstrong Holden this arvo to have a look at the cars seein as though I only got to see blue car covers at the ekka:demon:

I had to settle for checking out the 2 Omegas they have on car stands facing Ipswich road. In the flesh what really struck me was how tall the headlights are!
They are huge! And for a base model car the Omega struck me as pretty sporty and the width of the steelies looks tough too.

[EddieVE06]

SSV8's comment I think got lost within a lot of other replys, I just wanted to confirm that this is true. Was in at the dealer just before and thay confirmed off the Holden bulletin that the upgrade is definatley an alloy

eg: If you upgrade and SS-V for $250, you get an SS-V 19" Alloy

Pretty good in my opinion for $250

BTW: Also found out I can only get 1 vehicle with a fleet discount as an employee of a National company :( I was hopping to get the discount on both :(

I believe this is true as I got a quote on sat for an sv6 and he asked me if i wanted the alloy at $250. I said is it a space saver or steel, he said no its the actual alloy rim

[jaykay]

HSV E Series Clubsport uncovered .....

http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/showpost.php?p=699224&postcount=68

[Danv8]

HSV E Series Clubsport uncovered .....

http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/showpost.php?p=699224&postcount=68



Hmmm err shit I dunno what to think.
maybe its the colour!

[rayman]

After talking to a friend that works at a holden dealership he said that you can buy 19" wheels and tyres for $250 each. I said to him im sure this is only for the space saver replacement but he said u can order them normally for that price. Does anyone know if this is true?
He said he will prove it to me the next time i see him but i dont think holden would sell a set of 19" mags with tyres for $1000

[SSV8pilot]

After talking to a friend that works at a holden dealership he said that you can buy 19" wheels and tyres for $250 each. I said to him im sure this is only for the space saver replacement but he said u can order them normally for that price. Does anyone know if this is true?
He said he will prove it to me the next time i see him but i dont think holden would sell a set of 19" mags with tyres for $1000

My understanding is that the spare has to be ordered with the car. may be worth trying the parts department to see if you can order a full size VE spare at the counter and see what they say/charge.

I'm at a Holden dealer for a test drive today - I'll check out as well.

[calais v]

Ok, Calais V arrives first week November. Some performance questions-
Is a edit available yet ?
Will a edit on the L98 produce any HP gains in standard form on the VE?
Are any extractors available yet for the VE ?
Will extractors fitted to the standard twin exhaust system produce a gain?
Any thoughts on opening up the VE air intake ?

[VLturbo3.0]

Don't know for sure just guessing really

Ok, Calais V arrives first week November. Some performance questions-

Is a edit available yet ? NO
Will a edit on the L98 produce any HP gains in standard form on the VE? PROBABLY
Are any extractors available yet for the VE ? NO
Will extractors fitted to the standard twin exhaust system produce a gain? YES
Any thoughts on opening up the VE air intake?

[SSV8pilot]

Drove the SS auto and SV6 Manual this morning.

Initial impression - very favorable. Only 3 main observations - the SS on start up sounded ok (heard a lot of talk about how grunty it was etc.). However when driving - the rumble on acceleration is very very nice.

Thought the finish on the hand brake rubber was a bit ordinary and the angular cut off isn't (IMO) very attractive.

Had no issue with the quality and feel of the glove box lid - seemed ok to me.

Overall - a very good product - just need to wait for delivery on the SS-V (waiting to see what the coloured dash is like before I finalise the order) - currently my preference is the all black dash.

[EddieVE06]

Drove the SS auto and SV6 Manual this morning.

Initial impression - very favorable. Only 3 main observations - the SS on start up sounded ok (heard a lot of talk about how grunty it was etc.). However when driving - the rumble on acceleration is very very nice.

Thought the finish on the hand brake rubber was a bit ordinary and the angular cut off isn't (IMO) very attractive.

Had no issue with the quality and feel of the glove box lid - seemed ok to me.

Overall - a very good product - just need to wait for delivery on the SS-V (waiting to see what the coloured dash is like before I finalise the order) - currently my preference is the all black dash.


What was your impression of the SV6? Some motoring sites say its great while others say its the worst out of the pack

[jaykay]

What was your impression of the SV6? Some motoring sites say its great while others say its the worst out of the pack
I viewed a black SV6 with leather earlier this week. Haven't driven it but looks impressive. Not much different on the exterior to SSV, 4 items - SS badges, V badge, dual exhaut outlets on both sides and 19" wheels. Ride height is higher on the SV6 because of the 18's.

The black looks HOT and with the leather was a nice package. I'm now thinking black SS with leather and the 20" wheel option..... :teach:

[EddieVE06]

I viewed a black SV6 with leather earlier this week. Haven't driven it but looks impressive. Not much different on the exterior to SSV, 4 items - SS badges, V badge, dual exhaut outlets on both sides and 19" wheels. Ride height is higher on the SV6 because of the 18's.

The black looks HOT and with the leather was a nice package. I'm now thinking black SS with leather and the 20" wheel option..... :teach:

Anyone had a drive of an SV6 auto?

[NickS]

After talking to a friend that works at a holden dealership he said that you can buy 19" wheels and tyres for $250 each. I said to him im sure this is only for the space saver replacement but he said u can order them normally for that price. Does anyone know if this is true?
He said he will prove it to me the next time i see him but i dont think holden would sell a set of 19" mags with tyres for $1000

I highly doubt that. The space savers are bloody expensive so pulling one out and putting in a full size alloy doesn't cost much, hence they can option it at only $250. If you go to Holden spare parts and ask for a fullsize 19" alloy with tyre expect to be well on the wrong side of $1000 !!!

[cev]

Umm sorry if ive missed it but is there any news on a VE ute?

[SSV8pilot]

What was your impression of the SV6? Some motoring sites say its great while others say its the worst out of the pack


My impression of the SV6 - I think it looks smart from the outside. I would option up the 6 stack CD and the leather. Drive wise - doesn't have the rumble on acceleration like the V8 - but thats not unexpected.

For me if I was going for a V6 - the SV6 would be my definite choice - looked nice in red, black and also the ignition colour (which I am not a great fan of).

Can't see what the jornos can fault the car on - its a V6, has agressive looks and will suit it's target market.

[dj007]

Sorry if its been posted before, but what are the 0-100 times for the Omega, SV6, SS, and Calais in Auto?

[rayman]

I highly doubt that. The space savers are bloody expensive so pulling one out and putting in a full size alloy doesn't cost much, hence they can option it at only $250. If you go to Holden spare parts and ask for a fullsize 19" alloy with tyre expect to be well on the wrong side of $1000 !!!
I will find out this weekend if its true but im thinking that he might mean that he can get it at that price. he always gets me stuff at cost price and does work on my cars for free.

[mac06]

Went to a dealer yesterday morning. Saw a couple of VEs (Omega, Berlina, SV6, SS and SS-V). SS-V looks pretty good. Like the Red SS a lot. Test drive (Red SS) is booked for this friday.

Sorry if this is a dumb question. The salesperson said "We'll take the car for a test drive on friday". Does that mean that he will come with me on the test drive? :vpo: Is that compulsory? Can they refuse to let me take the car if I want to drive alone.
Can someone who test drove a new VE reply?

cheers

John

I think the insurance on dealer plates only covers the vehicle if an employee is in the vehicle during the test drive. If any dealer lets someone drive a vehicle on their own it's at the dealers own risk

[SCiFiRE]

Sorry if its been posted before, but what are the 0-100 times for the Omega, SV6, SS, and Calais in Auto?

I believe the only times so far were the SS-V, the others havent been timed.

[HSVMAN]

I think the insurance on dealer plates only covers the vehicle if an employee is in the vehicle during the test drive. If any dealer lets someone drive a vehicle on their own it's at the dealers own risk

If your only reason for visiting a dealership is for a test drive then expect the Salesman to go with you, or better still he should "take you" then let you drive. Any Salesman worth his salt will not simply let anyone jump in and go for a spin. Only time this should happen is after he has qualified the prospective customer to determine their intentions or if the customer is well known. Even then it is good policy to go along. If someone deosnt want a salesperson with them on a test drive then they shouldnt be driving the car. With Fleet, a lot of my customers book a drive (by themselves) or I drop the car off to them, however with a new or unfamiliar car to them I either sit in the car beside them first or offer to go along.
With retail selling, particularly V8 Holdens, there can be a number of "joy riders" as you can imagine

[HSVMAN]

From latest Go Auto News....

....In other VE news, the Society of Automotive Engineers Australasia, last week awarded the new Commodore the 2006 gold automotive engineering excellence gong, specifically for the sedan's front end module design.
In awarding the prize the judges said the front end module embodied an excellent balance between design engineering, manufacturing/production engineering and aftermarket servicing.
"It also enables the off-line sub-assembly of a major module of the vehicle, which can be assembled with the highest level of fit and finish" the society said.
"Major problems with the prior model front-end assembly were eliminated by allowing full walk-in access to the engine bay on the assembly line and many existing OH&S issues were concurrently eliminated.
"The bolt-on modularity of the front end not only allows nine versions of front-end module to be readily assembled to the vehicle, it will also enhance in service access and repair capability and cost.
"This assembly approach is a sought-after feature by OE manufacturers in assembly operations world-wide".

[OPPYLOCK]

Has anyone else notice any panel issues with the new VE.
Was at my local dealer the other day and there were 4 omegas out front. 2 of the 4 had rear bumpers that didn't meet the body properly just behind the rear wheel. About 2-3mm out.Very noticeable.
Don't get me wrong the tolerances on panel gaps on these cars is a huge improvement over previous models and these issues do not seem to affect the SS, Berlina and Calais.
Hope these are only glitches in early production.

[seldo]

Went to a dealer yesterday morning. Saw a couple of VEs (Omega, Berlina, SV6, SS and SS-V). SS-V looks pretty good. Like the Red SS a lot. Test drive (Red SS) is booked for this friday.

Sorry if this is a dumb question. The salesperson said "We'll take the car for a test drive on friday". Does that mean that he will come with me on the test drive? :vpo: Is that compulsory? Can they refuse to let me take the car if I want to drive alone.
Can someone who test drove a new VE reply?

cheers

John
You speak as if it is your right to take the car by yourself...
The dealer's only interest is in trying to sell you a car...which he owns... It isn't provided to him by Holden for your benefit. He is not there to provide a joy-ride service. If some dude rocked up to you and said he wanted to take your car for a joy-ride, would you let him go unanaccompanied...? Don't think so...

[jaykay]

Has anyone else notice any panel issues with the new VE.
Was at my local dealer the other day and there were 4 omegas out front. 2 of the 4 had rear bumpers that didn't meet the body properly just behind the rear wheel. About 2-3mm out.Very noticeable.
Don't get me wrong the tolerances on panel gaps on these cars is a huge improvement over previous models and these issues do not seem to affect the SS, Berlina and Calais.
Hope these are only glitches in early production.
I went to the VE Launch at City Motors last night and I noticed the same thing, that the rear bumpers didn't sit properly where they met the body. Also noticed the skirt under the doors didn't sit properly on some models. Also the plastic panel at the base of the windscreen on both sides were looseish.

They had an SS in the Ignition colour. What do people that have seen that think of it ?

I liked the Red Passion and Evoke colours, but the black SS got me. Needs lowering and 275's on it to top it off.

Bolsters on the SS seats not as high as my VY II SS, thus making it less rubbing on entry and exit.....

[VZSS250]

I've taken a few test drives and I must say I'm surprised some people claim they've been allowed to take the car out by themselves. There's a whole heap of creaps and morons out there, so I'm always fine with salesmen coming along. My only problem is when salesmen use the opportunity to keep the test drive to the minimum distance possible.

[OPPYLOCK]

Agree about the 275's. By all accounts on the HSV thread it looks like the clubbies will be getting a 275 option for the rear. I could be wrong but without any sheetmetal or diff changes in the clubbie, doesn't this mean 275's should fit under the back of a standard commo.
I really hope so. It may take a while for the wheel manufactures to adapt their products for the VE's new stud pattern though.

[Angelo_XLR8]

woot it took 6 months but i finally had an encounter with a VE SSV. and lukily i had my trusty camera. did i say camera i mean VIDEO camera. i think this is one of the only forum user video submissions. it was really funny and the car as you will see LOOOKS HORNY in black. you will notice that i chased the car down. and asked him to rev it. sure i looked like a tool to the public but it was soooo worth it.


ENJOY.


VE SSV SIGHTING VIDEO ---BLOODY HILARIOUS -- (http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/video006.avi)

[deviance]

I went to the VE Launch at City Motors last night and I noticed the same thing, that the rear bumpers didn't sit properly where they met the body. Also noticed the skirt under the doors didn't sit properly on some models. Also the plastic panel at the base of the windscreen on both sides were looseish.

A few of the VE's we have got in at our dealership have had the rear bumper issue, its just a matter of taking it off and properly fitting it into some small lugs just under the centre of the boot. Looks like Holden have released a lot of cars with rear bumpers like this off the production line.

[csv rulz]

Saw the VE upclose and personal for the first time today, far out the quality is unreal. from every angle you look at it you still know its a commodore it just looks like a commodore on steriods. The back of the car didnt do a heap for me seems a bit plain but i only got to see the SV6 and its still better than VY/VZ back. overal very impressed

[kayman]

LMAO angelo, bit hard to hear the car tho with all that wind.

good effort.

[jaykay]

A few of the VE's we have got in at our dealership have had the rear bumper issue, its just a matter of taking it off and properly fitting it into some small lugs just under the centre of the boot. Looks like Holden have released a lot of cars with rear bumpers like this off the production line.
Why do Holden send them out like this ? They have been bragging about panel gaps and quality of finish !!! :stick:

For them to send out cars like that and then the bumpers have to come off at the dealers to hopefully fix the issue is a joke IMO....:errr:

Also found out something I didn't know at the VE launch last night. You can have the stereo going in the car without the key in the ignition. Also is on my SS which was news to me. Just press the on button and viola....

[SV805]

Panel gaps I mentioned on Monday afetr seeing a couple of VE's at different dealers.
I agree, why after bragging about panel gaps and quality would you let these cars out before tehy are right.

[OPPYLOCK]

It is quite funny when you think about it though, six months ago if you bought a commo with panels 2-3mm out you would of thought :woohoo: I got a good one.
VE may be spoiling us.

[Nickoff]

jkgmh

What does the stereo sound like? My father in law has an 06 Statesman and the stock 6 stack stereo in that is ordinary at best. I'm hoping the Calias has a better sounding unit....

[jaykay]

jkgmh

What does the stereo sound like? My father in law has an 06 Statesman and the stock 6 stack stereo in that is ordinary at best. I'm hoping the Calias has a better sounding unit....
SS has 7 speaker with 80 watts - sounds like my VY II SS. The SSV has 11 speakers and 230 watts - sounds a lot better. Haven't heard a CD just radio though.....

I know the SSV has the same sound system as the Calais V, not sure which combo the Calais has.

[Ads_84]

Sorry if its been posted before, but what are the 0-100 times for the Omega, SV6, SS, and Calais in Auto?

Omega: 8.1 seconds
SV6: 7.5 seconds
SS: 5.4 seconds

[TheChef]

Drove an SS Ignition this arvo. Overall, very happy, looks awesome. The only thing I didn't like is the handbrake - but will get used to it.

Finalising the order tomorrow.:woohoo: Still undecided between black and Ignition though. Ignition looks sportier in my opinion. Black looks a bit more aggressive and is a classic colour. What do you guys think? Black or Ignition?

[BlueVZSS]

Drove an SS Ignition this arvo. Overall, very happy, looks awesome. The only thing I didn't like is the handbrake - but will get used to it.

Finalising the order tomorrow.:woohoo: Still undecided between black and Ignition though. Ignition looks sportier in my opinion. Black looks a bit more aggressive and is a classic colour. What do you guys think? Black or Ignition?

I think Ignition will date myself...so go the Black I reckon. Did you get any discount off RRP?

[SCiFiRE]

Handbrake has grown on me. it looks pox when its up..but how often are you in the car looking at the handbrake when its up?

come to think of it, all handbrakes look poxy when they are up.

[Controltech]

Drove an SS Ignition this arvo. Overall, very happy, looks awesome. The only thing I didn't like is the handbrake - but will get used to it.

Finalising the order tomorrow.:woohoo: Still undecided between black and Ignition though. Ignition looks sportier in my opinion. Black looks a bit more aggressive and is a classic colour. What do you guys think? Black or Ignition?

I had to decide between Ignition and Black as well. I ordered Ignition with black interior. I don't think I could stand looking at the ignition dash... However I think the Ignition inserts in the seats look good, I wish Black dash with Ignition seat inserts was an option.

[SSBarney]

Had my first close up look today at the dealer. It doesnt stand out as much as i thought it would, i walked right passed an Omega with out realising.
Omega needs to sit down, its arse looks silly up in the air imho.

The black SSV they had there looked very nice outside, but i thought the interior was pretty ordinary. The whole plastic door trim reminds me of the Hyundai excel.
Hmmm handbrake was up, yep agree with most comments it looks about as sound as my fuel release lever. I'm sure some big guy is going to have a stupid look on his face looking at his hand which is holding the detached handbrake lever.

Wasn't quite the wow i thought it would be, but hey with second hand values the way they are, I might just find a well priced SS with a few km's in 6 or 12 mths or so:burnout:

[Controltech]

Has anyone seen the new TV ad for the VE tonight?

[Carby650]

was at the VE launch at City motors last night (thanks JKGMH) and was very impressed. Wife happened to pick me up from work today and saw a black SV6 on the freeway. Now seeing them doing nothing in the yard is one thing but on the raod is another all together. Dam hot. That black is sensational. And no John I have not changed me mind. Its gotta be red remember !!

[jaykay]

was at the VE launch at City motors last night (thanks JKGMH) and was very impressed. Wife happened to pick me up from work today and saw a black SV6 on the freeway. Now seeing them doing nothing in the yard is one thing but on the raod is another all together. Dam hot. That black is sensational. And no John I have not changed me mind. Its gotta be red remember !!
BLACK BLACK BLACK Bevan :headbang: :burnout:

http://images.cainer.net//uploads/Black SSV 01.jpg

Or Red ?

http://images.cainer.net//uploads/Red SSV 01.jpg

[vyssbeast]

hey not sure if this has been spoken bout
but there was a silver SS in my area in LHD stickers on the back n so on.
are the middle east exports LHD or RHD? just tryin 2 work out what the purpose of this car was

[Carby650]

BLACK BLACK BLACK Bevan :headbang: :burnout:

Or Red ?

http://images.cainer.net//uploads/Red SSV 01.jpg

Come on John. Told you who wears the pants on this one. hmmm... Red VE or no VE... I'll take red thanks.
If anyone has seen the accessories brochure and seen the Red SSV with 20's they will know how hot they will look... That'll be Red hot John. :woohoo:

[jaykay]

This one ???

http://images.cainer.net//uploads/VE SSV STRIPES.JPG

[Carby650]

thats the one...not sure about the black stripes though.

[EddieVE06]

Just having a look at carsales.com.au. Under demo or near new cars, has an ad for a ve sv6 manual with 251 km. Drive away $45,380. If the new car cost for a manual is $39,990 lets say $40,000 does that mean on roads are 5,380.

Seems a bit much unless it has some options they have not mentioned

[jaykay]

Dealer delivery $1895 (I've heard some are charging that now), the rest for SD and license....

[Carby650]

with due respect to the dealers I always found DD to be a crock.

[TheChef]

Got a discount of $150. They are not really giving a discount because the car has just been released.

Dealer Delivery is $1,695. Ordered the SS with sunroof :cool: , alloy faced pedals, leather sports steering wheel and alloy full-size spare.


I think Ignition will date myself...so go the Black I reckon. Did you get any discount off RRP?

[EddieVE06]

Got a discount of $150. They are not really giving a discount because the car has just been released.

Dealer Delivery is $1,695. Ordered the SS with sunroof :cool: , alloy faced pedals, leather sports steering wheel and alloy full-size spare.

I think it pays to shop around. I had a quote done over the weekend and dealer delivery was 1495. I still think the price quoted on car sales in way to much for the sv6. Assuming dealer del of 1495 stamp duty at 4% on a 46,000 (1840) car which is overinflated as it is around 2 or 2.5, that still add up to 3,335, where is the remaining $2k going.

[EddieVE06]

Quick question guys. There was new of some television show about the new VE Commodore which was going to be aired on Aug 20. Does anyone know whether this is still going ahead.

[barrycarr]

jkgmh

What does the stereo sound like? My father in law has an 06 Statesman and the stock 6 stack stereo in that is ordinary at best. I'm hoping the Calias has a better sounding unit....

dont think its anything special at all, i only did listen to the radio but wasnt close to as crisp as my after market system in my VX, but thats worth around 4 grand (sub, head unit, speakers, 2 amps). Hopefully there will be ways to spark it up a little (behind the scenes - better speakers, running off amps etc etc)

[SV805]

Quick question guys. There was new of some television show about the new VE Commodore which was going to be aired on Aug 20. Does anyone know whether this is still going ahead.


At the dealer launch I went to on Monday they said Channel 9 was doing a dedicated show about the VE. I missed the date but thought it might have been later in August than the 20th.

[teamkiwi]

holden site has been up dated with the assessories and the caprice and statesman info!

[SSV8pilot]

At the dealer launch I went to on Monday they said Channel 9 was doing a dedicated show about the VE. I missed the date but thought it might have been later in August than the 20th.

Channel 9 date is 26th August- called Holdens billion dollar baby - Cheers

[katman]

I must add a few comments -

How many of the members work for Holden? esp the marketing dept?
Some of these replies are so contrived its not funny - reminds me of the Coke Zero campain when Coke 'hired' people to get on the chat site and 'promote' how great the Zero coke was

I do not have a bias to Holden, unlike many on the forum - Holden could have designed the VE to look like the preceded Camry and many of you would have loved it -

I have a VE SS sitting outside my office window - as I stated in another forum - the front is out of proposrtion and quite frankly looking at it head on is UGLY!!! -
The mid body is very similar to the VZ ss - easy to compare as it is parked right next to one - the rear wing belongs on a rice pack forum - the rims are uninspiring - not suprised many are working it up - you have to justify your purchase - definelty not impressed -

The interior is not an improvement on the VZ - same old crap - they have succeeded in turning mutton into lamb -

Prediction - the VE will sell - why? the badly engineered (semi trailing arms!!! what a joke!!), unreliable VY,VZ sold well - there are people or fleet managers who are receiving some handsome kickbacks -

It will win Car of the Year - simply because many of the wheels journos are complete d**heads - and the advert dollar being pumped into the mag is immense (dont dare bite the hand that feeds you)

It will win all comparisons as well - while at the same time these journos will say just how bad the VZ was - even though an edition ago they were stating the opposite












Have booked in for a drive next week -

[HSVMAN]

I must add a few comments -

How many of the members work for Holden? esp the marketing dept?
Some of these replies are so contrived its not funny - reminds me of the Coke Zero campain when Coke 'hired' people to get on the chat site and 'promote' how great the Zero coke was
I do not have a bias to Holden, unlike many on the forum - Holden could have designed the VE to look like the preceded Camry and many of you would have loved it -
I have a VE SS sitting outside my office window - as I stated in another forum - the front is out of proposrtion and quite frankly looking at it head on is UGLY!!! -
The mid body is very similar to the VZ ss - easy to compare as it is parked right next to one - the rear wing belongs on a rice pack forum - the rims are uninspiring - not suprised many are working it up - you have to justify your purchase - definelty not impressed -
The interior is not an improvement on the VZ - same old crap - they have succeeded in turning mutton into lamb -
Prediction - the VE will sell - why? the badly engineered (semi trailing arms!!! what a joke!!), unreliable VY,VZ sold well - there are people or fleet managers who are receiving some handsome kickbacks -
It will win Car of the Year - simply because many of the wheels journos are complete d**heads - and the advert dollar being pumped into the mag is immense (dont dare bite the hand that feeds you)
It will win all comparisons as well - while at the same time these journos will say just how bad the VZ was - even though an edition ago they were stating the opposite
Have booked in for a drive next week -

Why on earth would you book a drive when you just worded that crap? Given that the only similar remarks have come from one particular camp I suggest you go back there.
Only a couple here working for Holden, the rest are normal run-of-the-mill people who like cars in general with obviously some who prefer Holden. Go have a sook somewhere else :D

[SSFreak]

I must add a few comments - <snip mindless drivel>

Are you sure you're on the right forum?

[Black AH CDX]

I must add a few comments -

How many of the members work for Holden? esp the marketing dept?
Some of these replies are so contrived its not funny - reminds me of the Coke Zero campain when Coke 'hired' people to get on the chat site and 'promote' how great the Zero coke was

I do not have a bias to Holden, unlike many on the forum - Holden could have designed the VE to look like the preceded Camry and many of you would have loved it -

I have a VE SS sitting outside my office window - as I stated in another forum - the front is out of proposrtion and quite frankly looking at it head on is UGLY!!! -
The mid body is very similar to the VZ ss - easy to compare as it is parked right next to one - the rear wing belongs on a rice pack forum - the rims are uninspiring - not suprised many are working it up - you have to justify your purchase - definelty not impressed -

The interior is not an improvement on the VZ - same old crap - they have succeeded in turning mutton into lamb -

Prediction - the VE will sell - why? the badly engineered (semi trailing arms!!! what a joke!!), unreliable VY,VZ sold well - there are people or fleet managers who are receiving some handsome kickbacks -

It will win Car of the Year - simply because many of the wheels journos are complete d**heads - and the advert dollar being pumped into the mag is immense (dont dare bite the hand that feeds you)

It will win all comparisons as well - while at the same time these journos will say just how bad the VZ was - even though an edition ago they were stating the opposite












Have booked in for a drive next week -


Why book a drive if u hate the damn thing so much? All you're doing is wasting your time and the poor salesman's time who would be better of speaking to a complete random on the yard who he has a much higher chance of seling the car to.


Some people have too much time on their hands:stick:

[Campaign]

Bit over the top bloke, and whats this about the suspension being crap?
Na it might not be gods gift to the motoring world but from all accounts its a pretty good rig.
If it wins wheels car of the year it is because it is a good car. Wheels more often than not get that award right.

[Lad47]

I must add a few comments -

How many of the members work for Holden? esp the marketing dept?
Some of these replies are so contrived its not funny - reminds me of the Coke Zero campain when Coke 'hired' people to get on the chat site and 'promote' how great the Zero coke was

I do not have a bias to Holden, unlike many on the forum - Holden could have designed the VE to look like the preceded Camry and many of you would have loved it -

I have a VE SS sitting outside my office window - as I stated in another forum - the front is out of proposrtion and quite frankly looking at it head on is UGLY!!! -
The mid body is very similar to the VZ ss - easy to compare as it is parked right next to one - the rear wing belongs on a rice pack forum - the rims are uninspiring - not suprised many are working it up - you have to justify your purchase - definelty not impressed -

The interior is not an improvement on the VZ - same old crap - they have succeeded in turning mutton into lamb -

Prediction - the VE will sell - why? the badly engineered (semi trailing arms!!! what a joke!!), unreliable VY,VZ sold well - there are people or fleet managers who are receiving some handsome kickbacks -

It will win Car of the Year - simply because many of the wheels journos are complete d**heads - and the advert dollar being pumped into the mag is immense (dont dare bite the hand that feeds you)

It will win all comparisons as well - while at the same time these journos will say just how bad the VZ was - even though an edition ago they were stating the opposite












Have booked in for a drive next week -

Better question I suppose is do you work for Ford or let me guess you just brought a Ford and are trying to justify your purchase.
Those magazines if read them have for the last year nearly always picked the Ford over Holden certainly not in the speed tests but in the handling and refinement, exhuast note yes, Well I would assume that is all about to change when we see some head to heads over the next month or so. When did holden last win car of the year I don't remember but it was a while ago. Who cares if technology is old hat if it works.

PS Beauty is in the eye of the beholder

[AndrewW]

I must add a few comments -

<snip ant-holden drivel>


Dude, have you looked at the name of the forum you are posting on ?

I know I shouldn't feed the trolls, but seriously ...

Of course people on a Holden forum are going to be pro-Holden, would you presume otherwise ?

I personally think the VE looks great. If it had come out looking like some camry/magna hybrid monstrosity then I would have voted with my feet and bought elsewhere. I might be a Holden fan, but I'm not going to buy a car that looks like crap, just because its a Holden ...


Have booked in for a drive next week -

Why, If you hate the car so much ?


edit:

Member Since: Aug 2006
Location: VICTORIA
Posts: 2

Says it all really, all those in favour of moderators having to approve posts for members with less than say 10 posts say aye ?

[AndrewW]

back on topic.

the accessories list is up on the holden website.

can anyone say 'hell yeah' ?

http://www.holden.com.au/www-holden/action/modelaccessories?aid=21094&&modelid=4005&bitmask=1

Flip key upgrade - $ 75.90*
Compact and stylish key upgrade available for Omega, Berlina, SV6 and SS models

[AndrewW]

I just realised that I forgot to test someting on my test drive.

Can someone who is feeling lucky try washing the windscreen with the drivers window down and see if the water pisses in like it has on every model of commodore before the VE.

Its got to be one of the most annoying design 'features' of the commodore.

Andrew.

[katman]

G'day gents - no I'm not a ford nut hugger - I say things as I see them - I was waiting for the VE with the intent of possibly buying one - the word 'hate' was not mentioned - but I am a little dissapointed - it simply is not as 'handsom' or complete in the looks department as I thought - to be honest the 380 VRX has a more appealing front end

but hey that is my opinion - and I understand that many of you forum blokes cant handle having anyobe back their precious 'reliable' Commodore - further proof as to why Wheels etc always recommend these things rather than be honest about it -

I have had a Commo in the past - the way these things are put together is simply discraceful -

[AndrewW]

the word 'hate' was not mentioned - but I am a little dissapointed

I'd hate to see you when you are a lot dissapointed:

the front is out of proposrtion and quite frankly looking at it head on is UGLY!!!

The interior is not an improvement on the VZ - same old crap

It will win Car of the Year - simply because many of the wheels journos are complete d**heads

[kayman]

I have had a Commo in the past - the way these things are put together is simply discraceful -

Of course that has nothing to do with the fact they cost next to nothing...

[Dacious]

but hey that is my opinion - and I understand that many of you forum blokes cant handle having anyobe back their precious 'reliable' Commodore

If you're that disappointed and unlikely to buy one, then there's no reason for you to be here except to stir shit. If your opinion is as negative as it seems to be, why would anyone on this forum want to hear it?



I have had a Commo in the past - the way these things are put together is simply discraceful -

So your attitude is totally prejudiced and won't change. Why hang around pissing and griping until the mods ban you? You don't have any wisdom or nuggets to contribute.

[HSVMAN]

I have had a Commo in the past - the way these things are put together is simply discraceful -

I'm betting you used to build them :D

[XLR8 V8]

katman,
I must ask why you have joined this forum today when you do not own or intend to own the car you have posted about today. I'm all for members posting that they don't like the new VE if that is their opinion, but I'm less than accepting of people who join up ONLY to rag on the product. We want contributing members, not ones that are simply here to troll and run.

[barrycarr]

back on topic.

the accessories list is up on the holden website.

can anyone say 'hell yeah' ?

http://www.holden.com.au/www-holden/action/modelaccessories?aid=21094&&modelid=4005&bitmask=1

Flip key upgrade - $ 75.90*
Compact and stylish key upgrade available for Omega, Berlina, SV6 and SS models

forgive my ignorance here but early figures suggested that to replace the tyres on my SSV could cost over 3g if i stuck with the bridgestone. But according to the accessories page instead of putting new rubber on i could get brand new 20' alloys fitted and balanced with new rubber for just $1999???? or is this the price to upgrade when buying only?????

[Fnomna]

http://www.holden.com.au/www-holden/action/modelaccessories?aid=21078&&modelid=4005&bitmask=1

Holds 41 cans - nice :)

Interesting you can get a manual shifter knob for Calais:
http://www.holden.com.au/www-holden/action/modelaccessories?aid=21077&&modelid=6000&bitmask=1
Don't know what they'd try to put it on!

[NRD80Y]

forgive my ignorance here but early figures suggested that to replace the tyres on my SSV could cost over 3g if i stuck with the bridgestone. But according to the accessories page instead of putting new rubber on i could get brand new 20' alloys fitted and balanced with new rubber for just $1999???? or is this the price to upgrade when buying only?????

It's to upgrade. That was one of the first questions I asked the dealer. One thing I didnt ask though is that when you pay for the 'upgrade' does the delaer get to keep the original set the potential just add them to another car to increase it's interest (eg: if I upgraded an SS-V to 20" would the dealer add the original 19" to an omega?)


http://www.holden.com.au/www-holden/action/modelaccessories?aid=21078&&modelid=4005&bitmask=1

Holds 41 cans - nice :)

Will VB start making 41 can slabs now?

[SSV8pilot]

forgive my ignorance here but early figures suggested that to replace the tyres on my SSV could cost over 3g if i stuck with the bridgestone. But according to the accessories page instead of putting new rubber on i could get brand new 20' alloys fitted and balanced with new rubber for just $1999???? or is this the price to upgrade when buying only?????

Good point.

Looks like I'll be buying a new set of wheels each year from the parts department - beats spending $3k for a set of new Bridgestones

[jaykay]

I was told a few weeks back that to upgrade from the SS's 18" wheels to the 20's was $2,000 RRP and to go from the SSV 19's to the 20's was $1,750 RRP.

Everbody would be racing in if you could get 20's for $2k....:headbang:

Edit : you have to do the upgrade from new !!!!!

[SV805]

That would make both the wheel and tyre $250 each, so would have to in my opinion be if you are upgrading from NEW.

Similar to the space saver spare to full alloy.

[SSV8pilot]

The accessories I am assuming are available when you buy and upspec your car at the time of placing an order when new - no issue there.

I am also assuming though that the listed accessories can also be bought at any stage over the counter - eg the gear knobs could easily be bought much later.

The question is then, the price quoted for the wheels and tyre package - are they available at any time over the spares counter at that price - can't see why not (same as the gear knobs or number plate surrounds) - and there is no qualification saying who can buy the parts, when and for any other price than the one listed on the brocheur - true?.

[Wonky]

The question is then, the price quoted for the wheels and tyre package - are they available at any time over the spares counter at that price
Has been answered before - wheel/tyre package prices are for upgrading your brand new car before driving it out the dealer's door. My guess based on previous experience is that to buy the 20" rims and tyres later will cost you easily $1,000 a corner from a dealer, probably far more.

[Wonky]

Assuming dealer del of 1495 stamp duty at 4% on a 46,000 (1840) car which is overinflated as it is around 2 or 2.5.........
Victorian stamp duty I think is now 2.5% if car is < $35,000, 4% if worth $35,000 to $45,000 and 5% if over $45,000. Bloody scumbag government rip off!! :flamin:

[SSV8pilot]

Has been answered before - wheel/tyre package prices are for upgrading your brand new car before driving it out the dealer's door. My guess based on previous experience is that to buy the 20" rims and tyres later will cost you easily $1,000 a corner from a dealer, probably far more.

Not so sure - needs to be tested me thinks. If what your saying is true - then I can't by a gear knob or decals once I've driven away?

Whilst I know it has been debated before- the proof is going to be in ringing the spares dept in a few weeks and seeing what can be bought over the counter (from the accessories book) and for what price- regardless of if I own a VE or not (mindful that the wheel lugs are different on the VE from other series so these wheels only fit the VE).

[vyssbeast]

i think its like a trade in thing, like the 19's come with the ssv so if you upgrade to 20's for $xxx then thats not how much the 20's are worth but the difference in price between the 19's n the 20's ... thats my take
otherwise if its $xxx for the 20's (not a trade in type thing as i mentioned) then i guess they owe u two sets of wheels if that makes sense?

[jaykay]

Victorian stamp duty I think is now 2.5% if car is < $35,000, 4% if worth $35,000 to $45,000 and 5% if over $45,000. Bloody scumbag government rip off!! :flamin:
Over 6% in WA over $45,000.... :moon:

Say I bought an SSV, the stamp duty is calculated on the RRP price, which is $51,990 for a manual and the stamp duty in WA for that is 6.5% - $3,379.35.... :doh:

Add on dealer delivery and registration there goes $5,500

[Bazza76]

Paid only $1540 for dealer delivery & $1114 stamp duty on $55680 here in brizzy....:burnout:

[jaykay]

Paid only $1540 for dealer delivery & $1114 stamp duty on $55680 here in brizzy....:burnout:
:flip2: :flip3: :flipoff: :flamin: :mad: :bs:

I'm comin over there to buy a car....

[Bazza76]

:flip2: :flip3: :flipoff: :flamin: :mad: :bs:

I'm comin over there to buy a car....

Yeah:moon: thought it was a pretty good deal:cool:

[Mozz]

So does anyone have any idea if the Holden will still be producing the VE Executive V8 for the state police forces (except WA)?

VE Exec + V8 + 6speed = sweet

[Wonky]

Not so sure - needs to be tested me thinks. If what your saying is true - then I can't by a gear knob or decals once I've driven away?

Whilst I know it has been debated before- the proof is going to be in ringing the spares dept in a few weeks and seeing what can be bought over the counter (from the accessories book) and for what price- regardless of if I own a VE or not (mindful that the wheel lugs are different on the VE from other series so these wheels only fit the VE).

Having worked very closely with HSPO for many years I can tell you now - no way they will sell you a set of 20" rims and tyres for the UPGRADE costs quoted! Even 18" Rims (no tyre) for VZ SS have RRP getting towards $400 EACH!! That's only an 18" rim and NO tyre..........

You only have to look at it logically - to upgrade an Omega to 20" rims and tyres is $3299, SS is $1999 and SSV is $1749 i.e. the upgrade cost depends on how expensive the rims and tyres you are replacing are. My guess based on that is that to walk in off the street and buy those same 20" rims and tyres will cost you far, far more than the $3299 quoted for the Omega upgrade because if you get the upgrade done before delivery they get your original rims and brand new tyres.

I'm sure you'll be able to buy your gear knobs etc separately but most stuff won't be anywhere near the UPGRADE price quoted for VE BEFORE you drive it out of the dealer's place (maybe decals for example will be as they are an addition, not an upgrade).

[V8BRUTE]

Went and checked out the VE's tonight at Penfold's, I am actually pretty impressed with them in real life and the front guard looks a lot more integrated than most photos will show :deal:

After sitting in the front and back of every model I have to say the SS-V is the best followed very closely by the SS, even better than the Calais-V to me :yup:

In the same showroom they have HSV VZ's and the VE's make them look very old hat, the interior on the VZ Clubby isn't as nice as the SS-V imho, the old VT mid section lets it down design wise :)

I had a look at the handbrake and glovebox and yes they appear a little "plasticy" but as far as function go they do the job, they did have a black SS-V with Ignition dash and seats, the seats look great but that dash is :spew:

On the way out I spotted a Nickel SS-V in the dark lot out the front, great opportunity to check out the interior lighting and dash, I reckon the red lighting looks ok and the SS-V having white needles looks good too, the exhaust is quiet but has a very VZ Monaro like sound to it, very nice :headbang:

[jaykay]

What were your thoughts on the Nickel SSV V8BRUTE ? I saw a Nickel SV6 under lights at the VE launch here last week and wasn't sure about the colour. I've been told it looks darker in the natural light. Have seen one on carsales and it does look nicer to me.

I've had 2 quicksilver vy ss's now and thought about getting black in the VE, but lots of anti black comments around the place.

Cheers

[Venom XR]

Passed a red VE SS (SS V?) going the opposite way in Berwick whilst towing a horse home with my effie. Looked good on the road in the brief moment I saw it.

[Bazza76]

What were your thoughts on the Nickel SSV V8BRUTE ? I saw a Nickel SV6 under lights at the VE launch here last week and wasn't sure about the colour. I've been told it looks darker in the natural light. Have seen one on carsales and it does look nicer to me.

I've had 2 quicksilver vy ss's now and thought about getting black in the VE, but lots of anti black comments around the place.

Cheers

I originally ordered the red, but 2 days later the mrs saw a nickel ssv and made me go and change the order.... must admit, it looks pretty good in the natural light

[Rick76]

Impulse SS-V & Phantom SV6 @ Goldy Holden
Heron, Redhot, Nickel SV6's + Igntion SS @ City Motors
http://www.ls1camaro.net/freehosting/VEs.jpg

[V8BRUTE]

What were your thoughts on the Nickel SSV V8BRUTE ? I saw a Nickel SV6 under lights at the VE launch here last week and wasn't sure about the colour. I've been told it looks darker in the natural light. Have seen one on carsales and it does look nicer to me.

I've had 2 quicksilver vy ss's now and thought about getting black in the VE, but lots of anti black comments around the place.

Cheers

I actually liked the Nickel colour but must admit it was dark, saw a Calais today in the sun and its a lot nicer colour than the previous silver, does have a greyish tint to it.
I vowed never to own another black car but its the best colour for the VE IMHO, Barloworld In Glen Waverley Vic had a black Calais-V with the optional 20" rims and it was pure sex on wheels :yup:

[Rick76]

A few Omega / Berlina / Calais pics
http://www.ls1camaro.net/freehosting/VEs2.jpg

[jaykay]

I actually liked the Nickel colour but must admit it was dark, saw a Calais today in the sun and its a lot nicer colour than the previous silver, does have a greyish tint to it.
I vowed never to own another black car but its the best colour for the VE IMHO, Barloworld In Glen Waverley Vic had a black Calais-V with the optional 20" rims and it was pure sex on wheels :yup:
I've never liked how on the silver Commodores the rear bumper looks a different shade of silver where it meets the bodywork. This is evident in the Nickel ones shown above by Rick76 (thanks for posting the pics Rick).

Thanks to korrupt who posted this in the Calais V thread. Fu%$en hot lookin ride....

http://images.cainer.net//uploads/vecalaisside.jpg

Just how to drag one into a black car....:stick:

[Vulture]

Also checked out a few of the new models today. Not bad at all. My main gripe was with some panel fit/quality control. The place where the rear bar and the bodywork joins was had really crappy fit (the wheel arch section). This was not just one car either but on both the SV6 and Calais that were there. Check it out and I'll bet you can find a few more around with this problem. The SS-V was fine. Just goes to show, they're still not quite at Jap or German quality yet...

[cwhast]

omg that just screams BMW :D

[BadMac]

omg that just screams BMW :D


Or A4 Audi.

http://images.cainer.net//uploads/calva4.JPG

[Controltech]

Has anyone seen a SS/SSV in Ignition? If so what did you think?

[Rick76]

The place where the rear bar and the bodywork joins was had really crappy fit (the wheel arch section). This was not just one car either but on both the SV6 and Calais that were there. Check it out and I'll bet you can find a few more around with this problem. The SS-V was fine. Just goes to show, they're still not quite at Jap or German quality yet...

I noticed the same thing. Other things were that that side skirts on some were fitted too far back (front edge starting behind the line of the body work in the front guard and rear edge sticking out too far as a result). The front door lower front corner out of alignment. Bumper popping out under taillight on front edge and skirt popping out where circled.

Maybe I am being too picky but surely there must be some kind of quality control there that wouldn't let cars like this red SV6 out as a demo to be used at a launch party.

http://www.ls1camaro.net/freehosting/VE%20Quality.jpg

I also didn't like the amount of hard plastics used in the interior either. It feels cheap and scratches more easily, but I guess its lighter and cheaper.

I would still gladly take an SS-V or Calais-V though :burnout:

[jaykay]

Has anyone seen a SS/SSV in Ignition? If so what did you think?
Saw an ignition ss at the VE launch on Wednesday night. It was in a darkish showroom with strobe lights going on and off.

Didn't think much of it but would need to see it in the daylight to get a better idea. The seats were cloth with the ignition inserts and that made me want to :spew: , IMO.

As far as Rick76's pics above, the photo on the bottom right (rear bumper to rear bodywork at the indicator) was a common sight on the cars that night. The bumper was sticking out a few mm on each car. The guy from Holden said just a matter of taking the bumper off and resetting it.... WTF :mad:

For Holden paying so much attention to the panel gaps and finish this lets the cars down somewhat..... :stick:

Badmac' Audi comparison is quite scary.....

[Vulture]

I noticed the same thing. Other things were that that side skirts on some were fitted too far back (front edge starting behind the line of the body work in the front guard and rear edge sticking out too far as a result). The front door lower front corner out of alignment. Bumper popping out under taillight on front edge and skirt popping out where circled.


Mate, well done with the pictures. This illustrates exactly what I saw today. I told the salesman that this must be embarrassing, particularly for a Calais, he said that it should all just align up properly with a "screw adjustment" :bs:

Frankly, I find this very disappointing for a "world class" effort. Holden, get your fricken finger out and fix it! it's bloody embarrassing:o . A $20K Japanese hatch is put together better than that. If ever there was a case for buying a series II this is it graphically demonstrated. OK, It is still good value, but please, after all the hype the car needs to look and feel like a quality item.

[SCiFiRE]

There has been talk of Rear bumper fit problems, and that its a problem with early production builds and they are to be fixed before sold or something. apparently they need to add new clips or something? i dont know exactly, just heard rumours. This may or may not be the cause of these issues.

[Carby650]

Saw an ignition ss at the VE launch on Wednesday night. It was in a darkish showroom with strobe lights going on and off.

Didn't think much of it but would need to see it in the daylight to get a better idea. The seats were cloth with the ignition inserts and that made me want to :spew: , IMO.

As far as Rick76's pics above, the photo on the bottom right (rear bumper to rear bodywork at the indicator) was a common sight on the cars that night. The bumper was sticking out a few mm on each car. The guy from Holden said just a matter of taking the bumper off and resetting it.... WTF :mad:

For Holden paying so much attention to the panel gaps and finish this lets the cars down somewhat..... :stick:

Badmac' Audi comparison is quite scary.....


Agreed. Rick and I picked about 6 or more spots where they did not line up on the red SV6 that night. Now if it is just a matter of resetting it then why the f**k not do it before the night of the launch. Surely the dealer principle would know that most people at the launch would be of the keen holden people and would be looking for this sort of stuff. If it is as easy to fix as they say then why did they not do it before the launch.
I have been completely impressed with everything i have seen with this car to date and even though those panels did not line up well they were still a huge improvement over my VY. But again I am blown away by it not being fixed befroe the launch if it is that easy to sort out the issue. :flamin:
rant over !! :woohoo:

[V8BRUTE]

I was checking out an Ignition SS today with the very same wheel arch/body kit issue, its kinda strange as the edge of the body kit doensn't look like it will ever line up, it sits on a different angle to the wheel arch panel and also inboard a little bit :confused:

For whoever asked what Ignition looks like its a little more orange than Fusion in the sun, it has tons of metallic in it too, actually its not not far off this smiley :yup:

[Vulture]

I was checking out an Ignition SS today with the very same wheel arch/body kit issue, its kinda strange as the edge of the body kit doensn't look like it will ever line up, it sits on a different angle to the wheel arch panel and also inboard a little bit :confused:

My thoughts exactly. Can't see taking it off and refitting it will help with this issue. Someone slap me 'cause I still can't believe that they let something like that out of the factory.

[SCiFiRE]

to tell you the truth, Red Passion in the sunlight is definatly my favorite colour of the bunch. on a Caprice or Calais V it just looks like utter class.

[payaya]

Mate, well done with the pictures. This illustrates exactly what I saw today. I told the salesman that this must be embarrassing, particularly for a Calais, he said that it should all just align up properly with a "screw adjustment" :bs:

Frankly, I find this very disappointing for a "world class" effort. Holden, get your fricken finger out and fix it! it's bloody embarrassing:o . A $20K Japanese hatch is put together better than that. If ever there was a case for buying a series II this is it graphically demonstrated. OK, It is still good value, but please, after all the hype the car needs to look and feel like a quality item.

People dont understand that Ford and Holden use humans mainly to put their cars together. Most Euros and Japs use machines, so obviously fit will be a lot better.

We dont use machines because our markets are too small and is not warranted.

[jaykay]

The only thing that puts me off the Nickel colour and this has been the same issue with my Quicksilver Series 1 and 2 VY SS's I've owned, is the colour difference between the rear bumper and bodywork.

I have posted this pic taken by 'redoctober (thank you) to illustrate this on an SSV - the car I'm considering to get -

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n231/redoctober2d/image19.jpg

Also I've read elsewhere that there is no fuel release button in the car now, you just press the cap and it clicks open. Must lock when the car is locked ???

[V8BRUTE]

Thats the Nickel SS-V I was sitting in last night playing with the lights to check out all the interor illumination ;)
I found that the SS-V has white needles on a red background whereas the SS has red on red, the latter a bit harder to read to me :confused:

I can see your point with the strange colour effect on the rear panel joins, mmm.... :confused:

The fuel cap does lock when you lock the car, cool feature I reckon :yup:

[Vulture]

The only thing that puts me off the Nickel colour and this has been the same issue with my Quicksilver Series 1 and 2 VY SS's I've owned, is the colour difference between the rear bumper and bodywork.


Holy crap! Please tell me that picture showing the different colour tones is just a trick of the light? If not that is a shocker!


People dont understand that Ford and Holden use humans mainly to put their cars together. Most Euros and Japs use machines, so obviously fit will be a lot better.

We dont use machines because our markets are too small and is not warranted.

Sorry, there is no excuse for that sort of trashy fit.

[Carby650]

Sorry, there is no excuse for that sort of trashy fit.

The fit wasn't that bad. Don't get the wrong idea. It is a shit load better then previous models. Point is that a. we have been hearing all this noise about the panel fit being of Euro quality. and b. that the dealers are saying its easy fixed yet they don't fix them for the launch of the most important car to holden (and my I dare say the Aussie car market) in many a year

[Vulture]

The fit wasn't that bad...

Ok, so it struck me like the Monty Python "vast bowl of pus". Unfortunately, it is pretty obvious and I hope it will be addressed as it takes the gloss off an otherwise good car.

[V8BRUTE]

Holy crap! Please tell me that picture showing the different colour tones is just a trick of the light? If not that is a shocker!


Its just the light playing with your eyes :yup:

[SCiFiRE]

that silver color-shade difference on the bumper can be seen on most silver cars from the 'wrong' angle. always annoys me.

[VY2 LS1]

Checkout the diff ratios for the A6

No wonder their full tests in the dry are going to run low 13's.

The diff ratios are somewhere around equivalent to what we got from 3.9 & 4.11 for the first three gears compared to the old A4.

But, final drive is like 1640 rpm per 100 km/hr.

No more diff changes necessary!!

Quick take offs and open road fuel economy.

No wonder the feed back is that it is quick off the line!!.

[jaykay]

Its just the light playing with your eyes :yup:
Another one where the light is playing with your eyes ??? :stick:

http://images.cainer.net//uploads/38357.jpg

Why is this so ? :mad:

[lowriding]

that is a trick , of sorts .Its normal . All cars have the same , its because the plastic in the bumpers is not as reflective as steel in the body. It's the same on all cars ,worse with some colours than others and will only show in photos under certain light conditions.Your car (whatever it is) will do the same if you photograph in the right conditions also.

[Ghia351]

that is a trick , of sorts .Its normal . All cars have the same , its because the plastic in the bumpers is not as reflective as steel in the body. It's the same on all cars ,worse with some colours than others and will only show in photos under certain light conditions.Your car (whatever it is) will do the same if you photograph in the right conditions also.
I've noticed this effect on different brands although if the metal body is rust treated (dip treatment) & undercoated how would reflection differences vary between a plastic surfaces and metal surfaces? Could a metal body cause the "metallic flakes/mica" contained in the final colour coat to "polarise" in a different angle to non-metallic surfaces such as plastic bumpers?...one for the surface coating specialists...

[V-Car]

Why is this so ? :mad:

Probably because the bodies and bumpers are painted at different places and on different days.
Paint doesnt match.
Slack! :(

[Vulture]

Probably because the bodies and bumpers are painted at different places and on different days.
Paint doesnt match.
Slack! :(

I agree, can't say I've seen this effect on other brands out there to anywhere near that level (that haven't been repainted with a poor colour match). Still think it could be done better - quality, quality, quality Holden are you listening?

I've been told that it comes down to how the plastic bits are undercoated prior to being painted to ensure that they match the metal parts.

[matt.vzss]

Got the chance to take a 6auto black ss for a spin yesterday and i must say i was impressed.

the biggest diff i noticed was the precision of the steering and also the overall ride and handling of the car. the 6 auto was quite good but i was a bit disappointed there is no performance mode like the ZF box in the opposition.

very nice box to use in the manual mode but i was a bit hesitant to give it to much to really try it out as the car had just clocked over 100ks.

was very difficult not to place an order after the drive but i managed to contain mysel for a bit longer.

[lowriding]

Probably because the bodies and bumpers are painted at different places and on different days.
Paint doesnt match.
Slack! :(

Here is a new $300,000 S500 merc . Look at the rear bumber colour against the body - should be able to see the same thing . I would be the first to hammer Holden if it were a quality issue,but this is quite common in photographs but not usually so noticable to the eye ,and as i said before i believe it has to do with the reflective properties of different materials.

http://images.carsales.com.au/dealer/carsales/4630568.jpg

regards

[lowriding]

I've noticed this effect on different brands although if the metal body is rust treated (dip treatment) & undercoated how would reflection differences vary between a plastic surfaces and metal surfaces? Could a metal body cause the "metallic flakes/mica" contained in the final colour coat to "polarise" in a different angle to non-metallic surfaces such as plastic bumpers?...one for the surface coating specialists...

yeah Ghia im not sure of the scientific reason mate . Fire make it good!

[Angelo_XLR8]

went around to a few dealership and snapped a few pics on my phone.

note: there are some aleady "pimped" up omegas at some of the dealerships sittin on 20's

http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image048.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image049.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image050.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image051.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image052.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image053.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image054.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image055.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image056.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image057.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image058.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image059.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image060.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image061.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image062.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image063.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image064.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image065.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image066.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image067.jpg
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image068.jpg

[VX11SS]

Got to say the black ss car pics from front screamed BA to me, maybe it will look better in flesh lol. The SS front spoiler in red and unfortunately looks like a snow plough, it kind of looks "over designed" very fussy - the spoiler on the blue ss (from a slightly diff angle) does seem to integrate better.

[VX11SS]

Got to say the black ss car pics from front screamed BA to me, maybe it will look better in flesh lol. The SS front spoiler in red and black unfortunately looks like a snow plough, it kind of looks "over designed" very fussy - the spoiler on the blue ss (from a slightly diff angle) does seem to integrate better.

[AndrewW]

http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE EXPO/Image060.jpg


That is so stylish, and so BMW!

I want one just like that.

What wheels are they ? They don't look like anything in the accessories brochure ...

Andrew.

[BLACK expreSS-V]

What wheels are they ? They don't look like anything in the accessories brochure ...

Andrew.


Took the words right out of my mouth.

Looks like Holden have got a couple of aftermarket wheel manufacturers involved pre-release.

Good stuff - as we should be able to purchase some 20" wheels aftermarket for close to the "option" price and keep the standard ones for an EBAY or Trading post sale to a poor Omega owner for a $1000+

[vyssbeast]

nice shots of the exhaust setup too ... looks like a decent size pipe so probably not much room for improvement catback wise?? very hard to tell just by looking at pix but definatly a step up from the previous systems i think
or i could be completely wrong lol

[Angelo_XLR8]

That is so stylish, and so BMW!
http://users.bigpond.net.au/xlr8/VE%20EXPO/Image060.jpg
I want one just like that.

What wheels are they ? They don't look like anything in the accessories brochure ...

Andrew.

it damn hot for an OMEGA.

[Carby650]

I tell yah the first thing I will be hanging out for is an after market grill. When I get a VE that grill badge will be the first to go. If somebody was to manufacture something half ok it will sell like hotcakes. Cause that front badge is about the size of a hotcake.

[Angelo_XLR8]

ill take it and hang it on a chain around my neck. BLING BLING

[jaykay]

Are your dealerships open on Sunday's over there ? Not here in Wait Awhile.....

[`redoctober]

the badge on the new holdens is too damn big!!

[jaykay]

Took the words right out of my mouth.

Looks like Holden have got a couple of aftermarket wheel manufacturers involved pre-release.

Good stuff - as we should be able to purchase some 20" wheels aftermarket for close to the "option" price and keep the standard ones for an EBAY or Trading post sale to a poor Omega owner for a $1000+
Doesn't take long to get the aftermarket wheels sorted out.

That black Omega looks the goods with the big wheels too.

[Janus]

Quick question that I meant to ask Tony Hyde on his web chat on drive.com.au is why have they moved back to the sports shift on the gear stick, rather then the paddles behind the steering wheel, like the VZ Calais has?

I have driven a number of cars with paddle shift, and although some are rather bad, like the AM Vanquish, others are very good, like Audi.

On the other hand I have never driven a sports shift that I have liked, although I admit that isn't many as most European cars have paddles. I find that when I push for it to shift up it just sits in the same gear until it is ready to change.

[NODDY347]

That is so stylish, and so BMW!

I want one just like that.

What wheels are they ? They don't look like anything in the accessories brochure ...

Andrew.


I would also like to know what rims are on the omega??? This car looks great, it has nice clean lines without the bodykit.

[Nickoff]

I was offerred $2645.00 as a fleet discount on a Calias. What are other people being offerred?

[Danv8]

I must add a few comments -




Have booked in for a drive next week -

If you hate it so much then why bother?.

Just don't forget to oil your wrist hinge before beating off.
:nyuk:

[EddieVE06]

Can anyone please advise. If you buy an ex demo from a dealer are you still up for dealer delivery, stamp duty etc etc. Basically all ORC or does that differ being an ex demo.

Thanks

[boofhead]

I was offerred $2645.00 as a fleet discount on a Calias. What are other people being offerred?

$ 4,970 is the best I have seen here in Sydney for the Calais-V V8, but I have a few more quotes coming in today

Went for a test drive of a Calais-V V8 at Suttons at Moore Park in Sydney on Saturday and was very impressed and the wife quite liked it as well (son just wanted to keep hearing the car accelerate as he loved the noise). First of the Sydney dealers I have been to that actually had the car.

One dealer mentioned that their allocation of Calais-V V8 would only be 3 cars for the next few months