Holden hopes new VF Commodore will revive big cars

AUSTRALIA: Standard self-parking for new Holden VF Commodore

By Glenn Brooks | 11 February 2013

Holden is due to start selling the VF Commodore in Australia and New Zealand from May

General Motors Holden has revealed its next Commodore sedan to the media at a special preview event in Melbourne. More than a facelift but less than a redesign, the VF series model brings with it the most advanced technology yet seen on an Australian made car.

Holden hopes that its decision to reskin the VF Commodore with new, more aerodynamic body panels, some of which are aluminium, will help the car to deliver better fuel consumption. While engine details are yet to be announced, it would be surprising if the existing range was not carried over. That consists of 3.0- and 3.6-litre V6s as well as a 6.2-litre V8.

Another new feature for the Commodore is electric power steering, while Auto Park Assist is also standard for all model grades. Holden's system allows drivers to choose between parallel or 90 degree angle parking options. The VF also has the latest version of GM's MyLink infotainment system plus keyless entry and start.

Safety features include Reverse Traffic Alert, which warns of vehicles passing when reversing out of spaces, Blind Spot Alert, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and a Head-Up Display, which projects information such as the car's speed directly onto the windscreen.

The car shown at the preview event was the top-spec Calais V variant. Other versions will be revealed in the coming weeks. Holden is expected to launch equivalent updates for the related wagon, ute and long-wheelbase Caprice models.

The 2014 Chevrolet SS, a version of the new VF Commodore, is set to be revealed soon, ahead of the start of production in the third quarter. Holden will build that model for export to North America.

All of Holden's large, rear-wheel drive models are manufactured at the firm's Elizabeth plant in the suburbs of Adelaide in the state of South Australia.

Author: Glenn Brooks

Sectors: Components, Technology/R&D, Vehicle manufacturers, Vehicle manufacturing, Vehicle markets, Vehicle product & design

Companies: General Motors, Chevrolet

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