Holden Commodore VT

The VT represented a completely new model for the General, the second major model release since the 1978 VB and 1988 VN.

The basis for the car was the 1995 Opel Omega GM2800 platform, it being redesigned to suit, in turn making the Commodore both wider and longer, and more importantly significantly stronger.

The VT afforded more front and rear leg room, more shoulder room, and the boot capacity was increased by a whopping 26%.

The VT was the first Holden to include a driver's side airbag as standard equipment across all models, while IRS became a standard fitment to both sedans and wagons.

A new traction control system was on the options list, the first in an Australian built car, while a new braking system featured twin piston calipers on the front to reduce pedal travel and brake fade.

In 1998, Side Impact Airbags were introduced, again a first for an Australian car.

Running changes introduced during VT production resulted in later builds being lighter and more fuel efficient than the earlier VT models.

Most notable of the improvements was the VT Series II, which saw the introduction of the Chevrolet Gen III LS1 5.7 litre V8, producing a stonking 220kW and 446Nm.

This engine replaced the aging Holden 5.0 litre V8. Changes were not confined to the engine bay, as a six-speed manual gearbox replaced the five-speed (on the V8).

The VT II Calais received a new instrument panel, and could be optioned to have a supercharged V6 engine. All models featured remote central locking.