Holden Commodore VX

Introduction

The VX, while looking very similar to the VT, had some significant improvements. The V6 was upgraded, and put out an improved 152 kW @ 5200 rpm - along with much better fuel efficiency. This was due to an upgraded engine management system which allowed individual spark control on each cylinder, and a new inlet manifold. The V8 was also upgraded and now boasted a healthy 225 kW @ 5200 rpm.

These improvements to the V8 were courtesy of a new inlet manifold, injectors and upgraded engine management system. The auto transmission was also recalibrated. The Supercharged V6 was made an option on Executive and Acclaim models. The VX had a dual damper drive shaft, with rubber couplings on each end to help fuel economy and minimise vibration.

The front suspension was modified slightly, with lower control arm pivot points raised by 4mm and a ball joint replaced a rubber bushing on the stabiliser to strut link. ABS brakes (Bosch 5.3) were standard on all models, as was a CD player and steering wheel audio system controls. Traction control was made available with the manual transmission.

Monash University Accident Research Centre

Holden had undertaken extensive research with Monash University Accident Research Centre into side-impact collisions, and as a result they modified the B pillar (centre pillar). The result was that the risk of injury in a side-impact collision with no side airbags, was almost half of that in the VT. The main body changes were to the headlights and front grills, and to the tail lights.

The new rear suspension on the Series II - known as Control-Link independent rear suspension (IRS) - had been designed by Holden engineers to combine all the traction qualities of a supple independent rear suspension system with even greater stability, handling precision and control. Control-Link IRS featured extra link arms which assisted in keeping the car precisely on track over bumps and during strong acceleration, deceleration or braking. Its benefits were particularly noticeable in challenging cornering situations.

By improving rear grip and keeping the vehicle on a tighter line, Control-Link IRS assisted drivers to negotiate corners and bends more confidently. The suspension packages across the Series II Statesman and Caprice model range had been totally re-tuned to complement the rear suspension changes, further enhancing stability and ride comfort. Revised steel belt tyre construction also contributed to a sharper and more accurate steering feel. All Series II models were equipped with new stalk controls for indicator, wiper and cruise control functions. The cruise control was operated using a more intuitive twist switch mechanism instead of the previous button system.

Commodore VX SS

The Commodore SS introduced the option of striking coloured leather interior trim, specifically designed to complement exteriors finished in Red Hot and the brilliant new Hyper yellow. The Commodore SS customised colour theme extended to instrument clusters, metallised console fascias and seat trims. Calais buyers could also choose new colour-keyed leather trim - in Cobalt, Light Shale and Dark Red - to harmonise with and complement exterior colours. The Calais centre console and instrument fascia were finished in metallic silver.

Stylish black leather trim also joined the option list for Commodore S, SS and Calais. Commodore Executive and Acclaim featured new micro-check patterned trim on the head restraints and seat bolsters. With the introduction of the Series II model range, grey-toned interiors were now finished in the darker shade of Anthracite. Berlina and Calais featured distinctive new grille inserts with diagonal crosshatching and new rear badges; Calais headlamps were outlined with sporty black bezels; Commodore Executive and Acclaim had revised grille treatments and new wheel covers. For added security, Commodore Executive, Acclaim, S and SS models were fitted with an alarm system, operated via remote control Power Key, which sounded the vehicle's horn when triggered.

Holden Assist

Berlina sedans and wagons offered the convenience of twilight sentinel which automatically turned headlamp controls on and off. Holden underlined its commitment to technological leadership and to satisfying customer needs with the introduction of the Holden Assist in-car communications system as an option offered to Calais buyers. Combining mobile phone and global positioning system technology, the system put drivers in direct phone contact with the Holden Assist Centre, which was manned 24 hours a day and offered a range of support services. The Holden Assist system could also remotely unlock doors on command, diagnose low battery voltage, detect unauthorised entry, track and immobilise the vehicle if stolen and automatically notify authorities of an airbag deployment.