Holden Commodore VY
Reviewed by Unique Cars and Parts
Our Rating: 1
Introduction
The VY represented another large investment by Holden,
with refinements to body structure, powertrain and chassis
dynamics delivering appreciable improvements in performance,
ride, handling, safety and build quality. A new model
was also introduced, the SV8, which slotted in below the
SS.
The SV8 and SS were powered by the High Output 235kW version
of the Generation III V8, with a twin
exhaust system.
The SV8 featured 17 inch
alloy wheels, and the SS now
sported 18 inch
alloy wheels.
The
steering system was revised, it featuring a precise
feel and better driver feedback. Interior upgrades included
a new instrument panel, centre console and
steering wheel,
and new design
transmission shifter and handbrake. There
was also a new mobile phone power outlet under the centre
console.
The new instrument cluster featured a large multi-function
digital display (single or triple-window, depending
on model), which displayed information such as radio
station display, PRNDL gear selected indicator, trip
computer with stopwatch function, service reminders
and a help facility.
Standard features now included "twilight sentinel"
automatic headlamp control, headlamps off programmable
time delay, high feature Blaupunkt audio systems, road-speed
sensitive intermittent wipers and passenger airbags.
The front and rear of the body were restyled, with
new front grill and headlamps, and distinctive jewelled
tail lamps. Recalibrations and shift revisions improved
the performance of
automatic transmissions, and V8
transmissions were also upgraded to provide greater durability. Service intervals
for V6 engines were extended to 15,000 km.
Major changes introduced with the Series II included;
A new high-output GEN III 5.7 litre V8 engine, producing
peak power of 245kW @ 5,600rpm, it being standard kit on the Commodore
SS sedan, SS Ute, and SV8. The Holden Calais and Berlina models
benefited from a GEN III V8 power boost to 235kW @ 5,200rpm.
ECOTEC V6, Supercharged V6 and GEN III V8 powerplants
were engineered to meet strict new emission level requirements.
245kW V8s gained additional frontal rigidity from a strut
brace mounted to the strut towers and spanning the engine
bay. All models featured fresh, individual interior trim
treatments.
Convenience and comfort features such as cruise control,
front power windows and adjustable front seat lumbar support
were now standard across the range, and a sunglasses holder
and rear reading lamps were now standard fitment on all
sedans and wagons. Calais and Acclaim models received the
added safety benefit of active head restraints, all models
were equipped with audible and visual driver's seatbelt
warning, and
steering column modifications across the
new range assisted in reducing the risk of occupant injury
in a frontal crash. Also available for the first time,
a tailored, factory fitted sunroof was optional on all
sedans.
All wagons were fitted with aircraft-style cargo rails
in the rear compartment for extra tie-down security and
flexibility, and load-covering retracting roller blinds
are standard fitment. Wagons have new jewelled tail lamps
with a circular design theme. The Calais took on a more European-accented sports
persona.
Stand-out styling accents included a bolder front
facia with sports bar grille and hexagonal mesh inserts,
black bezel headlamps, lower ride height, SS-style side
skirts, 17-inch five-spoke
alloy wheels, rear facia skirts
and unique tail lamps. Interiors are highlighted by all-black
headliner and pillar trim, sports profile
steering wheel,
unique facia and colour-keyed console surround and suede-finish
soft fabric trim.
Extra luxury touches include Caprice-style
driver's seat memory settings and heated 'memory' exterior
mirrors. When reverse gear is selected, the passenger-side
mirror dips to show low level hazards. Berlina models are distinguished by twin fog lamps, black
lower facia mouldings and nine-spoke
alloy wheels.
More luxurious interior finishes include new monotone seat
trim in soft velour, leather-wrapped
steering wheel, handbrake
and auto shifter and satin chrome highlights. The S and
SV8 were also fitted with body-coloured grille and rear licence plate
surrounds and spoiler-mounted stop lamps with clear lens.
Both featured new
alloy wheels - five-spoke on the S, which
receives larger 17-inch wheels, and dual five-spoke on
the SV8 - are matched to new-specification tyres, tuned
for improved
handling and firmer, quieter ride characteristics.
Body coloured exterior mirrors and amber indicator lenses
also set the SV8 apart.
Never used a drop of oil.
One clutch and one water pump and at 230.000km a lifter bucket was shot.