Holden Commodore VY

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.