Holden Commodore

Introduction

The Holden Commodore was introduced in 1978 as a large family sedan built by Holden, General Motors’ Australian subsidiary. It quickly became one of the most iconic cars in Australia, balancing affordability, performance, and practicality. Over multiple generations, the Commodore evolved from a simple family car into a high-performance machine, especially in its SS and HSV variants. Production lasted until 2017, marking the end of an era for Australian-built sedans.

Exterior

The Commodore’s exterior design evolved significantly across generations. Early models featured boxy, European-inspired lines, while the 1990s and 2000s versions showcased smoother, more aerodynamic shapes. Later generations emphasized aggressive styling with bold grilles, muscular fenders, and alloy wheels. Special performance versions included spoilers, racing stripes, and sportier bumpers, appealing to enthusiasts while keeping the family sedan practicality intact.

Interior

Inside, the Commodore provided a mix of comfort and functionality. Standard models featured cloth upholstery, simple dashboards, and spacious seating for five. Later versions introduced premium touches such as leather seats, digital displays, climate control, and advanced infotainment systems. The cabin layout emphasized driver orientation, particularly in performance trims, while also providing ample rear-seat comfort for families.

Safety Features

Safety in the Commodore improved steadily over its lifespan. Early models included basic seatbelts and sturdy steel frames, while later generations added airbags, ABS brakes, and traction control. By the 2000s, the Commodore was equipped with electronic stability control, side airbags, and advanced crumple zones. In its final years, it featured driver-assist technologies like lane departure warning and parking sensors, aligning with modern global safety standards.

Engine Trims

The Commodore offered a wide variety of engines over the decades. Options ranged from four-cylinder and inline-six engines in base models to powerful V8s in performance trims. Notable engines included the 3.8-liter V6 and the 6.0-liter V8, producing up to 400+ hp in HSV variants. Transmission choices included manual and automatic gearboxes, catering to both everyday drivers and enthusiasts.

Maintenance

Maintenance of the Commodore was straightforward thanks to its widespread availability in Australia. Parts were abundant, and the car was known for its mechanical durability, particularly the V6 and V8 engines. However, performance models required closer attention to brakes, suspension, and cooling systems due to their higher stress levels. Even today, a large enthusiast base and aftermarket support ensure ease of servicing and restoration.

Competitors

The Commodore’s main rival was the Ford Falcon, creating a legendary Australian automotive rivalry. Other competitors included the Toyota Camry in family markets and imported sedans from Nissan and Mitsubishi. The Commodore distinguished itself by offering a uniquely Australian mix of size, performance, and affordability, becoming deeply ingrained in the nation’s car culture.