Holden VE Commodore

The Holden Commodore, Berlina, Calais and Ute (VE) are a range of full-size cars produced from 2006 to 2013 by Holden, the Australian subsidiary of General Motors. Succeeding the previous VZ model, the VE marked the introduction of the fourth generation of Holden Commodore—a model line introduced in 1978. As opposed to the VZ and all models previous which used Opel-sourced platforms adapted both mechanically and in size for the local market, the VE programme is the first Commodore to be developed exclusively by Holden in Australia. Despite its status as an all-new model, engines—comprising the 3.6-litre V6 and more powerful 6.0-litre V8—have been largely carried over from the VZ series. Innovative features to help minimise export redevelopment costs, such as a symmetrical centre console housing a flush-fitting hand brake lever, facilitate the conversion to left-hand drive. Internationally, the VE is badge engineered as the Chevrolet Lumina, Chevrolet Omega and previously as the Pontiac G8 from 2007 to 2009. Holden implemented a staged roll-out of the VE variants, releasing the sedan first in July 2006.