Live on TwitchJoin the ScanRacer car quiz
Back to Holden
Holden

Commodore

1978 - 2018

The Holden Commodore is an iconic Australian sedan produced by Holden from 1978 to 2020. Initially launched in 1978, it evolved over the decades into a versatile model, available in sedan, wagon, coupe, and utility versions. This page brings together the versions referenced by ScanRacer, including production years, variants, rarities, and available detailed pages. It links the model overview to version-by-year pages.

Model summary

Data from the ScanRacer library, organized to compare versions quickly.

11referenced versions
1978 - 2018covered years
9distinct model years

Model introduction

The Holden Commodore is an iconic Australian sedan produced by Holden from 1978 to 2020. Initially launched in 1978, it evolved over the decades into a versatile model, available in sedan, wagon, coupe, and utility versions. This page brings together the versions referenced by ScanRacer, including production years, variants, rarities, and available detailed pages. It links the model overview to version-by-year pages.

History

The Holden Commodore was introduced in 1978 to replace the long-standing Holden Kingswood. Initially based on the Opel Rekord platform, the Commodore was adapted to Australian road conditions, with structural and mechanical modifications to meet local market needs. Production began in 1978, with models assembled in Australia and New Zealand until 1990. In 2006, Holden launched the fourth generation of the Commodore, the VE model, designed in-house and based on the Zeta platform developed by Holden. This generation marked a turning point, with significant improvements in design and performance. Production of the Commodore ended in 2017, with the last unit assembled at the Elizabeth plant on October 20, 2017. Production in New Zealand also ceased in 1990. (en.wikipedia.org)

Generations

The Holden Commodore has undergone several generations since its launch in 1978. The first generation (VB–VL) was produced from 1978 to 1988, initially as a sedan, then expanded in 1979 to include a wagon. The second generation (VN–VS) followed from 1988 to 1997, with notable improvements in design and technology. The third generation (VT–VZ) was produced from 1997 to 2006, with continuous updates to remain competitive in the market. The fourth generation (VE) was launched in 2006, marking a turning point with an entirely Australian design and an in-house developed platform. The fifth generation (VF) followed from 2013 to 2017, with further enhancements in performance and technology. The sixth and final generation (ZB) was produced from 2018 to 2020, based on the European Opel Insignia platform, marking the end of local Commodore production. (en.wikipedia.org)

Key differences

The main differences between generations of the Holden Commodore lie in platform design, engines, and onboard technologies. The early generations (VB–VL) were based on the Opel Rekord platform, adapted to Australian conditions. From the fourth generation (VE) onwards, Holden developed its own platform, the Zeta, offering better performance and increased rigidity. Engines evolved from inline six-cylinders to V6 and V8, with improvements in fuel efficiency and power. Onboard technologies also progressed, with the introduction of navigation systems, connectivity, and advanced safety features over the generations. (en.wikipedia.org)

Photo recognition

To identify a Holden Commodore, look for the following features: The first generation (VB–VL) has more angular lines and rectangular headlights. The second generation (VN–VS) has smoother curves and round headlights. The third generation (VT–VZ) is characterized by a wider grille and larger headlights. The fourth generation (VE) has a more modern design with sleek headlights and a more aerodynamic silhouette. The fifth generation (VF) features sportier design elements and a lower stance. The sixth generation (ZB) resembles the Opel Insignia, with smoother lines and a more European appearance. (en.wikipedia.org)

Important versions

Notable versions of the Holden Commodore include: The Commodore SS, known for its sporty performance. The Commodore Calais, a luxury version offering high-end features. The Commodore Ute, a popular utility version in Australia. The Commodore Sportwagon, a wagon offering versatility and space. The Commodore Berlina, an intermediate version offering a good balance between performance and comfort. (en.wikipedia.org)

Variants by year

11 versions

2018

2013

2008

2006

2002

1997

1988

1986

1978