Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Holden launches tuned, pre-facelifted Malibu in Australia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/holden-launches-tuned-pre-facelifted-malibu-in-australia/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/holden-launches-tuned-pre-facelifted-malibu-in-australia/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/holden-launches-tuned-pre-facelifted-malibu-in-australia/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



As General Motors prepares to launch a refreshed 2014 Chevrolet Malibu in the US, the current, year-old version of the car will go on sale in Australia as the Holden Malibu. Rather than just making it right-hand drive and putting new badges on the Malibu for Aussie duty, Holden engineers worked on the sedan's drivetrain and suspension to give it a tuning unique to that market.

It seems like one of the biggest challenges was getting the Holden Malibu to drive smoothly on Australian roads, and GM's crew Down Under accomplished this by retuning the suspension's damping calibration, as well as giving the car proper right-hand-drive tires. Yes, apparently tires designed for a left-hand-drive car would cause the Malibu to pull "excessively to the left," according to GM's press release. Engine choices for the Holden Malibu are the 2.4-liter gasoline four-cylinder or a 2.0-liter diesel I4.

Scroll down for the official press blast.

Continue reading Holden launches tuned, pre-facelifted Malibu in Australia

Holden launches tuned, pre-facelifted Malibu in Australia originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Jun 2013 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 holden malibuaustraliachevychevy malibugeneral motorsholdenholden malibuThu, 13 Jun 2013 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20620645/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/13/holden-launches-tuned-pre-facelifted-malibu-in-australia/20620645/article-detail.xml 20620645 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2013-holden-malibu-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2013-holden-malibu-628.jpg <![CDATA[HSV boss says Australia's power wars are over]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/hsv-boss-says-australias-power-wars-are-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/hsv-boss-says-australias-power-wars-are-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/hsv-boss-says-australias-power-wars-are-over/#commentsFiled under: ,

Holden HSV GTS - front three-quarter view - yellow

Phil Harding, managing director of Holden Special Vehicles, says the Australian power wars are effectively over. GoAuto has quoted Harding as saying that it's simply becoming too expensive to continue to pursue ever more engine performance thanks in part due to extensive certification, homologation, development and testing requirements. Whereas HSV was once able to extract an extra 67 horsepower from an engine with a given investment, the same outlay today will see a bump of less than 7 hp, according to Harding. The executive also said Holden has reached the upper legal limit of what's possible with LS3 engine development. In its most potent configuration, the company is pulling around 436 hp from the naturally aspirated V8. Of course, buyers can still step up to the 577-hp supercharged V8 in the HSV GTS (shown).

Meanwhile, few analysts believe Ford will step up to challenge that machine's power dominance. With Ford announcing it will stop producing vehicles in Australia after 2016 (including its long-running Falcon series), the future of high-performance models specific to the Australian market seems in doubt.

HSV boss says Australia's power wars are over originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 10:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaholdenholden commodoreholden special vehicleshsvphil hardingpower warsMon, 10 Jun 2013 10:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20605277/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/10/hsv-boss-says-australias-power-wars-are-over/20605277/article-detail.xml 20605277 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/hsv-gts-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/hsv-gts-628.jpg <![CDATA[First Holden VF Commodore ad plays up ties to Chevy SS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/07/first-holden-vf-commodore-ad-plays-up-ties-to-chevy-ss/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/07/first-holden-vf-commodore-ad-plays-up-ties-to-chevy-ss/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/07/first-holden-vf-commodore-ad-plays-up-ties-to-chevy-ss/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Holden VF Commodore ad features 2014 Chevy SS - video screencap

The Holden VF Commodore is getting ready to go on sale in Australia, and the first commercials for the new full-size sedan range have just hit the Internet. Why is this newsworthy to us, you ask? Well, in both spots, our version of the car - the soon-to-arrive 2014 Chevrolet SS - is prominently featured, giving us our first look at the new flagship Chevy in motion.

In the first video, Holden shows some of the car's more detailed features, including the available head-up display and a brief demo of the Automatic Parking Assist. The second video is more like 90 seconds of the automaker shouting "Yay, Australia!" - a well-timed bit of flag-waving when rival Ford has just announced that it is giving up on manufacturing vehicles Down Under after nearly a century of carmaking. Both videos are posted below for your viewing pleasure.

Continue reading First Holden VF Commodore ad plays up ties to Chevy SS

First Holden VF Commodore ad plays up ties to Chevy SS originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Jun 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet ss2014 chevy sscar commercialchevychevy ssgeneral motorsholdenholden vf commodorevideoFri, 07 Jun 2013 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20603816/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/07/first-holden-vf-commodore-ad-plays-up-ties-to-chevy-ss/20603816/article-detail.xml 20603816 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/chevrolet-ss-ad-1370628633_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/chevrolet-ss-ad-1370628633.jpg <![CDATA[Australia may offer money to keep Toyota making cars there]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/australia-may-offer-money-to-keep-toyota-making-cars-there/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/australia-may-offer-money-to-keep-toyota-making-cars-there/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/australia-may-offer-money-to-keep-toyota-making-cars-there/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



In the wake of last month's announcement that Ford will cease automotive and engine production in Australia after 2016, many are wondering what the country's other automakers will do. Holden has already confirmed it will stay the course despite Ford's exit.

Much of the GM subsidiary's reason for sticking around has to do with a deal made last year between Holden and the Australian government. In order to secure a GM investment of $1 billion and a commitment to keep manufacturing in Australia through 2022, the government threw in an extra $215 million. According to Australia's Minister for Innovation and Industry, Greg Combet, the government is now in talks with Toyota for a similar deal.

Toyota operates one plant in Australia, the Altona manufacturing and engine plant in Victoria. The facility produces the Camry, Camry Hybrid and Australasia-only Aurion for both the local market and export. The report from GoAuto indicates that negotiations with the Australian government would include adding production of a third, all-new model at Altona, possibly the new RAV4, because it shares many parts with the Camry.

Mr. Combet did not say what amount the government would be willing to offer in exchange for an investment by Toyota and commitment to continue manufacturing in Australia, or whether it would be more or less than the Holden deal, but did confirm the talks were happening. Toyota has declined to comment, but is scheduled to release its 2012-13 financial results next week and could make an announcement then.

Australia may offer money to keep Toyota making cars there originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altonaaustraliagmgreg combetholdentoyotaTue, 04 Jun 2013 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20598658/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/04/australia-may-offer-money-to-keep-toyota-making-cars-there/20598658/article-detail.xml 20598658 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/toyota-camry-hybrid-australia-altona_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/toyota-camry-hybrid-australia-altona.jpg <![CDATA[Holden vows to stay the course in Australia despite Ford exit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/25/holden-vows-to-stay-the-course-in-australia-despite-ford-exit/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/25/holden-vows-to-stay-the-course-in-australia-despite-ford-exit/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/25/holden-vows-to-stay-the-course-in-australia-despite-ford-exit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Holden Commodore VF show car - front three-quarter view

With arch rival Ford of Australia having announced earlier this week that it will cease all in-continent manufacturing in 2016, you might think that General Motors' Holden division might be feeling a bit more confident about its future prospects. Yet that doesn't necessarily appear to be the case. At least for the moment, Ford's headline-grabbing announcement may take some of the wind out of the sails of Holden's new VF Commodore lineup (SS model pictured above), a critical new range launching right now. Further, the same high assembly costs that are being blamed for Ford shuttering its plants Down Under also affect Holden, and then there's the as-yet-unknown effect of the Blue Oval's pullout on Australia's supplier base, much of which the two companies share.

According to an official statement attributed to Holden chairman Mike Devereux, the automaker is holding hands on both sides of the country's political aisle as he works to secure government goodwill and understanding for the auto industry's challenges. For the moment, Holden's commitment to Australian production appears stronger than Ford. Devereux notes the company has already vetted a 10-year production plan with the Australian government, and the billion-dollar investment that it requires will result in a pair of new global vehicles. Needless to say, Holden executives have a lot to figure out if they're going to continue to a viable enterprise in Down Under, and Ford's departure may add a sense of urgency to those discussions.

Continue reading Holden vows to stay the course in Australia despite Ford exit

Holden vows to stay the course in Australia despite Ford exit originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 25 May 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>general motorsgmholdenholden carsholden commodoreholden vf commodoremike devereuxSat, 25 May 2013 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20583187/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/25/holden-vows-to-stay-the-course-in-australia-despite-ford-exit/20583187/article-detail.xml 20583187 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-holden-commodore-vf-show-car_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-holden-commodore-vf-show-car.jpg <![CDATA[HSV unholsters Holden Gen-F lineup [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Holden HSV Gen-F GTS

Here it is, folks. Right on schedule, Holden has revealed full details on its reborn range of HSV Gen-F models. The bulk of the new HSV machinery will go on sale next month, though the baddest of them all, the supercharged HSV GTS, will reportedly be delayed until September.

The GTS may well be worth the wait, however, as its 430kW supercharged V8 engine (known as the LSA, the engine makes 580 horsepower and 556 pound-feet of torque in the US-market Chevy Camaro ZL1) will make this the fastest Holden ever produced. Lower-level ClubSport models will come equipped with a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 with 317kW of power. A ClubSport R8 sedan with a 325kW version of the engine and a ClubSport SV with a 340kW engine will also be available.

Bodystyle choices range from a sedan to a wagon and, of course, an El Camino a Ute called the Maloo, since this is Australia after all. Long-wheelbase Grange model and an upscale Senator model will be offered with slightly more toned-down exterior looks for those who'd rather blend in to the crowd. Pricing has yet to be announced, but you're welcome to scroll down below to watch a video before checking out all the details from Holden here.

Continue reading HSV unholsters Holden Gen-F lineup [w/video]

HSV unholsters Holden Gen-F lineup [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiagen-fholdenhsvhsv gen-fhsv gtsTue, 14 May 2013 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20568942/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/20568942/article-detail.xml 20568942 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/holden-hsv-gts-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/holden-hsv-gts-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Holden HSV range coming next month]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/next-gen-holden-hsv-range-coming-next-month/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/next-gen-holden-hsv-range-coming-next-month/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/next-gen-holden-hsv-range-coming-next-month/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Holden HSV GTS

Holden Special Vehicles has something fun planned for next month. The company plans to yank back the sheets on the next generation of its HSV range, suitably named the Gen-F, on May 15. Holden had to do some quick stepping with its nomenclature this go around, and while names like "F Series" and "F1" dovetailed nicely with the 2013 VF Commodore, HSV had so skip those for obvious legal reasons.

HSV has been trying to keep details close to the chest until the official unveil, but the Australian sleuths at carsguide.com.au have unearthed a wealth of interesting information already. According to the report, the Gen-F will be the fastest and most powerful sedan ever sold in Oz, with 575 horsepower and 545 pound-feet of torque. That engine will be very closely related to the LSA mill found in the Chevy Camaro ZL1, which produces 580 horses in US trim.

Initial estimates put the 0-62 (0-100 kilometers per hour) run at "comfortably less" than 4.5 seconds, and top speed will reportedly be capped at 155 miles per hour. Expect high-tech wizardry in the suspension and electronics to keep the car planted, and expect a sticker price of around $95,000 in Australian dollars.

Australians can expect to see the cars hit the showroom by June 15, but reports indicate it won't be as outlandishly styled as the last-gen model seen above. Instead, expect a more subtle package for the Gen-F that lacks some of the scoops and wings seen in years past. More detail is available at the source link below for those interested in what may very well be the last super-powerful V8-powered factory Holden sedan in Australia.

Next-gen Holden HSV range coming next month originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiagen-fholdenholden special vehicleshsvhsv gen-fThu, 25 Apr 2013 18:39:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549115/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/25/next-gen-holden-hsv-range-coming-next-month/20549115/article-detail.xml 20549115 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/holden-hsv-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/holden-hsv-628.jpg <![CDATA[Holden could get crossover based on Chevy Cruze]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/holden-could-get-crossover-based-on-chevy-cruze/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/holden-could-get-crossover-based-on-chevy-cruze/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/holden-could-get-crossover-based-on-chevy-cruze/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



During a discussion of the next-generation Holden Commodore and the General Motors Zeta platform, the question of an Australian-built SUV came up. Dave Leone, GM's executive chief engineer for luxury and rear-wheel-drive cars, wouldn't go any further than to say "that could be very possible," but recent events at Holden only reinforce the notion that we won't have any idea what is and isn't possible at the Aussie branch until it's actually done.

If there were such an SUV in the Holden pipeline, speculation is that it could be built on the platform for the next-generation Chevrolet Cruze, and that it could send the Captiva - imported to Australia from Thailand - into retirement. That's a lot of coulds, but it's all Aussie-market watchers have as they try to figure out what Holden's going to do for the next nine years it has pledged to build cars in Oz. Alongside that Cruze, a next-generation VJ Commodore is also promised and a locally-built SUV might make sense as a third model.

Holden could get crossover based on Chevy Cruze originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Apr 2013 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiachevychevy captivachevy cruzed2xxholdenholden commodorezetaSun, 21 Apr 2013 10:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545328/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/21/holden-could-get-crossover-based-on-chevy-cruze/20545328/article-detail.xml 20545328 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/chevrolet-captiva-holden_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/chevrolet-captiva-holden.jpg <![CDATA[Holden announces 500 job cuts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/holden-announces-500-job-cuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/holden-announces-500-job-cuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/holden-announces-500-job-cuts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Nearly 500 employees of Holden, GM's Australian outpost, will be without jobs as the company adjusts to the high dollar, fierce competition from foreign rivals and lagging Commodore (shown above) and Cruze sales. In 2005, Holden sold 66,794 Commodore models. But that number plummeted to just 30,532 units last calendar year, prompting the automaker to lay off 170 workers just five months ago. With this latest round, about 100 jobs will be cut in its Melbourne product development facility and another 400 will be slashed at its Elizabeth plant, in South Australia, as the company slows production from 400 units to 335 units per day.

The Australian government has invested more than $2.2 billion ($2.29 billion US dollars) of its own funds to help Holden over the years, and there are future subsidies on the line, but many are questioning the investments. When Holden managing director Mike Devereux was asked about the brand's future, he was far from optimistic. "I cannot predict the future... I can't control what central banks do ... I cannot control the value of other currencies that we compete with and I cannot predict what that will do to our business.''

Holden announces 500 job cuts originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaholdenholden australiaholden commodoreholden cruzeholden layoffmanufacturingTue, 09 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20534291/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/09/holden-announces-500-job-cuts/20534291/article-detail.xml 20534291 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/vf-calaisv-show-car-02-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/vf-calaisv-show-car-02-opt.jpg <![CDATA[The story of the 2014 Chevrolet SS: "Luxury, power, refinement, handling"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/the-story-of-the-2014-chevrolet-ss-luxury-power-refinement/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/the-story-of-the-2014-chevrolet-ss-luxury-power-refinement/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/the-story-of-the-2014-chevrolet-ss-luxury-power-refinement/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Not including the women and men who built it, the 2014 Chevrolet SS has only been seen in person by a piddling number of people - fewer humans than would fill the gymnasium at a high school volleyball game. Not including the men and women who built it, no one has driven it. Even so, it is already saddled with two controversies: the way it looks and the way it shifts.

First to that shifting. Did we love the last Americanized Holden, the awesomely sportsome Pontiac G8 GXP, and its six-speed manual? Of course. Do we wish the SS came with a six-speed manual? Of course. But we'd like a toboggan to come with a manual transmission. We'd put a manual transmission on a weasel if we could because we're just wired that way; if it moves, it should come with a stick and a clutch. Or at least the option.

Let's climb down off the ledge, though. We haven't driven the SS and we have no idea how good (or not) the automatic is. And the Hobson's Choice in transmissions when it comes to sport sedans like the BMW M5, Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG and Jaguar XFR-S and, oh yeah, cars-that-really-should-have-manuals like the Nissan GT-R and Porsche 918 and every single Lamborghini and Ferrari, for instance, hasn't stopped us from enjoying what is clearly the gruesome, dual-clutched demise of Western automotive civilization. Because in spite of our ululations at the dying of the six-speed light, we understand.

All we're saying is sure, we're disappointed, but let's drive it first - then we'll find out if this is something more than a philosophical tragedy. When we asked what were the chances of a manual we were thrown the bones of "it's a possibility down the line," and that's all we need to go to Optimism Level: Lloyd.

To that other, bigger controversy: the way it looks - it seems many of you were expecting more, or at least more different. However, as far back as 2009 it was acknowledged that the VF Holden Commodore would be an overhaul of the VE series, and mainly under the skin at that. There was neither the money nor the business case to create a brand new car. If there is an issue with the looks of the SS, it's our opinion that we might have discovered 90 percent of the cure in the sedan's trunk.

Continue reading The story of the 2014 Chevrolet SS: "Luxury, power, refinement, handling"

The story of the 2014 Chevrolet SS: "Luxury, power, refinement, handling" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Mar 2013 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet ss2014 holden commodorechevroletchevycommodoreholdenssvf commodoreThu, 07 Mar 2013 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20465250/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/07/the-story-of-the-2014-chevrolet-ss-luxury-power-refinement/20465250/article-detail.xml 20465250 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014ssdaytona_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014ssdaytona.jpg <![CDATA[Holden shows wagon and ute versions of new Commodore]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/holden-shows-wagon-and-ute-versions-of-new-commodore/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/holden-shows-wagon-and-ute-versions-of-new-commodore/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/holden-shows-wagon-and-ute-versions-of-new-commodore/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Holden VF Commodore wagon - rear three-quarter view, burgundy

Holden VF Commodore Ute - rear three-quarter view - orangeHolden isn't giving anything away when it comes to specs, but the Aussie outpost of General Motors has offered a few snapshots of the Sportwagon and ute versions of its brand-new VF Commodore. All the company will say for now is that the models are still being tested before final approval and that all three variants will go on sale at the same time later this year.

What are the chances we'll get either one of them - or both - here? Well GM did file to trademark both "El Camino" and "Nomad," but remember how it all ended in heartbreak last time we were so close to this? Let's get the Chevrolet SS here and on sale first, then assuming all goes well, we might dare to dream about rear-wheel drive Chevrolet wagons and car-based pickups again. We'd advise you to likewise keep your hopes in check as you read the press release below.

Continue reading Holden shows wagon and ute versions of new Commodore

Holden shows wagon and ute versions of new Commodore originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletcommodorecommodore sportwagoncommodore utegeneral motorsgmholdensportwagonssutevf commodoreFri, 22 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20473086/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/22/holden-shows-wagon-and-ute-versions-of-new-commodore/20473086/article-detail.xml 20473086 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/holden-vf-commodore-wagon-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/holden-vf-commodore-wagon-628.jpg <![CDATA[This is your 2014 Chevrolet SS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/16/this-is-your-2014-chevrolet-ss/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/16/this-is-your-2014-chevrolet-ss/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/16/this-is-your-2014-chevrolet-ss/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Think you've waited long enough for this? If so, then you'll want to savor the high-res photos we've so far been given of the 2014 Chevrolet SS, the first rear-wheel-drive performance sedan from The Bowtie in 17 years.

We all know its our version of the brand new VF-model Holden Commodore, but what's under the hood that earns the appellation "performance?" A 6.2-liter LS3 V8 engine producing 415 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. That's 35 hp and lb-ft less than the same engine is expected to produce in the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Corvette. Chevrolet says the sedan will get from 0-to-60 miles per hour "in about five seconds."

Shifting comes courtesy of a six-speed automatic with paddles on the steering wheel, while stopping arrive via four-piston Brembo calipers up front, a single sliding piston in back. The forged aluminum wheels are 19-inchers all around, each set supporting right around 50 percent of the sedan's weight, and the aluminum hood and trunk are meant to keep the center of gravity low.

Inside, leather seating surfaces, eight-way power front seats and a soft-touch dash are standard for a cabin said to fit five adults comfortably, along with a nine-speaker Bose sound system, a head-up display and safety tech like Lane Departure Warning and Side Blind Zone alert. A marquee option will be Automatic Parking Assist that can parallel and right-angle park; this is the technology's first appearance on a Chevrolet.

We're in Daytona now and we'll have live shots of the car shortly, along with photos of its NASCAR sibling rumbling through the Daytona 500. So stay tuned, and slake your thirst for what's coming with the gallery above and the press release below.

Continue reading This is your 2014 Chevrolet SS

This is your 2014 Chevrolet SS originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 16 Feb 2013 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet ss2014 chevy ss2014chevysschevroletchevrolet sschevrolet ss 2013chevroletsschevroletss2013chevy sschevysscommodoredaytonadaytona 500holdenssSat, 16 Feb 2013 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20460589/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/16/this-is-your-2014-chevrolet-ss/20460589/article-detail.xml 20460589 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-chevrolet-ss-004-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-chevrolet-ss-004-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Holden's new Commodore ready to go racing in V8 Supercars [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/holdens-new-commodore-ready-to-go-racing-in-v8-supercars-w-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/holdens-new-commodore-ready-to-go-racing-in-v8-supercars-w-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/holdens-new-commodore-ready-to-go-racing-in-v8-supercars-w-vid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



This is the new Holden Commodore dressed up for duty as a V8 Supercar. Revealed two days after the VF sedan broke cover, the Holden Racing Team unleashed the racing version on Facebook and YouTube (click the image above to enlarge). This one does away with the black and gold introductory livery but keeps the Holden lions.

And get ready for this weekend, when the standard Commodore sedan - not the Calais trim - gets revealed, as well as the Chevrolet SS and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class V8 Supercar from Erebus. While you wait, check out the video below to see the Commodore V8SC on the track.

Continue reading Holden's new Commodore ready to go racing in V8 Supercars [w/video]

Holden's new Commodore ready to go racing in V8 Supercars [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Feb 2013 08:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commodorecommodore v8 supercarholdenholden commodoreholden racing teamhrtv8 supercarsvideovideosyoutubeFri, 15 Feb 2013 08:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20459656/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/15/holdens-new-commodore-ready-to-go-racing-in-v8-supercars-w-vid/20459656/article-detail.xml 20459656 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/holdenv8sc2013_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/holdenv8sc2013.jpg <![CDATA[Chevrolet SS previewed by Holden VF Commodore SS V show car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chevrolet-ss-previewed-by-holden-vf-commodore-ss-v-show-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chevrolet-ss-previewed-by-holden-vf-commodore-ss-v-show-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chevrolet-ss-previewed-by-holden-vf-commodore-ss-v-show-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Holden VF Commodore SS V show car

It won't be long before we see the official, production-ready Chevrolet SS sedan (hint: it will be revealed this weekend). And to tide us over until all of the official details are released about the US-spec version, we have this: the Holden VF Commodore SS V show car, a performance-oriented brother to the Calais V that debuted earlier in the week.

What we really want to know about the SS V is what lies underhood, but General Motors' Australian arm is keeping that under wraps until the Chevy model breaks cover this weekend. Nevertheless, it's obvious that the SS V will be a serious performer, with all sorts of aggressive cues driving that home on the car's exterior. Take a look at those 20-inch billet aluminum wheels that hide big Brembo brake calipers up front, the sculpted hood and front fascia, the wide air intakes with LED running lights and the quad exhaust pipes out back. It's like the Pontiac G8 GXP never even left us.

Inside, there's a sporty-looking interior with aluminum accents that mix in with black leather and suede surfaces, all tied together in the middle with an eight-inch MyLink touchscreen infotainment system. It looks great, and again, while we don't know anything regarding powertrain details, it makes us oh-so happy to see a manual shifter smack dab in the middle of the center console.

Stay tuned for the whole kit and caboodle when the SS sedan is revealed this weekend. For now, scroll down to read Holden's press release and click through the attached gallery to see the shape of Chevy things to come.

Continue reading Chevrolet SS previewed by Holden VF Commodore SS V show car

Chevrolet SS previewed by Holden VF Commodore SS V show car originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevycommodoregeneral motorsgmholdenssss vvf commodoreThu, 14 Feb 2013 10:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20462232/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/14/chevrolet-ss-previewed-by-holden-vf-commodore-ss-v-show-car/20462232/article-detail.xml 20462232 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/001-holden-commodore-vf-ssv-show-car-1360854412_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/001-holden-commodore-vf-ssv-show-car-1360854412.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #320]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/12/autoblog-podcast-320/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/12/autoblog-podcast-320/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/12/autoblog-podcast-320/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Chicago Auto Show, Holden VF Commodore, Top Gear USA Interview, Driving To The Arctic Circleautoblog podcast logo

Episode #319 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Chris Paukert and Jeff Ross talk about the Chicago Auto Show, the new Holden VF Commodore and Paukert's trip to the Arctic Circle with The List. Dan and Zach took time to have a chat with Adam Ferrara and Rutledge Wood from Top Gear, as well, and that's included in this week's action-packed podcast. We wrap with a couple of your questions, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #320:



Topics:


In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Honda Accord Coupe V6 6MT
2013 Range Rover Sport
2013 Volvo S60 T6 AWD R-Design


Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Paukert, Jeff Ross


Runtime: 01:41:11

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #320

Autoblog Podcast #320 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 honda accord coupe2013 land rover range rover sport2013 volvo s60 t6 r-design2014 holden commodoreaccordadam ferraraautoblog podcast 320chicagochicago 2013chicago auto showcommodorefeaturedholdenhondaland roverpodcast 320range rover sportrutledge woods60s60 r-designtop geartop gear usavolvoTue, 12 Feb 2013 17:15:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #320Autoblog01:41:11 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20459048/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/12/autoblog-podcast-320/20459048/article-detail.xml 20459048 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #320 LIVE!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-320-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-320-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-320-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast graphic

We're set to record Autoblog Podcast #320 tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments regarding the rest of the week's news via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #320


[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #320 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 holden commodoreautoblogautoblog podcast topicschicago auto showcommodoreholdenpodcastpodcast topicsthe listtop geartop gear usaMon, 11 Feb 2013 17:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20457217/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/11/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-320-live/20457217/article-detail.xml 20457217 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Holden Commodore to live beyond 2016]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/holden-commodore-to-live-beyond-2016/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/holden-commodore-to-live-beyond-2016/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/holden-commodore-to-live-beyond-2016/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Holden Commodore

"There is another Commodore coming after this one," said Holden Chairman and Managing Director Mike Devereux while giving Australian press a preview of the 2014 VF Commodore, which is set to launch February 10th. It was a pretty effective way to de-emphasize the brand-new car, judging by the stunned expressions Australian press reports mention on the faces of his Holden deputies.

Really all this statement means is that there will be a car named Commodore even after the VF winds down in 2016. Devereux further explained that Holden's Adelaide facility will be assembling two GM global platforms, one of them we know to be the Cruze, and "one of them [that] will underpin the next Commodore."

Don't expect that next Commodore to be a rear-driver like the cars that have topped sales charts for the last 15 years. It'll more than likely be a port of a car we know here as a Buick, according to The Australian. While we wait for 2017, at least we can check out the VF Commodore that was just unveiled.

Holden Commodore to live beyond 2016 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 holden commodorecommodoreholdenholden vfvfvf commodoreMon, 11 Feb 2013 09:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20455195/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/11/holden-commodore-to-live-beyond-2016/20455195/article-detail.xml 20455195 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/holden-commodore-fascia_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/holden-commodore-fascia.jpg <![CDATA[New Holden Commodore bows, presages Chevy SS [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/10/new-holden-commodore-bows-presages-chevy-ss-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/10/new-holden-commodore-bows-presages-chevy-ss-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/10/new-holden-commodore-bows-presages-chevy-ss-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Holden Commodore Calais - front three-quarter studio view

2014 Holden Commodore Calais - rear three-quarter studio viewHolden has unveiled its redesigned VF Commodore sedan in Australia, and it's making no secret of the fact that its prized rear-wheel-drive sedan will be exported to the USA as the long-awaited Chevrolet SS.

While the Australian arm of General Motors has held back on details concerning the car's mechanicals and engines, we at least get to gaze upon the new exterior shape and interior design. The trim level Holden went with for the debut is the luxurious, upscale Calais V model.

What we see is an evolution of the current Commodore, the design of which was already well-liked by most. The long, low and wide sedan shape is still there, but with a few more creases in the hood, new fender vents, LED daytime running lamps below projector lamp headlights, and a new rear end with an integrated lip spoiler in the deck lid. What we see is a design different enough from the current car that even if the SS looks exactly like this, we won't be getting something that looks like Pontiac G8 wearing a Bowtie (like the police cruiser Caprice does).

The interior of the new VF Commodore, however, is a much bigger leap forward for the car, upgraded with a slicker design that incorporates the latest infotainment technologies. We're talking a big nav screen (featuring the automaker's MyLink system), electronic parking brake, high-res Heads-Up display and, wait for it, power window switches moved to the doors!

The Commodore will also be available with a host of the latest driver tech, including Reverse Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Alert, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Auto Park Assist. The latter actually takes semi-automated parking a step forward by not only assisting with parking of the parallel variety, but also working with 90-degree angle parks, as well.

Check out the new VF Commodore in our gallery above, and gander at what official info Holden did provide in the press release below.

Continue reading New Holden Commodore bows, presages Chevy SS [w/video]

New Holden Commodore bows, presages Chevy SS [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 10 Feb 2013 00:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet ssaustraliacalais vchevrolet sscommodoregeneral motorsholdenholden vf commodore calais vssvf commodoreSun, 10 Feb 2013 00:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20455501/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/10/new-holden-commodore-bows-presages-chevy-ss-w-video/20455501/article-detail.xml 20455501 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/vf-calaisv-show-car-02-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/vf-calaisv-show-car-02-opt.jpg <![CDATA[El Camino revival hopes scuttled by Aussie dollar?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/el-camino-revival-hopes-scuttled-by-aussie-dollar/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/el-camino-revival-hopes-scuttled-by-aussie-dollar/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/el-camino-revival-hopes-scuttled-by-aussie-dollar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Holden Ute

Could Chevrolet sell a reborn El Camino in the United States? Let's ask an expert, General Motors International Operations boss Tim Lee, what he thinks. Speaking to the Aussies at CarPoint.com.au, Lee had this to say: "I think here in the US that vehicle has a tremendous amount of cache so if we could [import it] we would if it makes sense."

Great! So, we'll be getting a pickup car within the year, right? Well, not so much. Lee continues, "You tell me about what the Aussie dollar is going to do over the next 12 to 24 months and I'll tell you the export potential of cars like that." Obviously, nobody can say with certainty what the exchange rate between the US and Australia will be in two years, but as of right now, the Aussie dollar is worth a nickel more than a US dollar.

To quote Mr. Lee once again, "You can't make a business case of something like that." Indeed you cannot.

But what about the Chevrolet Caprice PPV, isn't that built in Australia? Indeed it is, and the upcoming Chevy SS performance sedan will be important from Oz as well. Thing is, Mr. Lee says the SS "will have to take a very premium price position" in order to be sold in the States, and that's apparently not in the cards for an El Camino.

Also not an option: Building the Australian Zeta-chassis machines in the US. Being that we've quoted Lee so many times already, here's one more to close out the discussion: "We will not be investing one penny to implement the Zeta architecture in the United States. I am the chief manufacturing officer of the company - that is written in stone."

El Camino revival hopes scuttled by Aussie dollar? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiacapricechevroletchevrolet el caminoel caminoholdenholden utessutezetaWed, 16 Jan 2013 10:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20430250/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/16/el-camino-revival-hopes-scuttled-by-aussie-dollar/20430250/article-detail.xml 20430250 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/holden-ute_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/holden-ute.jpg <![CDATA[Is the Holden Ute back on for the US?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/is-the-holden-ute-back-on-for-the-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/is-the-holden-ute-back-on-for-the-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/is-the-holden-ute-back-on-for-the-us/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



When not salivating over the prospect of the forthcoming C7 Corvette, GM Performance enthusiasts are busy speculating over the Chevrolet SS. The Holden Commodore-based performance sedan recently made its debut in NASCAR form, with the production model slated to launch on the weekend of the 2013 Daytona 500. Part of the rumor-mongering for this rear-wheel-drive V8 sedan was talks of US-bound translation of the Holden Ute - also the artist formerly know as the Pontiac G8 ST (pictured).

Australian outlet Adelaidenow.com cites GM Authority's findings that General Motors filed to renew its trademark the "El Camino" name. GM Authority also points to the recent filing of the "Nomad" name, connecting it to speculation that both ute and wagon variants of the SS would follow the sedan.

Holden spokesman Sean Poppitt was rather ambiguous about about the potential for a US Ute: "We haven't made a decision on the next generation Ute to its presence in export markets outside Australia," said Poppitt, "However there is the free trade agreement between the US and Australia which means we are not precluded from selling Australian-made light commercial vehicles in the US market."

So, while it is no confirmation of future product, one need only connect the dots, from the groundwork laid by the G8 ST, to the new SS, to this patent filing, and the possibility becomes very real that we could finally get the ute for which we've been pining on our shores.

Is the Holden Ute back on for the US? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevrolet el caminochevy el caminoholdenholden commodoreholden utepontiac g8 stThu, 06 Dec 2012 15:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20395874/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/06/is-the-holden-ute-back-on-for-the-us/20395874/article-detail.xml 20395874 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/pontial-g8-st_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/pontial-g8-st.jpg -1 2