No longer is the Holden Commodore, one of Australia’s most iconic passenger cars, assembled locally. Now, the new-generation model is imported exclusively from Germany.
Whether that’s a good thing or not, is a debate worth having another time. What we’re interested here is this direct comparison between the all-new Commodore ZB Calais-V and its predecessor, the VF Calais-V, two cars running on completely different platforms.
The ‘ZB’ is Holden’s fifth-generation Commodore, and as you well know, it’s a re-badged Opel/Vauxhall Insignia, based on GM’s E2XX platform, which also underpins the Chevrolet Malibu and Buick Regal.
Compared to the fourth-gen car, the ZB is smaller, features four and six-cylinder engine options and is even available with front wheel drive, which isn’t tremendously appealing for driving enthusiasts, especially those who owned or ever got to drive a RWD Commodore.
Yet, according to Motoring, the ZB Calais-V does just enough to stand out in a positive manner when parked next to the older VF Calais-V model. It features a more modern interior, better tech/safety and more practicality. On the road, it even feels more planted and offers a “more composed ride”.
Now, while all that may be true, there is one question that will probably keep lingering on for a while – is the new Commodore more fun to drive than the old one? Some would argue that it isn’t.