Base sedan VX Commodore models started at approximately $35,000–$36,000
The VX featured styling updates over the VT, improved suspension, refined handling, updated interiors, and advanced safety features including airbags and ABS
Much of the VT to VX upgrade revolved around ironing out the bugs as well as minor styling changes.
A VX based utility would also be available during the VX production run, known as the VU.
Optional features included leather interiors, premium audio, alloy wheels, and automatic transmission
The VX Commodore remained a popular choice for Australian families seeking a reliable, comfortable, and modern mid-size car
The VX was available with 2 of the more robust and popular Holden engines, the ECOTec V6 and the LS1 V8.
Average wage
Average weekly wage: about $750–$770
Average annual wage: roughly $39,000–$40,000
Average house price
Around $270,000
Price of petrol
About $1.10–$1.15 per litre
Prime Minister
John Howard (Liberal Party)
Population of Australia
About 19 million people
Top-grossing movie
Gladiator, Mission: Impossible 2
Top song
Say My Name by Destiny’s Child topped Australian charts
Significant world event
Sydney prepares for the 2000 Olympics; global technology and internet adoption accelerate. The VX Commodore was released around the same time as the Sydney Olympics.
Concerns about Y2K fade as systems hold
Popular TV / radio in Australia
Home and Away, Neighbours, Big Brother (launching soon), and A Current Affair
FM radio and music television remained dominant for pop culture
Significant Australian news story
Sydney Olympics preparations, economic growth, and technology adoption dominated headlines
The VX Commodore reflected early-2000s Australian demand for modern, safe, and reliable family sedans with contemporary styling and features
Interesting comparisons
The VX Commodore cost roughly 0.9 years’ average wages
The average house cost about 6.8 years’ wages
Filling a ~60L tank cost roughly $69
A week’s wages could buy roughly 650–670 litres of petrol
