VT VX VY VZ Commodore Repair Manual
Modernization and Refinement
The VT Commodore marked a major step forward for Holden’s full-size Commodore, introducing a completely redesigned platform, improved suspension, updated engines, and new safety features including driver and passenger airbags. By 2000, Holden released the VX Commodore, refining the VT platform with updated styling, improved suspension and braking, minor engine tweaks, and better technology.
The VX Commodore represented an evolution rather than a revolution, offering more modernized features, smoother ride and handling, and subtle cosmetic updates, ensuring the Commodore remained competitive in the early 2000s Australian market.
Design and Styling Comparison
Exterior Design
VT Commodore:
- Rounded, aerodynamic 1990s styling
- Sedan, wagon, and Ute variants
- Classic rear-wheel-drive mid-size proportions
VX Commodore:
- Subtle exterior updates including sharper grille, updated headlights and tail lights
- Minor front and rear bumper redesign
- Wagon and Ute variants retained
- Aerodynamic efficiency slightly improved
The VX looked slightly fresher and more modern than the VT, maintaining the same overall platform and proportions while refining details.
Interior Design
VT Commodore:
- Spacious cabin with driver-focused dashboard
- Comfortable seats, functional trim
- Soft-touch plastics and improved ergonomics
VX Commodore:
- Interior refreshed with improved materials and trim
- Seats slightly more supportive and comfortable
- Dashboard layout largely unchanged, minor cosmetic updates
- Optional features like climate control and upgraded audio became more common
The VX interior felt slightly more modern and refined compared to the VT, though largely based on the same platform.
Platform and Engineering Changes
Chassis and Suspension:
- VT: New platform with improved suspension and chassis rigidity
- VX: Suspension geometry tweaked for smoother ride and better handling
- Steering response slightly improved
- Brakes upgraded on higher trims, improved pedal feel
The VX offered modest improvements in ride quality, handling, and braking over the VT, keeping the driving experience modern and comfortable.
Engine and Drivetrain Comparison
VT Commodore Engines:
- 3.8L Ecotec V6
- Optional 5.0L V8 series I, 5.7L LS1 V8 series II
- Manual or automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive
VX Commodore Engines:
- 3.8L Ecotec V6 refined for smoother performance and efficiency
- 5.7L LS1 V8 continued, minor tuning updates for improved responsiveness
- Transmission options: five-speed manual or four-speed automatic
- Rear-wheel drive unchanged, optional traction control on some trims
Performance Comparison:
- VT: Strong performance, smooth handling
- VX: Slightly improved throttle response, smoother automatic shifts, better fuel efficiency
- Optional V8 still offered spirited performance with minor refinements
Model Range Comparison
VT Commodore:
- Executive, S, SS, Berlina, Calais trims
- Sedan, wagon variants
VX Commodore:
- Executive, S, SS, Berlina, Calais trims refined
- Sedan, wagon, and Ute variants retained
- Optional traction control and safety features more widely available
- Minor cosmetic updates on higher trims
The VX refined the VT’s model range while keeping the same lineup, focusing on small improvements and modern features.
Technology and Features
VT:
- Introduced airbags, ABS, traction control optional
- Functional 1990s dashboard and trim
VX:
- Optional traction control on more trims
- Interior materials upgraded slightly
- Airbags standard on more models
- Minor electronics and audio upgrades for comfort and convenience
The VX offered modest technology upgrades, improving comfort, safety, and convenience over the VT.
Driving Experience
VT Commodore:
- Stable, smooth rear-wheel-drive handling
- Comfortable ride with supportive seats
- Adequate braking and responsive V6 or V8 engines
VX Commodore:
- Slightly smoother ride with suspension tweaks
- Improved handling and braking, especially on higher trims
- Cabin quieter and more comfortable
- Engines refined for smoother response and slightly better fuel efficiency
The VX refined the driving experience of the VT, offering a smoother and more modern ride.
Reliability and Common Problems
VT:
- Mechanically reliable, robust V6 and V8 engines
- Minor suspension and interior trim issues
VX:
- Similar mechanical reliability with minor refinements
- Electrical issues more noticeable on older models with traction control
- Parts widely available due to high production volumes
Both are dependable, but VX offered minor refinements and improved comfort over VT.
Ownership Costs Today
Purchase Price:
- VT: Collectible as the first modern 1990s Commodore platform
- VX: Slightly more collectible due to refinement, higher comfort, and traction control availability
Parts Availability:
- VT: Good but older, some components harder to source
- VX: Easier to source due to more recent production
Running Costs:
- Both mid-size, economical for their era
- VX offered slightly smoother operation and better fuel efficiency
Collector and Enthusiast Value
VT Commodore:
- Valued as the foundation of late-1990s Commodores
- SS, Berlina, and Calais trims collectible
VX Commodore:
- Highly collectible for refinements over VT
- SS, Berlina, Calais, and HSV variants sought-after
- Represents the peak of the first fully modern Commodore platform before further updates
Choose VT if:
- You want the original modernized Commodore platform
- You value simplicity and classic 1990s styling
Choose VX if:
- You want a slightly more refined, modern Commodore with improved comfort, safety, and minor performance tweaks
- You value optional traction control and updated interior materials
Verdict – Which Is Better? The VT Commodore was the first fully modern 1990s Commodore platform, introducing airbags, updated engines, and improved suspension. The VX Commodore refined this platform with subtle styling updates, minor mechanical tweaks, improved safety features, and better interior comfort, making it a more polished and comfortable vehicle. For collectors, VT is valued for its pioneering platform, while VX is prized for refinement, optional traction control, and modernized comfort and convenience
VT VX VY VZ Commodore Repair Manual