VE and VF Commodore Workshop Manual
Refinement and Modern Technology
The VE Commodore was Holden’s all-new platform that introduced independent rear suspension, modern styling, refined interiors, and updated engine options, marking a major leap forward from the previous VT-based Commodores. By 2013, Holden launched the VF Commodore, a significant facelift and refinement of the VE, offering updated styling, improved technology, enhanced safety, and more efficient engines.
The VF Commodore wasn’t a completely new platform but represented a substantial modernization of the VE, providing sharper looks, more advanced electronics, improved fuel economy, and subtle performance enhancements.
Design and Styling Comparison
Exterior Design
VE Commodore:
- Bold, muscular styling with strong road presence
- Sedan, wagon, and Ute variants
- Aerodynamic lines, large grille, and sculpted body panels
VF Commodore:
- Facelifted front fascia with sharper headlights and revised grille
- Updated rear lights and bumper designs
- Subtle aerodynamic improvements for fuel efficiency
- Sedan, wagon, and Ute variants retained
The VF looked more contemporary and refined, with a modernized front and rear that gave it a sharper, more aggressive appearance than the VE.
Interior Design
VE Commodore:
- Modern, spacious interior with high-quality materials
- Comfortable seats, well-designed dashboard, optional leather and premium audio
- Driver-focused ergonomics, quieter cabin
VF Commodore:
- Interior refinement with improved materials and soft-touch plastics
- New touchscreen infotainment system and updated controls
- Better interior ergonomics and trim options
- Optional features like satellite navigation, upgraded audio, and climate control became more standard
The VF interior felt fresher, more modern, and technologically up-to-date compared to the VE, with a noticeable improvement in materials and user interface.
Platform and Engineering Changes
VE:
- New platform with independent rear suspension, improved rigidity
- Stable, precise handling and solid ride comfort
VF:
- Platform largely unchanged but refined chassis tuning for smoother ride
- Suspension updated for improved handling and comfort
- Steering calibrated for sharper feel and precision
- Brakes refined, optional magnetic ride control in higher trims
The VF refined the VE platform, improving ride comfort, handling, and steering precision without changing the overall architecture.
Engine and Drivetrain Comparison
VE Commodore Engines:
- 3.6L Alloytec V6
- Optional 6.0L V8 in SS and higher trims
- Rear-wheel drive, manual or automatic transmission
VF Commodore Engines:
- 3.6L Alloytec V6 improved for fuel efficiency and smoother delivery
- Optional 6.0L V8 (later 6.2L in HSV variants) with slight power and torque improvements
- Transmission refined for smoother shifts and improved fuel economy
- Rear-wheel drive retained, traction and stability control standard on more trims
Performance Comparison:
- VE: Smooth, reliable engines with good handling
- VF: Engines slightly more responsive, refined fuel economy, V8 models more powerful and precise
- Handling and ride improved with suspension tuning
Model Range Comparison
VE Commodore:
- Omega, SV6, SS, Berlina, Calais trims
- Sedan, wagon, and Ute variants
VF Commodore:
- Similar trim range with updated styling and features, Evoke replaced the Omega as the base model.
- Sedan, wagon, and Ute variants
- Updated safety, infotainment, and convenience features
- V8-powered SS variants slightly more powerful and refined
The VF modernized the VE lineup with technology, styling, and minor performance enhancements while retaining familiar trims.
Technology and Features
VE:
- Independent rear suspension, modern dashboard, optional touchscreen
- Traction control and ABS widely available
- Optional leather, climate control, and premium audio
VF:
- Improved touchscreen infotainment, USB and Bluetooth connectivity
- Advanced safety features like forward collision alert and lane departure warning optional on higher trims
- More standard convenience features across trims
- Engine and transmission management optimized for efficiency and performance
The VF offered more modern technology and safety features compared to the VE, bringing the Commodore up-to-date for the 2010s.
Driving Experience
VE Commodore:
- Smooth ride, comfortable and spacious cabin
- Independent rear suspension improved handling
- Engines reliable and responsive, V8 models spirited
VF Commodore:
- Sharper steering response and more refined suspension
- Quieter, more comfortable cabin with improved ergonomics
- Engines slightly more powerful and efficient
- Overall driving experience smoother, more modern, and precise
The VF refined the VE experience, making the Commodore feel more modern, comfortable, and responsive.
Reliability and Common Problems
VE:
- Strong mechanical reliability, minor trim and suspension issues
- Engines durable and robust
VF:
- Slightly improved engine and transmission reliability
- Electronics more advanced, minor gremlins possible
- Parts widely available, better fuel economy and efficiency
Both models are dependable, but VF offered refinements in engines, electronics, and driving dynamics.
Ownership Costs Today
Purchase Price:
- VE: Appreciated as a last-generation Commodore with independent rear suspension
- VF: Slightly more collectible due to modern technology and minor improvements
Parts Availability:
- VE: Good
- VF: Widely available, some electronics may cost more
Running Costs:
- Both mid-size, reasonable
- VF slightly more efficient due to engine and transmission refinements
Collector and Enthusiast Value
VE Commodore:
- Valued for independent rear suspension and reliability
- SS, Calais, and performance variants collectible
VF Commodore:
- Highly collectible for modernized styling, updated features, and V8 performance
- SS, Berlina, Calais, and HSV variants particularly desirable
- Represents the peak of the VE-based Commodore platform
Choose VE if:
- You want a reliable, solid Commodore. The VE was the highest selling Holden ever built.
- You value simpler electronics and traditional styling
Choose VF if:
- You want a more modern, refined Commodore with updated styling, technology, and efficiency
- You value improved comfort, handling, and V8 performance
Verdict – Which Is Better? The VE Commodore was a major leap forward with a new platform. The VF Commodore refined this platform with updated styling, improved technology, safer features, and slightly more efficient and powerful engines. For collectors, VE is appreciated for its classic VE design and independent rear suspension, while VF is prized for its modernized look, refined driving dynamics, and updated technology
VE and VF Commodore Workshop Manual