VE and VF Commodore Workshop Manual
A Completely New Era
The VZ Commodore represented the final evolution of the VT-based platform, with Alloytec V6 engines being introduced, improved styling, and refined interiors. By 2006, Holden introduced the VE Commodore, a completely redesigned platform that marked a new era for the Commodore line.
The VE Commodore was larger, more rigid, and more advanced than the VZ, featuring a brand-new rear-wheel-drive platform, independent rear suspension, improved crash safety, more spacious and modern interior, and updated engine and drivetrain options. It represented a major leap forward in technology, comfort, and performance.
Design and Styling Comparison
Exterior Design
VZ Commodore:
- Rounded, mid-2000s styling with subtle front and rear updates
- Sedan, wagon, and Ute variants
- Aerodynamic, but derivative of the VT platform
VE Commodore:
- Completely new exterior design with modern, bold styling
- Longer wheelbase, wider track, and stronger road presence
- Aggressive front fascia, sculpted body panels, new headlights and tail lights
- Sedans, wagons, and Ute variants redesigned
- Improved aerodynamics and overall visual impact
The VE looked dramatically more modern, muscular, and sophisticated than the VZ, marking a clear design evolution.
Interior Design
VZ Commodore:
- Refined VT-based interior
- Soft-touch plastics, comfortable seats, functional dashboard
- Optional leather, climate control, and upgraded audio
VE Commodore:
- Completely redesigned interior with modern layout
- Improved ergonomics, higher-quality materials, and luxurious trim in Calais and SS variants
- Larger cabin, better sound insulation, more comfortable seats
- Advanced instrumentation, optional touchscreen, and modern infotainment systems
The VE interior represented a significant step forward in comfort, ergonomics, and modern features compared to the VZ.
Platform and Engineering Changes
Chassis and Suspension:
- VZ: VT-derived rear-wheel-drive platform, solid handling, minor suspension tweaks
- VE: Completely new platform with independent rear suspension
- Stiffer chassis, improved ride comfort and handling precision
- Enhanced crash safety with improved structural rigidity
- Braking and steering significantly improved
The VE provided a far superior driving experience, with more refined handling, better ride comfort, and increased safety compared to the VZ.
Engine and Drivetrain Comparison
VZ Commodore Engines:
- 3.6L Alloytec V6
- Optional 5.7L V8
- Rear-wheel drive, manual or automatic transmission
VE Commodore Engines:
- Updated 3.6L Alloytec V6 engines with improved power and efficiency
- Optional 6.0L V8 for SS and higher trims, including HSV variants
- Rear-wheel drive with independent rear suspension
- Automatic and manual transmission options refined for smoother shifts
- Improved traction control and stability systems standard or optional on most trims
Performance Comparison:
- VZ: Smooth and reliable, modest V6 and strong V8 performance
- VE: More powerful, responsive engines, improved handling and braking, refined automatic and manual transmissions
The VE offered a far more modern, powerful, and responsive driving experience than the VZ.
Model Range Comparison
VZ Commodore:
- Executive, SV6, SS,, SV8, Berlina, Calais trims
- Sedan, wagon, and Ute variants
VE Commodore:
- Omega, SV6, SS, Berlina, Calais trims
- Sedan, wagon, and Ute variants redesigned
- Independent rear suspension standard
- Modern technology and safety features widely available
The VE represented a complete refresh of the Commodore lineup, with new trims, better engines, and modernized features.
Technology and Features
VZ:
- Alloytec V6 or optional V8, traction control optional, ABS standard on most trims
- Optional leather, climate control, and upgraded audio
VE:
- Modern interior electronics, touchscreen infotainment, advanced audio options
- Independent rear suspension and improved chassis
- More standard safety features including airbags, stability control, traction control
- Engine management and transmission systems more efficient and responsive
The VE offered a dramatic improvement in technology, comfort, and safety over the VZ.
Driving Experience
VZ Commodore:
- Smooth ride, reliable rear-wheel-drive handling
- Comfortable cabin with supportive seats
- Engines adequate, V8 models more performance-oriented
VE Commodore:
- More refined ride due to independent rear suspension
- Engines smoother, more powerful, and fuel-efficient
- Steering precise, braking improved
- Cabin quieter and more modern
- Overall driving experience far more engaging and comfortable
The VE was a major leap forward in drivability, comfort, and performance compared to the VZ.
Reliability and Common Problems
VZ:
- Alloytec V6 reliable, minor suspension and trim issues
- V8 engines robust, parts widely available
- Timing chain issues on Alloytec engines
VE:
- Alloytec engines generally reliable, improved performance
- 6.0L V8 robust but higher maintenance costs
- Electronics more advanced, minor electrical gremlins possible
Both models are dependable, but the VE offered more modern mechanicals, safety, and comfort features.
Ownership Costs Today
Purchase Price:
- VZ: Appreciated as a solid early-2000s Commodore, especially SS and Calais
- VE: More collectible due to modern design, independent rear suspension, and performance variants
Parts Availability:
- VZ: Good, widely available
- VE: Parts widely available, but some electronics and performance components may cost more
Running Costs:
- VZ: Mid-size, economical
- VE: Slightly higher running costs for V8 and performance trims, offset by efficiency improvements on modern engines
Collector and Enthusiast Value
VZ Commodore:
- Valued as the final VT-derived Commodore
- SS, Berlina, Calais trims sought-after
VE Commodore:
- Highly collectible for all-new platform, independent rear suspension, and performance variants (SS, SV6, HSV)
- Represents a completely modernized Commodore platform
Choose VZ if:
- You want the classic VT-based Commodore with Alloytec engines
- You value simplicity and lower purchase costs
Choose VE if:
- You want a completely modern Commodore with independent rear suspension, new platform, and advanced features
- You value improved driving dynamics, comfort, and technology
Verdict – Which Is Better? The VZ Commodore was the final evolution of the VT platform, offering Alloytec V6 engines, refined styling, and comfortable interiors. The VE Commodore represented a complete redesign with a new platform, independent rear suspension, improved engines, modern interiors, and enhanced safety. For collectors, the VZ is appreciated for its simplicity and status as the last VT-based Commodore, while the VE is prized as a modern, capable, and versatile platform that set the standard for mid-to-late 2000s Australian sedans
VE and VF Commodore Workshop Manual