|
Holden Commodore VX
|
2000 - 2002 |
Country: |
|
Engine: |
6 cyl. & V8 |
Capacity: |
3.8 liter ECOTEC EFI V6; 3.8 liter
Supercharged V6 & 5.7 V8 EFI |
Power: |
152kW (V6); 171kW (Supercharged)
& 225kW (V8) |
Transmission: |
5 spd. Getrag man / 4 spd. Turbohydramatic
/
6 spd. manual on SS sedan |
Top Speed: |
n/a |
Number Built: |
250,000 |
Collectability: |
n/a |
|
The VX, while looking very similar to the VT, has some
significant improvements. The V6 has been upgraded, and
now puts out 152 kW @ 5200 rpm and has improved fuel efficiency.
This is due to upgraded engine management system which
now allows individual spark control on each cylinder,
and a new inlet manifold. The V8 has also been upgraded
and now boasts 225 kW @ 5200 rpm.
These changes are courtesy of new inlet manifold, injectors
and upgraded engine management system. The auto transmission
has also been recalibrated.
The Supercharged V6 is now
an option on Executive and Acclaim models. The VX now
has a dual damper drive shaft, with rubber couplings on
each end to help fuel economy and minimise vibration.
The front suspension has been modified slightly, with
lower control arm pivot points raised by 4mm and a ball
joint has replaced a rubber bushing on the stabiliser
to strut link.
ABS brakes (Bosch 5.3) are now standard
on all models, as is a CD player and steering wheel audio
system controls. Traction control is now available with
the manual transmission.
Holden has undertaken extensive research with Monash University
Accident Research Centre into side-impact collisions,
and as a result has modified the B pillar (centre pillar).
The result is that the risk of injury in a side-impact
collision with no side airbags, is half of that in the
VT. The main body changes are to the headlights and front
grills, and to the tail lights.
Some changes introduced with the Series II include: The
new rear suspension on Series II - known as Control-Link
independent rear suspension (IRS) - which has been designed
by Holden engineers to combine all the traction qualities
of a supple independent rear suspension system with even
greater stability, handling precision and control.
Control-Link IRS features extra link arms which assist
in keeping the car precisely on track over bumps and during
strong acceleration, deceleration or braking. Its benefits
are particularly noticeable in challenging cornering situations.
By improving rear grip and keeping the vehicle on a tighter
line, Control-Link IRS assists drivers to negotiate corners
and bends more confidently. The suspension packages across
the Series II Statesman and Caprice model range have been
totally re-tuned to complement the rear suspension changes,
further enhancing stability and ride comfort. Revised
steel belt tire construction also contributes to a sharper
and more accurate steering feel.
All Series II models are equipped with new stalk controls
for indicator, wiper and cruise control functions. The
cruise control is operated using a more intuitive twist
switch mechanism instead of the previous button system.
The Commodore SS introduces the option of striking colored
leather interior trim, specifically designed to complement
exteriors finished in Red Hot and the brilliant new Hyper
yellow.
The Commodore SS customised color theme extends to instrument
clusters, metallised console fascias and seat trims. Calais
buyers may also choose new color-keyed leather trim -
in Cobalt, Light Shale and Dark Red - to harmonise with
and complement exterior colors. The Calais centre console
and instrument fascia are finished in metallic silver.
Stylish black leather trim also joins the option list
for Commodore S, SS and Calais. Commodore Executive and
Acclaim feature new micro-check patterned trim on the
head restraints and seat bolsters. With the introduction
of the Series II model range, grey-toned interiors are
now finished in the darker shade of Anthracite.
Berlina
and Calais feature distinctive new grille inserts with
diagonal crosshatching and new rear badges; Calais headlamps
are outlined with sporty black bezels; Commodore Executive
and Acclaim have revised grille treatments and new wheel
covers. For added security, Commodore Executive, Acclaim,
S and SS models are now fitted with an alarm system, operated
via remote control Power Key, which sounds the vehicle's
horn when triggered.
Berlina sedans and wagons now offer the convenience of
twilight sentinel which automatically turns headlamp controls
on and off. Holden underlines its commitment to technological
leadership and to satisfying customer needs with the introduction
of the Holden Assist in-car communications system as an
option offered to Calais buyers. Combining mobile phone
and global positioning system technology, the system puts
drivers in direct phone contact with the Holden Assist
Centre, which is manned 24 hours a day and offers a range
of support services.
The Holden Assist system can also remotely unlock doors
on command, diagnose low battery voltage, detect unauthorised
entry, track and immobilise the vehicle if stolen and
automatically notify authorities of an airbag deployment. |