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The Holden Commodore SS Is Dead, Meet The Holden Commodore VXR

Holden already announced the demise of the “SS” badge with the 2018 NG Commodore‘s impending arrival, but now the iconic trim has a formal replacement. Long rumored, but now true, this is the 2018 Holden Commodore VXR.

Holden pegs the 2018 Commodore VXR as “the most advanced Commodore ever” and reiterates the Australian engineering found beneath the car’s shared Opel/Buick/Vauxhall design. “The next-gen Commodore VXR offers a different execution of performance to the outgoing SS but make no mistake, this is a more than worthy successor,” said Holden’s Lead Dynamics Engineer, Rob Trubiani.

2018 Holden Commodore VXR Front and Rear

Like the 2018 Buick Regal GS—which was also revealed today—the 2018 Holden Commodore VXR shares the same 3.6-liter LGX V6 engine, nine-speed automatic, dual-clutch, all-wheel drive system, Continuous Dampening Control, and driver-selectable performance modes. Though, Holden also says the Commodore VXR a unique set-up chassis setup, which was honed over 60,000 miles of development.

2018 Holden Commodore VXR Interior

Similar visual cues are present to the 2018 Regal GS as well; more aggressive front and rear fascias, 20-inch wheels, a rear spoiler and additional VXR cues report for duty on Holden’s sportiest of NG Commodore. Like the 2018 Buick Regal GS, it looks properly sporty without ever being over the top.

The days of red hot Commodore sales are likely long gone for the roaring lion brand, but those willing to give the Australian marque a second look may be pleasantly surprised as to what VXR means for Commodore in a brave new world post local manufacturing. The 2018 Holden Commodore VXR will go on sale in early 2018 alongside the regular Commodore, Commodore Sportwagon and Commodore Tourer.

Former GM Authority staff writer.

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Comments

  1. Not quite sure how the VXR badge translates into Holden, in the UK the VXR nameplate was short for V au X hall Racing. It would be interesting to ask Holden what VXR stands for in Oz!

    Reply
    1. Very Xciting Regal.

      Reply
  2. Well this was a wise move as this car is a performance car but not in SS terms.

    I think people will be more open minded due to the new name represent it in a different light and expectations are totally different.

    Reply
  3. You mean the replacement for the SV6 Commodore – that’s no SS in any shape, matter or form. Holden are dreaming if they think the public will flock to buy that.

    Reply

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