2006 Holden Commodore VE 3.6L V6 6AT RWD (265 HP)

Vehicle Overview

GM introduced the 2006 Commodore, the VE, in the summer of 2006, and unlike its previous three generations, it wasn’t based on the same old Opel Omega B platform anymore; it had a fresh one shared with the Pontiac G6.

The Commodore was the best-selling nameplate in Holden’s history, and the Australian car manufacturer was keen to prove that it learned a bit or two while making this lineup. As a result, Holden’s engineers designed a new platform with a front-engine and rear-wheel-drive configuration specially tuned for the Australian roads. Furthermore, they wanted the 2006 Holden Commodore VE to be powerful and have a commanding look on the road. It was an impressive vehicle that boasted a high level of elegance and refinement. At the same time, if fitted with the right engine, it was fast enough to scare its occupants.

At the front, the automaker installed angular, swept-back horizontal headlights with clear lenses over the dual headlamps inside them. Between them, the 2006 Holden Commodore VE sported the black grille where the brand’s badge took center stage. At the same time, the wrapped-around plastic bumper below featured a center air flanked by a pair of scoops that helped to cool the front rotors.

With its three-box design, the Commodore VE continued the idea of an elegant-looking sedan. Its cab-rearward styling was a promise for a rear-wheel drive configuration. To make the car look more upscale, the automaker placed a set of fake vents behind the front wheel arches and body-colored door handles. However, the ascending waistline of the vehicle created a dynamic image for the car, and the rounded-shaped greenhouse was a promise for a spacious cabin. At the back, the 2006 Holden Commodore VE sedan featured corner-mounted taillights on the upper side of the rear quarter panels, flanking the trunk that cut deep into the rear bumper to provide a lower loading height.

Inside, thanks to the long wheelbase and the arched roof, the 2006 Holden Commodore VE offered plenty of room for all passengers. At the front, the mild-bolstered seats provided some side support for their occupants, albeit it wasn’t a car meant to attack a winding road at a high rate of speed. It was designed for comfort and safety. As a result, it came fitted as standard with six airbags, including the side curtains. In the back, the bench seat was designed for two, albeit it was wide enough for three occupants. However, the tall transmission tunnel that crossed the vehicle front to back limited legroom for the middle-seated passenger.

Under its skin, the 2006 Holden Commodore VE was available with a range of gasoline engines ranging between 3.6- and 6.0 liters. The former was a Holden project, while the latter was a fourth-generation GM powerhouse. Both versions were available with five-speed manual transmissions, while a four-speed automatic was on the options list.