Traditional Commodore proportions remain at the core of the all-new VF - in fact the roof panel and outer door skins carry over from the current VE model. But everything else is new and Commodore gains significant sophistication in its looks both front and rear.
“Fluid and sculptural is the current trend whereas crisp, geometrical was the trend when we did the VE,” explained chief designer Richard Ferlazzo.
Weight reduction and considerable aerodynamic work underpinned development. The bonnet is made from lightweight aluminium and while Holden would not reveal the drag co-efficient of the new model, Mr Ferlazzo said it will better the current model’s 0.33Cd.
“Aerodynamically, this vehicle has been tuned to the nth degree,” Mr Ferlazzo revealed. “Even the fine vertical line that runs through the tail lamps has a purpose beyond good looks.”
And that alloy bonnet is a work of art with four longitudinal creases pointing to the front grille (an elegant chrome finish on the Calais V). Nicely proportioned jeweled halogen projector headlights and slim LED daytime running lamps combine with contemporary curves to provide the VF Commodore fascia a dynamic look.
Wheel arches continue the sporty flared theme of the current Commodore and front fenders score new-look vertical air vents nicely trimmed in chrome – a design which Holden says the Commodore car carry thanks to its long front-end.
At the rear is a twin-plane ‘ducktail’ layout with the bootlid raised and horizontal. Holden calls it a ‘pontoon effect’ and the result (enhanced by wide, sweeping tail-lights and relocation of the number plate downwards to the bumper) is a wider, flatter look with some cues to 7 Series BMW and Lexus GS.
The Calais V model we sampled sat on 20-inch alloy wheels.
There are 10 exterior colours, including three new ones – as per the Calais V we sampled ‘Prussian Steel’ (greenish silver metallic), ‘Regal Peacock’ (a darkish green metallic) and ‘Fantale’ (orange metallic). The last one, according to Holden colour and trim designer Kirsty Lindsay is a nod to Holden history – think the Torana, Sandman panel van and Hurricane sports car concept just for starters.
2013 VF Holden Commodore Overview
2013 VF Holden Commodore Interior Design, Colour And Trim
