2016 VF II Commodore SS and SSV Redline Review – Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger
The Skinny: Planting the 6.2 litre LS3 engine in the Commodore SS and SSV has transformed the performance. Already quick, they’re now quicker, and throttle response is sharper and more electric.
We love the way these cars drive; the level of performance they offer at the price is unmatched in this market. We also love the sound of that new V8 – it is sheer theatre at the exhaust.
Inside, neither the SS, nor the more expensive SSV disappoint, with wide comfortable seats and quality leather trim. The ride and handling is also matched better to Australian roads than any imported competitor.
We’re not so keen on the display graphics and the chunky style to the interior, we’re also not so keen on the fuel economy… this V8 has lost the cylinder de-activation technology of the previous model.
Vehicle style: Large performance sedan
Pricing: $44,490 (SS V8 manual) to $56,900 (SSV Redline V8 auto)
Engine/transmission: 304kW/570Nm 6.2 petrol 8cyl | 6sp manual or 6sp auto
Fuel economy: (claimed) 13.1 l/100km; (tested): 13.9 l/100km (excluding ‘track’ component)
OVERVIEW
The new VF II Commodore, the ‘best ever’, is the last in a line of Australian-produced Commodores that began with the VB in 1978.
In this market, the success of the Commodore badge is remarkable. For 15 years straight, from 1996 to 2010 it was Australia’s best-selling car. And, over the 37 years of manufacture, no less than 3.13 million have been produced and sold.
The new VF II 6.2 litre V8 range, priced from $44,490 remains remarkable buying value. The cars we’ve tested at launch are the sporting V8 Commodores – the SS, and SSV Redline. (‘S-models’, including the SV6, now account for around 60 percent of Commodore sales.)
Sedans and wagons might not be the flavour of the month with family buyers, but for anyone who enjoys a sporting drive, and loves the sound of a V8 on song, these are, simply, great cars and great buying.
2016_holden_commodore_vfii_launch_03