Holden Commodore SS-V Redline new car review
Large car sales may be in the dumps but V8 models remain a popular choice for those chasing space and pace. These days more than one-third of Commodore sales are for the V8, representing about 800 sales per month.
Of course part of the reason V8s now make up such a large percentage of Commodore sales is because demand for the six-cylinder models has fallen off a cliff. But it's also an example of the enduring appeal of a big car with big performance. Australians love them.
Late in 2014 Holden tweaked its VF Commodore lineup, with the V8-powered SS models receiving some of the most notable upgrades. As well as tweaks to the steering system there are some trim elements aimed at improving the appeal.
What do you get?
Life in a V8 Commodore starts at $42,990 (plus on-road and dealer costs) for the SS with a self-shifter; add $2200 for an auto and another $2000 for the auto-only wagon, or Sportwagon, as the marketing department would have it.
Like all Commodores it's excellently specified, with dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, touchscreen with embedded audio apps, a reversing camera, auto headlights, Bluetooth, cruise control, colour touchscreen and a self-parking system. Black and white are the only standard colours, with the metallic another $550. Another handy feature is the seatbelt warning lights across the rear seats – great for those carrying kids.
The step up to the SS-V is $3500 and brings satellite-navigation, 19-inch wheels (up from 18), leather seats, alloy pedals and keyless entry and start.
The Redline, priced from $52,490, is the flagship of the Commodore performance range before you step up to the HSV models. It brings a head-up display, sunroof, Bose sound system (only on sedans), auto wipers, lane departure warning and a crash warning system (the latter is far too sensitive and often beeps when there is no danger). But it's the handling upgrades that tempts many buyers. Bigger, more powerful Brembo front brakes and wider rear tyres (shod on slick-looking black alloy wheels) are all designed to cope with the rigours of some race track fun.
As part of an update for 2015 models the SS auto models now come with paddle shifters on the steering wheel, something the Commodore first got almost a decade ago before they disappeared.
What's inside?
Since the VF model Commodore arrived in 2013 there's been a strong emphasis on interior presentation and not much has changed with the recent update.
SS-V Redline models now come with a "Jet Black" seat trim, something that gives it a sportier look. Ours had the light leather strips, which team with red stitching for a neat effect.
The head up display is one of the few on the market that isn't foiled by polarised sunglasses. It's also got great functionality, with the speed readout accompanied by the speed limit for the road you're on, a temperature display and the option to dial up the tacho and even the cornering g-forces.
Combined with some elegant looking faux carbon fibre and suede finish on the dash it makes for a classy machine, although the grey stitching on the steering wheel is out of whack with red stitching used extensively elsewhere.
Acres of space and generous storage options (including a sunglass pod on the roof) make for a family friendly interior. The rear seats, in particular, are broad and with ample leg room, while the flatter roof of the wagon liberates more headroom for taller occupants.
The split-fold functionality of the rear seat (something missing on Commodore sedans) is a plus for those looking to carry bulky items, opening up an already expansive boot.
However there's no centre rear headrest and the outside ones can't be adjusted.
Under the bonnet
It's the engine that many get excited about with an SS Commodore and it's easy to see why. The 6.0-litre is a willing and powerful player.
There's some laziness low in the rev range, but that's relatively speaking; open it up beyond 3000rpm and the exhaust note comes to life and forward propulsion steps up. It's rev happy and doesn't mind exploring the upper limits, something that rewards the driver with swift acceleration.
For a car weighing the best part of two tonnes the Redline certainly has plenty of enthusiasm.
The Sportwagon comes only with the six-speed auto that has a slightly different tune to those fitted with a manual. Power and torque outputs are 260kW and 517Nm versus 270kW/530Nm for manuals.
As with all auto transmission V8 Commodores there's an active fuel management system (AFM) that can temporarily shut down four cylinders when cruising or driving gently. And while you'll be able to dip into single digit fuel figures with some gentle freeway cruising, expect to use 15 litres per 100km or more around town. Then again, it's almost a rare stroke of luck that fuel prices have plummeted as the Aussie V8 Holden approaches the end of its lifespan.
On the road
As with the engine, the way the Commodore deals with bends is more about being brash and decisive rather than relishing the delicacies.
Tweaked steering (it's an electric system now common in new cars) still ably shields from kickback and other unwanted feedback. But despite its "sport and competitive" calibration it's lacking in the pinpoint accuracy of many potential rivals (think Mazda6 or even Ford's Falcon).
Thankfully those big tyres grip brilliantly and cement the Redline as a highly capable and exciting five-seater. Flowing corners are devoured with ease and mid-corner bumps do little to faze the sizeable wagon. It really is an accomplished tourer that also rises to the challenge of a stint on the track.
Those Brembo brakes, too, help with a more solid pedal feel and resistance to fade (those Brembos are only on the front, with the bigger rear brakes reserved for the limited edition Craig Lowndes version of the Redline).
Despite its focus on performance, the Commodore SS-V Redline's suspension is relaxed enough for everyday driving, with none of the sharpness that can sour some sporties. Sure, it's taut and less than luxurious, but as a compromise between dynamics and comfort it's a fantastic effort.
Verdict
The SS-V Redline shows how far the V8 breed has some. Fast, fun and deceptively capable on the right road, the Commodore performance flagship satisfies those looking for something more exciting to drive. That it's extremely practical and comfortable only adds to the appeal, something made better in wagon guise.
Just make sure the credit card is topped up for the regular refuelling visits.
Specifications
Price: $56,690, plus on-road and dealer costs
Country of origin: Australia
Engine: 6.0-litre V8 petrol
Power: 260kW at 5600rpm
Torque: 517Nm at 4400rpm
Fuel use: 11.8L/100km
CO2 emissions: 282g/km
Transmission: 6-speed auto, rear-wheel-drive
Weight: 1851kg
Safety: 6 airbags; stability control
Pros
- Broad, spacious body
- Great balance of comfort and dynamics
- Willing V8
- Ready for some race track fun
Cons
- Can be thirsty
- Capable but ultimately a blunt instrument
- No adjustable rear headrests
- V8 lacks low rev enthusiasm
The Competitors
Ford Falcon XR8 auto
Price: $54,690
Engine: 5.0-litre supercharged V8; 335kW/570Nm; 6-speed auto; rear-wheel-drive
Fuel use/CO2 emissions: 13.7L/100km, 324g/km
Safety: 6 airbags; stability control
Pros: Supercharged V8 delivers on performance; spacious body; standard performance running gear
Cons: No wagon option; thirsty; sharp ride; lacks modern active safety systems
Our score: 3.5/5
Chrysler 300 SRT8 Core
Price: $56,000
Engine: 6.4-litre V8; 347kW/631Nm; 5-speed auto; rear-wheel-drive
Fuel use/CO2 emissions: 13.0L/100km, 303g/km
Safety: 7 airbags, stability control
Pros: Great engine; clever touchscreen with basic data logging; distinctive design
Cons: Thirsty; no reversing camera; average rear seat space
Our score: 4/5
Subaru Liberty 3.6R Premium
Price: $41,990
Engine: 3.6-litre horizontally opposed six-cylinder; 191kW/350Nm
Fuel use/CO2 emissions: 9.9L/100km, 230g/km
Safety: 7 airbags; stability control
Pros: Functional interior; sharp pricing; solid safety credentials
Cons: More comfort than performance; wagon now only available on Outback
Our score: Not yet rated