Model Tested: 2007 Holden Commodore VE Calais V6 Road Test

CarAdvice rating: 3.5/5

The Calais was always jam packed with the latest goodies, along with a silky smooth ride to complement the drive.

The new Calais still lives at the top of the range, but the Calais moniker has been segmented into two guises - the regular Calais and the Calais V.

The regular Calais I drove felt a bid sedate and blas in comparison to the loaded Calais V model. Although the interior featured the new Holden LCD screen and Calais branding, it missed out on leather seats, flip-down LCD screen for the rear, heated mirrors and many other features the Calais V calls standard.

Interior

Holden's new VE Commodore really is a good thing. I was astounded at just how much room is available throughout the cabin. Compared to Ford's Falcon, there is lots of room available in the rear, even exceeding that of BMW's 5-series and Mercedes' E-class. That's not bad when you consider the respective price differences.

Drive

The drive is good when you factor the vehicle's weight. The steering and brakes aren't fantastic, but the response and 5-speed gearbox are commendable. Rearward vision is average due to the high boot line, but reverse parking sensors aid parking.

Value

The Calais range is available in two guises - as mentioned earlier - the Calais and Calais V. The Calais is priced at $45,490, whilst the Calais V retails for $53,990. The 6.0-litre V8 is available at a $5,000 premium.

Fuel economy is one of the VE's downsides. Holden still trails its main competitors - Ford and Toyota - when it comes to fuel use. The high-output V6 motor fitted to the Calais range consumes 11.3-litres/100km. During the test, this figure was achieved with around 70% highway driving and 30% city driving.

Engine

Under the hood lies a 195kW, high-output V6 engine which produces 340Nm of torque. The Calais can also be optioned with a 6.0-litre V8 monster which produces a hearty 270kW and 530Nm of torque.

Features

Standard features common to the Calais include: Six way power seat for driver and front passenger; leather wrapped steering wheel; cruise control; rear parking sensors; power mirrors; auto headlights; 6-stack CD-player with 9-speakers; dual zone climate control; power windows and central locking.

Safety

Safety features include: Dual stage front airbags; side impact airbags for driver and front passenger; side curtain airbags; active front seat head restraints; ABS brakes with EBD and BA; Electronic Stability Control and engine immobiliser.

So what's the verdict on the new Commodore? In my opinion, it's a good thing. Aside from a few build quality issues in the test vehicle, the power on tap, along with the masses of room really make the new Commodore a great option. Fuel consumption is slightly higher than its competitors, but it's much of a muchness really. At $45,490, the Calais is good value for money when you consider the features on offer. Don't take my word for it though; take one for a test drive. You will be surprised at just how roomy the all new Commodore is.

Photographs and review by Paul Maric

Read more from CarAdvice.com.au 2007 Holden VE Calais Warranty Complaint 2006 Holden VE Calais Warranty Complaint Holden VE Calais V 60th Anniversary Special Edition Holden VE Commodore Wagon & Coupe Last Commodore VZ Rolls off the Line

Provided by: