Holden Commodore & Chevy SS: Untold Legacy

Holden Commodore & Chevy SS From 2014 - 2017

After 18 years, Chevrolet's RWD V8 sedan version returned in 2014, making the Chevy SS a major milestone. Positioned between the Malibu and Impala in size, the SS boasted a captivating blend of power and finesse. This year also introduced Automatic Parking Assist, making the SS the trailblazer in offering this convenience. 2015 stepped up the game with a manual transmission option and the inclusion of Magnetic Ride Control for an even more engaging driving experience.

2016-2017 Facelift and Beyond

2016 unveiled a refreshed Chevy SS, donning LED lighting, a dual-mode exhaust system, and a dynamic redesign. It flaunted its personality through features like red Brembo brake calipers and an alluring new paint color – Slipstream Blue. As the swan song, 2017 witnessed the Chevy SS bowing out gracefully, parallel to the conclusion of Holden Commodore production. A few shades were swapped on the palette of options, adding a touch of exclusivity to its final chapter.

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Diverse Lineage: Holden Commodore's

The Holden Commodore lineup diversified to cater to varying tastes. The base Evoke model embodied the quintessence of everyday driving, with V6 engine options and an automatic transmission. The Commodore SV6 kicked things up a notch, presenting a choice between manual and automatic transmissions. The true showstopper was the Commodore SS, designed for the enthusiasts, fueled by either a 6.0-liter V8 (2013-2014) or the 6.2-liter LS3 V8 (2015-2017) – the heartbeat shared with its American counterpart.

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Limited Editions: A Symphony of Exclusivity

Holden Commodore's charm extended to limited editions, each narrating a unique tale. The International 35th Anniversary edition celebrated heritage, while the Storm SV6 and SS sedan added a dash of aggressiveness.

The Craig Lowndes and Sandman editions infused sportiness and nostalgia. As a nod to sophistication, the Black Edition graced the scene. 2016 and 2017 Reserve Editions, reserved for Holden employees, added a touch of exclusivity.

Coincidentally, the same model made its way across the Pacific and landed on American shores, where it was known as the Chevy SS. This move was strategic, as it aimed to bridge the gap between continents and showcase the prowess of Australian engineering to the world.

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The Pontiac G8 and the Chevy SS: Common Connection

Before the Chevy SS earned its place on American roads, there was a precursor – the Pontiac G8. Heralding from the brief period between 2008 and 2009, the G8 graced the American market as an incarnation of the Holden Commodore. However, this romance was short-lived due to the unfortunate discontinuation of the Pontiac brand. Enter the Chevrolet SS, the spiritual successor to the G8, reclaiming the throne left vacant by its predecessor.

Powered by the mighty LS3 V8

The heartbeat of the Chevy SS resonated with a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 engine, a powerhouse inherited from the legendary C6 Corvette. This muscle under the hood translated to an astounding 415 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. While the Holden Commodore featured a variety of V6 and V8 engine options, including the famed LS3 V8, the Chevy SS championed a pure V8 symphony that echoed through its performance-oriented soul.

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A Daring Departure: The Ute Phenomenon

A unique feather in the Commodore's cap was the Ute version. With its front reminiscent of the standard Commodore, the Ute cunningly concealed a short pickup bed, catering to those who dared to be different. This audacious departure proved that the Commodore lineage was not limited to four-wheel configurations alone.

The End of an Era: Farewell The Holden & SS

The Holden Commodore and Chevy SS breathed their last in 2017, marking the end of an era that had delighted enthusiasts on two continents. While the Chevy SS struggled to reach its sales target due to a lack of promotion, its rarity today commands a price between $25,000 and $30,000 on the used market. As the curtains drew on this performance saga, the legacy of the Commodore and SS persisted in the hearts of gearheads.

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Final Thoughts

Though the road of the Holden Commodore and Chevy SS came to an end, the echoes of their performance still reverberate. Sales soared for the Commodore in its native Australia, with the year 2014 witnessing over 30,000 units sold. The Chevy SS, while not achieving similar numbers, made its mark with over 4,000 units sold in 2017. While no direct successors followed, the Commodore lineage lived on, taking the form of the Holden Commodore ZB, albeit as a family car, marking a departure from the performance heritage.

In conclusion, the journey of the Holden Commodore and Chevy SS was a tale of power, performance, and legacy. From their transcontinental migration to their limited edition flourishes, these vehicles etched their stories into the annals of automotive history. As we say goodbye to these legends, we hold on to the memories.

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Fast Facts: Holden Commodore & Chevy SS

• After an 18-year break, Chevrolet brought back a rear-wheel-drive V8 car with the Chevy SS.
• The 6.2-liter LS3 V8 engine in the Chevy SS was also used in the C6 Corvette.
• The Chevy SS introduced features like Automatic Parking Assist and Magnetic Ride Control for improved driving experience.
• The Holden Commodore's limited editions celebrated milestones, sportiness, and heritage with unique styling and features.
• The Ute version of the Commodore featured a pickup bed, catering to those seeking a blend of performance and utility.

FAQs About the Holden and SS