Holden Commodore VXR 2018 packs 235kW V6 punch

Holden has revealed the successor to the locally-built Commodore SS, with the imported Commodore VXR sedan to assume performance flagship responsibilities when it arrives early next year.

Powered by a 3.6-litre naturally-aspirated V6 petrol engine, the VXR punches out 235kW of power and 381Nm of torque via a nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

Holden says the new sports model has chalked up more than 100,000 kilometres on Australian roads.

Traction is provided by an adaptive ‘Twinster' all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which combines torque vectoring technology with a twin-clutch rear differential, promising off-the-line poise even in wet conditions.

Meanwhile, 'Continuous Damping Control' (CDC) dampers pair with a 'hi-per strut suspension' to offer "dynamic handling'', according to the Red Lion brand.

Three drive modes allow the driver to adjust steering, transmission, AWD and CDC settings, with Holden lead dynamics engineer Rob Trubiani saying they create "distinctly different driving experiences''.

Inside, changes are less pronounced with the addition of a range of safety and driver assistance technologies.

Completing the performance-orientated upgrades are Brembo front brakes and bespoke 20-inch alloy wheels at all four corners.

The spicy sedan stands out externally from its next-generation (NG) Commodore siblings with sports-inspired front and rear fascias, as well as adaptive LED Matrix headlights, VXR-branded sill plates and a rear lip spoiler mounted on the bootlid.

Inside, changes are less pronounced with the addition of heated and ventilated leather sports seats up front, as well as a head-up display.

Traction is provided by an adaptive ‘Twinster' all-wheel-drive (AWD) system.

A suite of safety and driver assistance technologies includes auto emergency braking (AEB), forward collision warning, pedestrian protection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert and 360-degree cameras.

While a departure from the current VFII SS and its 304kW/570Nm 6.2-litre LS3 V8, Mr Trubiani said customers should not be disappointed.

"The next-gen Commodore VXR offers a different execution of performance to the outgoing SS, but, make no mistake, this is a more than worthy successor," he said.

The spicy sedan stands out with sports-inspired front and rear fascias, and a rear lip spoiler mounted on the bootlid.

"We've been involved in the development of this car from the beginning, and I personally have spent significant time behind the wheel overseas and at Holden's Lang Lang proving ground.

"We can't wait to get the car in the hands of our customers next year, but, for now, we've still got some work to do and will continue to work with the team in Europe, who are currently completing chassis development at the Nürburgring in Germany."

Holden says the VXR's local development program has seen the new sports model chalk up more than 100,000 kilometres on Australian roads.

Following the end of Holden's local manufacturing operations in October, the VXR sedan will arrive in showrooms alongside the rest of the NG Commodore line-up – including Sportwagon and Tourer body styles – in early 2018.

Is the NG Commodore VXR a worthy successor for the beloved VFII SS? Tell us what you think in the comments below.