The Commodore Chevy, also known as the Holden Commodore in its native Australia, represents a unique chapter in automotive history. This powerful rear-wheel-drive sedan, produced by GM Australia from 2013 to 2017, made its mark as the Chevy SS in the US market. This article delves into the history, evolution, and unique features of this often-overlooked performance car.
The Commodore Chevy: A Transcontinental Legacy
The Commodore Chevy story begins with the Holden Commodore, a popular executive car in Australia. The 2013-2017 generation marked the final chapter for this iconic model and saw its introduction to the US as the Chevy SS. This wasn’t the Commodore’s first foray into the American market. It briefly appeared as the Pontiac G8 from 2008 to 2009 before Pontiac’s demise. The Chevy SS effectively became the G8’s spiritual successor, built on the GM Zeta platform and sharing its front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. While the Holden Commodore offered a variety of body styles, including a coupe and wagon, the Commodore Chevy SS in the US was exclusively available as a four-door performance sedan.
Power Under the Hood: The Commodore Chevy’s Engine
A key differentiator for the Commodore Chevy SS was its potent powerplant. Unlike the Holden Commodore, which offered various V6 and V8 options, the Chevy SS came standard with the formidable 6.2-liter LS3 V8 engine, borrowed from the C6 Corvette. This powerhouse delivered a thrilling 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
Evolution of the Chevy SS
The Early Years: 2014-2015
The Chevy SS debuted in 2014, marking Chevrolet’s return to the rear-wheel-drive V8 sedan segment after an 18-year hiatus. Initially offered with a six-speed automatic transmission, a manual transmission option became available in 2015, alongside the standard Magnetic Ride Control for enhanced handling.
Refinements and Final Edition: 2016-2017
The 2016 model year brought a subtle facelift, including updated LED lighting, a revised front fascia, a dual-mode exhaust for a more aggressive sound, and eye-catching red Brembo brake calipers. 2017 marked the final year of production for both the Chevy SS and the Holden Commodore, with minor color palette changes.
The Holden Commodore: A More Diverse Offering
Compared to the focused performance orientation of the Chevy SS, the Holden Commodore boasted a broader range of models and trims. From the entry-level Evoke with its V6 engine to the high-performance SS V Redline featuring the same LS3 V8 as the Chevy SS, the Commodore catered to a wider audience. Limited edition models, like the Sandman and the Motorsport Edition, further added to the Commodore’s appeal in Australia. A unique variant, the Commodore Ute, offered a car-based utility vehicle with a pickup bed, showcasing the platform’s versatility.
Commodore Chevy: A Cult Classic in the Making?
While the Holden Commodore enjoyed consistent sales in Australia, the Chevy SS struggled to gain traction in the US. Limited marketing and a lack of widespread awareness hindered its sales potential. However, its rarity and performance capabilities have earned it a dedicated following, with used models often commanding premium prices. The Commodore Chevy SS stands as a testament to Australian engineering prowess and offers a unique blend of performance and practicality that continues to resonate with enthusiasts today. Despite its short-lived presence, the Commodore Chevy’s legacy lives on.
