Full details: 2018 Holden Commodore VXR

Holden has unveiled the long-awaited replacement to its V8-engined, home-grown Commodore SS.

Enter the Commodore VXR. Due to reach Australian showrooms from early 2018, the Lion brand’s new flagship sports model will combine a 3.6-litre V6 with a nine-speed automatic transmission that sends drive to all four wheels.

There has been plenty of conjecture already around the replacement’s lack of a V8 or even a twin-turbo V6, and the omission of a manual transmission.

Built in Germany, the VXR will instead boast torque vectoring control, three switchable driver modes and Continuous Damping Control – features currently not available  on our Aussie version.

Holden has revealed the new model will pack 235kW and 381Nm – marginally more than previously thought, though still well shy of the current SS’ 304kW/570Nm on offer from a 6.2-litre atmo V8.

Dubbed the “most advanced Commodore” ever, the VXR pictured comes to us following separate reveals in Russia, China and Germany as part of the car’s shared underpinnings with the Buick Regal GS and primarily, the Opel Insignia OPC.

Australian engineers have played a significant hand in the large sedan’s development, according to Holden, putting to experience “lessons learned from almost 40 years of continuous local Commodore development”.

“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,” said Holden’s lead dynamics engineer, Rob Trubiani.

“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.

“The V6 engine with the adaptive AWD and 9-speed transmission makes the VXR a quick and smooth car to drive, even in wet conditions. Importantly we also have Brembo front brakes and Continuous Damping Control (CDC) and drivers are able to switch between three driving modes for distinctly different drive experiences.

“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 Nürburgring in Germany.”

Many Aussies have lamented the demise of the V8 Commodore fleet, particularly the move to an all-wheel drive set-up in the replacement. Despite this, Holden claims the new offering will still boast “ultimate driver engagement” thanks in part to an adaptive all-wheel drive system featuring a twin-clutch rear differential – similar to that used on Ford’s Focus RS.

Cosmetically, the Commodore VXR differentiates itself from the largely four-cylinder Commodore range with 20-inch alloy wheels, larger rear spoiler, front and rear sports fascias, LED headlights and VXR door sill plates.

Inside, the flagship will be fitted with heated and ventilated leather seats and modern driver assistance functions including automated emergency braking, a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, forward collision alert, rear cross traffic alert and a head-up display.

Holden will reveal exact pricing closer to the vehicle’s early 2018 launch. In the meantime, the outgoing, Australia-built large car will enjoy its time in the spotlight ahead of Holden’s final day of local manufacturing on October 20, 2017.