More VE details: model re-jig and Calais breaks cover

Holden's long-awaited VE will be officially unveiled on July 16 -- less than two weeks away.

The reveal will be part of an elaborate staged release of the new car -- arguably the first all-Holden Commodore ever and first all-new Holden since the HQ.

Once again, CarPoint has scored scoop pics of the new car, specifically the new short-wheelbase range-topping Calais. (To see CarPoint's VE-busting and long wheelbase WM scoop pics click here).

The pics hereabouts show Holden's new Calais executive express. Thought to be the higher of two specs that will be offered on the model (our information is that Holden will drop the Berlina nameplate), the Calais V pictured features lashings of leather and a dash and interior treated with piano black surfaces and alloy highlights.

The exterior shots show the black Calais V lightly disguised on Melbourne roads this week. Clear also are the car's big alloys, beefy brakes and front wing vents which will become a signature feature on the V8 VEs.

At the rear there's no wing but the V gets quad pipes in the best hi-po tradition, a la BMW M division and Mercedes AMG. As our observer vouched for the fruity issue of the pipes -- there's no doubting this vehicle's engine capacity or configuration!

The Berlina won't be the only casualty of the VE launch. As CarPoint's magazine partner Wheels has pointed out in its July issue (for more info click here), the base and Executive models so favoured by fleet buyers will be morphed into one model most likely call Omega.

Powered by a largely unchanged 3.6-litre Alloytec V6, the cooking model Commodore will, it seems, have to make do with a four-speed auto in the face of Ford (and eventually Toyota Aurion's) five-speed offering.

CarPoint and Wheels magazine will join forces to provide full coverage of the VE Commodore launch from July 16. As well as photos, detailed technical rundowns and the all-important drive impressions we may even have a few extra surprises.

As they say in the classics, stay tuned!