VF COMMODORE: Power games

As is often the case when Holden goes through a major body change, only minor tweaks have been made to the new VF Commodore's drivetrains -- in this case via some hardware changes and re-calibration.

The most obvious change is the 3.0-litre V6 engine in the base VF Commodore Evoke swapping its dual exhaust for a single exhaust and dropping 5kW in the process to 185kW. However, peak torque remains at 290Nm and Holden claims there’s more torque below 2000rpm.

Fuel economy is improved for Evoke by six per cent over the VE Omega to 8.3L/100km (and CO2 emissions correspondingly drop to 199g/km) primarily courtesy of a 43kg diet. It also gets a smaller new, more efficient diff, a lower 500rpm idle speed and benefits – like other Commodores – from a 10 per cent improvement in aerodynamic performance and the swap from hydraulic to electric power steering assistance.

Other models in the VF range gain consumption improvements of as little as one per cent. However, both the 3.6-litre V6 and 6.0-litre V8s do not dip in outputs, and therefore Holden is tipping independent tests will show an acceleration improvement due to lighter weight.

The introduction of Global A electric architecture also gave Holden engineers a chance to tweak both engine and transmission control units to improve shift feel and smoothness. Manual gearbox clutch pedal engagement pressure in sports models has also been reduced.

Links to motoring.com.au’s VF Commodore news
>> Mission accomplished: Holden had simple aims for VF
>> Steering a new path: EPAS is the headline item but VF’s chassis represents significant change
>> Aero Dynamic: Pedestrian safety and aerodynamics have shaped VF
>> Inside Job: Fewer parts and better materials drive VF Commodore’s interior upgrade
>> Large car future proofed: VF’s new electrical platform plays a vital role
>> Getting connected: VF delivers impressive connectivity
>> Safely integrated: No US-spec kneebag but Holden says VF is safer

Links to motoring.com.au’s VF Commodore: First Drives
>> First Drive -- VF Commodore SS
>> First Drive -- VF Commodore Evoke
>> First Drive -- VF Commodore Calais V
>> First Drive -- VF Commodore SV6 Ute
>> Along for the ride: In a very small way motoring.com.au played its part in the VF

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