It’s a big, bold design and is visually way ahead of the previous generation Opel Insignia which was on sale briefly in Australia a couple of years back. The new model is virtually identical in size inside and out to the outgoing Aussie designed Commodore. The NG is slightly shorter overall, but sits on a longer wheelbase to provide added legroom, especially in the rear seats.
The NG (Next Generation) Commodore is being engineered in Germany and has a significant amount of Australian engineering input, road testing has been done in local conditions as well as at Holden’s Lang Lang proving ground in Victoria.
It will be offered with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine and, interestingly, 2.0-litre turbo-diesel. Both these engines drive through the front wheels. A hot NG series model will have a V6 engine and feature the extra traction and handling ability of all-wheel-drive.
The NG Commodore will be sold as a five-door hatchback and station wagon. The lack of a sedan may hinder sales, but time will tell.
Infotainment will included Apple Car Play and Android Auto on an 8.0-inch configurable LCD instrument display, but Holden has asked us not to provide further details at this time.
Holden tells us the new Commodore has a full suite of safety systems but has asked us to hold off on the full details on this important area.
