Used Holden Commodore review: 2006-2009

The SV6 was a direct response to the success of Ford's XR6, which had pretty much buried the Commodore S, Holden's previous six-cylinder sports sedan.

It's almost 20 years since Ford unveiled the XR6, so it's taken a long time, but there's no doubting that it has built a following among owners who believe you don't need to Drive a V8 to be sporty.

As Ford's flyer has ascended the throne Holden's S has got lost in the traffic. To compete Holden needed a new hero six; that came in the form of the SV6.

The SV6 built on the already sporty stance of the VE with added body enhancements to give it an even sportier look.

Under the bonnet it had a high output version of the 3.6-litre double overhead camshaft Alloytec V6 that put out 195kW at 6500rpm and 340Nm at 2600rpm.

Buyers could choose between a five-speed manual gearbox and an upgraded five-speed auto with a manual shifting option.

Underneath it had a combination of MacPherson Strut front suspension and independent rear suspension, power steering and larger, more fade resistant ABS-supported disc brakes front and rear.

With a body that was 50 per cent stiffer than the old model's, a new suspension set-up and close to 50/50 weight distribution the SV6 was blessed with a handling balance more associated with European models. On the road it was a revelation. It sat flat on the road, soaked up bumps with aplomb and went where it was pointed.

Inside was a different story. Awash in dark tones and dull grey plastics, the new cabin was plain and a trifle disappointing.

The handbrake was located in the centre console and awkward to use. You had to be careful not to pull it on too hard, as it could be very hard to release if you did.

The SV6 was equipped with standard features like air-conditioning, cruise control, multi-function steering wheel, alarm, immobiliser, trip computer, seven speaker CD sound system, power driver's seat, body kit including a rear spoiler and 18-inch alloy wheels.

In the shop

Fit and finish was an issue immediately after the launch of the VE, odd noises were evident in early cars, so look and listen carefully when test driving cars.

The V6 engine is quite robust and gives little trouble, although some owners feel it's a little weak at low engine speeds, which can make manual's hard to get off the line smoothly, and make it feel unresponsive when you crack the throttle.

Like the engine the transmissions are solid and give little trouble. Make sure your car of choice has been serviced and inspect for crash repairs.

In a crash

The SV6 was well equipped with safety features, coming standard with dual front airbags and side front airbags, along with active support from ABS brakes, EBD electronic brakeforce distribution, BAS electronic emergency brake assist, traction control and electronic stability control. ANCAP rated it at 4 stars.

Under the pump

Holden's official claim was 11.0L/100km for the six-speed manual and 11.3L/100km for the auto. Our reader reports that she gets 12.0L/100km in city type driving, but has got as low as 6.0L/100km on the highway. Holden says the SV6 is happy to run on regular unleaded and approves it for E10.

I bought one

Glenys Russell bought her 2007 SV6 manual in 2009 with 20,000 km on it and has since done another 43,000 km. It took some time to acclimatize to the clutch operation and the A-pillar, which she says is a huge blind spot. She has had the clutch replaced twice, the sound system has also been replaced twice, the plastic moulding on the driver's seat broke, the handbrake has stuck on, the ECM has been reprogrammed, and it currently has issues with the lower control arms, but all problems have been fixed under warranty.

"My car is extremely powerful, responsive, safe, and absolutely the best car I have ever driven."

Verdict

Punchy V6 with a stable chassis combine for a sporty ride, but lacks the presence of the Falcon XR6.