2018 Holden Commodore Sportwagon revealed

Holden has followed up on the recent appearance of its new Commodore liftback by unveiling its feature-packed, next-generation, Opel-based Commodore Sportwagon ahead of its official showing at next month's Geneva motor show.

A nine-speed automatic, all-wheel drive, autonomous emergency braking, matrix headlights, head-up display and adaptive cruise control are part of the Sportwagon's arsenal as it takes on wagons such as the Ford Mondeo wagon, Hyundai i40 Tourer and Mazda6 wagon, as well as a string of SUVs.

Following from the reveal of the NG Commodore liftback, the Sportwagon will share 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol and diesel drivetrains and include the 230kW/370Nm V6 version with all-wheel drive. Some models will be available with three-mode Flexride adjustable suspension.

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The new Sportback takes its styling inspiration from the Opel Monza concept.

GM Holden said the new Sportwagon represents a new position on design and dynamics, including body engineering that slashes 200kg from its weight compared with the outgoing, Aussie-built VF Commodore Sportwagon.

The new Sportback takes its styling inspiration from the Opel Monza concept, showing a prominent grille and sculpted headlight design.

Holden even says the silver roof rails are designed to help stretch the car and make it look lower.

The cargo-hauling ability has been enhanced with a tailgate that can be opened and closed by a 'kick' motion under the rear bumper, and Holden has even devised a vehicle silhouette to project on the ground to show where to perform the gesture.

The tailgate action will automatically cease if it detects an obstruction and can be pre-set to open to a specific height to avoid damage in a garage. Owners who do not want to be seen kicking the car in public can open the tailgate by an external button or by the key fob's remote control.

The boot has a maximum capacity of 1640 litres – down from the current Commodore Sportwagon's 2000L – with the 40/20/40 split-rear seats folded down, which can be done by pressing a boot-mounted button. 

The new Holden Sportwagon will be shown in its Opel guise at the Geneva Motor Show on March 7.

Safety features of the Sportwagon – as standard or as an option – include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist with automated steering correction and warning, rear cross-traffic alert and head-up display.

Convenience features include massage seats, Apple CarPlay and Andoid Auto connectivity, heated front and rear seats, ventilated front seats, active noise cancellation and one-touch up and down action for all windows.

The new Holden Sportwagon will be shown in its Opel guise at the Geneva Motor Show on March 7, and will go on sale in Australia in 2018. Holden said prices will be announced closer to the launch date.

Is the new Holden Commodore Sportwagon a worthy successor to the load-loving Commodores of yesteryear? Tell us what you think in the comments below.