Holden Commodore Calais V Sportwagon 2013 review

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the big questions, including the one that really needs answering -- would you buy one?

What is it?

The Calais V is Holden's top of the line Commodore, as luxurious as it is sporty (apart from the Caprice that is). It comes with a choice of V6 or V8 engines. Ours was the “redoubtable” 6.0-litre V8.

How much?

Prices for the Calais kick off at $41,990 and for the Calais V at $48,990. The V8 goes for $54,990. All carry a $2000 premium over the sedan.

What are competitors?

Nothing really. They no longer make the Falcon wagon and the Territory is a high riding SUV but the new larger Mazda6 wagon might be worth a look?

What's under the bonnet?

In the auto the 6.0-litre V8 produces slightly less power and torque, at 260kW and 517Nm. The V8 is paired with a 6-speed auto that Holden says has been recalibrated to produce a smoother, more refined feel and better launch quality with the V8.

How does it go?

Accomplished. Plenty of power when you need it. Driven steadily it won't eat you out of house and home.

Is it economical?

Holden has managed to prune consumption 5.6 per cent to 11.7 litres/100km. We've been getting 11.6 after 500km. That's not bad considering what the V8 used to get back in the old days.

Is it green?

Gets a creditable 3.5 stars from the Government's Green Vehicle Guide.

Is it safe?

Five stars, with a host of safety systems but we were surprised to see the driver's knee bag that the American model has removed for our market.

Is it comfortable?

Calais gets the cushy FE1 suspension setup but the high sided seats could prove annoying for older folk.

What's it like to drive?

An easy comfortable drive, with plenty underfoot if you feel the need for speed. Feels the same as the previous model, if a little bit more refined.

Is it value for money?

Rides on 19 inch alloys and is packed with plenty of goodies, including heated power adjust front seats, auto lights and wipers, dvd player, satellite navigation, head-up display, forward collision alert, blind sport alert, reversing alert and lane departure warning.

But it misses out on a sunroof and the Bose premium audio system, both of which are available to the sedan.