Holden Commodore 2010 Review

"Not much of a work ute, is it?" says a no-nonsense mate when looking over the Holden Ute SV6.  No, not really. And it isn't meant to be. Sure, the base-model Omega Ute is more of a working vehicle but the SV6 and SS V8 versions tend towards lifestyle vehicles a two-door, two-seater with a big boot.

The SV6 version, as tested, even looks like you've got a V8 lots of body kit, low slung, big alloy wheels and twin exhausts and with plenty of go.

Engine

It runs the SIDI version of the 3.6-litre V6 which gives a more than adequate 210kW power and yet can return a reasonable 10 litres/100km fuel economy on regular unleaded. The six-litre V8 model even with its cylinder shutdown on the automatic utes drinks about 13 litres/100km and the manual V8 even more.

We drove the manual SV6, which will trundle along at only 1000rpm (40km/h, 5th gear) and takes just 2100rpm in 6th gear at 110km/h. The gearshift is short but clunky (perhaps it will ease up when run in more), the sequential six-speed automatic worth considering.

Fit-out and equipment

The 245/45 tyres on 18in rims on the SV6, plus firmer sports springs, a hefty front anti-sway bar and lowered ride height give this thing commendable cornering grip, backed up by stability control. And Holden has the advantage of independent rear suspension of coil springs on its tes.

Like all VE Holdens the driver has to look around a thick A-pillar and the over-shoulder view around the B-pillar isn't great, either. But its six airbags help give it a top-five star safety rating for occupant protection.

SV6 Ute comes with a soft tonneau cover, the edges of which have to be snapped into place (strong hands needed), and a polyethylene tub liner which helps protect you cargo. Tie-down hooks are handy but it would be good to have some fold-in D-hooks lower on the tub sides, too.

It will carry items up to 1.9m long with tailgate up. It has 1.2m between wheel arches. Its 100mm ground clearance and low front spoiler mean it's no good for building sites and farm paddocks but I was king of the kids doing the dump run, an impressive amount of tree clippings swallowed by the rear tub.

The interior is sporty Commodore with leather-trim steering wheel. The test car had the welcome optional leather seats. Electric adjustment is for seat height only.  Overall, Holden Ute SV6 is an Aussie two-seater that looks great, goes quick and gives versatility in what you can carry in the back.

Holden Ute SV6

Price: from $34,990 drive-away (list price from $38,490)
Engine: 3.6-litre, V6, dohc, petrol
Power: 210kW @ 6400rpm
Torque: 350Nm @ 2900rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual (six-speed automatic $1000 more). Rear wheel drive.
Fuel: 10.2 litres/100km; on test 9.9 litres/100km; tank 73 litres
CO2: 241g/km
Dimensions: 5040mm long, 1899mm wide, 1480mm high; wheelbase 3009mm; 1750kg.
Brakes: Ventilated discs front and rear; ABS.
Tows: 1600kg.

Also consider: Falcon XR6 Ute, $37,690.