Holden Commodore Ute One Tonner 2005 Review

The S model driven goes for $32,120 plus tray, plus on roads.

But on the road, it lacks the get up and go, the launch-feel of the older engine. It sounds breathless and driving up long hills on the highway unladen necessitiates a downshift or two. Off the mark acceleration is OK.

• Like the new look, one tonner has more presence on the road, feels like you're in a sedan, looks like one from the front.
• Handling is sharp with precise steering, great brakes, firm suspension and grippy tyres.
• Annoying petrol smell in close proximity to vehicle.
• Fuel economy can be as good as 10.5-litres/100km – unladen. Rises sharply when driven hard, with aircon on or when laden.
• Has huge payload – 1300kg but wonder if it's capable of actually coping with this much.
• Aircon is still a $2250 option on base model. Should be standard across the range.
• Well equipped with power windows, cruise control as standard, S gets alloys, aircon and other stuff, decent audio, chunky wheel with audio controls.
• Tray fitted was huge – move house in a couple of trips.
• Interior comfort levels high for a workhorse. Plenty of fore/aft seat movement, comfy multi adjustable seats and roomy cabin.
• Driving position is good, pedals light, gearshift slick.
• Manual transmission is close ratio but top cog is too high for engine.
• Towing rate up by 30 per cent on old model.
• Annoying rumble from rear end at highway speeds on test vehicle.
• Chassis feels solid, minimal flex over driveways, massive girders under the tray.

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