Holden Calais (VL). 1986–8 (prod. 151,801 incl. Commodore, HDT and HSV). 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon. F/R, 2962 cm³ (I6 OHV), 2962 cm³ (I6 OHC), 4987 cm³ (V8 OHV). Luxury Calais joined regular Commodore in getting Nissan sixes, imported due to the expense of re-engineering the old unit for unleaded fuel, now mandatory in Australia. Engine proved smooth and a worthy successor, though it was met with some protest at the time for ‘Australia’s own’ car. Turbo OHV introduced later in 1986. V8 with more power (122 KW) and torque. Identified with pop-up headlights, the first in the Commodore family, emphasizing that it was a separate model line. Wagons for 1988 only.

Manufacturing location: Australia

Marque: Holden | Model: Holden Calais | Predecessor: Holden Calais (VK) | Successors: Holden Calais (VN), Holden Statesman (VQ)

q.v. Holden Commodore (VL)