Holden Calais (VE). 2006 to date (prod. 80,410 sold for all Commodores in Australia only through February 2008). 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon. F/R, 3564 cm³ (V6 DOHC), 5967 cm³ (V8 OHV). Luxury version of regular Holden Commodore (VE), wearing Calais badges (and no sign of Commodore ones). Divided this generation into standard Calais and Calais V versions, apeing Cadillac in US. Attractive, restrained styling compared to stock Commodore. Excellent value for money in most markets: luxury-car equipment for a regular price. Relatively nimble and responsive for its large size. Poor fuel consumption and ANCAP gave it four stars, rather than its predecessor’s five. Wagon from 2008.

Manufacturing location: Port Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Marque: Holden | Model: Holden Calais | Predecessor: Holden Calais (VZ)

Off-site links

• Jack Yan: the Persuader Blog: ‘Holden launches its billion-dollar baby’