The Holden Commodore VX Series was introduced as a development of the VT Commodore platform and incorporated a range of cosmetic and functional changes designed to improve vehicle refinement, safety and serviceability. While the overall vehicle architecture remained largely unchanged from the VT Series, a number of updates were introduced across the powertrain, suspension, electronics and interior equipment to further develop the Commodore platform.
The VX Series also introduced improvements to occupant protection systems, revised exterior styling details and updates to electronic engine and powertrain management. These changes ensured the VX Commodore remained competitive while maintaining compatibility with existing VT-based service procedures and mechanical systems.
VX Model Range and Body Styles
The VX Commodore continued the established model lineup and was available in both sedan and wagon configurations.
• Commodore Executive
• Commodore Berlina
• Commodore Calais
These models provided varying levels of equipment, trim and luxury while sharing the same fundamental mechanical platform.
Engine Specifications
Several engine configurations were available in the VX Series depending on model specification.
• 3.8 litre V6 (PFI) – 3791 cc displacement producing approximately 152 kW at 5200 rpm and 305 Nm of torque
• 3.8 litre supercharged V6 – producing approximately 171 kW and 375 Nm of torque
• 5.7 litre GEN III V8 – 5667 cc displacement producing approximately 225 kW at 5200 rpm and 460 Nm of torque
These engines provided a balance of performance, durability and fuel efficiency across the Commodore range.
Transmission Options
Transmission combinations varied depending on engine and model configuration.
• 5-speed manual transmission – fitted to V6 models
• 4-speed automatic transmission – available with both V6 and V8 engines
• 6-speed manual transmission – available with V8 engine models
Typical transmission ratios included:
• 1st gear – 3.83:1 (5-speed manual), 2.66:1 (6-speed manual), 3.06:1 (automatic)
• 2nd gear – 2.20:1 (5-speed manual), 1.78:1 (6-speed manual), 1.63:1 (automatic)
• 3rd gear – 1.40:1 (5-speed manual), 1.30:1 (6-speed manual), 1.00:1 (automatic)
• 4th gear – 1.00:1 (manual), 0.70:1 (automatic)
• 5th gear – 0.81:1 (manual), 0.74:1 (6-speed manual)
• 6th gear – 0.50:1 (6-speed manual)
Vehicle Dimensions
The VX Commodore retained the basic body dimensions of the VT Series platform.
• Sedan length – approximately 4891 mm
• Wagon length – approximately 5046–5084 mm
• Vehicle width – 1824 mm
• Vehicle height – approximately 1425 mm (sedan) and 1521 mm (wagon)
• Wheelbase – 2788 mm (sedan) and 2938 mm (wagon)
These dimensions provided a stable chassis layout with good interior space and luggage capacity.
Vehicle Identification and Serial Numbers
VX Series vehicles are identified through a combination of VIN plates, body identification plates and compliance plates fitted to the vehicle. The VIN is typically located beneath the windscreen and additional identification plates are fitted within the engine bay and other body locations. Engine and transmission serial numbers are stamped on their respective assemblies to assist with parts identification and servicing.
While this guide helps identify common specifications and features of the VX Commodore models, the Holden workshop manuals available from Car Manuals Direct include the original specifications, adjustment settings and repair procedures used by Holden mechanics when servicing VX Holden vehicles and their standard mechanical components.