The Holden VU Commodore Utility introduced a revised ute body design built on the VX Commodore platform while retaining the core mechanical architecture of the VT–VX Commodore range. The VU ute featured updated exterior sheet metal, revised lighting and a redesigned cargo tub intended to improve durability and usability. Independent rear suspension was standard across the range, providing improved ride comfort and handling compared with earlier leaf-spring Holden utilities while maintaining the load carrying capability expected from the Commodore ute platform.
VU Utility Model Range
The VU utility range was available in several configurations based on the Commodore passenger vehicle lineup.
• VU Utility
• VU S Utility
• VU SS Utility
All models were two-door utilities with rear cargo tubs and were available with either V6 or V8 power depending on the model specification.
Engine Specifications
The VU Series utility was offered with two main engine configurations used across the VT–VX Commodore range.
• 3.8 litre V6 — 3791 cc displacement, producing approximately 152 kW at 5200 rpm and 305 Nm at 3600 rpm
• 5.7 litre GEN III V8 — 5667 cc displacement, producing approximately 225 kW at 5200 rpm and 460 Nm at 4400 rpm
These engines provided a balance of torque and performance suited to both everyday driving and load carrying duties.
Transmission Options
Several transmission configurations were available depending on engine type and model specification.
• 5-speed manual transmission — fitted to V6 utility and S models
• 6-speed manual transmission — fitted to V8 SS models
• 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission — optional on V6 and V8 models
Typical transmission ratios included:
• 1st gear — 3.829:1 (5-speed manual), 2.66:1 (6-speed manual), 3.06:1 (automatic)
• 2nd gear — 2.199:1 (5-speed manual), 1.78:1 (6-speed manual), 1.63:1 (automatic)
• 3rd gear — 1.401:1 (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 — 0.809:1 (V6 manual), 0.74:1 (V8 manual)
• 6th gear — 0.50:1 (V8 manual)
Exterior Dimensions
The VU utility retained the large wheelbase and body dimensions of the Commodore platform while incorporating a dedicated cargo body.
• Vehicle length — approximately 5049 mm
• Vehicle width — approximately 1845 mm
• Vehicle height — approximately 1484 mm
• Wheelbase — 2939 mm
• Front track — 1569 mm
• Rear track — 1587 mm
These dimensions contributed to the stability and load capacity expected from the Commodore utility design.
Vehicle Weights and Payload Capacity
Vehicle weight and payload capacity varied depending on engine and model configuration.
• V6 Utility kerb mass — approximately 1494 kg (manual) to 1519 kg (automatic)
• V8 Utility kerb mass — approximately 1557 kg (manual) to 1567 kg (automatic)
• SS Utility kerb mass — approximately 1610 kg (manual) to 1620 kg (automatic)
Typical payload capacities ranged from approximately 655 kg to 830 kg depending on engine type, transmission and model specification.
Vehicle Identification
VU utilities use the standard Holden Vehicle Identification Number system to identify model series, engine type, body configuration and production sequence. Identification plates and VIN markings are located in several positions including the dash panel, radiator support panel and under the windscreen. Later vehicles also include VIN stamping in the floor panel beneath the right-hand front seat.
OUR Workshop Manual – Complete Service Information
While this guide helps identify common specifications and features of the VU Commodore Utility 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 VU Holden vehicles and their standard mechanical components.