Holden has announced it is moving to an all SUV and ute line up with Commodore and Astra sales to cease by the end of next year
IT’S OFFICIAL: The Holden Commodore is no more. Holden has today confirmed that its most iconic nameplate – a car intrinsic to Australian culture since its introduction in 1978 – will be retired at the end of next year.
The manufacturer today announced it was electing to retire the ZB Commodore and the BK Astra from its 2020 portfolio, which will exclusively feature SUVs and light commercial vehicles.
Holden's Commodore was first introduced to the Australian market in 1978, where it replaced the long-serving family sedan the Holden Kingswood. Built in Australia from 1978 to 2017, the Commodore was the country's best-selling car well into the late 1990s.
The Commodore, which also came as station wagon and ute variants, was loved across the nation for its Australian-tuned suspension, large interior room and accessibility of parts.
Most enthusiasts agree the nameplate died when Australian manufacturing ceased production of the VF Commodore in October 2017.
Holden first launched the Commodore in October 1978 and has sold more than three million units since. In total, there have been 16 generations over the past 42 years: VB, VC, VH, VL, VN, VP, VR, VS, VT, VX, VY, VZ, VE, VF and the ZB.
Holden's Interim Chairman and Managing Director, Kristian Aquilina said the decision to end the association of the name Commodore with Australian motoring was not easy.
"The decision to retire the Commodore nameplate has not been taken lightly by those who understand and acknowledge its proud heritage," he said.
"The large sedan was the cornerstone of Australian and New Zealand roads for decades.
Existing Commodore and Astra customers can be assured that Holden will continue to back warranty and roadside assistance commitments, with spare parts supply guaranteed well into the future.
In addition, all MY19 ZB Commodores and MY19 BK Astras ordered or delivered from today onwards will be subject to Holden's market leading seven-year free scheduled servicing offer.
All arrangements for accessing warranty, servicing and spare parts for Holden's entire model line-up via the Holden's national dealer network remain the same.
