Wherever Kunkleman goes, Rinaldi and Klein New York Excavators must be close behind. Kunkleman has to get rid of customers who get too far behind on their car payments.
@@rosestrohm7986 Sometimes, sedans are based on wagons. Typical example: Several generations of VW Passt that came out as the far more popular wagon variant first and only became available as sedans later - or in the case of the current generation, they aren't even bothering with a sedan anymore (although the Škoda Superb that is almost identical and built in the same Škoda factory is still available as a sedan).
It's still wild to me that station wagons just stopped being a thing in the 90s in America. If you want a big car there you bought an SUV. Over here SUVs never caught on except for big rich families. It was always station wagons for that here.
For reference, they tried selling the Chevrolet Suburban here, but had to give it a Blazer interior because the RHD wheel wouldn't fit, and like just flat out nobody bought it.
Well “big rich” is kinda the point for us. Wagons in America were seen as “just” a family car, but Americans really pride ourselves in wealth projection. Our cars are apart of our identity. SUV’s look more expensive and projected presence. And because of how they make us feel they’re automatically deemed “safer” which further adds to the personality projection. Hopefully this is making sense
@@andthefunkybunch1466 Yea, I didn't catch that I made that mistake until after that video went live. But now it's up there and my ADHD brain made another classic mistake. Here's how it happens: I wrote 1000 in my notes. I read 1000 in my head. I said 100 with my mouth. When I listened to the audio during editing, I heard 1000.
In Sweden, we have a deep love for wagons, especially Volvo. From the classic 245 and 745 to the 850, we’ve grown up with these iconic cars. The V70s and XC70s are legendary, and the 7, 8, and 9 . We also love other Swedish brands but there's something about those Volvo wagons And yes, in Sweden, we often have moose jumping in front of our cars
I have a 740t wagon in addition to my 122s that was on the other week. But I offered my 2014 VF Calais v v8 wagon to RCR too. The 740t is an awesome wagon but the ve and VF is slightly shorter than the vt-vz wagon. It's just a modern rwd like Volvo to me which the earlier commodores were.
Except Volvo is betraying you and they stopped offering V90 and V60 in most markets lately. Some menagorial stupidity from China is to blame i guess...
Nobody in Australia thinks a Berlina is its own model except someone who owns a Berlina. It's just a different badge model commodore and not even the good one, that is the Calais. I think Matto just loves his Berlina too much lol
RCRs funniest joke imo, I lost it when he said Berlina has a "semi-luxury veneer". It's the same as a p plater getting an Impreza RS and saying it's faster than the base model, even though it's not a WRX.
@@andthefunkybunch1466 I suppose the idea was almost Calais features with a little less price tag? A bit redundant and I suppose that's the reason they didn't bother with Belinda trim in the final VF commo.
> but in Australia, big wagons are normal, they never stopped making them The feels when you realise we didn't stop making _them_, we stopped making cars entirely instead.
Most things in the world ever made, like corn you just stick it in the ground and it will grow. You make a semiconductor factory and it churns out CPUs and whatnot. You build a plane, and you can subcontract that part to Japan and that part to South Carolina and it'll just all come together and be a worldwide thing. And then you hit the Commodores and Falcons. And they're a cultural artifact, but one that you need a global operation to just set the preconditions for, but also to put together. You need to have a factory in a country with near enough the world's highest labour cost and declining manufacturing, you need the US and Germany just to provide the platform and investment, you need competition with Japanese imports to set the standard for manufacturing and reliability, and then you need half a century to get to a final state where the thing comes out just perfect, but you also don't want the economics of scale where making batteries makes sense in like 6 places in the world, and to do that in bulk, no you want the engines to be made here as well... like the Commodores and Falcons are the peak of that intersection that humanity will ever make between all three, physical object as complex as it gets, cultural artifact to the point where it represents a nation and global experience, making use of all the things from other places. Physical object, cultural artifact and global experience. Everything past these cars isn't just a pale echo, but a sign of an ever-deepening spiral of us having reached the peak of our potential where we could still make these things in that intersection. And I'm not talking about Australia here, I'm talking about everywhere. It's like you can have everything in the future. You'll be able to make an ICE car, you can emulate Windows 3.1, you can watch all the TV ever made, you can make a replicate of this or that. But the one thing you'll be the furthest from ever making again is a Holden Commodore or a Ford Falcon. A thousand years into the future they will be the most unattainable thing to ever make again, apart from maybe low-background steel, simply because of how much that needed to happen to make them in the first place.
GM stopped you. GM was beyond moronic with how they suffocated Holden, instead of selling your cars in all variants EVERYWHERE, they only drep fed sedans as Pontiac G8 and Chevy SS and Vauxhall VXR to UK. They shouldve exported your cars worldwide. Then Holden would still be kicking.
@@PanderingSlats Consumers chose crossovers because they have more room, better visibility, and are easier to get into and out of. Carmakers build what customers will buy and if customers don't want to buy sedans it would be silly to build them and have them sit on lots.
Commodore* Berlina. Also that opening was the most nostalgic thing ive ever seen. Feet pics and all. That could be a legitimate ad for Car City Minchinbury from 2005.
Although every Aussie calls them a commo wagon, the berlina and calais wagons were never badged or marketed as commodores. I can see from the research why RCR presented it the way they did.
@mansalans never in my 32 years have I heard anyone refer to their "Berlina" as a Berlina - Calais, sure, because it actually means something to some people but even then we all know it's a Commodore with a trim package. I had no idea there was meant to be a differential between a Commodore and a Berlina which shows how terrible their marketing was. We all know the Camry and Aurion are different cars.
Its funny Holden also made this exact wagon into a cross over too, added AWD with subtle changes, but it was more similar to a Subaru Outback but the choice of an LS1 and its called the Holden Adventra, i own one in LX8 trim which is the luxury version with the 250kw LS1.
If you want a LHD variant, it's nearly identical to the 1994-2004 Opel Omega B, although the most powerful variant of that car is a 3.2l V6 with 218 hp. Still more than enough, since the Omega is the polar opposite of sporty. It's a wet noodle in corners, but it was a cheap and reliable family hauler with tons of space, so people didn't really care. Go for a 1999 model or newer if you want to import one, since it received a pretty major facelift that year. If you are interested in a more modern take on the same idea, the Opel Insignia, which is basically the successor of the Omega was sold as the Buick Regal from 2018 to 2020. Extremely sophisticated, high quality (far more reliable than other German cars) and in my eyes, one of the most gorgeous station wagons ever made. You could even get it with 250hp and AWD, although you are limited to "just" eight instead of nine gears that are on the FWD model. That AWD system handily beat the likes of Subaru (as well as everyone else) in a rigorous deep-snow and ice test, by the way.
@@no1DdC that sounds abit under powered really, even the 250hp version lol this V6 in this Berlina makes about 5hp more than that and makes about 85hp more with the optional LS1 V8. The best option for them would be to import the older VT model as its past the 25yr import rule for Americans, then do a super easy firewall swap from the same generation vehicle they already have there a Pointiac GTO to make it LHD with the dash swap too. Their GTO is just our Holden Monaro that we exported over there in LHD for them, which is just a rebadged Holden Monaro, which is a 2 door coupe version of the 3rd generation Holden Commodore (VT, VX, VY & VZ) which is wagon is a 2005 VZ in Berlina trim level in this video. I'd love to test your AWD wagons though as Holden's own in-house AWD design is surprisingly capable used in the Holden Adventra, look up "AllTerrainAction" on RUclips a guy hardcore off roads his AWD Holden Adventra to show you what they're capable of 😁
Wait, there was an actual production V8 version of this ? I remember when GM tried to put one in the EU version (the Opel Omega) and they failed bc it was too costly to make it fit.
@@dernotarzt5549yes and America basically got it too under Pointiac called the GTO, its basically just the 2 door Coupe version of the 3rd generation Commodore which Holden called the Monaro in Australia and exported to America as the Pointiac GTO, but there was obviously not just sedan versions of the Commodore there was also utes and wagons like the one in this video with both V6 and V8 versions and multiple different trim specification levels, this one is the Berlina which is the lowest tier of luxury available in the Commodore range which came standard with V6 but could option up a LS1 V8, then Calais was the next step up in luxury but was only available in sedan, then the longer wheel base Statesman and Caprice. There were also AWD lifted off road inspired versions of the wagon called the Adventra in the VY and VZ series, basically like a Subaru Outback but just larger with V6 and V8 options, i own a 2005 Holden Adventra VZ LX8. There were also other odd body variations too like a 4 door dual cab ute called the Holden Crewman which was available in RWD and AWD with V6 and V8, plus the regular 2 door Commodore ute also had the option of tub or a tray back called the One Tonner as it could carry 1T of weight which was also available in RWD and AWD. Topping it all off HSV (Holden Special Vehicles) even added the AWD system into the Monaro and called it the HSV Coupé4 lol so think Pointiac GTO but with AWD.
@@maxrockatanksyOGsurprised as usually its the 4sp 4L60 behind the V8 versions that have issues, mines still fine at 230,000kms but i do have a trans cooler and larger trans oil sump fitted to keep it getting too hot which is the main issue in them.
These cars are fantastic. My parents have owned one since 2009 when I was young. I grew up in these things and we went camping in it so many times. The car still runs fine and I’ve done all my hours in it as an L plater here in Aus. It’s such a comfy, lazy cruiser with a decently powerful v6. We’ve used ours to tow trailers and caravans and it does it so well. My dad now uses it as a wood car being a woodworker and it gets a full workout, the interior is cooked 😂. Love this car
As someone who for some sick reason of self deprication is in a constant rotation of v6 vz commodores i can vouch for the alloytec being the 1 of 2 reasons for my depression still beating the 2nd reason which is me trying to buy my first home...
That DOHC V6 is the last engine by Holden and was in production all the way up to 2023. It was a collaboration with Cadillac but was used in everything by GM that needed a V6.
Actually, i know a few people who almost died hitting deer. 🦌 If you hit em the wrong way they sometimes come thru the windshield. At least we dont have moose in PA which can tear the entire roof off a car when you hit one. The last buck I hit did $24k damage to my car. Sometimes they get hit when in mid leap. Sometimes a buck is in rut and he charges your car. Also, we have bears in the more northerly reaches of Pennsylvania. I remember a man coming in for a state inspection whom failed becauee he had hit a brown bear at 55mph. Hood would not open because the "bull bar" was wrapped around it. Also like you said, RCR, we have moose, caribou, mule deer, horses, cows, penghorn antelope, etc in other states. I honestly think the moose crossing signs of Maine are the most whimsical. Even more then the deer crossing signs we have in PA , even the ones which gain red noses every December.😂 Plenty of people in Pa have some serious bumpers or guards due to this.
If any Europeans are curious about this cars origins, yes it is similar to the Opels you guys have over there and share a similar platorm, however this car shares a rough total of six parts with the euro version and the euro platform was basically used as a reference for the development of this gen of Commodores and almost everything was revised, widened and strengthened. Although it may look similar it is a very different car.
Grew up riding in an Oldsmobile custom cruiser ... the big 80s one. and this hits all the right notes. the "this can hold four people, luggage, and a cooler" is spot on for those. Love it.
Some of these Holden's were exported to the GCC countries and rebadge as Chevrolet Lumina,including the Statesman which was sold as a civilian mode Capricel not just a stripped down police car.(They began exports in 1999 for the commodore and ended in 2011,but for the Statesman exports began the year after and ended in 2016.)
I also really appreciate that they didn’t sacrifice space for styling here. It’s got that big wide Pixar mom wagon ass so you can load a whole couch in it rather than having a swooping roof line like a lot of the wagons (cough cough Audi) that we get in the US. A wagon is pointless if you don’t get the practicality that comes with it.
Yep and theres even enough room between the rear wheel arches in the boot to fit a pallet lol provided the forklift driver is careful enough, you can fit a bath tub in the back with the rear seats folded down 😂 In another lifted model with AWD called the Holden Adventra, in LX6 or LX8 spec it came factory with an air compressor and rear air shocks too for a self levelling system when towing or carrying heavy loads in the boot so the rear suspension didn't sag. I own one of the 333 made in LX8 spec, a 2005 Holden Adventra LX8 with the 250kw LS1. It was marketed as a soft roader similar to a Subaru Outback but was surprisingly capable off road.
It seems nice and likable, really. There's a lot to be said about wishing we'd kept our rear drive wagons, easier to service in general and potential fun while being useful. :) And the 'push bar' is nicely done, really, Australia seems to have all the ways to do that pretty worked out. (another thing they happen to be really useful for is if you need extra lights and have a pretty smooth front end, my 90's S10 could do with one for woodland path use, also to fend off any minor encounters with branches and trees. In the US, there may be a tendency to be excessive in bulk and weight if not overdone style with the things, unless something's all the way on the 'too cheap, but holds lights' end of things, so I see content from Oz and I'm like, 'I bet they could set me up with some fabrication just right down there.'
Ha! Cool of you to visit Australia, and review one of our cars. Unfortunately (as you said) GM Holden and Ford Australia have ceased production in Australia, so Commodores and Falcons aren't being made anymore. I swear, our streets are now never ending SUV's. After closing down manufacture here, GM in their wisdom decided to try and use Holden as a brand to sell rebadged GM shitboxes mostly from Korea. The locals weren't having it so the brand died. I hope you are going to do a review of that yellow XE Falcon.
The car i grew up in, a VZ berlina 5.7 v8 Wagon. That thing could move a whole house packed into the back, towing a trailer and all our soft toys in the passenger seats! Also had a roof capsule. Spectacular cars, worth the weight in gold
Nice spec, not too many optioned up with the V8. I've almost got the same thing but with AWD, the VZ LX8 Adventra only 333 made in LX8 trim which is a mix of Calais and Statesman levels of luxury with the 250kw LS1 V8.
Oh yeah, I'd be all over that. It looks just like those early 2000s Pontiac GTOs except it's a wagon. And it ain't like I'd ever be caught dead in a minivan because screw kids... no, not like that.
@@deanstyles2567 yeah that probably the closest comparison to a Pointiac GTO exterior the VT and VX Commodore front end, but their older dashboards are different to the GTO for Americans and only the same as the CV8 Monaro, the CV8Z face lift Monaro is the Pointiac GTO equivalent export which got the VY/VZ Commodore dashboards. But you could import a VT wagon to America and swap the firewall with a Pointiac GTO to make it left hand drive and also get the newer dashboard haha.
If that was 25 years old I would import it, swap the nose, dash, LDH, console, a built LQ4 6L and the T-56 from my 2004 GTO in it. Then put the parts from it on the GTO to make a Holden Monaro with a built LS1 and a 4L80e. It would probably be much easier and way cheaper to import a 25 year old Chevrolet Omega from Brazil which is LHD that costs $2,000-4,000usd equvelent in BRL and LS swap that.
You can do it with the VT already as its old enough and the first model in the 3rd gen Commodore range. VT, VX, VY and VZ are all 3rd gen based. Also some wagons came equipped from factory with a V8 as an option too, apart for the VY SS wagon which came standard with the V8.
Just six parts shared with the Opel. Everything else stronger and larger. Just GM design studios wanting a standard GM look around the world at that stage.
It’s nice to know that a single platform got a Chevy-powered sedan, coupe, wagon, and Ute somewhere in the world post-Y2K. All that’s missing is a convertible (because I don’t know the Aussie market).
Up to the eighties the volume selling Holden platform would also have a Panel Van version. In the US it would be called a sedan delivery. Mainly for commercial purposes until the seventies van craze when the popular and now highly sought after Sandman version was made. Never a convertible model made by volume selling Australian makers in the past seventy years apart from the Mini Moke and low volume fibreglass sports car makers.
Yep plus the longer wheel based high luxury sedans the Statesman and and range topping Caprice. Plus In this VY and VZ era based Commodores there were also other unique body variations like a 4 door dual cab ute called the Holden Crewman available in RWD and AWD both in V6 and V8, the 2 door ute also was available in the regular tub but also a tray back called the One Tonner as it could carry 1T of weight which was also available in RWD with V6 and V8 plus a rarer AWD model. Also this wagon was also available as an option in V8, plus Holden made an off roader version similar to the Subaru Outback called the Holden Adventra which came in AWD with a lift kit with a choice of V6 and V8, had wider wheel arch flares and unique rear end styling to help set it apart from the regular Commodore wagon rear end and i actually own one lol in LX8 trim, the LX stood for luxury (somewhere between Calais and Statesman) and the 8 stood for the the 250kw 5.7L LS1 V8. I looked up build numbers and they only made 333 in LX8 spec for the Holden Adventra VZ.
@@PrydeWater901 haha the UV rating in Australia is horrendously bad we have a high rate of skin cancers here, close to a hole in the ozone layer aparently
America's the worse place to be a car enthusiast. Manuals are rare and cost more than the autos that are plentiful. Wagons are rare especially something manual.
The car I grew up in was an ex-government base Executive wagon. Solid car. Also looking forward to getting my Octavia serviced at Kunkleman Skoda someday soon :D
I'm so confused. This went from being a fever dream, to educational to finally being quite beautiful. I don't quite know how to feel. Rip Holden :( Once holden Australia closed we split into the dark timeline, now bow to your EV overlords.
If GM wasnt moronic you couldve had all Holden goodness state-side modern equivalents to El Camino(that they could call it tbh) with the Ute, all the wagons and spicy fun versions with stick shift in every single one of those. Instead you got nothing. GM only tried cowardly to do it when Pontiac was already meant for dissolving in acid in 2010. So all they did bring over was sedan as Pontiac G8/Chevy SS.
Yep almost got the ute called the G8 ST (ST stood for Sport Truck) but plans fell through when Pointiac died lol speaking of which they did get our CV8Z Monaro under Pointiac as the GTO and our VE Statesman under Chev as the PPV but heavily gutted for police duties. But yeah overall they got only a taster of what we had unfortunately.
A running 05 Alloytec is an enigma. They have need special oil and the correct coolant to be moderately reliable, which of course no one does on a second hand car. Your footage was beautiful 😍 Holden sky Blue against the sunset! Holden were really good at paint
Hah i noticed that too, what a shame. I think Holden just eventually spread in popularity over the internet at a late stage by RUclips i remember in recent years Donut media did an "Upto Speed" on Holden which gained alot of awareness of the Holden brand, Hoonigan imported a VY ute a few years back and Cleetus aswell i think, plus Forza Horizon 3 was based in Australia with our Aussie cars which helped put a spot light on our cars and culture too. There were other games with a small handful of our cars in them in years prior, but it wasn't the focus really. I do think if Holden was allowed to be a brand dealer in America it would've saved our local car business manufacturing atleast for Holden. Sure America got the CV8Z Monaro, VE Commodore plus Statesman and VF Commodore sedans but they were all under Chev and Pointiac badges and exported in small quantities. Had they retained Holden's badge, Holden's better looking bumpers and exported the ute and wagon versions too i think America would've fell in love and bought enough to help support sales for Holden to stay afloat. America almost got our VE ute though under Pointiac called the G8 ST, the ST stood for Sport Truck, but plans fell through when Pointiac got shut down. Would've made more sense to bring back the El Camino name under Chev's badge though to me if they wanted to rebadge it. So much wasted potential its like they wanted Holden to die.
You're coming back!?!? Best holiday news ever, missed the first one due to scheduling and mechanical conflicts, would love a chance to offer a couple cars again!
I think basically as an American I find it absurd and laughable that station wagons were no longer considered cool that was the reason why SUVs and crossovers took over however I think that there is kind of a revision or should I say a small group of people who kind of appreciate the traditional full-size wagon that used to be in great demand back in the day.
Yeah i was about to say that they're not aftermarket lol they're genuine Holden wheels yes but they're actually off a VZ SSZ, the CV8Z version of the Monaro also got the same wheels but with a polished finish to the face of them and they they say "CV8Z" embossed onto 1 of the 5 spokes on the wheel, where as the VZ SSZ version of the wheels are just finished in like a satin type silver like the ones on this wagon. The regular normal VZ SS got different wheels again a totally different design, but the often forgotten _SSZ_ trim got these, i guess its the equivalent to the V Redline edition SS models in the VE and VF range which got goodies like Brembo brakes, the VZ SSZ also got bigger brakes but just not official Brembo ones, and also a twin hump hardlid on the ute. Yep i know too much about Commodores 😂
Grew up in a maroon 1984 Chevy Caprice wagon with matching vinyl seats and an AC compressor that only worked for 4 years, then fucked off in the middle of a Dallas, TX Summer. God, I miss that battle wagon. Absolute zero frills or signs of luxury. Wish the folks had held onto it for my first car.
As popular as the Subaru Outback is in the USA, and the popularity of used wagons right now I don't understand why at least ONE of the Big Three dosen't have a 2 or 4 door, RWD/AWD wagon in the lineup. I wish I could find one in good shape to daily, but the used market is so upside down in the US (Thanks Cash For Clunkers).
Carmakers build what customers will buy. Wagons are much less popular than crossovers so companies are going to use their limited production capability to build what will sell. I think the last domestic RWD wagons were the Dodge Magnum and the Cadillac CTS. Consumers prefer crossovers for their greater space, better visibility, and easier entry/exit.
Google search "Holden Adventra VZ LX8" lol its this wagon but lifted from factory with AWD and a 250kw 5.7L LS1 V8. Has higher levels of luxury closer to a Holden Calais or Statesman, plus some styling tweaks like wider wheel arch flares, slightly restyled rear and front end but essentially the same. Its basically a Subaru Outback but slightly larger and with the choice of a 190kw 3.6L Alloytec V6 or the V8 which i own. AllTerrainAction RUclips channel hardcore offroad the V6 version if you want to see how surprisingly capable these are off road 😁
Fun fact: Holden Berlina sold in the Middle East and South Africa as (Chevrolet Lumina Wagon), I saw several of them through the years in Saudi Arabia... But they were rare even when they are new unlike the sedan version which was very popular.
@@ranga1028 ohyeah i think that was the weird cross over period between VY and VZ in 2004 for the Adventra models? From memory it gets the up rated 250kw V8 up from 235kw, electronic throttle body etc but still has the VY front bumper on it? Probably to use up left over parts first i think haha. Yeah nice, I bought mine 6 months ago its a 2005 LX8 aparently only 333 were made in LX8 trim in the VZ. Mine already had a Di Filippo set of stainless steel extractors and exhaust fitted plus a retune on 95 octane, Truetrac rear LSD fitted, Kings lift kit, larger A/T tyres, genuine Holden nudgebar with led spotties and light bar, genuine Holden under body bash plate protection, 2.1T upgraded Holden towing package, rear air bags along with the factory air shocks level ride system refurbished too, trans cooler, larger oil sump for the trans, converted parker lights low/high beam and reverse lights to LED, and probably some other mods I'm forgetting lol. Are you in the FB group too?
The maternity test results came in, and the baby isn't yours. Know what can be? A Divorce! ROTFLMFAO! Been There! Best money I've ever spent, between legal costs and therapy. Last one didn't work though. Female bestie talked me into it 18 years ago, with an assist from our daughter. First time they call you Dad. Life-changing. Thanks for giving a disabled house husband a well needed soul laugh, Guys. That was Gold.
I'd like to see one of these up close. I still have my 2008 Volvo XC70 and am shopping for another one. One of my friends has a 1993 Buick Roadmaster, now that thing's HUGE!
I have an Opel Omega. Mostly the same car as this. It's not perfect, but it's a good cruiser and being a big, low, station wagon makes it stand out today.
Happy holidays kaunts it’s a shame it’s only a white Christmas since I jizzed all over the screen upon witnessing the immaculate beauty of the Holden berlina
I think you're right re conspicuous consumption probably rang true when that Berlina rolled off the showroom floor, but these days we've been collectively sucked into the pissing contest that is the largest vehicle you can possibly afford. Our Utes are closer in scale to your trucks than ever before (and I mean those are sold through official channels now anyway) and the humble full size sedan/wagon is dead
they made the berlina model for more than three years it went from the vk in 1984 to the last of the ve’s in 2013 and i’ve never in my life referred to a berlina as a berlina it’s always just been a slightly better commodore normally because it’s got power windows and cruise control
![BLACK BAG - Official Trailer [HD] - Only in Theaters March 14](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Du0Xp8WX_7I/mqdefault.jpg)
I didn't know Kunkelman opened an Aussie branch
Also holy fuck the editing here is going HARD. Merry Christmas
Wherever Kunkleman goes, Rinaldi and Klein New York Excavators must be close behind. Kunkleman has to get rid of customers who get too far behind on their car payments.
THANKS
Did you like it when Peter and Brain had an ipecac-drinking contest?
Well now you do.
Berlina in italian means Sedan.
It's a wagon
Flawless
They are offered as a sedan too
wagons are just long sedans if you think about it
@@rosestrohm7986 more like long hatchbacks
@@logicerrormusic wagons are based on sedan platforms
@@rosestrohm7986 Sometimes, sedans are based on wagons. Typical example: Several generations of VW Passt that came out as the far more popular wagon variant first and only became available as sedans later - or in the case of the current generation, they aren't even bothering with a sedan anymore (although the Škoda Superb that is almost identical and built in the same Škoda factory is still available as a sedan).
It's still wild to me that station wagons just stopped being a thing in the 90s in America. If you want a big car there you bought an SUV. Over here SUVs never caught on except for big rich families. It was always station wagons for that here.
For reference, they tried selling the Chevrolet Suburban here, but had to give it a Blazer interior because the RHD wheel wouldn't fit, and like just flat out nobody bought it.
Well “big rich” is kinda the point for us. Wagons in America were seen as “just” a family car, but Americans really pride ourselves in wealth projection. Our cars are apart of our identity. SUV’s look more expensive and projected presence. And because of how they make us feel they’re automatically deemed “safer” which further adds to the personality projection.
Hopefully this is making sense
@@CRXSSF4D3 They were only 350sbc too.
Hey now, we also have minivans!
Wagons are considered cars and thus saddled with the stricter fuel economy standards than SUV’s, which get buy with truck ones.
It's around 1000km from Melbourne to Sydney, not 100km haha.
I flubbed that line
Am Australian, I bugged out when your said that
@@andthefunkybunch1466 Yea, I didn't catch that I made that mistake until after that video went live. But now it's up there and my ADHD brain made another classic mistake. Here's how it happens: I wrote 1000 in my notes. I read 1000 in my head. I said 100 with my mouth. When I listened to the audio during editing, I heard 1000.
How about 70 kilometers, not miles per hour, for a kangaroo. Ha
In Sweden, we have a deep love for wagons, especially Volvo. From the classic 245 and 745 to the 850, we’ve grown up with these iconic cars. The V70s and XC70s are legendary, and the 7, 8, and 9 . We also love other Swedish brands but there's something about those Volvo wagons And yes, in Sweden, we often have moose jumping in front of our cars
I have a 740t wagon in addition to my 122s that was on the other week. But I offered my 2014 VF Calais v v8 wagon to RCR too. The 740t is an awesome wagon but the ve and VF is slightly shorter than the vt-vz wagon. It's just a modern rwd like Volvo to me which the earlier commodores were.
And a love just as deep for biltema korv
Those boots fit a lot of surstromming.
Except Volvo is betraying you and they stopped offering V90 and V60 in most markets lately. Some menagorial stupidity from China is to blame i guess...
Big Bill Hells vibes on that intro
CHALLENGE PISSING
Big Baz Hell's
Nobody in Australia thinks a Berlina is its own model except someone who owns a Berlina. It's just a different badge model commodore and not even the good one, that is the Calais. I think Matto just loves his Berlina too much lol
RCRs funniest joke imo, I lost it when he said Berlina has a "semi-luxury veneer". It's the same as a p plater getting an Impreza RS and saying it's faster than the base model, even though it's not a WRX.
Nah dude, that’s not my car, I drive the yellow shitbox in the background
@@andthefunkybunch1466 I suppose the idea was almost Calais features with a little less price tag? A bit redundant and I suppose that's the reason they didn't bother with Belinda trim in the final VF commo.
> but in Australia, big wagons are normal, they never stopped making them
The feels when you realise we didn't stop making _them_, we stopped making cars entirely instead.
Most things in the world ever made, like corn you just stick it in the ground and it will grow. You make a semiconductor factory and it churns out CPUs and whatnot. You build a plane, and you can subcontract that part to Japan and that part to South Carolina and it'll just all come together and be a worldwide thing. And then you hit the Commodores and Falcons. And they're a cultural artifact, but one that you need a global operation to just set the preconditions for, but also to put together. You need to have a factory in a country with near enough the world's highest labour cost and declining manufacturing, you need the US and Germany just to provide the platform and investment, you need competition with Japanese imports to set the standard for manufacturing and reliability, and then you need half a century to get to a final state where the thing comes out just perfect, but you also don't want the economics of scale where making batteries makes sense in like 6 places in the world, and to do that in bulk, no you want the engines to be made here as well... like the Commodores and Falcons are the peak of that intersection that humanity will ever make between all three, physical object as complex as it gets, cultural artifact to the point where it represents a nation and global experience, making use of all the things from other places. Physical object, cultural artifact and global experience. Everything past these cars isn't just a pale echo, but a sign of an ever-deepening spiral of us having reached the peak of our potential where we could still make these things in that intersection. And I'm not talking about Australia here, I'm talking about everywhere.
It's like you can have everything in the future. You'll be able to make an ICE car, you can emulate Windows 3.1, you can watch all the TV ever made, you can make a replicate of this or that. But the one thing you'll be the furthest from ever making again is a Holden Commodore or a Ford Falcon. A thousand years into the future they will be the most unattainable thing to ever make again, apart from maybe low-background steel, simply because of how much that needed to happen to make them in the first place.
tbh I'd rather that than America's situation of quitting cars for teardrop crossover SUV's with guaranteed blind spots
But you're probably more inclusive now.
GM stopped you. GM was beyond moronic with how they suffocated Holden, instead of selling your cars in all variants EVERYWHERE, they only drep fed sedans as Pontiac G8 and Chevy SS and Vauxhall VXR to UK. They shouldve exported your cars worldwide. Then Holden would still be kicking.
@@PanderingSlats Consumers chose crossovers because they have more room, better visibility, and are easier to get into and out of. Carmakers build what customers will buy and if customers don't want to buy sedans it would be silly to build them and have them sit on lots.
RIP Holden. 1951-2017
1948-2017
It’s funny because Matt 300% just sounds like Roman doing an super Aussie accent
I eagerly await the day Roman sets his voice to ME!
Commodore* Berlina.
Also that opening was the most nostalgic thing ive ever seen. Feet pics and all. That could be a legitimate ad for Car City Minchinbury from 2005.
Although every Aussie calls them a commo wagon, the berlina and calais wagons were never badged or marketed as commodores. I can see from the research why RCR presented it the way they did.
They could have written whatever they wanted on the back, it didn't change the fact we could still see "Commodore" underneath the crayola scribble
@@VxW0lf you mean the scribble that was over "Omega CD 2.5"?
@@miaugato93 Yeah, isn't this just a Vauxhall that's put on weight, at least with the V6?
@mansalans never in my 32 years have I heard anyone refer to their "Berlina" as a Berlina - Calais, sure, because it actually means something to some people but even then we all know it's a Commodore with a trim package. I had no idea there was meant to be a differential between a Commodore and a Berlina which shows how terrible their marketing was. We all know the Camry and Aurion are different cars.
As an American into wagons and not crossovers, that thing is gorgeous! Stop making me want to drive a GM again!!!!
(I had a 94 Saturn SW2 that was the coolest looking, unreliable turd I've ever owned)
Its funny Holden also made this exact wagon into a cross over too, added AWD with subtle changes, but it was more similar to a Subaru Outback but the choice of an LS1 and its called the Holden Adventra, i own one in LX8 trim which is the luxury version with the 250kw LS1.
If you want a LHD variant, it's nearly identical to the 1994-2004 Opel Omega B, although the most powerful variant of that car is a 3.2l V6 with 218 hp. Still more than enough, since the Omega is the polar opposite of sporty. It's a wet noodle in corners, but it was a cheap and reliable family hauler with tons of space, so people didn't really care. Go for a 1999 model or newer if you want to import one, since it received a pretty major facelift that year.
If you are interested in a more modern take on the same idea, the Opel Insignia, which is basically the successor of the Omega was sold as the Buick Regal from 2018 to 2020. Extremely sophisticated, high quality (far more reliable than other German cars) and in my eyes, one of the most gorgeous station wagons ever made. You could even get it with 250hp and AWD, although you are limited to "just" eight instead of nine gears that are on the FWD model. That AWD system handily beat the likes of Subaru (as well as everyone else) in a rigorous deep-snow and ice test, by the way.
Maybe you could get one imported?
@@no1DdC that sounds abit under powered really, even the 250hp version lol this V6 in this Berlina makes about 5hp more than that and makes about 85hp more with the optional LS1 V8.
The best option for them would be to import the older VT model as its past the 25yr import rule for Americans, then do a super easy firewall swap from the same generation vehicle they already have there a Pointiac GTO to make it LHD with the dash swap too. Their GTO is just our Holden Monaro that we exported over there in LHD for them, which is just a rebadged Holden Monaro, which is a 2 door coupe version of the 3rd generation Holden Commodore (VT, VX, VY & VZ) which is wagon is a 2005 VZ in Berlina trim level in this video.
I'd love to test your AWD wagons though as Holden's own in-house AWD design is surprisingly capable used in the Holden Adventra, look up "AllTerrainAction" on RUclips a guy hardcore off roads his AWD Holden Adventra to show you what they're capable of 😁
I have the AWD LS1 powered version of this. It's even more suited to cross-country trips, as well as towing anything you can't fit in the boot
Wish we got this in America…
Had the V6 Adventra CX6.
Was the biggest piece of shit i have ever owned, paddle shift was nice (until the gearbox randomly shat itself)
Wait, there was an actual production V8 version of this ?
I remember when GM tried to put one in the EU version (the Opel Omega) and they failed bc it was too costly to make it fit.
@@dernotarzt5549yes and America basically got it too under Pointiac called the GTO, its basically just the 2 door Coupe version of the 3rd generation Commodore which Holden called the Monaro in Australia and exported to America as the Pointiac GTO, but there was obviously not just sedan versions of the Commodore there was also utes and wagons like the one in this video with both V6 and V8 versions and multiple different trim specification levels, this one is the Berlina which is the lowest tier of luxury available in the Commodore range which came standard with V6 but could option up a LS1 V8, then Calais was the next step up in luxury but was only available in sedan, then the longer wheel base Statesman and Caprice.
There were also AWD lifted off road inspired versions of the wagon called the Adventra in the VY and VZ series, basically like a Subaru Outback but just larger with V6 and V8 options, i own a 2005 Holden Adventra VZ LX8.
There were also other odd body variations too like a 4 door dual cab ute called the Holden Crewman which was available in RWD and AWD with V6 and V8, plus the regular 2 door Commodore ute also had the option of tub or a tray back called the One Tonner as it could carry 1T of weight which was also available in RWD and AWD.
Topping it all off HSV (Holden Special Vehicles) even added the AWD system into the Monaro and called it the HSV Coupé4 lol so think Pointiac GTO but with AWD.
@@maxrockatanksyOGsurprised as usually its the 4sp 4L60 behind the V8 versions that have issues, mines still fine at 230,000kms but i do have a trans cooler and larger trans oil sump fitted to keep it getting too hot which is the main issue in them.
As a Montanan I appreciate the shout out. Wanna hear some big deer, elk or moose stories?
Go ahead
Are these stories segsual in nature? I hear it gets lonely up there in the mountains.
😂
Yes
@@senorpepper3405nothing sensuous. YET.
@XtrachunkyI’ve seen multiple deer get hit in front of my place of employment- around 1 every other month it seems…
Ah yes, nothing like Aussie Kunkleman Chevrolet to start my week.
These cars are fantastic. My parents have owned one since 2009 when I was young. I grew up in these things and we went camping in it so many times. The car still runs fine and I’ve done all my hours in it as an L plater here in Aus. It’s such a comfy, lazy cruiser with a decently powerful v6. We’ve used ours to tow trailers and caravans and it does it so well. My dad now uses it as a wood car being a woodworker and it gets a full workout, the interior is cooked 😂. Love this car
I’d recognise that Sugarloaf Reservoir anywhere! Surreal seeing my little get away spot here down in Victoria featuring in an RCR video.
The VZ-VY series was absolute peak Commodore, V8 model wise.
Nah, interiors were god awful, and the alloytec was a heap of shit.
As someone who for some sick reason of self deprication is in a constant rotation of v6 vz commodores i can vouch for the alloytec being the 1 of 2 reasons for my depression still beating the 2nd reason which is me trying to buy my first home...
@@xsct878 Hard to be more rough than the 3800, but Hoiden pulled it off again, turd after turd. Shoulda went Opel Cam in head l6 after the RB30.
My favorite is the VX Calais v8
@@super_slav91 The 3800 is definitely rough as guts but at least it has one thing the HFV6 doesn't... reliability even after considerable abuse
"Dead leaf bukkake." Brilliant.
Also, mock it all you want, I would kxll for the return of the wagon.
My sister had the version before this. It was the second comfiest car we've ever owned. Dads 1980's XJ6 was the comfiest if your wondering lol
"YOU OWE ME A BLAUPUNKT"
That DOHC V6 is the last engine by Holden and was in production all the way up to 2023. It was a collaboration with Cadillac but was used in everything by GM that needed a V6.
@@Rekoyl116 The Ecotec (3800 Series II) most certainly did not come after the Alloytec (HFV6) lmao. Ecotec was used in the VS up until the VY.
Powerful Big Bill Hells energy from the intro, I love it.
Berlina is the spec level, in aus we'd call that a vz commodore wagon, berlina, hope that helps
Technically he's right. The berlina and calais in wagon trims were never badged or marketed as a commodore.
WE GOT AN AUSSIE KUNKELMAN AD BEFORE GTA 6
Actually, i know a few people who almost died hitting deer. 🦌 If you hit em the wrong way they sometimes come thru the windshield. At least we dont have moose in PA which can tear the entire roof off a car when you hit one.
The last buck I hit did $24k damage to my car.
Sometimes they get hit when in mid leap.
Sometimes a buck is in rut and he charges your car.
Also, we have bears in the more northerly reaches of Pennsylvania. I remember a man coming in for a state inspection whom failed becauee he had hit a brown bear at 55mph. Hood would not open because the "bull bar" was wrapped around it.
Also like you said, RCR, we have moose, caribou, mule deer, horses, cows, penghorn antelope, etc in other states.
I honestly think the moose crossing signs of Maine are the most whimsical. Even more then the deer crossing signs we have in PA , even the ones which gain red noses every December.😂
Plenty of people in Pa have some serious bumpers or guards due to this.
I swerved around one at 150mph on highway 13 near Berkeley, deer didn’t even flinch. Happy to be alive writing this
If any Europeans are curious about this cars origins, yes it is similar to the Opels you guys have over there and share a similar platorm, however this car shares a rough total of six parts with the euro version and the euro platform was basically used as a reference for the development of this gen of Commodores and almost everything was revised, widened and strengthened. Although it may look similar it is a very different car.
Yeah it looks very similar to the Opel Omega of the early 2000s
@@pleepler Looks like a combination of an Opel Omega B and Vectra C Wagon
@@hassesk7323The wagons do make it super obvious that it’s an Omega B, but the VY/VZ sedans do look quite different than the Opel they were based on.
Not a Vauxhall Carlton then ?
2:40 100km is nowhere near the distance between Melbourne and Sydney it’s more like 880km
I think something got lost in the distance exchange rate.
He said 1000 briefly before that. Just a brain fart.
Grew up riding in an Oldsmobile custom cruiser ... the big 80s one. and this hits all the right notes. the "this can hold four people, luggage, and a cooler" is spot on for those. Love it.
Merry Christmas RCR. The intro was classic.
Kunkleman sure are diversifying their stock these days😅
Some of these Holden's were exported to the GCC countries and rebadge as Chevrolet Lumina,including the Statesman which was sold as a civilian mode Capricel not just a stripped down police car.(They began exports in 1999 for the commodore and ended in 2011,but for the Statesman exports began the year after and ended in 2016.)
Can't wait to see the Ryobi lawnmower review
The Kunkleman group of dealerships has really spread globally. Nice to see you down under Mr. Kunk.
Loved the "Haitch Ess Vee" and "Haitch Pee Vee" pronunciations in the Kunkleman Skoda bit. Good on ya, mate.
I also really appreciate that they didn’t sacrifice space for styling here. It’s got that big wide Pixar mom wagon ass so you can load a whole couch in it rather than having a swooping roof line like a lot of the wagons (cough cough Audi) that we get in the US. A wagon is pointless if you don’t get the practicality that comes with it.
Yep and theres even enough room between the rear wheel arches in the boot to fit a pallet lol provided the forklift driver is careful enough, you can fit a bath tub in the back with the rear seats folded down 😂 In another lifted model with AWD called the Holden Adventra, in LX6 or LX8 spec it came factory with an air compressor and rear air shocks too for a self levelling system when towing or carrying heavy loads in the boot so the rear suspension didn't sag.
I own one of the 333 made in LX8 spec, a 2005 Holden Adventra LX8 with the 250kw LS1. It was marketed as a soft roader similar to a Subaru Outback but was surprisingly capable off road.
You may want to check your facts on kangaroo hop speeds, they max out at 70kph or 43mph
Every time i think you can't top an intro, roman. Love you guys
“Sit down Montana!” I’m still chuckling 😂😂
It seems nice and likable, really. There's a lot to be said about wishing we'd kept our rear drive wagons, easier to service in general and potential fun while being useful. :) And the 'push bar' is nicely done, really, Australia seems to have all the ways to do that pretty worked out. (another thing they happen to be really useful for is if you need extra lights and have a pretty smooth front end, my 90's S10 could do with one for woodland path use, also to fend off any minor encounters with branches and trees. In the US, there may be a tendency to be excessive in bulk and weight if not overdone style with the things, unless something's all the way on the 'too cheap, but holds lights' end of things, so I see content from Oz and I'm like, 'I bet they could set me up with some fabrication just right down there.'
Ha! Cool of you to visit Australia, and review one of our cars. Unfortunately (as you said) GM Holden and Ford Australia have ceased production in Australia, so Commodores and Falcons aren't being made anymore. I swear, our streets are now never ending SUV's.
After closing down manufacture here, GM in their wisdom decided to try and use Holden as a brand to sell rebadged GM shitboxes mostly from Korea. The locals weren't having it so the brand died.
I hope you are going to do a review of that yellow XE Falcon.
The car i grew up in, a VZ berlina 5.7 v8 Wagon. That thing could move a whole house packed into the back, towing a trailer and all our soft toys in the passenger seats! Also had a roof capsule. Spectacular cars, worth the weight in gold
Nice spec, not too many optioned up with the V8. I've almost got the same thing but with AWD, the VZ LX8 Adventra only 333 made in LX8 trim which is a mix of Calais and Statesman levels of luxury with the 250kw LS1 V8.
How the hell does Kunkelman even have any Holden products to sell?
Pontiac GTO and g8?
Don't ask questions you don't want the answers for buddy or Rinaldi & Klein will come knocking, ya dig? Because they can dig quicker, capiche?
I didn’t have “Aussie Kunklemen Chevrolet” on my 2024 bingo card
Oh yeah, I'd be all over that. It looks just like those early 2000s Pontiac GTOs except it's a wagon. And it ain't like I'd ever be caught dead in a minivan because screw kids... no, not like that.
That's because it's the same platform.
@Low760 oh yeah, I know that.
The VT and VX models are largely similar and the VT is now over 25 years old 🙂
@@deanstyles2567 yeah that probably the closest comparison to a Pointiac GTO exterior the VT and VX Commodore front end, but their older dashboards are different to the GTO for Americans and only the same as the CV8 Monaro, the CV8Z face lift Monaro is the Pointiac GTO equivalent export which got the VY/VZ Commodore dashboards. But you could import a VT wagon to America and swap the firewall with a Pointiac GTO to make it left hand drive and also get the newer dashboard haha.
Kunkleman finally expanded! Nice
*Kunklemate Aussie Auto
Love the Belina. The color is amazing and so much versatility in that boot. 😊
If that was 25 years old I would import it, swap the nose, dash, LDH, console, a built LQ4 6L and the T-56 from my 2004 GTO in it. Then put the parts from it on the GTO to make a Holden Monaro with a built LS1 and a 4L80e. It would probably be much easier and way cheaper to import a 25 year old Chevrolet Omega from Brazil which is LHD that costs $2,000-4,000usd equvelent in BRL and LS swap that.
You can do it with the VT already as its old enough and the first model in the 3rd gen Commodore range. VT, VX, VY and VZ are all 3rd gen based. Also some wagons came equipped from factory with a V8 as an option too, apart for the VY SS wagon which came standard with the V8.
Right now the only option for a station wagon in america is the Subaru Outback
Which barely qualifies as a wagon. How far it rolled from the tree...
There's also the Mercedes E-Class, some Audis including the RS6 Avant, and by special order the Volvo V60 and V90.
Holy shit, Kunko's is near Keysborough? Might need to stop by for a yarn in the new year
Caddilac catera is the version they got in America. And of course the Pontiac GTO is from the same factory.
The vt-vx-vy-vz body ran from. 1997-2006.
Opel Omega B post-facelift!
I was have opel omega B wagon, it was even good car 🤪
Kinda. The Opel and Cadillac were a narrower car.
Just six parts shared with the Opel.
Everything else stronger and larger.
Just GM design studios wanting a standard GM look around the world at that stage.
The ads for Kunkleman Chevrolet are getting better every time
Romsn, I see you have made to Australia! 🇦🇺
It’s nice to know that a single platform got a Chevy-powered sedan, coupe, wagon, and Ute somewhere in the world post-Y2K. All that’s missing is a convertible (because I don’t know the Aussie market).
Up to the eighties the volume selling Holden platform would also have a Panel Van version. In the US it would be called a sedan delivery.
Mainly for commercial purposes until the seventies van craze when the popular and now highly sought after Sandman version was made.
Never a convertible model made by volume selling Australian makers in the past seventy years apart from the Mini Moke and low volume fibreglass sports car makers.
Yep plus the longer wheel based high luxury sedans the Statesman and and range topping Caprice.
Plus In this VY and VZ era based Commodores there were also other unique body variations like a 4 door dual cab ute called the Holden Crewman available in RWD and AWD both in V6 and V8, the 2 door ute also was available in the regular tub but also a tray back called the One Tonner as it could carry 1T of weight which was also available in RWD with V6 and V8 plus a rarer AWD model.
Also this wagon was also available as an option in V8, plus Holden made an off roader version similar to the Subaru Outback called the Holden Adventra which came in AWD with a lift kit with a choice of V6 and V8, had wider wheel arch flares and unique rear end styling to help set it apart from the regular Commodore wagon rear end and i actually own one lol in LX8 trim, the LX stood for luxury (somewhere between Calais and Statesman) and the 8 stood for the the 250kw 5.7L LS1 V8. I looked up build numbers and they only made 333 in LX8 spec for the Holden Adventra VZ.
I don't think convertibles exist in Australia because the Sun would set the occupants on fire as soon as the top was opened.
@ Nothing to do with the wildlife that would intrude?
@@PrydeWater901 haha the UV rating in Australia is horrendously bad we have a high rate of skin cancers here, close to a hole in the ozone layer aparently
America's the worse place to be a car enthusiast. Manuals are rare and cost more than the autos that are plentiful. Wagons are rare especially something manual.
The car I grew up in was an ex-government base Executive wagon. Solid car.
Also looking forward to getting my Octavia serviced at Kunkleman Skoda someday soon :D
Crikey! That intro was fair dinkum.
I'm so confused. This went from being a fever dream, to educational to finally being quite beautiful. I don't quite know how to feel.
Rip Holden :( Once holden Australia closed we split into the dark timeline, now bow to your EV overlords.
If GM wasnt moronic you couldve had all Holden goodness state-side modern equivalents to El Camino(that they could call it tbh) with the Ute, all the wagons and spicy fun versions with stick shift in every single one of those. Instead you got nothing. GM only tried cowardly to do it when Pontiac was already meant for dissolving in acid in 2010. So all they did bring over was sedan as Pontiac G8/Chevy SS.
Yep almost got the ute called the G8 ST (ST stood for Sport Truck) but plans fell through when Pointiac died lol speaking of which they did get our CV8Z Monaro under Pointiac as the GTO and our VE Statesman under Chev as the PPV but heavily gutted for police duties. But yeah overall they got only a taster of what we had unfortunately.
I was wondering who was doing the Kunkleman voice ad....then the voice credit came up. Nice change up!
A running 05 Alloytec is an enigma. They have need special oil and the correct coolant to be moderately reliable, which of course no one does on a second hand car. Your footage was beautiful 😍 Holden sky Blue against the sunset! Holden were really good at paint
He is fucking Back here bois! Come drive 2013 ford territory bro!!
Gotta love how the Americans only started giving a shit about Aussie cars after our entire car industry went belly up.
Hah i noticed that too, what a shame. I think Holden just eventually spread in popularity over the internet at a late stage by RUclips i remember in recent years Donut media did an "Upto Speed" on Holden which gained alot of awareness of the Holden brand, Hoonigan imported a VY ute a few years back and Cleetus aswell i think, plus Forza Horizon 3 was based in Australia with our Aussie cars which helped put a spot light on our cars and culture too. There were other games with a small handful of our cars in them in years prior, but it wasn't the focus really.
I do think if Holden was allowed to be a brand dealer in America it would've saved our local car business manufacturing atleast for Holden. Sure America got the CV8Z Monaro, VE Commodore plus Statesman and VF Commodore sedans but they were all under Chev and Pointiac badges and exported in small quantities.
Had they retained Holden's badge, Holden's better looking bumpers and exported the ute and wagon versions too i think America would've fell in love and bought enough to help support sales for Holden to stay afloat.
America almost got our VE ute though under Pointiac called the G8 ST, the ST stood for Sport Truck, but plans fell through when Pointiac got shut down. Would've made more sense to bring back the El Camino name under Chev's badge though to me if they wanted to rebadge it. So much wasted potential its like they wanted Holden to die.
Also forgot to mention they never got any of our HSV versions either which they love
You shouldnt of just said "SIT DOWN MONTANA" but "SIT DOWN CANADA"
i love it when a moose decides my car should be moose shape instead of car shape
Great stuff!Welcome to Oz! Watch out for speed cams etc!
Holy shit, an Aussie car ❤
Im so starved for a basic daily driver wagon im considering importing the euro wagon version of my current car when it meets the 25 year rule.
You're coming back!?!? Best holiday news ever, missed the first one due to scheduling and mechanical conflicts, would love a chance to offer a couple cars again!
I wonder if these guys met with MCM while they were over in Australia.
I think basically as an American I find it absurd and laughable that station wagons were no longer considered cool that was the reason why SUVs and crossovers took over however I think that there is kind of a revision or should I say a small group of people who kind of appreciate the traditional full-size wagon that used to be in great demand back in the day.
15:10 those aren't aftermarket wheels, at least the design isn't. Those are VZ Monaro (CV8 trim) wheels.
Yeah i was about to say that they're not aftermarket lol they're genuine Holden wheels yes but they're actually off a VZ SSZ, the CV8Z version of the Monaro also got the same wheels but with a polished finish to the face of them and they they say "CV8Z" embossed onto 1 of the 5 spokes on the wheel, where as the VZ SSZ version of the wheels are just finished in like a satin type silver like the ones on this wagon.
The regular normal VZ SS got different wheels again a totally different design, but the often forgotten _SSZ_ trim got these, i guess its the equivalent to the V Redline edition SS models in the VE and VF range which got goodies like Brembo brakes, the VZ SSZ also got bigger brakes but just not official Brembo ones, and also a twin hump hardlid on the ute.
Yep i know too much about Commodores 😂
They have an Australian Branch of Kunkleman now?
They call themselves Kunklemate there
Grew up in a maroon 1984 Chevy Caprice wagon with matching vinyl seats and an AC compressor that only worked for 4 years, then fucked off in the middle of a Dallas, TX Summer. God, I miss that battle wagon. Absolute zero frills or signs of luxury. Wish the folks had held onto it for my first car.
why would you drop this masterpiece at 6 am?????
As soon as I saw the clip of the money falling, I KNEW Roman was going to say “dollery doos.”
14:15 I appreciate the all Aussie wrestling list there.
It's like a better looking Saturn LW. I like it.
0:11 i saw that meme yesterday. Good lord i thought it was a one off weird thing. I guess not lol
As popular as the Subaru Outback is in the USA, and the popularity of used wagons right now I don't understand why at least ONE of the Big Three dosen't have a 2 or 4 door, RWD/AWD wagon in the lineup. I wish I could find one in good shape to daily, but the used market is so upside down in the US (Thanks Cash For Clunkers).
Carmakers build what customers will buy. Wagons are much less popular than crossovers so companies are going to use their limited production capability to build what will sell. I think the last domestic RWD wagons were the Dodge Magnum and the Cadillac CTS. Consumers prefer crossovers for their greater space, better visibility, and easier entry/exit.
Google search "Holden Adventra VZ LX8" lol its this wagon but lifted from factory with AWD and a 250kw 5.7L LS1 V8. Has higher levels of luxury closer to a Holden Calais or Statesman, plus some styling tweaks like wider wheel arch flares, slightly restyled rear and front end but essentially the same. Its basically a Subaru Outback but slightly larger and with the choice of a 190kw 3.6L Alloytec V6 or the V8 which i own.
AllTerrainAction RUclips channel hardcore offroad the V6 version if you want to see how surprisingly capable these are off road 😁
Fun fact: Holden Berlina sold in the Middle East and South Africa as (Chevrolet Lumina Wagon), I saw several of them through the years in Saudi Arabia... But they were rare even when they are new unlike the sedan version which was very popular.
If only I'd known, I live down under and just picked up a Holden adventura lx8 would of loved to have it featured hahaha
Same lol I've got a 2005 VZ LX8
@@craigsampson3386 nice, mines a late 04
love the ls in it, just put a manta exhaust on the a couple days ago too, gr8 car
@@ranga1028 ohyeah i think that was the weird cross over period between VY and VZ in 2004 for the Adventra models? From memory it gets the up rated 250kw V8 up from 235kw, electronic throttle body etc but still has the VY front bumper on it? Probably to use up left over parts first i think haha.
Yeah nice, I bought mine 6 months ago its a 2005 LX8 aparently only 333 were made in LX8 trim in the VZ. Mine already had a Di Filippo set of stainless steel extractors and exhaust fitted plus a retune on 95 octane, Truetrac rear LSD fitted, Kings lift kit, larger A/T tyres, genuine Holden nudgebar with led spotties and light bar, genuine Holden under body bash plate protection, 2.1T upgraded Holden towing package, rear air bags along with the factory air shocks level ride system refurbished too, trans cooler, larger oil sump for the trans, converted parker lights low/high beam and reverse lights to LED, and probably some other mods I'm forgetting lol. Are you in the FB group too?
Merry Chrysler. Gentleman.
PA in the building! I love this channel 😂. Happy holidays!
Great video! Had a few of these and Falcon wagons as work hacks back then. A few Melbourne to Canberra fireworks missions may have occurred!
Takin the family yute to Bendigo!
Americans: cool, it's a Pontiac gto wagon XD
Oh man, I hope you drove that big canary yellow VL turbo too
we did!
By big canary yellow VL did you happen to mean the big canary yellow Ford Falcon XF wagon that's visible in the vid? 🤔 Or did I miss something?
The maternity test results came in, and the baby isn't yours. Know what can be? A Divorce!
ROTFLMFAO! Been There!
Best money I've ever spent, between legal costs and therapy. Last one didn't work though.
Female bestie talked me into it 18 years ago, with an assist from our daughter. First time they call you Dad. Life-changing.
Thanks for giving a disabled house husband a well needed soul laugh, Guys. That was Gold.
I'd like to see one of these up close. I still have my 2008 Volvo XC70 and am shopping for another one. One of my friends has a 1993 Buick Roadmaster, now that thing's HUGE!
Thank you for all your hard work rcr crew
Berlina is the trim level, it’s still called a commodore. It even has a commodore badge usually
ok, Roman's Australian impression makes me laugh so hard my face hurts 💯💯🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
These Australia episodes are going hard. I love it!
I have an Opel Omega. Mostly the same car as this. It's not perfect, but it's a good cruiser and being a big, low, station wagon makes it stand out today.
1:47 “Rooms at Midwest cost $1100 a night” hits hard
Happy holidays kaunts it’s a shame it’s only a white Christmas since I jizzed all over the screen upon witnessing the immaculate beauty of the Holden berlina
I think you're right re conspicuous consumption probably rang true when that Berlina rolled off the showroom floor, but these days we've been collectively sucked into the pissing contest that is the largest vehicle you can possibly afford. Our Utes are closer in scale to your trucks than ever before (and I mean those are sold through official channels now anyway) and the humble full size sedan/wagon is dead
they made the berlina model for more than three years it went from the vk in 1984 to the last of the ve’s in 2013 and i’ve never in my life referred to a berlina as a berlina it’s always just been a slightly better commodore normally because it’s got power windows and cruise control
The Opel version of this were available with a 3.0 turbo diesel that I found really cool to test drive twenty years ago.