While remaining tight lipped about the design changes to the Holden VF Commodore, Holden chief designer Richard Ferlazzo confessed that the need to create a Chevrolet SS version for export “absolutely” played a role in deciding the styling of the sports models. He also insisted, however, that the final outcome has not been altered because of the need to sell the car as a Chevy.
“It’s a matter of having ‘global’ graphics,” said Ferlazzo. “We’re happy with this, it was our intent all along.”
Despite criticism from the US that the styling of the Monaro-based Pontiac GTO and VE Commodore-derived Pontiac G8 were both too soft for the American market, the chief designer cites that “Pontiac is an overt brand … we’re probably more aligned with Chevrolet these days”, adding that the possibility of including bonnet vents for the US market “didn’t really come into play”.
Interior designer Sharon Gauchi (below) also confirmed that there would be design changes to the VF Commodore SS interior in its translation to the US-only model.
The Chevrolet SS will be revealed at 4:15pm (AEST) this Saturday February 16
th. Next week, Holden will continue the VF Commodore drip-feed with ute and Sportwagon variants due to debut. Read CarAdvice's full coverage of the Holden VF Commodore here.
