Holden Commodore axed after 41 years of Australian motoring

Holden has axed the Commodore nameplate from its 2020 line-up, ending a badge that carries more than 41 years of history in Australian motoring culture.

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.

The VF Commodore was replaced with the ZB Commodore, based on the Opel Insignia from Germany.

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.

"But now with more choice than ever before, customers are displaying a strong preference for the high driving position, functionality and versatility of SUVs and Utes."

The ZB Commodore has delivered atrocious new car sales for Holden, with the manufacturer projected to move just 8,700 new units out of dealerships in 2019.

In 1998, at the peak of its power, Australians bought 94,682 new Commodore vehicles.

Sales and deliveries of Commodore and Astra will continue through 2020, albeit with diminishing model availability as part of an orderly runout.

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.