The US-built, all-alloy Gen III V8 generates 225kW at 5200rpm and 460Nm at 4400rpm

Higher dynamic range fuel injectors complement the new manifold

Power is relayed to the rear wheels by a six-speed manual transmission

Standard safety features include dual front and side airbags, four-channel anti-lock brakes and traction control

Passive safety levels benefit from a new B-pillar designed to swing with a pendulum effect to direct impact velocity away from the body's most fragile areas - the head, neck and chest.

Revisions to the steering and front suspension mean the VX Commodore feels more stable at cruising speeds

Stopping power comes from four-wheel disc brakes, ventilated at the front

The front suspension is by independent MacPherson struts, coil springs and an anti-sway bar

The independent rear suspension uses semi-trailing arms, coil springs and a stabiliser bar

Steering wheel-mounted stereo controls are standard across the VX Commodore range

The VX SS features a new one-piece bumper/spoiler incorporating circular driving lights and a larger air scoop

The dials are painted in the same hue as the car's exterior colour. The SS is available in five colours