Fan-named Holden Commodore to go like Lightning

HOLDEN has named its latest limited-edition Commodore the Lightning, following an online competition that called for fans to choose the moniker, back in January.

More than 1000 people entered the competition, held on Holden's official Facebook page, for the special version of the SV6 that starts at $38,290, plus on-road costs for the sedan and $37,490 for the ute.

The limited-edition Commodore is distinguished by unique 20-inch forged alloy wheels, black side decals and gloss black accents around the front grille and fender vents.

A black lip spoiler and alloy foot pedals – available on automatic variants only – are unique to sedan versions, while the Lightning ute receives a slimline hard tonneau.

Both versions are powered by the 210kW/350Nm 3.6-litre V6 engine and retain all the standard equipment from the SV6, including eight-inch MyLink touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth audio streaming and a five-star ANCAP safety rating for both sedan and ute.

The Lightning sedan commands a $1500 price premium over the standard booted SV6, while the ute will sit $4000 above its standard counterpart. Both will go on sale from the end of March.

Although the Lightning name was a popular suggestion, Holden fan Eu Wyn Wong was the first to nominate the moniker and as well as winning bragging rights, he will also receive a week in a VF Commodore and a design studio sketch by GM Australia design director Richard Ferlazzo.

Holden executive director of marketing Bill Mott said the response to the social media competition is indicative of the public's interest in the Holden badge.

“We are really pleased with the outcome of this competition,” he said.

“The Commodore SV6 Lightning – as it is now known – is the result of an innovative activity that allowed us to engage pro actively with our fans.

“Lightning is an exciting and energetic name, and I congratulate Mr Wong on an inspired suggestion.

“I would also like to thank the many other people that entered the competition, once again demonstrating Australia's love and interest in the Holden brand.”Holden sold 30,203 Commodores in 2014 to finish the year as the best-selling large sedan and the fifth best-selling model overall.

So far this year, Holden has shifted 4301 Commodores, accounting for 73.7 per cent of the large sedan market.

Holden's Commodore ute however, only found 5596 homes last year, placing it third behind the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger in the 4x2 light-commercial vehicle segment. Holden has sold 842 Commodore utes in the first two months of the year.