VF Commodore detail - Interior
On the range-topping Calais (pictured), notable changes are the seats, instruments and dash console, but Holden's Director of Design, Andrew Smith, says the entire cabin has been given a makeover, a reflection of the 'international' focus of this model.
"Key interior elements are entirely new: instrument panel, console, cockpit, seats, steering wheel, switches, shifters, textures, you name it, no detail has escaped attention," said Smith.
"Our designers set out with deliberate intent to exceed expectations by creating a cabin with premium large car ambience - a wow factor, if you like - that's characterised by a fresh sense of luxury, comfort and convenience.
"It's a carefully cohesive design which echoes the detailed aesthetic of the exterior and places emphasis on rich, tactile materials and technical refinement. The ergonomic integration is excellent yet it retains a completely intuitive Holden feel.
"These vehicles reflect the truly international nature of our business and they can certainly hold their own anywhere in the world".
Interior themes
_ All-new instrument panel with integrated centre stack and cowled instrument dials combines infotainment, climate and other controls into a contemporary piece of modern electronics
_ Stylish new seat designs feature new structures and luxury comfort profiles
_ Quality, layered trim finishes in smooth soft-feel leather and suede with perforated leather inserts are accented by twin-needle stitching
_ Strokes of bright and galvano silver chrome and metallic embellishments gleam against jet black and light titanium background hues
_ Ice blue ambient lighting illuminates a re-designed centre console with versatile small item storage solutions and maxi cup holders
_ Ergonomic improvements include a new steering wheel design and a console-mounted electric park brake button (goodbye handbrake lever).
_ Power window switches are relocated to the armrests, the boot release control to the driver's door
The cabin design was driven by the requirement to integrate a raft of advanced driver assistance and infotainment technologies and to meet global benchmarks, as this will be the first Commodore designed with export markets in mind from the outset, not as an afterthought.
Given the opportunity to make extensive changes that the international focus dictated, the Holden interior design team went for it full-on. Their aim was to define new targets for perception of quality and interior harmony, using 'best of the best' benchmarking data.
The result is what Holden call "a significant step forward in terms of craftsmanship, custom-tailored materials, fit and finish, ergonomic layout and all-round driving comfort."
Images: Holden
