By DAVID PIKE

Released in October 1991 the Holden VP Commodore was based on the previous, enlarged VN model, but with many detailed improvements which made it a more refined car in all respects. With minimal changes to the appearance the cynic might argue that the philosophy of restricting most improvements to under the skin suggested that Holden was simply completing the VN design with the VP but the spin from Holden management at the release suggested they were continuing the trend of product leadership. Particularly since, with the previous VN, GMH had returned to selling full-size cars and regaining market leadership.

The model line-up comprised the Executive Sedan, Berlin and Berlina LX Sedan, S Sedan as well as Station Wagon versions of each, SS Sedan, Calais Sedan, VQ Series II Statesman Sedan, VQII Caprice Sedan, VP Utility and VP S Utility. The Statesman and Caprice didn't get new model designations to correspond with the change from VN to VP specifications, rather they became VQ series II. Introduced a month after the standard-wheelbase versions, they featured high-tech anti-lock brakes for the first time in a Holden. Standard engines were the V6 in the Statesman and V8 in the Caprice.

The use of independent rear suspension (IRS), already fitted to all Statesman and Caprice models, became standard on the Calais as well as the SS and optional on all sedans, which improved the ride and handling. When driven on rough country roads, especially when the five-link country pack option was included, this was very noticeable and proved a major selling advantage over the competition.

In fact the Calais enjoyed many other standard inclusions, some of which were only available as options on lesser equipped models. It had a new grille and alloy wheels as well as body coloured door mirrors. Inside the trim was either velour or leather. In addition to IRS it also had road speed sensitive power steering, which made the steering lighter at reduced speeds and gave a better feel when travelling faster on the open road.

There was also a theft deterrent system that covered the bonnet and boot locks while power windows and mirrors were also included. The most interesting item, however, was a sophisticated body computer that, amongst other things, controlled road speed sensitive intermittent wipers, automatic headlight off and the complex security system.

For the model VP the VN body was only slightly revised by wrapping the headlights and turn lenses deep into the front guards and fitting a full width acrylic grille with a low air intake. Executive and Berlina models had a semi-transparent grille whilst the grille on the S and SS models matched the body colour. Front blinker lenses were now squarer and the tail lights were given a more striking look. Bumper bars were also a little wider and stronger than those used on the VN.