It appears that the VE is not one of those "gotta get one now" type of cars. It basically grows on you. I looked around about 6 months ago, at various manufacturers offerings, and the VE ended up growing on me, the main items that made my decision.....
1) The safety features included (ESP, Traction control etc...)
2) The lines of the car - it is a nicely modeled car where pictures do not do it justice. Others have mentioned that it looks a lot better actually seeing one.
3) Smoother suspension than the VZ (FE2).
After putting the car in my driveway, two other neighbours in the street within eyesight have gone and bought one a month or so later. One of the neighbours actually told me that he saw my car and test-drove one for himself (previous was a Mazda 6). Needless to say he bought it. Mine is nothing special, just the Red SV6, but it does cut a fine figure, especially kept clean.
And as for the drive.com.au reviewer, that stated he was disappointed that the VE doesn't have that "head turning to look at" appeal. Over the last 6 months, I have noticed a lot of people do take time to look at the car as they walk past with good comments, including ones that stop and ask questions about it.
So I think the VE is probably going to be one of those cars that will take a bit of time. Yes it has its problems and small flaws, but generally a good car and a credit to Holden. I know I am happy with mine.....
Regards
Bob
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Previous Cars
Commodore VZ, Commodore VS, Toyota Corolla Seca, Toyota Corolla Seca, Commodore VL, Commodore VB