I think most of the negative comments about VE have come about because of the hype surrounding the car, then ultimately being released and looking like it isnt a 1 BILLION dollar make over.
Sure there are people that do understand where the money has gone, but you ask any non-enthusiast about the VE and they will tell you what they have been telling me... It looks too much like the old car, looks like a falcon, 380 etc. They are not overwhelmed by this car like most have been expecting... because afterall, this is "Australia's most important car"....
So what has Holden achieved with VE and how does it compare with the BF??
It has been re-skinned
OK so it's been freshened slightly over the VZ, but by no means is it setting any new themes or can be said that it actually looks any
better than the falcon. Nor does it set any innovative design trends. Something many were expecting??
Engines and Transmissions
Basically all carry over items and can be said that the V6 isn't as competetive in power and economy, as Ford's IL6. Just look at the industry standard outcomes for fuel consumption. The Holden V8 also seems to struggle to achieve improved results over the previous VZ model even though they have the new GM 6spd Auto.
Chassis and IRS
This is where it should get interesting.
The BF chassis is proven. Ford have developed rear impact crash since AU and have continuously enhanced all aspects of the chassis. Ford have had more experience with more advanced
IRS systems, all these factors will play a big role in how competetive Holdens first attempt at these area's will stack up against the BF. It is in these areas that VE will have to prove itself.