The Calais is available with a choice of three engines - Ecotec V6, supercharged V6 and Gen III V8.

Upgrades to the V8 include a higher flow inlet manifold and a recalibrated powertrain control module. Higher dynamic range fuel injectors complement the new manifold Power is relayed to the rear wheels by a four-speed automatic transmission Standard safety features include dual front and side airbags, four-channel anti-lock brakes and traction control Passive safety levels benefit from a new B-pillar designed to swing with a pendulum effect to direct impact velocity away from the body's most fragile areas - the head, neck and chest.

Revisions to the steering and front suspension mean the VX Calais feels more stable at cruising speeds Stopping power comes from four-wheel disc brakes, ventilated at the front The front suspension is by independent MacPherson struts, coil springs and an anti-sway bar The rear suspension uses semi-trailing arms, coil springs and a stabiliser bar Velour trim and a woodgrain fascia on the dash and centre console distinguish the Calais from its lesser siblings Steering wheel-mounted stereo controls are standard across the VX Commodore range