2005 Holden Acclaim VZ Wagon 3.6 V6 from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

A great long distance tool, as long as you don't have to sit in the back

Faults:

Water leak through roof and door seals.

Recalled for problem with side airbags.

Plastic trim in boot is starting to detach.

Right hand rear power window switch broken.

General Comments:

Front seats are extremely comfortable, great for long distances, however the back seats have no support and are uncomfortable even on short distances. Massive legroom though.

Excellent ride, almost no road noise, soaks up bumps perfectly.

Strong engine, pulls a caravan with no trouble, but drinks fuel.

Interior quality is poor, trim is becoming detached and the some of the plastics look cheap and shiny. Some controls feel flimsy.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 11th July, 2009

2nd Jul 2010, 00:13

I have owned the 2004 Acclaim wagon, and it drank only 8.2lt-100km on highway, 10lt-100km in town. And towing the boat trailer and caravan on different trips, the same fuel economy as in town.

As for the back seats; have been in them many times, and they are IME just as comfortable as the front.

Mac.

9th Sep 2010, 02:08

I agree with the review 100%. We have a 2005 VZ Berlina wagon done 66k, always serviced etc. Boot leaks and has started to over heat spasmodically, which is either stuck thermostat (located in totally retarded location by the fire wall), or worse head gaskets. Some Ozzy sites report Holden Oz know of a head gasket issue with 2005 and 2006 VZ models, but haven't done a recall, and don't do any 'goodwill' repairs (they should talk to Skoda on how to handle such things). Average Oz quoted prices to fix $3500AUD - nice one Holden.

Our best fuel use is 9.8l/ks Auckland to Wellington return.

I had a VYII wagon for work, which fell apart and we are now looking to replace the VZ. Which is a shame because in a lot of aspects it's a great car for us and our triplets. Needless to say, we wouldn't be buying from the General again. Bring on the T5 or T6 TDi van!!!