Most of the changes apply under the hood, with the car's aesthetics kept mostly similar to the current car. The Commodore is expected to get new engines, and state-of-the-art Spark Ignition Direct Ignition (SIDI) technology.

The SIDI, a first for an Australian-built car, is expected to bring about improved fuel economy. Two engines will offer this technology. The first of which is a 3.0 litre V6, the smallest engine fitted to a Commodore in nearly two decades, which is expected to give a fuel consumption figure of 9.3 litres per 100km, an improvement of 13 percent over previous models. This 3.0 litre engine will be fitted to the Omega and Berlina Commodore sedans and estates.

The other engine to feature the SIDI technology is a 3.6 litre V6 unit, which will be fitted to the premium Commodore models like the SV6, Calais and Calais V-Series, as well as the SV6 Ute pickup and long wheelbase Statesman and Caprice range.

The engines will be mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission, while low rolling resistance tyres and weight reductions further contribute to improving the fuel efficiency of the Commodore.

The new technology conforms to strict Euro IV Plus emissions standards - currently the highest possible air pollution rating a petrol or diesel powered vehicle can achieve in Australia.

GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director Mark Reuss said the introduction of the new engine technology would help Commodore to extend its 13-year reign as Australia's favourite car. "People are telling us they want lower operating costs while keeping the flexibility of the Commodore's size - so that is exactly what we are offering," Reuss said.

"Direct injection technology is a major step forward for the Australian car industry. It places a more refined Commodore amongst four cylinder competitors while delivering the space and flexibility which Australian car buyers clearly want."

"Australians and Australian families aren't getting any smaller, distances aren't getting any closer but customer expectations in terms of fuel efficiency and environmental impacts are changing fast. "Holden understands that and this new technology is our response. It exploits the technology potential of an advanced, all-alloy engine made right here in Australia and makes it available to Australian car buyers."

Both SIDI V6 engines will join the Holden EcoLine range, designed to highlight the company's range of vehicles using alternative fuel or fuel saving technology.