General Motors’ rear-wheel drive revolution may be DOA, but the company’s Zeta platform – the same that underpins the Pontiac G8 and Chevrolet Camaro – will soldier on until at least 2020. However, the look and size of vehicles riding on the Zeta platform will drastically change over the next few years.
According to Australia’s GoAuto, Holden insiders have revealed the Zeta platform is safe for the next-decade. In fact, work has already begun on the next Holden Commodore (sold as the Pontiac G8 in America), which should hit the Land of Oz in 2013.
But despite its familiar platform, the 2013 Commodore will likely see some drastic changes. The next Commodore will be smaller and lighter than the current car, with more efficient engine options underhood. GM has already begun testing the Commodore with a version of the Pontiac Solstice GXP’s 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and there is word that the 2013 could even use Saab ’s turbocharged 2.8L V6.
Diesel and hybrid versions of the Zeta platform could also be in the cards, but GM’s financial troubles have likely put those programs on hold.
In the short-term, Zeta-based cars are expected to an upgrade for the 2010 model year. The Commodore, along with its G8 cousin, will likely be fitted with GM’s 3.6L direct-injection V6, which boast more horsepower and better fuel economy than base engine currently offer. A standard six-speed automatic gearbox could also make an appearance.
GoAuto says the re-launched Chevy Camaro will be on our shores until at least 2020, but the fate of the Pontiac G8 remains unknown. Sales of the four-door sports sedan have been slow, which means GM could pull the plug on the program after the car’s Australian update in 2013.
