Local boss throws down the gauntlet to die-hard fans

As the launch of Holden's first imported Commodore, the ZB, rolls around, the company's boss has challenged the Holden heartland to drive the car before they offer an opinion.

This week Holden hosts Australian media for a first drive of the ZB Commodore across a variety of roads and tracks at Holden's Lang Lang proving ground, but company boss, Mark Bernhard, wants fans to reserve judgement until they've had a go themselves.

"The nameplate synonymous with our heartland is Commodore. Few cars stir the emotion like Commodore does. Any car company around the world would love that passion," Bernhard said.

"We want to keep our loyal customers and we also want to attract more customers to our brand. There are plenty of strong opinions out there on how this car will perform. Will our heartland customers buy the next generation Commodore? I challenge any of them to drive the car and then have an opinion."