WHAT’S in a name or a model code? Plenty it seems, at least if that model is a next-generation Holden Commodore.

Despite revealing pictures of the first imported model 15 months before it goes on sale, Holden remains tight-lipped on the model code for the controversial new model that is tasked with replacing Australia’s former top-selling car.

For now Holden is referring to the upcoming Opel-produced version of the rebadged Insignia as the NG Commodore, or “new generation” Commodore.

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One option, then, could be GB – or Holden may go for something completely different.

Looking at the Commodore lineage, logic suggests the new car would simply follow convention and use the letter V followed by another letter.

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The first Commodore was a VB, for example, then VC, VH, VK, VL, VN, VP, VR, VS, VT, VX and VZ before spinning back around to the most Aussie car of all – the 2006 Holden Commodore VE. That VE has since been updated as a Commodore VF.

However, the V represents parent company General Motors’ designation for its large rear-wheel-drive car platform.

The latest Opel Insignia – while it will be classified as a large car – drives the front wheels or, in the case of V6 versions, all four wheels.

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Holden dismisses questions over the new Commodore’s name as non-story, arguing it’s only motoring journalists who want to know.

“It’s 16 months away from launch,” said Holden communications director Sean Poppitt. “We’ll share it at the right time.”