No, you cannot buy a new Holden car from a dealership in the United States. Holden was an Australian automotive brand owned by General Motors (GM) that ceased all manufacturing and sales operations in 2020. Since Holden was never officially sold in the US market, there are no authorized dealers or new vehicle inventory available. The only way to own a Holden in the US is through a complex and often expensive process of vehicle importation, which is subject to strict federal regulations, primarily from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT). Most modern Holden vehicles do not meet US safety and emissions standards, making legal importation nearly impossible for models less than 25 years old due to the "25-Year Import Rule".
For car enthusiasts, the most feasible path to Holden ownership involves importing models that have reached the 25-year threshold. This typically means looking at classic Holdens from the 1990s or earlier. The process involves sourcing a vehicle, arranging international shipping, and ensuring it clears customs. Once in the US, you may face challenges with right-hand drive (RHD) operation, which is legal in most states but can feel unusual, and obtaining parts and service, as the support network is virtually non-existent.
The table below compares some popular Holden models and their current import eligibility status based on the 25-year rule:
| Holden Model | Model Years | 25-Year Rule Eligibility (As of 2024) | Key Consideration for US Import |
|---|
| Commodore (VT) | 1997-2000 | Eligible (1999 models and older) | Popular classic sedan, parts relatively accessible from Australia. |
| Monaro (V2) | 2001-2005 | Not Eligible until 2026 | Basis for the Pontiac GTO; some US-spec parts may be compatible. |
| Ute (VU/VZ) | 2002-2007 | Not Eligible until 2027 | Unique "car-based pickup" highly sought after by collectors. |
| Statesman (WH) | 1999-2003 | Eligible (1999 models) | Long-wheelbase luxury sedan, rare even in Australia. |
| Commodore (VE) | 2006-2013 | Not Eligible until 2031 | Sold in the US as the Pontiac G8 and Chevrolet SS. |
In summary, while you can't walk into a dealer and buy one, dedicated enthusiasts can legally import older Holden models. The most practical alternatives are their American cousins, like the Chevrolet SS or Pontiac G8, which offer a similar driving experience without the import hurdles.
