Buick has teased the Electra name for decades, Buick has now chosen to create a sub-brand for Buick in China called Electra and with this, their flagship product is the Electra ENCASA. This is an MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) minivan that will define the 21st century of Buick for luxury transport and family use.

The ENCASA MPV has a starting price of $70,986 U.S. dollars and comes with GM's latest charging system, a 900V 6C ultra-fast electrical system enhanced for safety and refined ownership experience with the latest in electric technologies. This global MPV has been paired with what GM says will become their new standard for electric vehicles.

Buick Electra ENCASA Details

The Advanced Electric Performance and Charging System has the following details:

• 900V 6C Ultra-fast Charging system
  • Peak Charging of 640 kW
  • 10% to 80% charging in 11 1/2 minutes
• 96 kWh battery pack
  • 373 miles of range

Design Language from Private Aviation

• Land Jet Inspired
• 0.258 Cd low drag coefficient
• 12-layer two tone paint, delivering an understated, but refined flagship luxury

Intelligent Driving, Premium Experience, Ultimate Electric Mobility Safety

• Driver assistance system built on Momenta R6 learning model
• Three-row spacious layout focused on comfort for all passengers using premium materials consistent with a flagship position
• 78% high-strength steel ratio for body structure, engineered to meet global standards

ENCASA Proportions

• 124-inch wheelbase
• Overall length 207 inches
• Overall Height 80 inches
• Overall width 72 inches

ENCASA has seven-mode adaptive crystal LED headlights and a signature through-body taillight with 257 ultra-red LEDs enhance visibility and on-road presence. ENCASA's ceremonial air suspension enables the vehicle to lower by 2 1/2-inches, delivering the lowest entry height in its class. Together with gesture-controlled sliding doors and full-vehicle hospitality modes, ENCASA extends luxury beyond the cabin itself.

The interior only uses high-end full grain Nappa leather, ultra-suede headliners and Australian wool carpet. This is the start as the ENCASA has a Buick first, multi-posture zero-gravity seats. This is able to maximize the usable 37-inches of interior cabin length floor space. If one buys the Luxury with executive package, you can enjoy a "Chaise Longue" experience with 8-mode, 10-point massage, full-area heating and on-touch rest mode comfort. All seating comes standard with floating layer seat cushions composed of mother-and-baby-grade pearl-cotton padding.

From third row sliding seats, 49 storage locations or at little as 22 cubic feet of space behind the third-row seats to a cavernous 73 cubic feet of space with the second and third row seats folded down. The ENCASA can handle any hauling needs one might have.

ENCASA introduces the industry-first five-constant wellness cabin, delivering a balanced, science-driven in-vehicle environment:

• Constant Temperature: Dual-layer, multi-zone climate regulation.
• Constant Humidity: Automatic 40-60% humidity control.
• Constant Oxygen: Twin-layer fresh-air circulation that maintains low CO2 levels.
• Constant Cleanliness: Panasonic nanoe X purification, AQS detection, PM2.5 filtration and low-allergen materials.
• Constant Quietness: Extensive acoustic treatments and ANC create a serene environment.

AI Advanced Digital Luxury Integration for ENCASA

Powered by Qualcomm's SA8775P platform delivering 72 TOPS of AI compute, ENCASA offers Buick's most immersive digital experience yet:

• 50-inch panoramic AR-HUD integrating more than 15 sets of driving information
• Three connected 16.3-inch displays for driver, front passenger and infotainment
• 21-inch 4K rear entertainment screen
• Bose premium audio system
• Cabin-wide gesture control via OMS camera
• Dual 5.5-inch smart control panels for second-row passengers
• AI voice assistant with four-zone recognition, 700+ commands and creative AI capabilities
• These features allow families to enjoy movies, gaming, karaoke or personalized scene modes with seamless multi-screen interaction.

See all photos in the 2026 Buick Electra ENCASA photo gallery.

More Buick Coverage

• Buick Electra Sub-Brand Launches in China with the Electra GS Concept
• Tariff Tuesday: Buick Killing it in China; Killed in the U.S.
• Buick Electra EV Path Becomes Clear

At the 2025 Shanghai Mobility Show, Buick unveiled the Buick Electra GS Concept, a large EV sedan that showcases the brand's new Xaio Yao "super architecture".  This concept leads the way for Buick's all-new sub-brand ELECTRA.  Xaio Yao will underpin six new Buick models released over the next two years. 

While Buick says the platform is tailor made for the Chinese market, the technical specs are such that we can't help but hope that it comes to the U.S. as well.  

The key features of the platform are its ability to support multiple body styles, sizes, drive configurations, and propulsion systems. The platform can be configured as a pure electric (BEV), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), or an extended range electric vehicle (EREV).  Depending on the propulsion plant chosen, it can be configured in front-, rear-, and all-wheel drive formats.

Partnered with CATL, new Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries allow ultra-fast peak charging at 640kW enabling approximately 217 miles of range added in 10 minutes. LFP batteries are compelling because they use neither nickle nor cobalt and instead rely solely on common elements Iron and Phosphate in their construction. LFP batteries also offer around double the number of charge cycles that traditional lithium-ion batteries offer and do not suffer capacity loss to the degree traditional lithium ion-batteries do. Currently, the only EVs available in the United States with LFP batteries are certain base model Tesla Model-3 and Model-Y.

Buick Electra GS

The Buick Electra GS Concept is an imposing vehicle, clocking in at 208.7 inches long with a 126-inch wheelbase. For reference, that's longer than a Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Lucid Air. Buick calls the design Kinetic Sculpture with a wide stance and flowing surfaces. The dashboard is especially low, giving occupants exceptional views out the front of the vehicle. The driver gets an augmented reality heads-up display while a 16.3-inch widescreen display caters to the infotainment needs of passengers.

Little is said about the likelihood of the Electra GS making it into production, however, Buick did release images of three EVs destine for the market leading off with a new flagship MPV called Encasa.  The Encasa will be offered in both PHEV and EV configurations.

The next generation of Buick's flagship, the 2025 Buick Enclave, launched today. With a squarer shape, the new Enclave is longer, wider, and taller than the previous generation, however, the wheelbase remains thsame at 120.9 inches. Buick is giving each trim, there are three, a unique look with individualized front fascias and wheel options. Now you'll be able to tell how much coin the Jones' spent as they roll towards you the first time.

The V6 Is Gone, Long Live the Turbo-Four

Like the new 2024 Chevy Traverse and 2024 GMC Acadia, the 310 horsepower V6 is no more. It has been replaced by a turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, making 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic has been downsized to an 8-speed, but having that extra gear is likely less necessary with the substantially torquier power plant. All-wheel drive and front-wheel drive are available on every trim and the max tow rating remains 5,000 pounds when the buyer selects the trailering package. The previous Enclave was not known for fuel efficiency with its overworked V6, but there should be some decent improvement over the previous model's 21 mpg combined rating.

Three Trims, Three Distinct Looks

Buick has been slimming down its trim lines over the last few years, and the 2025 Enclave is no exception. Still offered in just three trims, buyers can select from Preferred, Sport Touring, and Avenir. All trims get customizable multi-color ambient lighting, an auto-sense power liftgate that eliminates the foot-waving trick to open, power heated seats in the front row, and Buick QuietTuning.

Preferred trims come with unique 20-inch alloy wheels and a 12-speaker Bose audio system (also on Sport Touring).

Sport Touring adds a flat-bottom steering wheel, ST-exclusive interior trim, an ultra high gloss black grille surround and inserts, and unique 20-inch machine-faced wheels with gloss black inserts.

The top-of-the-line Enclave Avenir upgrades the Bose system to the Performance Series and has 16 speakers instead of 12, Avenir exclusive 22-inch Pearl Nickle finish wheels, panoramic sunroof, walk-up animation, rainsense wipers, Continuous Damping Control suspension, ventilated massaging front seats, heated second-row seats, and the "Power Package" which includes a Heads-Up display, one-touch folding second-row seats, and a power-folding third-row seat. The "Power Package" is optional on Preferred and Sport Touring trims.

A 30-Inch Curved Screen Done Right

Buick did an excellent job with the redesign of the front row. The key feature is the 30-inch curved gauge cluster and infotainment system. And yet, even with all of that screen real estate, we appreciate that Buick kept a line of physical buttons for HVAC control right below the screen. A dial wheel is also available for screen control on the floating center console next to the wireless phone charging pad. We really like the new three-spoke steering wheel with well-placed buttons that control cruise control, audio, phone, and more. The infotainment system uses Google Built-In to provide voice assistance, and wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard.

SuperCruise for Everyone

Being in a more egalitarian mood, Buick has made SuperCruise an option on all three trim levels. Buyers no longer need to step up to the top trim in order to enjoy hands-free driving. By default, the Enclave has seven exterior cameras. An eighth is added when selecting the trailering package, and selecting SuperCruise grants a ninth.

Check out the 2025 Buick Enclave photo gallery for a look at the ST and Avenir trims inside and out.

Pricing for the 2025 Enclave hasn't been released yet, but we expect a big price increase like the 2024 GMC Acadia pushing the base price just under the $50,000 mark from the $45,295 it starts at today while the Enclave Avenir will push well into the mid-$60k range.

The 2025 Enclave will be built in GM's Landing Delta Township Assembly plant and go on sale in late summer 2024.

Buick's large crossover will get the sleek Buick Wildcat concept styling from the show car. The Enclave will sport the same slim "eyes" and large lower grille as seen on the Buick Envista, but scaled up for the Enclave's size.  We expect the Enclave to receive the same 328 horsepower / 326 lb-ft of torque 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder found in the recently refreshed Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia. While the Enclave has been fully redesigned, it will continue to use an updated version of the existing C1 platform and be roughly the same size as the outgoing model.

While the teaser sketches show a more rakish rear glass, the mules that have been spotted retain the more traditionally upright profile we are familiar with. Its a shame, however, as we can see a space in the Buick lineup for a more rakish and svelte Enclave following the concept art.

Buick also took the time to tout their growth. Buick sales for 2023 were up 61% with the Encore GX scoring a 92% increase year over year. It was also a great year for Buick's Avenir trim with more than 26% of all retail sales. Envista is bringing fresh customers to the Buick brand, nearly 70% of Envista buyers are new to Buick. Even the Enclave, in its final full year of production of the current model saw sales increase 29%.

The 2025 Buick Enclave will be unveiled later this year and likely hit dealerships in the fall of 2024. We expect a significant price increase as the 2024 Traverse jumped over $3,500 for the refreshed model.

Today, Buick released details and images of their sleek new Envista crossover finally bound for the US and slotting just below the new Buick Encore GX in the lineup. We saw an earlier version of this car last September when the Buick Envista was released in China. While Buick is not labeling the Envista a crossover coupe, with a fastback profile, that is the segment the Envista largely falls into. However, with a base price starting at $23,495, it could be considered the only entry in the crossover coupe segment.

Envista will be available in three trims, Preferred, Sport Touring (ST), and Avenir, with base prices of $23,495, $25,195, and $29,195, respectively. Styling pulls from the Buick Wildcat EV concept that debuted last year.

The Envista is based on the same platform as the Encore GX, though with a 4-inch longer wheelbase and an 11-inch growth in length. A lower profile roof to accommodate the fast-back shape reduces height by about 3 inches.

An updated version of the 1.2-liter turbocharged inline 3-cylinder is lighter and uses fewer parts but is expected to maintain around the same output with 136 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque from 2500 - 4000 rpm. Unlike the Encore GX, Buick opted to stick with a 6-speed automatic, and only front-wheel drive will be available for now. This will provide the Envista with a 28 city / 32 highway / 30 combined fuel economy rating. Standard on the ST and optional on the Avenier is an upgraded Watts Link suspension for improved handling and isolated ride.

Much of the Encore GX interior is found in the Envista, and that includes an Ultrawide 19-inch Infotainment plus Digital Gauge cluster that work in tandem. Buick QuietTuning, of course, is standard.

Contrary to its $24k base price, the Envista comes with a host of safety technologies with all models coming standard with the Buick Driver Confidence package. This package includes automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, intellibeam automatic high-beams, and a high-definition rear vision camera.  Additional available technologies include lane change alert, side blind zone alert, adaptive cruise control, and rear cross traffic alert.

The Encore GX has always been one of those vehicles that is bigger inside than it is outside and that carries over to the Envista. The cargo room behind the rear seat is rated at 20.7 cubic feet, and with the seats folded, expands to 42 cubic feet. Accessing that is made easier with an available power liftgate.

The seats get unique stitching depending on trim and all models are equipped with a flat bottom steering wheel.

The Envista will enter production in May of 2023.

Buicks press release says that the Encore GX is North America's most popular vehicle now with an updated interior, new tech and a brands new face / logo.

Welcome to the first ever Buick Encore GX Avenir CUV. This blue top ranked CUV by J.D. Power Initial Quality Study continues Buick's standard for high-quality engineering and craftsmanship.

The Buick Wildcat EV concept introduced the world to this new front fascia design language.

This features a dynamic, forward-leaning front-end that comes to a crescendo at Buick's new body-mounted tri-shield logo. An updated modern grille pairs with the new signature winged LED headlamps, creating a distinctive visual presence, featuring 18 or 19 inch wheel options depending on trim.

Avenir brings the best of Buick to the Encore GX for the first time as the top-of-the-line trim. The Encore GX is the first vehicle in the Buick lineup to offer the all new 19-inch Virtual Cockpit System, offering the largest infotainment screen in the segment.

Buick is introducing their VCS (Virtual Cockpit System) as a key piece of the Driver centric, Tech-forward interior design. The VCS features 19 inches diagonal of high-definition screens under a single pane of glass, comprising an 11-inch diagonal infotainment system, largest in its segment according to Buick and a custom configurable 8-inch diagonal driver cluster screen, both angled towards the driver for intuitive control.

Soft-touch materials and unique stitching patterns flow throughout the updated interior. The premium cabin experience is enhanced with Buick's QuietTuning system helping to prevent unwanted road noise from entering the cabin, providing a serene and premium driving experience.

Buick’s Avenir trim is coming off its most successful year yet, commanding approximately a 27 percent and 28 percent adoption rate on the Enclave and Envision, respectively, as customers continue to be drawn to the functional luxury Buick delivers.

Available for the first time on the Encore GX, the Avenir trim elevates the small SUV segment to a new level, offering customers exclusive design cues, cutting-edge features and premium materials that have all become synonymous with the Avenir badge.

On the exterior, the Encore GX Avenir includes a unique Avenir grille, unique clear lens LED tail lamps, 19-inch Avenir-specific wheels, chrome front and rear bumpers accents and black carbon metallic body side molding.

The Avenir experience continues on the inside, as the new Encore GX Avenir brings an exclusive Whisper Beige and Jet Black color theme, leather seats, 10-way power driver seat, 8-way power passenger seat, heated steering wheel, air ionizer, rearview auto dim mirror, embroidered Avenir head restraints and Avenir door sills.

The Buick Encore GX ST (Sport Touring) is an option for the Encore GX buyers that want a uniquely chic and sporty appearance.

The Buick Encore GX LED taillights and LED Headlights and front end are the same, the ST gets a high gloss black front and rear bumpers and is offered with an optional Black Roof Package and Glossy black wheels to match.

The Encore GX ST gets its own touch for interior appointments such as a flat bottom sport centric steering wheel and accents.

The Encore GX will introduce the latest version of Buick's infotainment system that is customizable and works wirelessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto including wireless phone charging.

The Buick Encore GX will come standard with a 1.2L Turbocharged engine producing 137 HP / 162 lb-ft of torque. An optional 1.3L Turbocharged engine is available that produces 155 HP / 174 lb-ft of torque.

AWD models will come standard with a nine-speed automatic transmission and FWD will come standard with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

GM is estimating 30 mpg combined for FWD and 27 mpg combined for AWD.

The 2024 Encore GX will come standard with Buick Driver Confidence package that includes six safety and driver assistance technologies such as Automatic Emergency braking, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure warning, IntelliBeam Auto high-beams and more.

The Buick Encore GX goes into production March 2023 and will be on Dealership lots Spring of 2023.

• Buick Encore GX Preferred trim starts @ $26,895
• Buick Encore GX ST trim starts @ $28,095
• Buick Encore GX Avenir trim starts @ $33,195

Custom orders for the Buick Encore GX will start May 2023.

Buicks biggest market is China and yet GM has clearly stated that starting in 2024, Buick will start the transition to all EV here in the U.S. as Buicks second biggest market. GM has been busy filling with the U.S. patent and trademark office as well as in Canada, China and across Europe to ensure no one else uses or has access to the Electra name.

Here at the start of November, uncovered by GM Authority web site, nine new trademarks alone were filed on top of the traditional Electra, Electra GS we also see that Buick will have the Electra E1 to E9 for a full family of all sized EVs.

Back in June 2022, Buick revealed their latest concept, the Wildcat LV Concept.

Buick also released a press release at the same time as the Buick Wildcat LV Concept that starting in 2024, Buick would begine their transition to an all-EV SUV Portfolio. Sharon Gauci, executive director for Global Buick and GMC Design stated that the new EV lineup would be based on the new Global Design Language found here in the Wildcat.

With the latest paten trademarks of Electra E1 to E9, and the lack of denial in questions asked of GM, it would appear that GM is going to make the EV portfolio a sub-brand of Buick allowing for sale of both ICE and EV on the same dealership lot. Kia, Hyundai and others have done this as well with the EV6, EV5, etc. naming scheme.

It would appear that based on the trademark filings, we will have two tiers of EVs under Buick, the standard EVs following the Electra E# signature with the core trims of Preferred, Essence and Avenir and then one could expect a Sporty version with the Electra E# GS trim.

Buick has committed to having these all built on their new Ultium platform. There is the ability as per GM's own press release to have FWD, RWD and AWD formats. Usually, sub-compact and compacts tend to follow an FWD/AWD packaging where mid-size and full-size usually have RWD/AWD.

Buick has shown off their Concept X SUV which is supposed to be very close to the actual first EV SUV that they will release in China and here in the U.S. in 2024.

https://motorsport.tv/embed/KomhEnsG

With the Buick Wildcat LV Concept and now the Buick Electra-X concept SUV it would seem that Buick is polishing the look of their new global EV portfolio.

The all-new Buick Envista compact SUV Embodies Buick's new global design language for the 21st century. The Buick Envista comes with the latest connectivity features, an efficient intelligent propulsion system and the first adoption of Tune Melody subwoofer 3D surround audio system, providing the demanding 21st century generation of buyers with a truly dynamic SUV mobility experience.

The Envista represents the pure expression of the Buick design taken to the next level in this modern dynamic style. Per Buick, this expressive new face incorporates a forward-leaning nose with a low-mounted, wide-open modern grille in this all-new body-mounted tri-shield badged Buick. There is sophisticated styling starting with chrome accents to give it a premium smooth silhouette. The focus is that it conveys motion even when standing still.

The Envista will be available with the GS package, meeting customers' needs for a personalized experience. This includes exclusive black mesh grill and signature GS Elements.

The Buick Envista is built on the All-New Global BFI platform that uses a one-piece high-strength body structure, providing excellent passive safety protection.

The Envista has the following proportions that deliver spacious interior and segment-leading legroom in the second row. The goal was an airy environment with a sense of lightness that flows throughout.

• Overall length of 4,638 mm or 183 inches
• Overall width of 1,816 mm or 72 inches
• Overall height of 1,565 mm or 62 inches
• Overall wheelbase of 2,700 mm or 107 inches

The all-new cockpit system incorporates dual 10.25 inch high-definition touchscreens in the center stack and gauge cluster for a seamless integration inspiring driver confidence through easy access to vehicle controls and readability.

Highlights of the intelligent digital user experience.

• An integrated dual 10.25-inch touchscreen featuring high definition and smooth operation
• An optimized UI design employing a customized card-style interface
• The all-new Baidu intelligent voice command system that supports voice interruption and multi-round interaction, multimedia research and customized voice configuration, making human-machine interaction more convenient and intuitive
• The on-board Baidu navigation system features gesture control functionality, allowing seamless transit of navigation information from the center stack to the gauge cluster
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless charging support, along with support for multiple over-the-air (OTA) upgrades to keep its connectivity system up to date over time

The interior is done in premium soft leather and suede from the sporty flat bottom steering wheel to the dash and seats ensuring a premium feel.

Envista has a roomy interior with up to 28 storage spaces and 1,273 liters or 45 Cubic ft of cargo space. The latest eConnect system optimized to work with enhanced connectivity features giving a more dynamic, intuitive, digitalized user experience.

Buick is proud to be the launch of GMs all-new Tune Melody Subwoofer 3D surround audio system giving a refined audio experience.

All Envista's are equipped with a 1.5L Turbo four-cylinder direct injected Ecotec engine paired to a chain drive transmission (CVT) delivering 135 kW or 181 hp ensuring a quick 0 to 100 km or 0 to 62.5 MPH time of 7.9 seconds. The all-new BFI Global platform has a new enhanced chassis and suspension system providing comfort with precise control. The all-new Envista will feature the latest Buick eCruise 360 degree surround view driver-assist technology to provide peace of mind.

Intuitive and Advanced Connectivity is as follows:

• An integrated dual 10.25-inch touchscreen featuring high definition and smooth operation
• An optimized UI design employing a customized card-style interface
• The all-new Baidu intelligent voice command system that supports voice interruption and multi-round interaction, multimedia research and customized voice configuration, making human-machine interaction more convenient and intuitive
• The on-board Baidu navigation system featuring gesture control functionality, allowing seamless transit of navigation information from the center stack to the gauge cluster
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless charging support, along with support for multiple over-the-air (OTA) upgrades to keep its connectivity system up to date over time

Adding more personality besides the black mesh grill that comes in the GS package is that you also have 18" black painted wheels paired with Red Brake calipers for a youthful, sporty appearance. Customers can also choose from 6 exterior colors paired with 20 colors of paint protection film for a very personalized look.

Buick announced today that they are moving forward with a plan to make their entire lineup electric by the end of the decade.  The first EV will come to the North American market in 2024 and all Buick EVs will carry the Electra name.

Announced alongside the brand redirection is a new logo and font scheme.  The logo is no longer circular, instead utilizes the tri-color shields mounted proudly on the front fascia of vehicles.  The new logo will debut on vehicles starting next year while physical items like dealer signs will be updated over the next 12-16 months.

Showcasing Buick's new design language is the Buick Wildcat EV Concept. This fastback 2+2 coupe has a leaning forward look up front with a swept back rear, giving the appearance of being in motion even while sitting still.

The 2+2 configuration, delineated by a prominent console that extends from the base of the instrument panel to the rear seating area, uses unique graphic and color contrasts to create the perception of visually floating elements intended to accentuate the cabin’s lightweight feel and spaciousness.

Color plays an important role in the warmth and comfort the interior conveys. Legato Green flows through the cabin and is accented with brushed or polished aluminum trim. Lively orange elements, including the seat belts, also add visual distinction.

Additional interior design elements include cockpit-style seats with cantilevered headrests that appear to be floating, and a lightweight, flat-bottom steering wheel.

When it comes to technology integration and infotainment interaction, a sweeping touchscreen is the access point on the instrument panel, along with a complementing screen on the console.

The Wildcat EV concept is built to be a platform for futuristic features such as artificial intelligence, biometrics and aromatherapy. The vehicle is designed to detect an elevation in driver heart rate and automatically adjust vehicle settings to calm them down. For example, when Zen Mode is activated, it will dim the cabin lights, disperse calming aromatherapy scents and activate massaging seats.

Everything about the concept is intended to convey what’s possible — in design, technology and the transformative experience of EV mobility.

“We are on the cusp of true change, and this concept is a tangible vision of it,” said Gauci. “It inaugurates the next chapter in Buick’s design heritage, as we make the crucial transition to our all-electric future.”

Debates have raged over the name Electra with some saying it should never be used on an EV only ICE while others have said it is the perfect name for launching a Buick EV global push. GM today seems to agree as they have filed to patent the name Electra in both Canada and the US.

Based on GM's Ultium Platform of battery and engines, Buick looks to kick off their EV transition with a 4 door AWD SUV. Leveraging stat-of-the-art technology, Buick plans to move forward with moving to a zero emissions portfolio. 

Combining the athletic look of a four-seat crossover with Gran Turismo aesthetics, the Electra previews the 21st century design language for the EV generation.

The Electra has a clean, minimalist styling inspired by a space capsule. The evolving sculptural beauty is distinguished by a spacious glass interior pod that is part of an aerodynamic wing-form bodyshell and riding on 23" wheels that feature an optimal design, to enhance aerodynamics while contributing to the futuristic look of the Electra.

Front and rear Matrix LED lamps features parametrical mathematic lighting strings with a three-dimensional effect. This compliments a full LED-illuminated grille and rear screen nameplate to provide dramatic digital lighting interaction.

The Electra butterfly wing doors support facial recognition and provide a robust opening for convenient access.

The Buick Electra takes advantage of the all new Ultium platform with what is being called a Zero-Gravity environment. This lack of traditional A/B pillars results in a maximum extension of the cabin with a longer wheelbase, a more efficient package and a more spacious, open interior.

Buick offers an intuitive and immersive user experience that rewards all the senses by starting with Buick's next-generation eConnect system using a large industry-leading freeform curved retina display. This system like all GM systems will get OTA or over the air updates that provides on-demand driving information, advanced driver assistant systems via the infotainment.

Augmented reality-enhanced head-up display with advanced live-view navigation of roads. A 410-mile range via the Ultium battery pack with 583 HP allowing a 0 to 60 acceleration in 4.3 seconds.

Buick Makes Bold Statement with Its Vision for Future EV Design (gm.com)

Trademark Status & Document Retrieval (uspto.gov)

Canadian Trademarks Details: BUICK ELECTRA — 2155303 - Canadian Trademarks Database - Intellectual property and copyright - Canadian Intellectual Property Office - Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Well the inevitable finally happened, Buick has confirmed that the Regal will not be returning to the U.S. after the 2020 model year. After that, Buick will be an all-SUV brand.  The move comes as light-truck sales take 70% of the U.S. market and 90% of all Buick sales.  While the Regal retreats from these shores, it will still continue to be sold in China where demand remains strong. 

As of the end of Q3 this year, Buick moved only 8,849 units of Regal year to date. That's down 19.6% from the year prior. Regal's demise was hinted at during the Los Angeles Auto Show where no Regals were on display.

The Buick Lacrosse sedan and Buick Cascada convertible were canceled earlier this year.

Starting next year, the Buick Encore GX will join the lineup, a slightly larger iteration of the Buick Encore, but on a new platform and using a new 3-cylinder engine. 

China is by far Buick's most important market. More than three quarters of all Buicks sold are sold in China.  To that end, it should be no surprise that China gets updated models before the U.S. and also get variants that never will see our shores. Even models that are dead in the US, like the Lacrosse and Verano, continue on selling well in China.

The Buick Enclave is one example.  In the U.S. it is a full-size model, but in China it is downsized to a mid-size model approximately the size of the current GMC Acadia. Buick just debuted the new Enclave in China and while it is unlikely we'll see it over here, the U.S. model could get many of the same updates when it bows for 2021.

Outside we see a revised front fascia with a new grill. The running lights have the familiar boomerang shape while the headlamps have moved lower into the bumper area.  A new grille insert is there with a wider horizontal slat that gives the Enclave more visual width.

The inside is where the real story is at. Greatly updated, the infotainment system is seamlessly integrated into the dash and a new set of buttons takes the place of the Precision Control shifter. The console is the floating type with storage underneath. (Click image to enlarge)

The Chinese Enclave is powered by GM's 2.0-liter turbocharged LSY engine making around 230 horsepower and coupled to a 9-speed automatic transmission. 

What do you think of the Chinese Buick Enclave and would you like to see these updates in the U.S. version?  Let us know in the comments below.

When the Buick Encore GX debuted in late May 2019, it was originally reported that it would have a Turbo-4 cylinder with more power than the current Buick Encore.  That turned out to be both true and false.  The engine will be more powerful than the current Encore, however it will be in 3 cylinder form rather than 4-cylinder.  GM Authority uncovered the fleet order guides yesterday and published the stats.

The Buick Encore GX will be offered with a 1.2 liter three-cylinder turbo that produces 137 horsepower at 5000 RPM and 166 lb-ft of torque at 2500 RPM. That is 1 less horsepower but 18 lb-ft more torque than the current base 1.4 liter turbo four. The 1.2-liter will only be available in front-wheel drive trims and paired only with a CVT.

The step up engine is a 1.3-liter three-cylinder turbo that produces 155 horsepower at 5600 RPM and 174 lb-ft of torque at 1500 rpm. That compares roughly the same to the offered but not often ordered 1.4-liter direct injected turbo offered in the Encore Sport Touring at 153 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 177 lb-ft at 2000 - 4000 rpm. This engine is offered with a CVT on front-wheel drive models and with a 9-speed automatic on all-wheel drive models. 

The Encore GX is the slightly bigger brother to the Encore, offering five more cubic feet of cargo room.  Built in China, the Encore GX will arrive in dealerships this fall. 

Buick is introducing a Sport Touring package for 2020.  The ST is available on the Enclave Essence trim and includes a unique grille with body color surround, 20-inch machined aluminum wheels. The ST remains powered by the same 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 HP and 266 lb-ft of torque, the same unit in all other Enclaves. 

Other features added to the rest of the Enclave lineup include a new next-generation infotainment system with 8-inch diagonal screen. When equipped, the system supports SiriusXM with 360L which combines satellite and streaming to deliver more content. The setup requires a subscription to both SiriusXM All Access and GM Connected Vehicle services (on-board WiFi). 

The rear vision camera has been upgraded to High-Def and a High-Def Surround vision system.  Standard on the Premium and Avenir, the driver and front passenger seat are upgraded with 4-way power lumbar and a massaging seat. 

Three new colors are available: Champagne Gold Metallic, Dark Moon Blue Metallic, and an Avenir only Rich Garnet Metallic.

The 2020 Buick Enclave goes on sale late summer with a starting price of $41,195 including destination charge.

Buick is reportedly working on a crossover coupe to add to its lineup in the US.  This vehicle would be in addition to, rather than replace, any vehicles in the current lineup. 

Most of Buick's recent lineup has been a rebadge of some other brand's designs, this new vehicle would be a departure from that with Buick leading the design process from the start. CarDesignNews was shown some sketches and models of future Buicks and what they saw would "turn everything you think about Buick on its ear".  It is a bold design that will shock people both inside and outside the industry.  The designs would feel familiar without using specific cues. 

Buick also took the time to insist that Buick would not become a China-only brand even though 4 out of every 5 Buicks are sold there. The bulk of the design work takes place in Warren, Michigan, while smaller design teams work in Shanghai, Melbourne, and near Seoul. 

As far as the name, Buick has trademarked Enspire for the U.S., so that has a strong possibility of coming to fruition. No timeline is set for the release of the new crossover, but the overhaul of the Buick look is well underway.

For the last decade or so, Buick has relied on imported designs and vehicles to fill out its product portfolio.  Largely that came in the form of designs by GM's European subsidiary, Opel.  The Buick Verano, Regal, Encore, and Cascada all started life as Opel products subsequently modified for North American tastes and branding.   Now with the Opel sold to PSA, Buick's product focus is going to turn towards Chinese tastes. 

With the pending end of production for the Buick Lacrosse and the cancellation of the Buick Cascada, it leaves Buick with a light product porfolio of just one 4-door hatch, one wagon, and 3 crossovers. According to a report by Automotive News, Buick is looking to draw on Chinese models, but not necessarily import them like Buick does with the Buick Envision.  

China is Buick's, and GM's, largest market.

One area that Buick can draw on is in the electric vehicle segment. While it would be difficult to justify the cost of an EV for Buick just for the North American market, it is absolutely essential that Buick sell EVs in China in order to meet local regulations. Such a vehicle built for China could be shared with the U.S.  

Buick executives are unconcerned with Buick's shrinking car lineup. The spread has shifted from 33% SUVs in 2011 to 84% in 2018. 

So what happens if Buick becomes an all SUV brand? Does that step on the toes of GMC where Buick shares showroom space?  Buick executives are not concerned. They insist that GMC has a more rugged and "crafted" look while Buick is more elegant and "quiet luxury". 

What do you think of Buick's shift from European sourced designs to Chinese ones?  Sound off below.

*2018 Buick Enspire EV SUV concept shown above

Buick's compact convertible, the Buick Cascada, won't be returning for 2020.  Buick has informed dealers that final orders for the car need to be in by the end of the month as production of the car is scheduled to end in the summer. The Cascada is produced by GM's former Opel division, now owned by PSA, in Poland.

The Cascada was Buick's first convertible since the the Buick Reatta.  Approximately 17,000 have been sold since the car went on sale in 2016.

The discontinuation of the Cascada, along with the pending departure of the LaCrosse, mark Buick's slow creep towards being an all-crossover brand.

The Buick Envision finds itself in a tough spot. General Motors has been exporting the model to the U.S. since 2016. But with the on-going trade-war between the U.S. and China, it means the Envision could smacked with a 25% percent tariff. That is why GM is asking for exemption on the model.

In a statement provided to Reuters, GM said that it filed the exemption request on July 30th to the U.S. Trade Representative. In the request, GM makes some sound arguments as to why the Envision should be excluded.

Price is major factor. If the vehicle is hit with a 25 percent tariff, GM would be forced to pull it from the U.S. unless it wants to a take serious loss on each model.

Why not build it here? The Envision has been a target of critics of Chinese-made goods, including leaders of UAW. GM explains that the sales volume of the Envision doesn't justify moving it to the U.S. Last year, Buick only sold 41,040 Envisions in the U.S. In China, Buick moved about 210,000 models. In addition, the current Envision is reaching the end of its current lifecycle before the company could make the preparations to build the model here.

GM also makes the argument that the loss of the Envision would put them in a distinct disadvantage against foreign competitors such as Acura and Volvo.

You can check out GM's request on regulations.gov website, which is tracking requests for exclusions from the Section 301 tariff.

If the Envision does get hit with a 25 percent tariff, GM has already taken some steps to relieve some of the pain. Before the higher import tariffs went into affect, GM shipped in a six-month supply of Envisions that would be hit with the much smaller 2.5 percent tariff. This should keep dealers happy in terms of stock and not having to deal with a higher price. 

Source: Reuters, Regulations.gov

As we reported earlier this week, Avenir has proven to be a success for Buick. The trim makes up about 25 percent of Enclaves sold and has raised the average transaction price by $5,000. It should come as a no surprise that the Buick is planning to expand Avenir to another model.

The Truth About Cars stumbled across General Motors’ fleet order guide for 2019 and found that the Regal Sportback will be offered with the Avenir trim. It will only be available with the 2.0L turbo-four with front-wheel drive - meaning 250 horsepower and 260 pound-feet (down 35 lb-ft when compared to the AWD variant), but coming with a nine-speed automatic.

The Regal Avenir will come loaded with standard equipment. For the exterior, a set 19-inch wheels come finished in what Buick calls Pearl Nickel,  LED headlights, and a set of cornering lights The interior gets an 8-inch infotainment system with a Bose audio system. Also standard is the Driver Confidence Package 1 that brings four-way lumbar adjustment, heated mirrors, wireless charging pad, rear parking sensors, rear cross traffic alert, and lane change alert with blind spot monitoring. 

Optional is the Driver Confidence Package 2 that brings adaptive cruise control, Lane Keep Assist, automatic emergency braking, and front pedestrian braking.

TTAC expects the Regal Avenir sometime towards the end of summer. We're expecting it sometime later in the year.

Source: The Truth About Cars, GM Fleet Order Guide

Almost a year after Buick introduced their Avenir subbrand, it has proven to be a big success for the brand's big crossover.

According to Automotive News, one out of every four Enclaves sold is the top-line Avenir. That's pretty impressive when you consider that the base price for the Avenir is $54,495. GM says demand from dealers is outstripping their supplies, despite a new investment earlier this year.

Sales of the new Enclave have risen 15 percent in the first half of this year, and the average transaction price has risen $5,000 - putting it in line with the likes of the Acura MDX and Infiniti QX60.

"We saw the need to provide even more for Enclave, and it was a direct result of sales of the first generation. They were asking for even more options and equipment," said Jace Stokes, manager of product marketing for the Enclave.

Stokes went onto say that the success of Avenir for the Enclave has them thinking about what to do for the next-generation of the subbrand. 

"We certainly have more technology planned. I think next generation is where we're going to push Avenir further." 

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Buick is expanding their electrified options in China with the introduction of the Velite 6 plug-in hybrid and electric. They'll join the the Buick Velite 5 - a rebadged Chevrolet Volt.

The design is interesting to say in the least with a fair number of creases and a blacked-out rear pillar on this hatchback body. 

Arriving first is the plug-in hybrid which is comprised of a 1.5L four-cylinder, two AC permanent-magnet synchronous motors, and lithium-ion battery pack. With a full tank of gas and fully charged battery, Buick estimates a range of 700 kilometers (about 435 miles). Not much is known about the electric variant, aside from Buick saying the model "will adopt a new-generation pure electric drive system to offer customers a smooth, quiet and natural driving experience." The electric variant will arrive next year.

Both Velite 6 models will come with Buick's new eConnect cloud connectivity system. Different drivers can setup their own accounts to personalize settings for navigation, audio, and internet use. eConnect will also provide real-time intergration of WeChat, a Chinese social media service. Owners can use their smartphone as the key for the Velite 6.

Source: Buick

Buick VELITE 6 Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle and Enspire All-Electric Concept SUV Make Global Debut in China

WUZHEN – The Buick VELITE 6 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle and the Buick Enspire all-electric concept SUV made their global debut this evening at a launch event in the scenic Chinese city of Wuzhen, Zhejiang.

Buick also announced that the VELITE 6 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle will be launched this year and its sibling, the VELITE 6 electric vehicle, will be introduced in China at a later date.

Buick VELITE 6

Buick is focused on electrification, connectivity, intelligence and sharing in line with its Buick Blue new energy vehicle strategy. The VELITE 6 represents the latest application of this strategy.

The two VELITE 6 models leverage electrification and connectivity technology from SAIC-GM’s parent companies, including Buick’s newest electric propulsion technology and connectivity technology. They are based on the VELITE Concept new energy vehicle that was unveiled in November 2016.

The VELITE 6 has a dynamic posture coupled with a wide stance. The modern, streamlined shape aptly represents the innovative exterior styling that matches the new nameplate’s exciting technological character.

The high-performance propulsion system of the VELITE 6 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle is composed of an EVT electronically controlled variable transmission, two AC permanent-magnet synchronous motors with a high-performance lithium-ion battery, and a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine especially tuned for hybrid vehicles.

The motors and engine efficiently optimize power in different driving modes – such as the hybrid-driven mode of the motor and the engine, the single-driven mode of the motor, and the single-driven mode of the engine. It has a range of 700 km and combined fuel consumption of 1.4 liters/100 km.

The new-generation modular high-performance ternary lithium-ion battery pack will be assembled at the new state-of-the-art SAIC-GM Power Battery Development Center in Shanghai. The battery incorporates leading battery heat management technology, providing independent and uniform temperature control of each battery unit via liquid cooling. This will ensure a longer life cycle and more stable performance.

The VELITE 6 electric vehicle will adopt a new-generation pure electric drive system to offer customers a smooth, quiet and natural driving experience.

The flexible and open cloud-based Buick eConnect technology in both models enables cutting-edge services and over-the-air update capability. With exclusive accounts, users can personalize their settings for OnStar, navigation, internet use and more. Music and destinations can be sent to the car display screen via WeChat in real time, for one-button navigation and listening. Users can also directly receive information about their vehicles’ condition and recommended maintenance.

VELITE 6 users’ smartphones serve as a virtual key to enter and start the vehicle. They can authorize others to use their vehicles through their phones as well. Additional functions and new features will continuously be added to improve the user experience.

Describing a Buick as being bold seems somewhat strange, but the Enspire concept that debuted today in China is just that. Describing a Buick as being bold seems somewhat strange, but the Enspire concept that debuted today in China is just that.

The overall shape is very different from Buick's current crossover lineup with a pronounced front end, deep cuts in the bumper, cameras mounted where the side-view mirrors would be, flared-out rear fenders, and a sharply raked rear end. The only interior shot provided by Buick is of the front. It looks very futuristic with the dash wrapped in microfiber suede and wood trim, OLED display, and a heads-up display featuring augmented reality technology.

Power comes from Buick's eMotion electric powertrain producing 410 kW (about 550 horsepower). 0-60 mph is said to take about 4 seconds. On a single charge, Buick claims the Enspire can travel up to 370 miles. The concept supports both fast and wireless charging - the former providing an 80 percent charge within 40 minutes.

Buick will be showing off the Enspire concept at Auto China 2018 in Beijing later this month.

Source: Buick

Enspire All-Electric Concept SUV Debuts in China

• Sculptural beauty meets advanced battery electric technology in Chinese concept SUV

WUZHEN, China — The Buick Enspire all-electric concept SUV, an exploration of Buick’s bold design ideas and innovative technologies for future mobility, made its global debut in China. Key features include:

Experience Features:

• Exterior feature lines and advanced aerodynamics accentuate the exterior’s strong, sculptural look.
• A “surround skyline” interior theme and suspended theater-type seating give the Enspire a bright and spacious interior.
• The center console and armrests are made from natural wood grain and microfiber suede.
• Cutting-edge technologies include an OLED display screen and an intelligent augmented reality technology-based head-up display system.
• 5G super high-speed network concept.

Performance Features:

• Buick’s eMotion electric propulsion technology generates a maximum power of 410 kW, enabling the concept to sprint from 0-60 mph in 4 seconds. 
• The Enspire is able to travel up to 370 miles on a single charge.
• Supports both fast and wireless charging — the battery can be charged to 80 percent of capacity within 40 minutes.

The Enspire all-electric concept SUV will be on display at Auto China 2018 in Beijing from April 25 to May 4.

The 2019 Buick Envision has an omission that no other Buick model has at this moment, the lack of the 'Buick' name on the back. At the time, we thought this wasn't a big deal. Maybe someone at GM forgot to put the name badge on the Envision. But this is a bigger deal than we first thought.

Late last week, GM Authority learned from brand reps that Envision will be the first Buick model to drop the name badge. Other Buick models will follow in the 2019 model year. Since then, Automotive News has gotten confirmation about this decision.

"It was a small running change that we didn't view as especially worth announcing to the world, but I've been pretty amazed by the interest in it in the past couple days," Buick spokesman Stuart Fowle told the publication.

Fowle explained the reason for dropping the 'Buick' script is consistency across marketplaces. Models sold in China don't have the 'Buick' name on the vehicles. Market research also showed "that 3 out of 4 consumers recognize the tri-shield badge as Buick without seeing the name."

"We are in the minority of brands that have their badge in addition to having their name on the back of the vehicle. It was like we were saying Buick on the back of the car two times," said Fowle.

Source: GM Authority, Automotive News (Subscription Required)

GMC's Denali subbrand has been a huge success for General Motors. According to GM CEO Mary Barra, Denali-badged models now account for almost 30 percent of GMC retail sales, bringing in higher margins and average transaction prices. With Buick launching their Avenir subbrand, GM hopes for the same success.

"Avenir already seems to be capturing the imagination. It just seems to have something maybe in the same way Denali has something," said Duncan Aldred, GM's vice president for Buick and GMC to Automotive News.

But Buick knows they have to go slow and steady with the rollout of Avenir. One of the key reasons Denali has enjoyed immense success is that GMC allowed it to grow organically and slowly. Like GMC, Buick has only introduced one model with the Avenir trim, the 2018 Enclave. There are plans to roll out Avenir to other models, but Buick hasn't decided if it will do all of their models like GMC does with Denali.

"Whether we make the investment for what would be a somewhat limited volume, we'll see," said Aldred.

Buick is also making sure that it prices Avenir correctly so it doesn't push customers away. According to Automotive News, the base price of the Enclave Avenir ($54,410 with destination) is 33 percent higher than the base model. That may seem like a lot, but it pales in comparison to the 55 percent premium the Acadia Denali has over the base model.

"We certainly didn't want to price it too high. We weren't going to overprice this to begin with, for sure," said Aldred.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Last month, General Motors announced an ambitious plan to launch 20 electric and hydrogen vehicles by 2023 with all of their brands playing a role. But Buick could be playing a prominent role in this plan.

Duncan Aldred, vice president of sales and marketing at Buick-GMC tells Wards Auto that Buick will play a "huge part” in the coming years when it comes to EVs.

“We will have multiple entries in a fairly short period of time. We’re GM’s biggest brand in the world’s biggest market. You’ll see a number of different technologies to go toward (our) zero-emissions objective,” said Aldred.

That biggest market Aldred is referring to is China. In 2019, the country will require 10 percent of an automaker’s sales to be made up of low and zero-emission models. This rises to 12 percent in 2020. 

“A lot of the electrification adoption will be driven by legislation.”

Already, Buick sells a hybrid version of the LaCrosse and rebadged Chevrolet Volt as the Velite5 in China. Rumor has it that Buick is working on an electric crossover using the Chevrolet Bolt as a base.

Aldred wouldn't go into what Buick's plan entails, only saying that will not only be electric vehicles.

Source: Wards Auto

General Motors CEO Mary Barra said something interesting about the Chevrolet Bolt EV earlier this year.

“…the Bolt is our platform that we’re going to continue on and have a huge range of vehicles.”

Now, a new report from InsideEVs has possible details on one of these new models. According to a source that attended a focus group in California, the vehicle in question is a new Buick crossover that is said to look like a next-generation Encore. The model will use the Bolt's structure and powertrain, but come with a different design and features such as a floating roof and a push-button drive selector. 

The Buick crossover will be about the same size as the Bolt, but offer slightly more rear legroom. It will also be slightly slower than the Bolt - a 0.4-second difference in 0-60 mph time.Bolt, but offer slightly more rear legroom. 

No timeframe was given as to when we might see this new Buick EV crossover.

Source: InsideEVs

Buick is hoping to give the likes the Subaru Outback, Audi A4 Allroad, and Volvo V60 Cross Country a run for their money with the Regal TourX goes on sale later this year. According to a new report from CarsDirect, the TourX could be undercutting some of the competition by a significant margin.

The base 2018 Buick Regal TourX 1SV will begin at $29,995 with destination. The model will come equipped with 18-inch aluminum wheels, active noise cancellation, push-button start, heated side mirrors, a universal home remote, and more. Good luck trying to find a 1SV at your dealer. This is the model that dealers will use in ads to try and draw buyers in. Also, they will only have a small number of them in stock.

What you're more likely to see at your Buick dealer is the TourX Preferred 1SB which adds an auto-dimming mirror, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power driver's seat with lumbar support, and more. The Preferred also gets a wider color palate than the 1SV. Pricing begins at $33,575.

Topping the range will be the TourX Essence 1SL. This model comes with leather, 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility; and dual-zone climate control. The Essence will set you back $35,945.

All Regal TourXs will come with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder with 250 horsepower, eight-speed automatic, and all-wheel drive.

Source: CarsDirect

When the 2018 Buick Enclave hits dealers later this year, it will cost slightly more than the outgoing model.

The redesigned full-size crossover will now begin at $40,970, almost $1,000 more than the current model. But considering how much standard equipment the new model comes with, it seems quite fair. All Enclaves feature keyless entry, hands-free liftgate, three-zone automatic climate control, eight-inch infotainment system with Buick Intellilink, Rear Seat Reminder, and Teen Driver.

The Essence comes up next and the option of all-wheel drive. Prices begin at $45,190 for the FWD model and $47,190 for AWD. Premium comes next with prices of $48,990 and $51,290 respectively.

Topping the Enclave lineup is the new Avenir. Filled with many luxury items such as dual sunroofs, navigation, contrast stitching and piping on the seats, and LED headlights, the top-line Enclave will begin at $54,390 for FWD and $56,690 for AWD.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Roadshow
Pic Credit: Newspress USA

We know a fair amount about the upcoming Buick Regal GS such as what it might look like and a possible powertrain. Thanks a spy photographer, we have got our first look at what is in store for the U.S.

The most apparent item that the photos reveal is that the U.S. version of the Regal GS will mostly mimic the one China. Both models feature the aggressive front end with narrow headlights, revised waterfall grille, and large vents in the bumper. The U.S.-spec GS differs from the Chinese one as it will only come in the sportback variant - China gets the sedan. Another key difference is the wheels. Whereas the Chinese-market looks to be sporting some five-spoke wheels with a dark finish, the U.S. model gets one with split spokes.

There are still a couple of details up in the air. First is how much power the 3.6L V6 will produce. Some outlets believe it will boast 335 horsepower like in the Camaro, though our hunch is around 306 since the Holden Commodore will be using the same engine. Second is when Buick will reveal it. We think it might be later this year as a 2018 or 2019 model.

Source: Autoblog, Left Lane News

Over a week ago, we brought you news that the upcoming Buick Regal GS would be powered by a V6 engine. We now have confirmation about this thanks to a document from the California Air Resources Board (CARB). 

The Truth About Cars obtained a CARB Emissions document for the 3.6L V6. On the last page, the document lists all of the models that will be equipped with this engine for the 2018 model year. One of them listed was a Buick Regal and it is believed to be the GS. The document also reveals the GS will only come with an automatic (a nine-speed). We still don't know how much horsepower the Regal GS will be packing. The 3.6L V6 offers between 305 to 335 horsepower depending on the model.

We also learned what the Regal GS could look like. China Car News got their hands on photos showing off the Chinese-spec Regal GS that will be debuting this week at the Shanghai Auto Show. It looks to be featuring a more aggressive body kit, uniquely styled five-spoke wheels, and GS badging. It should be noted the Regal in the pictures is the sedan variant and that it will come powered by a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder.

Source: The Truth About Cars, Car News China

We know from rumors that a GS variant of the next-generation Regal is incoming. But we have been wondering what would be powering it. Would it be a turbocharged-four like in the current GS or go with a V6? Thanks to a slip-up on Buick Canada's website, we might have an answer.

The Truth About Cars reports that a couple of days ago, this line appeared on the Regal landing page of Buick Canada’s site.

"Engineered to make getting there all the fun, the all-new Regal’s excellent driving performance is something to be experienced with available new powertrain and AWD system (3.6L V6 on GS and Twin Clutch AWD)."

This was removed from Buick Canada's site, but if you do a Google for this line, you'll find it. This line is still cached in Google's servers.

Unsurprisingly, a Buick spokesperson declined to comment.

To us, the V6 option for the GS seems possibly legit and our reasoning behind it deals with the all-new Holden Commodore. As we have reported previously, the top engine for the Commodore will be a 3.6L V6 producing 306 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. We wouldn't be shocked if this is what powers the Regal GS. 

We'll be keeping a close eye on this story.

Source: The Truth About Cars

There are still a lot of unanswered questions concerning the sale of Opel/Vauxhall to PSA Groupe. A fair number deals with Buick as a number of their products (including the new Regal) are intertwined with Opel. GM executives say this will not affect Buick's lineup down the road.

“The sale of Opel will have no impact on the fresh new lineup Buick is building out,” said Duncan Aldred, GM’s vice president of global Buick and GMC during the launch of the 2018 Regal this week.

“This is very much part of our portfolio plan,” said Mark Reuss, GM’s executive vice president of global product development, purchasing, and supply chain to Car and Driver. “As we said, Opel and the engineering/production piece of this is very much intact for all of our global platforms. So, you know, no impact.”

While the deal isn't fully finished yet, Reuss claimed that issues relating to products would be settled before the final transfer takes place. Reuss said he didn't know "of a specific agreement" when asked about if GM would pay PSA Group for engineering work done by Opel. 

In related news, Automotive News Europe reports that Opel would continue to build Buick vehicles beyond 2019 in its German factories. 

Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required), Car and Driver

It was nearly two years ago that we learned that General Motors trademarked 'Regal Tourx'. At the time, we speculated this could mean the next-generation Regal would have a wagon variant - possibly something along the lines of the Audi A4 Allroad and Subaru Outback. Since then, we have been hearing rumors and various reports saying that the Regal wagon is coming - the most recent one coming this week. Now we have more evidence thanks to the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

Motor1 got their hands on an emission certificate listing a number of General Motors vehicles equipped with the 2.0L turbo-four. In this list, we see the Regal, Regal AWD, and Regal Tour X AWD. This list also reveals the Regal will get an eight-speed automatic, while AWD models get either an eight or nine-speed automatic. Sadly, this document doesn't provide any information on power figures. The turbo 2.0L comes has a wide range of outputs from 250 horsepower (Chevrolet Malibu) to 272 horsepower (Chevrolet Camaro).

We don't have to wait long for answers as Buick will be debuting the Regal on April 4th, a week before New York.

Source: Motor1

We're excited by the new Opel and Vauxhall Insignia, especially considering we'll be getting our hands on it as the Buick Regal. But we don't know what form the Regal will come in. Opel has shown off a five-door hatchback and wagon, and there is talk about a sedan for China. 

According to a report from Automotive News, Buick will be selling the Regal as a hatchback and wagon. This information comes from two auto forecast firms: LMC Automotive and AutoForecast Solutions. Dropping the Regal sedan may seem odd, but there is some method to this madness. Sales of midsize sedans has been falling for the past two years and the segment has seen a 20 percent drop in the first two months. Going a different route could give the Regal a possible chance in the U.S.

As for the wagon, it is unclear if it will be the standard Insignia wagon or an off-road variant like the Audi A4 Allroad.bu

Not surprisingly, Buick spokesman Stuart Fowle declined to comment.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

We have been wondering what the next-generation Buick Enclave would look like and now we have a general idea. Automotive News got their hands on some new spy shots showing an Enclave test mule sitting at a gas station. It appears Buick has made the Enclave less bulbous than the current model. The front end features Buick's new waterfall grille that debuted on the LaCrosse and a set of slim headlights. For the back, there's a new set of taillights and dual-exhaust system.

If the Chevrolet Traverse is anything to go by, the Enclave will get the current 3.6L V6 producing 305 horsepower hooked up to a nine-speed automatic. There is the possibility of a 2.0L turbo-four with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque.

The next-generation Buick Enclave is expected to debut at the New York Auto Show.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
Pic Credit: William Maley for Cheers & Gears

The Buick Regal is currently the oldest passenger sedan in Buick's lineup at the moment. But we do know that a next-generation model based on the next Opel/Vaxuhall Insignia. The Truth About Cars has learned some intriguing information about the next Regal.

According to a source, Buick is planning to reveal the next Regal sometime in the second quarter, possibly at the New York Auto Show. Designers at Buick have added their own touches to the Regal's exterior to have it stand apart from the Insignia. The interior is said to be more spacious, especially in the back. 

The source goes on to say that the Regal will gain a V6, though it is unknown what V6 it would be (most likely a variant of the 3.6). There is internal talk about offering a diesel, but that is something down the road if given the green light. The Tourx nameplate we first learned about back in December will be used for a high-riding Regal wagon with all-wheel drive. That is expected to be revealed sometime next year. Finally, the GS is expected to stick around, though no one is sure what form it will take.

Source: The Truth About Cars
Pic Credit: William Maley for Cheers & Gears

The Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse are well past their sell-by-date. GM knows this and will be introducing new versions of both within the next year. We haven't seen any spy shots of either model, til today.

Autoblog published some spy shots of the next-generation Buick Enclave undergoing some hot-weather testing in Death Valley. From the shots, it looks like Buick will be retaining the shape of the current model. Although, it looks like the roofline has changed somewhat towards the back. We can pick out the new grille that we first saw on the new LaCrosse along with a set of LED running lights.

The Enclave is expected to use a stretched version of the Chi platform that currently underpins the new GMC Acadia.

Source: Autoblog

Rumors of Buick doing a wagon variant of the Regal have been floating around a for few years and it has either fallen into one of two categories: GM is considering it or they have passed on it. A new rumor has the Regal Wagon coming.

Automotive News reports that a recent national dealer meeting, Buick revealed images of the next-generation Regal. According to people that attending the meeting, the images included the next-generation Regal GS and a wagon. Unfortunately, the people didn't give any specific details on what the wagon looked like.

Buick possibly doing a wagon seems like an odd decision. Data from IHS Automotive shows wagons only make up one percent of the total U.S. market. Buyers prefer crossovers and SUVs.

But Buick has a mostly successful track record with entering segments where there isn't much competition. A key example is the Encore subcompact crossover which beat a number of competitors to market and has become the brand's volume model. Another example is the Cascada convertible which has done very well in sales.

Not all of them have been hits. The Verano which was Buick's entrant the premium compact class will be leaving the lineup this fall due to faltering sales.

The big question aside if Buick will go forward with a wagon variant is will it be a standard wagon or something akin to the Subaru Outback/Audi A4 Allroad. As we reported back in December, GM trademarked 'Tourx' and 'Regal Tourx'. This lead some to believe that Buick could be doing a Regal wagon, but we took it in another direction by saying it could be a light off-road variant of the wagon.

Automotive News says the Regal wagon could arrive in 2018.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Earlier this month, we reported that the Buick Verano would be leaving at the end of the 2017 model year. This is due to the sales sliding down due in part to the success of crossovers such as the Encore. At the time, General Motors declined to comment on the story. Today, they have made it official.

In a statement provided to Automotive News, General Motors said Verano production would wind down at its Lake Orion plant in October. The model will have an abbreviated 2017 model year. The decision as to why comes down to crossovers.

“When we’re thinking about where we’re investing for the future, with the whole market moving toward SUVs, that’s where we want to put our investment,” said Buick spokesman Stuart Fowle to The Detroit News.

Workers at Lake Orion were notified about the decision on Wednesday. Dealers were told about it during national meetings in Austin, Texas this week.

The writing on the wall for the Verano's departure has been on the wall for a while. Last year, Buick sold 31,886 Veranos while the similarly priced Encore crossover moved 67,549 units. Also, Buick's chief Duncan Aldred said that 70 percent of Buick's sales will be made up of crossovers once the Envision hits dealers.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), The Detroit News

Buick's compact car, the Verano may not see an encore after the model run is up at the end of the 2017 model year according to a report on AutoNews.com.

With the addition of the Buick Envision going on sale in a few weeks, Buick see crossovers making up 70% of its sales going forward. It's not hard to see why Buick would come to that conclusion. GM sales figures for December 2015 show the Verano moving 31,886 copies for the year while the similarly priced Buick Encore sold 67,549 units.

Buick's strategy lately has been to fill "white space" in the market. Offer models that don't quite have an exact match to offerings from any other brand. When the Verano debuted in 2011, it filled such a white space being a small car with premium features like heated steering wheel, large for the time entertainment screen, and a powerful turbo option. Since that time, redesigned versions of the Chevy Cruze and Honda Civic have started offering those features and more. Canceling the Verano makes it a one-and-done model.

The writing apparently has been on the wall for the Verano for a while. In December we noticed that the Turbo model was apparently being dropped for 2017 as it no longer appears on the Verano's VIN card.

The biggest impact will be to Buick dealerships who will now have to convince 30,000 customers a year that they don't want a sedan and what they really want is a shiny new Encore or Envision.

Source: Autonews.com

Last week, we brought you details on the pricing structure on 2016 Buick Envision. We also learned some information about the 2017 model, including the base price, engine, and trim levels. Car and Driver has done a bit more digging and was able to pull some more details on the 2017 Envision.

We know that the base Envision will carry a sticker price of $34,990 (includes destination). From there, the prices increase to $36,975 for the Preferred and $38,645 for the Essence. All three trims feature the same 2.5L four-cylinder with 197 horsepower and 192 pound-feet. This engine comes paired with a six-speed automatic and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is only available on the Preferred and Essence.

The standard equipment list is extensive with automatic climate control, a backup camera, heated seats, and remote start standard across the range. The mid-range models get heated rear seats, blind spot warning, and leather as options.

Source: Car and Driver

When the Buick Envision hits dealers in June, you'll only be able to get it in the two highest trims, along with a turbo engine and all-wheel drive. We first learned about this back at the Detroit Auto Show when speaking with a Buick representative and now we have more details.

According to Automotive News, the 2016 Envision will start at $42,995 for the Premium I trim and $45,635 for the Premium II trim. Both prices include destination. These models will feature a 2.0 turbocharged four-cylinder with 252 horsepower and all-wheel drive.

Now if those prices scare you, don't fret. The 2016 Envision will only be sold between June and October. After that, the 2017 Envision will arrive at dealers with an expanded lineup with three other trims. Prices for the 2017 model will begin at $34,990 for the base model. The base and other two trims - Preferred and Essence - will get a 2.5L four-cylinder with 197 horsepower. Expect a choice of front or all-wheel drive for these models.

We'll have more details when Buick officially announces Envision pricing hopefully in the near future.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

As we reported last month, Buick decided not to send the Avista into production. While the reason given at the time was due to not "enough enthusiasm for the concept," we had a sneaking suspicion there was more to that decision.

Sure enough, Automotive News chatted with Buick global brand chief Duncan Aldred who explained the Avista wasn't "a massive opportunity in China." There is also the matter of priorities of which projects should go ahead or not.

"Emotionally, you'd love to build it. I would buy one with my own money and put it in the garage," said Aldred.

"The trouble is, I'm never looking at only one project. I'm always looking at several. I've got to weigh the pros and cons of each. There are some strong contenders in that consideration."

Aldred also confirmed the rumor that the idea of Buick designers planning a four-door version of the Avista. This was first reported by Motor Trend in February

"We looked at that. We've even visualized it. It would look wonderful as a four-door as well," said Aldred.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Buick's brand manager Duncan Aldred is 'thrilled' with how the brand is doing.

"It's a wonderful portfolio. We'll have three sedans, three crossovers and a halo. I think most brands would say, "Yeah, that's a great portfolio.' I'm thrilled with it," Aldred told Automotive News.

That doesn't mean Aldred isn't open to possibly a new product, such as a flagship. But one model that has been taken off the table is the Opel Adam. Previously, Aldred has said he would like to bring the Adam over to compete against the Fiat 500 and MINI Cooper. But with the rise of crossovers - like the Buick Encore, has given Aldred second thoughts.

"I very much did feel when I came over that that could really help accelerate the Buick brand story. I don't see that as much. Whether the market shifted or the fashion nature of those cars has changed, I don't know. But I wouldn't be looking for a small, B-segment car today," said Aldred.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

One of the big surprises at the Detroit Auto Show was the Buick Avista concept. The vehicle drew a lot of praise from not only the press but also from the public.

“The energy around that car and the interest in it at the shows was amazing,” said Buick's chief marketer Tony DiSalle to Wards Auto.

With all of this interest, you think Buick would be making plans to get the Avista into production. Unfortunately, that isn't going to happen. DiSalle explained that wasn't enough enthusiasm for the concept to give Buick officials a prompt to approve it.

“It was purely a concept and meant to generate some buzz. No other plans for now.”

That includes none of the design cues of the Avista showing up on future Buick models.

Source: Wards Auto
Pic Credit: William Maley for Cheers & Gears

Buick was hoping to keep the curtain closed on 2017 Encore before its debut at the New York Auto Show. But a Chinese website has ruined that.

auto.tom.com got their hands on some leaked photos of the Chinese-market Buick Encore which matches up perfectly with the updated Opel/Vauxhall Mokka that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show with a revised front end. This is likely what we'll be seeing in a couple weeks time at New York.

It is expected that the Encore will have the turbocharged SIDI 1.4 four-cylinder (found in the Touring model with 153 horsepower), along with a revised dashboard and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Source: auto.tom.com

We have been waiting to get our first look at the next-generation Buick Regal since spy shots of Opel Insignia first surfaced back in August. Well today, Motor Authority got their hands on the first spy shots of the next Regal.

Much like the Insignia spy shots, the Regal mule is heavily camouflaged. But there is on detail that we can pull from the pictures. It looks like Buick is sticking with the sedan design. The Insignia spy shots revealed a fastback roof that was similar to the Audi A7.

The Regal is expected to use the E2XX platform that currently underpins the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu.

It is expected that Opel will reveal the Insignia at the Paris Motor Show in October. The Regal will follow shortly thereafter.

Source: Motor Authority

Before the Detroit Auto Show kicks off Monday, a few automakers will have events around Detroit. Buick will be one of those as they'll be showing off the new Envision crossover. But there is something else waiting in the wings. This week, The Detroit News learned that Buick will have a big premiere at the event. Officials at Buick were keeping their lips shut as to what this may be.

“We have a very special program, and we had a surprise last year, so we’ll see if we can do something this year as well,” Duncan Aldred, U.S. vice president of Buick.

However, Bloomberg may have learned what the surprise is. A source says the other vehicle will be a sporty coupe concept that is about the same size as the Chevrolet Camaro. No other details such as a name were revealed.

You may remember Buick doing this same thing last year where they introduced the Cascada convertible and Avenir concept at an event before the show.

We'll be at Buick's event tomorrow and get all of the details on both the Envision and the concept. In the meantime, you can follow all 2016 Detroit Auto Show news here.

Source: The Detroit News, Bloomberg

AutoGuide recently found two new trademark applications from General Motors. The applications were filed on December 16th and are for the 'Tourx' and 'Regal Tourx' trademarks. The applications say the trademarks are for “Motor land vehicles, namely automobiles.”

AutoGuide speculates the Tourx name could be for a wagon variant of the next-generation Buick Regal. GM is currently hard at work on the next-generation Opel/Vauxhall Insignia - the model that the Regal is based on - and is expected to come in a five-door and wagon versions.

We believe AutoGuide is on the right track with the wagon, but we're going to take it in a different direction. A couple years back, Opel and Vauxhall introduced the Insignia Country Tourer. Starting with a standard Insignia wagon, Opel and Vauxhall added a new all-wheel drive system, body cladding, and increased ground clearance. At the time the Country Tourer was announced, we said that GM could make a business case for it as a competitor to the Subaru Outback. If there is a next-generation Country Tourer, we wouldn't be shocked if came over as a Buick.

But automakers trademark a number of names and symbols, only to be never used. This could be the case here. It will be interesting to see if GM uses this name for the next-generation Regal.

Source: AutoGuide

The go-ahead has been given and next summer, Buick will launch the Envision crossover. According to Automotive News, Buick's chief Duncan Aldred told members of the Buick National Dealer Council yesterday and was planning to announce it to the rest of Buick's dealers today. Aldred confirmed the decision in an interview today.

“Talk about a catalyst for the Buick brand and for volume growth. We’re putting in what I believe is a class-leading vehicle in the heart of the U.S. auto industry. This is massive for Buick,” said Aldred.

Dealers have been wanting the Envision for quite a while now as it would fill a gap between the subcompact Encore and full-size Enclave. The vehicle will be exported from China, which will draw the ire of some.

The U.S.-Spec Envision will come with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder paired with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. A two-wheel drive version with a different engine is being considered for the future.

The Envision will be the first GM model to use a new global compact platform. This platform will also underpin the next-generation Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain, which are expected to go on sale in 2017.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

A vehicle that many Buick dealers and a number of us here at Cheers & Gears have been wanting for a while could finally be arriving next year. Automotive News and the Wall Street Journal report that the Buick Envision will be coming to the U.S. Sources tell AN that General Motors is likely to green light the Envision for export to the U.S. as early as late spring. The Wall Street Journal says the company is targeting annual sales of 30 to 40,000 Envisions per year.

Now the Envision would be the first vehicle sold by the Detroit 3 that is imported from China. It will not be the first Chinese-built vehicle sold in the U.S., that honor goes to Volvo with the S60 Inscription.

Back in August, the UAW was not pleased with the possibility of GM exporting the Envision from China, saying it was 'alarming'. But the Journal says GM and the UAW "appear to have come to an understanding” after talking about it during contract negotiations.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Wall Street Journal

Earlier this week, we reported that General Motors faced a difficult decision with the upcoming Envision crossover: Do they import it from China or build it somewhere else just for the North American marketplace? This comes at an interesting time since Reuters is reporting that Buick's future lineup will be comprised of vehicles imported to North America.

Speaking with two sources, the news service reports that only two models in Buick's future lineup, the next LaCrosse and Enclave will be built in the U.S. The rest will be imported from other countries. At the moment, the Encore subcompact crossover is the only Buick model that is imported to the U.S. This will soon be joined by the Cascada convertible early next year.

Sources say the next-generation Verano will be imported from China starting next year. Next will be the Regal which will either be imported from China or Europe in 2017.

A Buick spokesman declined to comment when asked about this.

Source: Reuters

If there is one vehicle that Buick dealers would like, it would be a model to slip between the subcompact Encore and full-size Enclave crossovers. Buick does have such a model, the compact Envision crossover which has been on sale in China since last year. In fact, some Buick dealers were polled about this very vehicle back in 2013. Two years on, many are scratching their heads as to why the Envision isn't here.

"It would fit perfectly in the Buick lineup at a time when crossover sales are growing fast. I'm sure a lot of Buick dealers wish they had it today," said Jack Nerad, executive market analyst at Kelley Blue Book.

Now many believe that the Envision will be coming to the U.S. sometime next year. According to Automotive News, it's likely that the Envision will be imported from China. This will likely be GM's first Chinese vehicle to be imported to the U.S.

But there are some complications to this. First, General Motors is in the middle of negotiating a new contract with the UAW. Union leaders would likely balk at the decision of importing a vehicle from China.

Buick is also trying to satisfy the growing demand for crossovers in China. In the first half of 2015, Buick has sold 57,413 Envisions. This puts sales of the Envision on track to over 100,000 units at the end of year. This could mean a limit of how many Envisions can be exported from the Shandong province plant in China.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

We know the latest product that Buick dealers will be getting in the near future is the Cascada convertible starting sometime early next year. But what comes after that? Automotive News has done some sleuthing and has come up with possible timeline of what to expect from 2016 to 2019.

2016

• First up is a redesign of the Buick Verano that will likely appear in the second half of 2016. The model is expected to grow in length and interior size. Either a 1.4T or 1.5T will be the base engine, while a new version of the 2.0T will be available.
• Next is the LaCrosse which will get a full redesign that will go on sale next fall. Spy shots show the model grow in size. The new LaCrosse will be based on the new Chevrolet Malibu. Four-cylinders engines are being debated for the powertrain, along with a hybrid.
• The long-awaited Envision crossover will be coming in the fall.
• Finishing up 2016 is a refresh of the Encore subcompact crossover. Interior updates are also planned.
  

2017

• The second-generation Regal will go into production sometime in 2017. The model will grow in size to give some space between it and the Verano. A 1.5T is expected to be the base engine, followed by the 2.0T. In the cards is a diesel engine and a wagon.
• Midyear will see the second-generation Enclave. The new model will use the new, lighter platform that will underpin the Chevrolet Traverse.
  

2018

• We know that it has been rumored that Buick will be getting the Opel Adam, but not until the second-generation model. Automotive News says it could happen in 2018 or sometime thereafter.
  

2019

• A redesign of the Encore is expected to happen.
  

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Ever dreamed of owning a concept car? We'll you'll have your chance to bid on one in a few months time. RM Auctions has the Buick Blackhawk Concept from 2001 that will be crossing the auction block.

The Blackhawk concept mixes vintage Buick design and components with modern technology. The styling is a combination of the late forties Roadmaster and Y-Job concept. There is a power retractable top which is made out of carbon fiber and stows in the decklid. Power comes from a 455 cubic-inch (7.5L) V8 from the 1970 GS Stage III with 463 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This is paired up to a four-speed automatic.

The Blackhawk was sold back in 2009 at the Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, AZ as part of a sale of a selection of GM's heritage fleet. At the time, it sold for $522,500 after the buyer's premium.

The Blackhawk will be crossing the block on May 2nd as part of RM Auctions sale of the Andrews Collection in Fort Worth, TX.

Source: RM Auctions, Barrett-Jackson

Picture Credit: RM Auctions

Last month, Buick introduced a new crossover for China called the Envision. This new crossover would fit between the Encore and Enclave models Now there have been murmurs of whether or not the Envision would be coming to the U.S. or not. According to Edmunds, the Envision is making the trip to the U.S. next year.

According to a insider, the Envision will go sale in the third quarter of 2015. There is talk of a mild-hybrid model for the U.S. market.

When asked, Duncan Aldred, vice president of Buick-GMC sales said nothing has been confirmed at the moment. But went onto say that the brand is considering it.

Source: Edmunds

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

It looks a refresh is coming soon to the Buick Verano. A fresh set of spy shots were released this week showing a camoflaged mule undergoing some testing in Germany. Much like the Regal, the Verano is a Opel/Vauxhall vehicle (the Astra sedan in this case) with some Buick clothing. Judging from the photos, it looks like Verano will get some more Astra design cues, most notable in the headlights and taillights. But there will still be a number of Buick design cues like the waterfall grille.

The refreshed Verano is expected to arrive next year.

Source: Autoblog

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

November 29, 2013

One of the big things that we have been wondering since the introduction of the Buick Regal GS is if the Regal would be the only model in Buick's lineup to have a GS model or could there be more. According to Car and Driver, there might be more GS models.

Ed Welburn, General Motors’ vice president of global design tells Car and Driver that more GS models could be on the way to help bolster Buick's performance cred.

The most likely candidates for this would be the Verano and LaCrosse.

Source: Car and Driver

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

October 19, 2013

A new report from Edmunds shines some light on what Buick possibly has in store powertrain-wise for some of their vehicles. A sources says that Buick is planning on offering a diesel engine in their lineup. This is due to Buick and Opel becoming more aligned. Also, diesels have gained more ground in the U.S. thanks to their ability to provide large fuel economy numbers without a massive hit on performance.

The source doesn't say which vehicle will get the diesel engine, but Edmunds speculates it will be the Verano since it's closely related to the Chevrolet Cruze which offers a diesel engine.

Another source tells Edmunds that Buick is considering adding more power to wildly-popular Encore crossover. The source explained that one of the primary reasons given why prospective buyers would not buy the Encore is the lack of power from the 1.4L turbo-four which produces 138 horsepower.

Buick is reportedly scrambling to get a more powerful engine, but there comes a problem with that. Engineers have tried to fit the 2.4L four-cylinder and 2.0L turbo-four, but they don't fit in the Encore's tight engine bay. The source says that GM is now looking at using one of the new 1.6L four-cylinder engines introduced in Europe earlier this year.

Source: Edmunds

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

September 14, 2013

Earlier this year, General Motors CEO Dan Akerson said that if the Opel Adam and Cascada convertible were sold in the U.S., that it "would help Buick in this market and in China in terms of demographics." Since then, rumors and speculation have been flying on whether either one of these models would appear in the U.S.

This week, we reported that Opel Adam is under consideration for the U.S. But it will likely not come until the next-generation model is launched if it is given the green light.

Now, we have an update on the Opel Cascada.

Insiders told Edmunds this week that the Opel Cascada becoming a Buick model "could happen soon." The Cascada is expected to have an easier time getting over the U.S. than Adam since it is loosely based on the Opel Insignia/Buick Regal. No word yet on a possible date.

Source: Edmunds

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

September 11, 2013

Since the Opel Adam went on sale earlier this year, many wished for the Adam to come to the U.S. as a Buick. Those wishes could become reality.

"We are looking at it. Nothing is decided. But it's an example of some of the Opel product being used elsewhere in the world," said Opel Chairman Karl-Thomas Neumann.

If the green light is given for Buick to get the Adam, don't expect it to come until the first redesign. The current model doesn't meet U.S. safety and other regulatory requirements.

"We have to work on the car. That's one of the issues that we have to look at," said Neumann.

Editor's Note: Back in December, we tried our hand at what Buick's version of the Opel Adam should look like. We named it the Buick David. What do you think? -DD

Click picture to embiggen

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

June 13, 2013

Buick has a small crossover in the form of the Encore and large crossover with the Enclave. However someone who is looking for something in the middle with a Buick badge will be sorely disappointed. That looks to be changing as new spy shots show a new midsize Buick crossover.

Supposedly called the Anthem, this new Buick crossover will be the sister vehicle to the next-generation Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain. The trio will use utlize GM's Delta platform.

We can't tell much from the shots aside the Buick waterfall grille and the driver giving the ole one finger salute.

We'll be keeping an eye on this new Buick crossover.

Source: Automotive.com

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

By William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

May 6, 2013

Buick has been one of the success stories since General Motors came out of bankruptcy a few years ago. The tri-shield brand has seen its sales on the up and up for the past few years thanks to vehicles such as the Enclave, LaCrosse, and Verano. Now GM's North American President, Mark Reuss tells Automotive News that Buick deserves something special.

"We've very carefully built Buick back to a brand that has respect. Something special for Buick, I think, is really needed for the next phase of where that brand is going," Reuss said.

Reuss went onto say that Buick is ready for an entry "that's very special, that's not shared with anybody else and is quite unique."

So what are the possibilities? Reuss gives examples of a Riviera-like flagship, a convertible and a coupe. Recent rumors also have the return of the Grand National nameplate and the introduction of a plug-in hybrid crossover.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

By William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

February 25, 2013

Remember when Buick and GMC announced they would introducing nine new models over the next twelve months. Two of those have been caught by a spy photographer.

First up is the 2014 Buick LaCrosse. The mule caught in the shots has a larger front grille and a set of LED accents around the headlights. Not so obvious in the shots is the amount of camo in the interior of the mule, meaning extensive changes are coming.

Then there is the 2014 Buick Regal. Much like the shots of the Opel and Vauxhall Insignia we reported on earlier this year, the Regal will get a revised front end. More extensive changes will take place in the back.

Source: Autoblog

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Drew Dowdell - Managing Editor, CheersandGears.com

December 7th, 2012

Today is the final day of Buick Week. So far we’ve looked at the four new or refreshed vehicles in Buick’s lineup. It is kind of hard to believe that the Buick LaCrosse and Buick Regal are now the two oldest designs, in that order, Buick offers.

Buick Week:

Day 1 - 2013 Buick Verano Review

Day 2 - 2013 Buick Enclave First Drive

Day 3 - 2013 Buick Verano Turbo First Drive

Day 4 - 2013 Buick Encore First Drive

Day 5 - Buick to the Future!

What is coming:

LaCrosse: The current LaCrosse debuted in 2009 as a 2010 model. At just three model years into its current run, the LaCrosse still holds its own, but the competition is increasing and newer, and sales are sagging. The Lexus ES has been refreshed, Hyundai has a very competent entry with their Azera, the Toyota Avalon is all new, and Lincoln has a new MKZ with a broad range of fuel-efficient power trains. We are expecting to see hints of a heavily-updated Buick LaCrosse during the coming auto show season.

What is not coming:

GNX/Grand National: Buick laughed off the suggestion of a GNX when asked directly.

What we’d like to see:

It is no secret that around CheersandGears.com there is a desire for more body styles to be offered by the various GM divisions. Buick has a rich history of coupes, wagons, and convertibles, yet they offer none of those body styles at the moment.

We humbly submit these suggestions:

Image copyright General Motors - Modifications by Andrew Currie

Buick Verano Convertible: Based on the Opel Cascada, this convertible can lower its top in 17 seconds at speeds up to 31 miles per hour. The Opel version is powered by a re-worked 1.4T and the new Opel 1.6T with 200 horsepower and 200 lb.-ft. of torque. Stateside, we hope to see the 1.6T and the 250 hp version of the 2.0T from the Verano Turbo. We would prefer to see Buick add this to the Verano lineup to strengthen that brand within Buick rather than bring the Cascada name stateside.

Image copyright General Motors - Modifications by Andrew Currie

Buick David: Based on the Opel Adam and in homage to the founder of Buick, David Dunbar Buick. This cheeky little compact would be a premium entry in the segment to go up against the likes of the Mini-Cooper, the coming Mercedes A-Class, and Fiat 500 Abarth. In the Opel versions, though there are three engines available, none generate more than 100 horsepower. A direct-injected and turbo-charged engine is said to be coming. So as not to clash with the Chevrolet Sonic, maintain a premium status, and continue with Buick’s history of turbo-charging, we suggest the Buick David come with the 148 horsepower 1.4T from the Buick Encore as the standard engine with the 200 horsepower 1.6T optional. With a target curb weight of just 2,200lbs, this would be a Goliath entry into the premium hot hatch market.

Buick is a brand on the move. It is one of the few brands, especially of premium brands, to lower their average buyer age recently. Buick’s average buyer age has dropped 7 years over the past 5 model years. They have increased their sales conquest rate to over 43%, increased sales while reducing the number of models, and two of their four models currently on sale are in segment leadership positions.

Drew Dowdell is Managing Editor of CheersandGears.com and can be reached at Drew.Dowdell@CheersandGears.com or on Twitter as @cheersngears

*Both the Buick Verano Convertible and Buick David are wishful thinking on our part. They are in no way "news"; of future Buick vehicles. Images of the Buick Verano Convertible and Buick David are based on copyright of General Motors images under Creative Commons license and are not for commercial use or distribution.

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

November 29, 2012

The Buick Grand National, T-Type, and GNX. Built during the mid to late eighties, these three were some of quickest vehicles on the market thanks to a 3.8L turbo V6 and didn't share the old person image that the other Buicks had. Now, the Grand National, T-Type, and GNX could be making a return to the Buick lineup.

Inside Line has learned from a 'reliable source' that GM is planning to resurrect the three nameplates onto a new RWD sedan. The sedan will use the Alpha RWD platform and be around the same size as the Cadillac ATS. The sedans will also share steering, brakes and suspension from the ATS.

The Grand National and T-Type will share powertrain and suspension calibrations. The only difference between the two will be colors you can order: T-Type will come with a full color lineup, Grand National will come in black only. Power is highly rumored to be a twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V6, expected to produce between 350 and 400 horsepower. As for the GNX, that will likely use a V8 engine (possibly the new LT1). Transmissions will be a six-speed manual and automatic.

Now whether this actually comes to fruition or now is the big question. Inside Line says we might hear something about it at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.

Source: Inside Line

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

August 30, 2012

Last year, a base Buick Regal started at $27,055. For 2013, the base Regal will now start at $29,015, a jump of almost $2,000.

Why the $2,000 increase? Well, the Regal will be following in the LaCrosse's footsteps and offer the eAssist powertrain as standard equipment. eAssist was a $2,000 option on the Regal for 2012 and it has been rolled into pricetag.

eAssist will improve the base Regal's fuel economy from 19 City/31 Highway to 25 City/36 Highway.

Source: Buick

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

June 19, 2012

General Motors has trademarked another old nameplate, this time from Buick. Left Lane News reports that General Motors filled a trademark application on June 5th for Electra. No other details were revealed in the filling.

Electra was a Buick nameplate introduced back in 1959 to replace the Roadmaster and Limited models. The nameplate would last till 1990.

So why is General Motors trademarking Electra? Left Lane has two theories.

Theory one is a flagship sedan that will use the LWB Epsilon II platform as a base. Using the Electra nameplate makes sense because the name was used for Buick flagships.

Theory two is a Buick version of the Chevrolet Volt. General Motors has given the green light to a Cadillac version (ELR) to help with costs. Plus, the Electra nameplate would be a perfect fit.

We have a theory as well. General Motors filled the trademark application to protect the Electra name.

Update: Nick Richards, Head of Communications at Buick, tweeted this in reply to this article. - DD

Source: Left Lane News

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Blake Noble

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

May 9th, 2012

For a span of almost four decades, Buick’s classic Riviera models brought critical acclaim to one of GM’s oldest marques. Arguably GM’s first real success at building a “personal luxury car,” the Riviera was a “best-of” showcase for Buick offering class-competitive styling, luxury and technology.

While the Riviera name has been previously used on a concept car introduced for the 2007 Shanghai Auto Show, it hasn’t been applied to a production model since the last Riviera was built in 1999. Now, according to GM enthusiast website GM Inside News, there is the potential for a Riviera revival.

Last week, on May 3rd, General Motors filed to trademark the Riviera name with the US Patent Office for use on automobiles.

As GM Inside News mentions, it isn’t really much of a secret that automakers regularly trademark various names and wind up not putting them to use on a production car. On the other hand, AutoGuide points out that GM doesn’t trademark names unless it’s serious about putting them to use.

So then if GM intends to use the name, what would a new Riviera be like? At the moment, your guess is as good as ours.

While rumors of Buick adding a new coupe to its lineup have been rather persistent over the last few years, they’ve always been rather sporadic. At one point it was speculated that Buick would sell a coupe version of its Regal sports sedan, based on reports of Vauxhall getting the green-light to develop a two-door version of the related Insignia. There has also since been rumors of Buick building a rear-drive coupe based off of the Alpha platform used by the Cadillac ATS.

However, Car and Driver recently mentioned in a report on the upcoming Chevy SS sports sedan that GM’s Australian firm Holden was being tasked with developing two new rear-drive Buick vehicles primarily for China. The two Buicks would be based on a revised version of GM's Zeta platform. It’s obvious that one of those vehicles could be a replacement for the Holden Statesman-based Chinese Buick Park Avenue. But could the other be a Zeta-based Buick Riviera coupe?

Sources: GM Inside News, AutoGuide, Car and Driver

G. Noble

Editor/Reporter

CheersandGears.com

March 1, 2012

Since Buick reintroduced the Regal to the North American market back in 2010, there has been some enthusiasm for the return of the big-daddy GNX, the famous performance car of the ‘80s which was based around the then-current Regal. Well, since it appears that New Jersey-based tuning firm SLP has secured the rights to the “GNX” name, some of you may just get your wish.

SLP released the teaser sketch you’re viewing just recently, which reveals that the new GNX will use the current Regal GS as its starting point. From there, it appears SLP will beef up the bodywork with unique flared fender extensions and lower rocker panel extensions, a new lower front fascia, possibly a new set of rims, and a huge power bulge on the hood. While the GS is one of the more fairly handsome performance sedans on the market, SLP’s exterior changes make it look almost flaccid in comparison.

SLP notes that their new GNX will pack over 300 horses, up from the 270 you get in a regular GS. There isn’t any word on what gearbox SLP plans to use, but there probably wouldn’t be any harm in assuming SLP may at least choose the GS’s manual transmission. SLP also hasn’t said if the new GNX will somehow be all-wheel drive — like the Regal GS’s related German counterpart, the Opel Insignia OPC — or remain front-wheel drive.

If you want one, however, there isn’t much time to worry about all of the specifics. You’d better get in line as soon as you can because SLP only plans to build 500 of these. You hear that, Lord Vader?

Source: Edmund's Inside Line

December 21, 2011

black-knight

CheersandGears.com

It was only last week that Buick offered us the first glimpse of their upcoming small crossover, the Encore, that's set to debut at the Detroit Auto Show this January. But apparently that one image wasn't enough of the Encore for Buick to reveal to world.

So how did Buick decide to follow up the Encore's first act? By taking the show over to Facebook where, section by section, a full image of the new CUV would be totally revealed by January 10th.

It still doesn't show much right now, but it's barely enough to sort of see that it won't be in anyway related to the Chevrolet Equinox or the old Saturn Vue.

Update: Another block dropped today.

It's been about six years since GM introduced the Lambdas (Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Terrain, and Saturn Outlook) to the world and they're beginning to get long in the tooth. GM is quietly working on next generation of these models and some spy shots have come out of Buick Enclave with added camoflage.

The pictures show the Enclave will be retaining it's large size as the current model. Also, the front end gets a new grill with longer, thinner grille slats spaced further out. The back end doesn't show any changes thanks to all of the camouflage.

Source: Inside Line