At a meeting yesterday, GM announced to their network of Buick dealers the new mid-size sport sedan from Buick will be none other than the Regal.
The North American Buick Regal was replaced in 2005 by the Buick LaCrosse, built using the same W platform. The final 2004 Buick Regal rolled off the assembly line on June 1, 2004. Now it would appear it'll be back and as we told you back in August when Lutz let slip this tasty piece of news to Scott Burgess of The Detroit News, it'll be the same as was launched in China in November 2008 based on the Opel Insignia.
Source: Jalopnik
Camaro convertible coming Q1 of 2011, no sedan
Some updates straight from GM.
General Motors just wrapped up one of its semi-regular Q&A sessions with CEO Fritz Henderson on its FastLane blog, and while nothing earth-shattering has been divulged, here's a few things that might be of interest:
* On the topic of Cadillac's recent television and print advertising, and the subsequent dropping of Modernista as Caddy's primary advertising agency (Automotive News – Sub. Req.), Henderson says, "I think we can do better."
* When asked if GM would be producing a credible alternative to the BMW M3 or possibly a Camaro sedan (thought we already had that with the G8, but, whatever), Henderson responded, "[We] do not see a [four door] Camaro in our future. We will continue to look for performance opportunities across our lineup, including in sedans."
* As for the future of the drop-top Camaro, one participant asked, "Been patiently waiting for Camaro Convertible. Best guesses are 2012 model in 1st quarter of 2011. With surging popularity of this model is there any chance of GM considering a push for earlier release?" To which Henderson replies, "Good guess and no."
* Although the Buick Regal's arrival in the States has yet to be confirmed, a question was asked about a possible GNX version based on the Insignia OPC. Henderson's answer: "Think you will like what you see in the future Regal alternatives (ala OPC alternatives), but do not look for GNX." Pity.
* Finally, when asked what cars are currently in Henderson's garage, the General's general said, "Camaro, 2005 Corvette, Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible."
Source: AutoBlog
* On the topic of Cadillac's recent television and print advertising, and the subsequent dropping of Modernista as Caddy's primary advertising agency (Automotive News – Sub. Req.), Henderson says, "I think we can do better."
* When asked if GM would be producing a credible alternative to the BMW M3 or possibly a Camaro sedan (thought we already had that with the G8, but, whatever), Henderson responded, "[We] do not see a [four door] Camaro in our future. We will continue to look for performance opportunities across our lineup, including in sedans."
* As for the future of the drop-top Camaro, one participant asked, "Been patiently waiting for Camaro Convertible. Best guesses are 2012 model in 1st quarter of 2011. With surging popularity of this model is there any chance of GM considering a push for earlier release?" To which Henderson replies, "Good guess and no."
* Although the Buick Regal's arrival in the States has yet to be confirmed, a question was asked about a possible GNX version based on the Insignia OPC. Henderson's answer: "Think you will like what you see in the future Regal alternatives (ala OPC alternatives), but do not look for GNX." Pity.
* Finally, when asked what cars are currently in Henderson's garage, the General's general said, "Camaro, 2005 Corvette, Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible."
Source: AutoBlog
GM Hopes that New Buick is a Hit
Gearing up for a major brand reintroduction.
A campaign to promote the Buick brand and its new models is scheduled to start on Sunday with television commercials. There is a sneak peak now, on the Buick Web site (buick.com), and print advertisements are starting to show up in July issues of magazines.
The campaign, by Leo Burnett in Chicago, part of the Publicis Groupe, carries the theme “Take a look at me now.” The idea is reinforced by headlines that proclaim, “Everything you thought about Buick just went boom.”
Buick has gone through almost as many ad themes in recent years as Jon and Kate have children. Since 2002, the themes have included “The spirit of American style,” “Dream up,” “Beyond precision” and “Drive beautiful.” Continued in the jump!
So why another change? The need to cut through the clutter with a direct appeal to the intended audience of baby-boom drivers requires a pointed approach, according to Cheryl Catton, general director for advertising and promotion in Detroit.
“It isn’t about a makeover,” Ms. Catton said, but rather to “establish in a breakthrough way that we have changed.”
“We’re well known for our quality but frankly we have not been relevant to the target we want in our showrooms and to drive our brand,” she added, which is the boomer who does not consider Buick when shopping for a midluxury or luxury car.
The research to develop the new campaign included “going to the homes of targets,” Ms. Catton said, in what she called “barrage visits,” to learn “why they buy what they buy.”
Some were shown rough cuts of the commercials, she added, and their reaction was surprise that the models in the spots were Buicks.
The campaign features two current models, Enclave and Lucerne; a four-door sedan, LaCrosse, which is scheduled to arrive in dealerships around July 1; and a Regal concept car. There will be ads centered on LaCrosse to help support that introduction.
Amid the difficulties for General Motors, “we feel we’re getting the resources” that Buick needs to support its ambitious marketing plans, Ms. Catton said, adding that the division did not “feel constrained” in any way.
The theme “Take a look at me now” is unrelated to the song by Phil Collins known by that title, Ms. Catton said; the song is actually called “Against All Odds” and was the title song for the 1984 movie of that name.
Another song that might have fit the bill for Buick is “Hey Look Me Over” from the Broadway musical “Wildcat.” The Ford Motor Company used a version of that song in a campaign to introduce the Ford Falcon Futura in the early 1960s.
Source: New York Times
The campaign, by Leo Burnett in Chicago, part of the Publicis Groupe, carries the theme “Take a look at me now.” The idea is reinforced by headlines that proclaim, “Everything you thought about Buick just went boom.”
Buick has gone through almost as many ad themes in recent years as Jon and Kate have children. Since 2002, the themes have included “The spirit of American style,” “Dream up,” “Beyond precision” and “Drive beautiful.” Continued in the jump!
So why another change? The need to cut through the clutter with a direct appeal to the intended audience of baby-boom drivers requires a pointed approach, according to Cheryl Catton, general director for advertising and promotion in Detroit.
“It isn’t about a makeover,” Ms. Catton said, but rather to “establish in a breakthrough way that we have changed.”
“We’re well known for our quality but frankly we have not been relevant to the target we want in our showrooms and to drive our brand,” she added, which is the boomer who does not consider Buick when shopping for a midluxury or luxury car.
The research to develop the new campaign included “going to the homes of targets,” Ms. Catton said, in what she called “barrage visits,” to learn “why they buy what they buy.”
Some were shown rough cuts of the commercials, she added, and their reaction was surprise that the models in the spots were Buicks.
The campaign features two current models, Enclave and Lucerne; a four-door sedan, LaCrosse, which is scheduled to arrive in dealerships around July 1; and a Regal concept car. There will be ads centered on LaCrosse to help support that introduction.
Amid the difficulties for General Motors, “we feel we’re getting the resources” that Buick needs to support its ambitious marketing plans, Ms. Catton said, adding that the division did not “feel constrained” in any way.
The theme “Take a look at me now” is unrelated to the song by Phil Collins known by that title, Ms. Catton said; the song is actually called “Against All Odds” and was the title song for the 1984 movie of that name.
Another song that might have fit the bill for Buick is “Hey Look Me Over” from the Broadway musical “Wildcat.” The Ford Motor Company used a version of that song in a campaign to introduce the Ford Falcon Futura in the early 1960s.
Source: New York Times
2010 Buick LaCrosse looks Stunning
Production Version of Invicta Concept Looks Promising!
At the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 12, Buick will perform the world debut its all-new LaCrosse sedan. Buick's new mid-size luxury saloon is essentially the production version of the warmly received Invicta Concept, revealed at last year's Beijing Auto Show in China. Fresh styling aside, the LaCrosse offers the option of all-wheel drive, a choice of two direct-injection V6 engines and a suite of modern personal technologies and safety features.
2010 Buick LaCrosse SedanThe 2010 LaCrosse's exterior design is the result of the combined work of GM's designers in the United States and China. While not groundbreaking or sleek in an Italian sort of way, we reckon that the LaCrosse looks stylish and different enough to grab the attention of buyers in the near-luxury segment. The cars that the LaCrosse will most likely compete with are the Lexus ES350 and the Chrysler 300. More in the jump!
"It is instantly recognizable as a Buick, with its signature 'sweep spear' body-side styling, portholes inside the character line on the hood, and waterfall grille," said Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design.
2010 Buick LaCrosse SedanOpen the door and you're welcomed by a modern, yet somewhat unimaginative cabin characterized by a flowing design theme that wraps around the instrument and door panels. What sets the LaCrosse apart from its predecessors is the availability of an array of personal technologies. These include features such as in-dash navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, an auxiliary audio input and a USB port. For rear-seat passengers, a power rear-window sunshade and a DVD entertainment system, with two display screens integrated into the seatbacks, is also available.
Based on GM's Epsilon II front-wheel-drive platform that underpins the new Opel Insignia, the LaCrosse is roughly the same size as the car it replaces. Buyers can choose from two direct-injection V6 engines, a 3.0-liter unit generating an estimated 255 horsepower and 211 lb.-ft. of torque (286 Nm), and a 3.6L engine producing an estimated 280 horsepower and 261 lb.-ft. of torque (354 Nm). Both V6 engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
2010 Buick LaCrosse SedanWhen the 2010 LaCrosse goes on sale this summer, it will be offered in three models CX, CXL and CXS. The CX will be equipped with the 3.0L V6 engine and come with premium cloth seats and 17-inch wheels. The CXL adds leather-appointed heated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, fog lamps, outside rearview mirror with LED turn indicators and puddle lamps, 18-inch wheels as well as the option of all-wheel drive. Finally, the CXS features the more powerful 3.6L V6 unit and adds real-time active-dampening suspension; perforated, leather-appointed, heated and cooled seats, and chrome-plated 18-inch wheels (19-inch optional).
Source: CarScoop
2010 Buick LaCrosse SedanThe 2010 LaCrosse's exterior design is the result of the combined work of GM's designers in the United States and China. While not groundbreaking or sleek in an Italian sort of way, we reckon that the LaCrosse looks stylish and different enough to grab the attention of buyers in the near-luxury segment. The cars that the LaCrosse will most likely compete with are the Lexus ES350 and the Chrysler 300. More in the jump!
"It is instantly recognizable as a Buick, with its signature 'sweep spear' body-side styling, portholes inside the character line on the hood, and waterfall grille," said Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design.
2010 Buick LaCrosse SedanOpen the door and you're welcomed by a modern, yet somewhat unimaginative cabin characterized by a flowing design theme that wraps around the instrument and door panels. What sets the LaCrosse apart from its predecessors is the availability of an array of personal technologies. These include features such as in-dash navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, an auxiliary audio input and a USB port. For rear-seat passengers, a power rear-window sunshade and a DVD entertainment system, with two display screens integrated into the seatbacks, is also available.
Based on GM's Epsilon II front-wheel-drive platform that underpins the new Opel Insignia, the LaCrosse is roughly the same size as the car it replaces. Buyers can choose from two direct-injection V6 engines, a 3.0-liter unit generating an estimated 255 horsepower and 211 lb.-ft. of torque (286 Nm), and a 3.6L engine producing an estimated 280 horsepower and 261 lb.-ft. of torque (354 Nm). Both V6 engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
2010 Buick LaCrosse SedanWhen the 2010 LaCrosse goes on sale this summer, it will be offered in three models CX, CXL and CXS. The CX will be equipped with the 3.0L V6 engine and come with premium cloth seats and 17-inch wheels. The CXL adds leather-appointed heated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, fog lamps, outside rearview mirror with LED turn indicators and puddle lamps, 18-inch wheels as well as the option of all-wheel drive. Finally, the CXS features the more powerful 3.6L V6 unit and adds real-time active-dampening suspension; perforated, leather-appointed, heated and cooled seats, and chrome-plated 18-inch wheels (19-inch optional).
Source: CarScoop
Click Thumbs to View Larger Images:
1982 Buick Regal GNX Powered by a 6.6-liter Diesel
Goodbye stock setup, hello big diesel.
According to the folks at Diesel Power, what you’re actually drooling over is a GM Duramax diesel-powered 1981 Oldsmobile. Sort of. As the story goes, owner David Morad loved his Duramax-equipped truck, but he wanted to swap the monstrous 6.6-liter turbodiesel into something lighter. Enter the Buick Regal.
Morad located and purchased a 1982 Buick Regal diesel, only to have it self-immolate on the drive home thanks to a gasoline leak—at some point, a previous owner had dropped-in a gas engine). Undeterred, Morad located a 1981 Oldsmobile diesel (presumably a Cutlass), and then turned it into GNX piece-by-piece. This apparently entailed cutting the car in half, welding on the rear clip from a Regal, and raising the floorpan to accommodate the new engine’s exhaust system. A new front-strut subframe, custom aluminum fuel tank, rack-and-pinion steering unit, and a set of Wilwoods were also part of the plan.
As of the article’s writing, Morad’s nearly 4500-pound GNX clone runs an 8.25-second eighth mile (around a high 12-second quarter mile) and returns 28 miles-per-gallon. Much more remains on tap with some better tuning and more traction.
Source: Diesel Power Magazine via Nextautos
Morad located and purchased a 1982 Buick Regal diesel, only to have it self-immolate on the drive home thanks to a gasoline leak—at some point, a previous owner had dropped-in a gas engine). Undeterred, Morad located a 1981 Oldsmobile diesel (presumably a Cutlass), and then turned it into GNX piece-by-piece. This apparently entailed cutting the car in half, welding on the rear clip from a Regal, and raising the floorpan to accommodate the new engine’s exhaust system. A new front-strut subframe, custom aluminum fuel tank, rack-and-pinion steering unit, and a set of Wilwoods were also part of the plan.
As of the article’s writing, Morad’s nearly 4500-pound GNX clone runs an 8.25-second eighth mile (around a high 12-second quarter mile) and returns 28 miles-per-gallon. Much more remains on tap with some better tuning and more traction.
Source: Diesel Power Magazine via Nextautos
2010: Buick Invicta, Chevy Cruze, Cadillac Provoq
Some better news from GM today.
Okay so while most of you are probably shaking your head at GM after CEO Rick Wagoner’s cost-cutting plans that were revealed earlier this morning, vice chairman Bob Lutz had a special bloggers-only conference call in which he revealed some future product details.
First and foremost, doing the FoMoCo thing, GM will align its U.S. product portfolio to resemble its European and Asian - with more fuel-efficient vehicles. Moving on, let’s go down the list of the things that Lutz discussed.
First, Saturn is struggling. According to Lutz, the brand is not generating enough volume. He confirmed that the next-generation Aura has been put on hold for a few more years. Second, a production version of the Buick Invicta will be arriving next year. The next-generation Chevrolet Equinox and Cadillac SRX (based on the Cadillac Provoq concept) will arrive by 2010. The upcoming Chevrolet Cruze, set to replace the Cobalt, will average a fuel-economy of more than 40mpg.
Lutz also said that there will be a new smaller crossover based Chevrolet Equinox for GMC that will be equipped with 4-cylinder engines. It will be most likely called the Terrian.
Source: EGM Car Tech
First and foremost, doing the FoMoCo thing, GM will align its U.S. product portfolio to resemble its European and Asian - with more fuel-efficient vehicles. Moving on, let’s go down the list of the things that Lutz discussed.
First, Saturn is struggling. According to Lutz, the brand is not generating enough volume. He confirmed that the next-generation Aura has been put on hold for a few more years. Second, a production version of the Buick Invicta will be arriving next year. The next-generation Chevrolet Equinox and Cadillac SRX (based on the Cadillac Provoq concept) will arrive by 2010. The upcoming Chevrolet Cruze, set to replace the Cobalt, will average a fuel-economy of more than 40mpg.
Lutz also said that there will be a new smaller crossover based Chevrolet Equinox for GMC that will be equipped with 4-cylinder engines. It will be most likely called the Terrian.
Source: EGM Car Tech
GM 72-Hour Sale starting on June 30th!
Get 0% on select GM vehicles.
Earlier today we heard word that GM would start a sale tomorrow featuring 0% financing for 72 months. The deal will run through June 30, and we’ve just received the list of vehicles included. To be clear, the sale only includes the 2008-model-year vehicles listed below, not 2007 or 2009 vehicles. No hybrid models are included, either. Basically, if you don’t see it below, it’s not included in the sale. There are no real surprises, but check out the list and tell us if you think the sale will help move these vehicles over the next week.
0% APR for up to 72 months on 2008 vehicles including:
Chevrolet: Suburban, Avalanche, Equinox, Colorado, Tahoe, Silverado, TrailBlazer, Uplander, Impala, HHR
Buick: Lucerne, Lacrosse
Pontiac: Torrent, Solstice, G6, Grand Prix
GMC: Yukon and Yukon XL, Sierra, Envoy and Canyon
Cadillac: All Escalade models, SRX, STS, DTS
HUMMER: H2 and H3
Saab: 9-7X, 9-3 Convertible
Saturn: Sky, Aura and Vue
Source: Kicking Tires
0% APR for up to 72 months on 2008 vehicles including:
Chevrolet: Suburban, Avalanche, Equinox, Colorado, Tahoe, Silverado, TrailBlazer, Uplander, Impala, HHR
Buick: Lucerne, Lacrosse
Pontiac: Torrent, Solstice, G6, Grand Prix
GMC: Yukon and Yukon XL, Sierra, Envoy and Canyon
Cadillac: All Escalade models, SRX, STS, DTS
HUMMER: H2 and H3
Saab: 9-7X, 9-3 Convertible
Saturn: Sky, Aura and Vue
Source: Kicking Tires
Buick Invicta Concept
Bringing back the classic nameplate.
The sleek Buick Invicta show car revealed here in conjunction with Auto China 2008 is Buick's strongest statement yet of its deliberately international plans. The four-door midsize sedan with a coupe-like roofline presents bold direction for Buick's new generation of vehicles in the world's two biggest automotive markets – the United States and China.
Continue the press release on the jump!
Invicta has evolved from Buick concepts such as the 2004 Velite convertible and 2007 Riviera coupe, both of which received accolades for their thoroughly modern adaptation of classic Buick themes. Invicta was designed collaboratively by GM centers of expertise in Warren, Mich. and Shanghai, China. The name, which is Latin for "invincible," returns to Buick after a 45-year hiatus in the United States.
"Buick's global appeal created an opportunity for GM Design Centers to elevate our collaboration to new levels. Using our virtual reality centers in Warren and Shanghai, designers fused the best ideas from both cultures during the development of the Invicta," said Edward T. Welburn, vice president, General Motors Global Design. "The result will set a new design standard for Buick, and it couldn't have been achieved by one studio working in isolation. The Invicta represents another significant design milestone in Buick's history."
Invicta is powered by Buick's first direct injection turbocharged engine, a four-cylinder powerplant that produces 250 horsepower (186 kW) and 220 lb-ft (298 Nm) of torque. The engine is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission for maximum fuel efficiency.
Modern, sleek exterior
Invicta's designers drew inspiration from the Riviera concept. Invicta features modern and sleek proportions with exterior lines that flow uninterrupted around the vehicle. For example, Invicta's cat-eye headlamps transition into the Buick heritage-inspired sweepspear design cue, which flows seamlessly along the body sides and merges into the taillamps. Similarly, one can trace the top of the headlamp casing to the roofline and the rear of the vehicle without interruptions.
As with Riviera, Invicta features short overhangs with wheels pushed out to the corners for a well-planted stance. The overall appearance is sleek, thanks in part to a sweeping, low roofline and a front windshield that has an aggressive rake.
Up front, the Buick tri-shield is prominently displayed inside the Velite-inspired chrome vertical waterfall grille. Polished aluminum surrounding the headlamps, portholes, around the D-pillar and along the lower side of the vehicle on the lower doors accentuates the overall exterior design. Reminiscent of a number of historic Buick models, Invicta's portholes – three per side – are located on the hood rather than on the front quarter panels.
Invicta's wheelbase and high belt line give the vehicle more substantial proportions while visually reinforcing its premium appearance. Invicta's 20-inch polished aluminum wheels feature a milled Buick tri-shield in the center cap.
To signal its premium attributes while enhancing the vehicle's sleek proportions, Invicta's exterior is draped in a sumptuous AluStone color. Its warm beige tone contains wafer-thin flakes of aluminum that reflect light to emit a liquid gold appearance.
Flowing, crafted interior
The focus and attention to seamless transitions carry over inside Invicta. The doors merge to become one with the instrument panel, which morphs into the center console.
The wrap-around design of the interior and fluid design provide a spacious cabin for all passengers, especially those seated in the back of the vehicle. At nearly 100 cubic feet of interior space, Invicta delivers large-car comfort in a mid-size sedan. The sense of roominess is further accentuated by a full glass roof, which allows all passengers to enjoy the sights, day or night.
Invicta also showcases a high level of interior craftsmanship while creating an environment that is soothing, quiet, comfortable and inviting for all passengers.
The blending of premium materials – such as wood trim and polished aluminum accents, soft aniline leather, supple suede-like material and soothing Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting technology – encase passengers in Buick luxury.
Beyond its sumptuous appearance, Buick created a show car for the senses. Authentic French seam stitching on the soft-touch instrument panel pad, door panels and steering wheel invites touch. Buttons, switches and door pulls are crafted to deliver a tactile quality experience. Soft and soothing Ice Blue ambient LED lighting on the instrument panel, around the central vehicle function controls, along the console and center storage, and in the front footwells provoke visual sophistication. Two discriminating "spotlights" also accent the center point of the front and rear seats.
Buick introduced the Invicta in North America as a production vehicle in 1959. The Invicta show car is the first time the nameplate has appeared on a Buick in China.
Continue the press release on the jump!
Invicta has evolved from Buick concepts such as the 2004 Velite convertible and 2007 Riviera coupe, both of which received accolades for their thoroughly modern adaptation of classic Buick themes. Invicta was designed collaboratively by GM centers of expertise in Warren, Mich. and Shanghai, China. The name, which is Latin for "invincible," returns to Buick after a 45-year hiatus in the United States.
"Buick's global appeal created an opportunity for GM Design Centers to elevate our collaboration to new levels. Using our virtual reality centers in Warren and Shanghai, designers fused the best ideas from both cultures during the development of the Invicta," said Edward T. Welburn, vice president, General Motors Global Design. "The result will set a new design standard for Buick, and it couldn't have been achieved by one studio working in isolation. The Invicta represents another significant design milestone in Buick's history."
Invicta is powered by Buick's first direct injection turbocharged engine, a four-cylinder powerplant that produces 250 horsepower (186 kW) and 220 lb-ft (298 Nm) of torque. The engine is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission for maximum fuel efficiency.
Modern, sleek exterior
Invicta's designers drew inspiration from the Riviera concept. Invicta features modern and sleek proportions with exterior lines that flow uninterrupted around the vehicle. For example, Invicta's cat-eye headlamps transition into the Buick heritage-inspired sweepspear design cue, which flows seamlessly along the body sides and merges into the taillamps. Similarly, one can trace the top of the headlamp casing to the roofline and the rear of the vehicle without interruptions.
As with Riviera, Invicta features short overhangs with wheels pushed out to the corners for a well-planted stance. The overall appearance is sleek, thanks in part to a sweeping, low roofline and a front windshield that has an aggressive rake.
Up front, the Buick tri-shield is prominently displayed inside the Velite-inspired chrome vertical waterfall grille. Polished aluminum surrounding the headlamps, portholes, around the D-pillar and along the lower side of the vehicle on the lower doors accentuates the overall exterior design. Reminiscent of a number of historic Buick models, Invicta's portholes – three per side – are located on the hood rather than on the front quarter panels.
Invicta's wheelbase and high belt line give the vehicle more substantial proportions while visually reinforcing its premium appearance. Invicta's 20-inch polished aluminum wheels feature a milled Buick tri-shield in the center cap.
To signal its premium attributes while enhancing the vehicle's sleek proportions, Invicta's exterior is draped in a sumptuous AluStone color. Its warm beige tone contains wafer-thin flakes of aluminum that reflect light to emit a liquid gold appearance.
Flowing, crafted interior
The focus and attention to seamless transitions carry over inside Invicta. The doors merge to become one with the instrument panel, which morphs into the center console.
The wrap-around design of the interior and fluid design provide a spacious cabin for all passengers, especially those seated in the back of the vehicle. At nearly 100 cubic feet of interior space, Invicta delivers large-car comfort in a mid-size sedan. The sense of roominess is further accentuated by a full glass roof, which allows all passengers to enjoy the sights, day or night.
Invicta also showcases a high level of interior craftsmanship while creating an environment that is soothing, quiet, comfortable and inviting for all passengers.
The blending of premium materials – such as wood trim and polished aluminum accents, soft aniline leather, supple suede-like material and soothing Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting technology – encase passengers in Buick luxury.
Beyond its sumptuous appearance, Buick created a show car for the senses. Authentic French seam stitching on the soft-touch instrument panel pad, door panels and steering wheel invites touch. Buttons, switches and door pulls are crafted to deliver a tactile quality experience. Soft and soothing Ice Blue ambient LED lighting on the instrument panel, around the central vehicle function controls, along the console and center storage, and in the front footwells provoke visual sophistication. Two discriminating "spotlights" also accent the center point of the front and rear seats.
Buick introduced the Invicta in North America as a production vehicle in 1959. The Invicta show car is the first time the nameplate has appeared on a Buick in China.
Click Thumbs to View Larger Images:
New Buick Invicta Concept teaser picture
Buick is trying to strike back with its new car.
GM has released a second teaser image of its Buick Inivcta Concept car that will perform its global debut at this year's Auto China Show, which runs from April 20 through April 28 in Beijing. According to American carmaker, the Invicta is a luxury concept that “reflects the way GM utilizes its design and engineering talent around the world to execute a premium vehicle with international appeal”. The new concept also represents the evolution of Buick’s global design direction from the Riviera Coupe, which GM unveiled at the Auto Shanghai 2007.
Along with the Invicta, GM’s stands at the Auto China Show will host the all-new Cadillac CTS, Buick LaCrosse Eco-Hybrid, new Chevrolet Aveo, 2008 Chevrolet Spark, and new offerings from Opel and SAIC-GM-Wuling.
Source: CarScoop
Along with the Invicta, GM’s stands at the Auto China Show will host the all-new Cadillac CTS, Buick LaCrosse Eco-Hybrid, new Chevrolet Aveo, 2008 Chevrolet Spark, and new offerings from Opel and SAIC-GM-Wuling.
Source: CarScoop
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Recall: Wbodies Experiencing Fires
Fire under your hood is serious business. If you own a 1997-2003 Buick Regal GS or a 1997-2003 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP sporting a supercharged L67 3.8L engine - be aware.
Source with Repair Guide: GM Inside News
These vehicles may experience an under hood fire. The fires may be caused by drops of engine oil being deposited on the exhaust manifold through hard braking. If the manifold is hot enough and the oil runs below the heat shield, it may ignite into a small flame in and in some instances the fire may spread to the plastic spark plug wire channel. Most cases have occurred five to ten minutes after the vehicle has been turned off.
If a fire occurs, it may cascade through the engine compartment causing vehicle damage and in some cases, the fire may spread to structures where the vehicle was parked.
A total of 207,542 U.S. vehicles are involved. We are currently working with our suppliers to obtain parts required to launch a safety recall in the near future. However, in the interim, a customer advisory letter (see attached) is being sent to all customers of record to inform them of this situation. This letter will also provide three important precautions the customer should take: 1) Do not park the vehicle in a garage, car port or other structure. 2) If a burning odor is detected, the customer should take their vehicle to a dealer for inspection. 3) Customers should use premium fuel (91 octane or higher) as recommended in their vehicle owner's manual. The customer letter will be mailed on March 13, 2008.
If a fire occurs, it may cascade through the engine compartment causing vehicle damage and in some cases, the fire may spread to structures where the vehicle was parked.
A total of 207,542 U.S. vehicles are involved. We are currently working with our suppliers to obtain parts required to launch a safety recall in the near future. However, in the interim, a customer advisory letter (see attached) is being sent to all customers of record to inform them of this situation. This letter will also provide three important precautions the customer should take: 1) Do not park the vehicle in a garage, car port or other structure. 2) If a burning odor is detected, the customer should take their vehicle to a dealer for inspection. 3) Customers should use premium fuel (91 octane or higher) as recommended in their vehicle owner's manual. The customer letter will be mailed on March 13, 2008.
Source with Repair Guide: GM Inside News
Rumor: GM still plans RWD Buick & Cadillac
Ford bailed on RWD.
Chrysler is re-skinning the LX-chassis cars.
And GM is progressing with its abbreviated RWD plans.
The Chevrolet Camaro is still in GM’s production plan. But GM’s decision not to proceed with a range of rear-drive vehicles for Pontiac, Chevrolet and Buick has become a distinct possibility, to keep GM’s fuel-economy averages from getting too far out of line.
But there are apparently now two additional survivors in the future of the Zeta platform, the global RWD chassis that underpins Chevrolet's hot new Camaro, and the just-now-arriving Pontiac G8.
Sources now report that a Zeta-chassis RWD car will replace two existing Cadillacs - the DTS and the STS - with the DTS name remaining. In the Buick lineup, it is likely for the RWD large car to replace the current Lucerne. The Lucerne and DTS currently share a large-car FWD platform.
The Buick version could spawn a car to allow GM to snag commercial buyers when Ford exits that market by retiring the Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis/Town Car lineup 2010.
Source: The Car Connection
Chrysler is re-skinning the LX-chassis cars.
And GM is progressing with its abbreviated RWD plans.
The Chevrolet Camaro is still in GM’s production plan. But GM’s decision not to proceed with a range of rear-drive vehicles for Pontiac, Chevrolet and Buick has become a distinct possibility, to keep GM’s fuel-economy averages from getting too far out of line.
But there are apparently now two additional survivors in the future of the Zeta platform, the global RWD chassis that underpins Chevrolet's hot new Camaro, and the just-now-arriving Pontiac G8.
Sources now report that a Zeta-chassis RWD car will replace two existing Cadillacs - the DTS and the STS - with the DTS name remaining. In the Buick lineup, it is likely for the RWD large car to replace the current Lucerne. The Lucerne and DTS currently share a large-car FWD platform.
The Buick version could spawn a car to allow GM to snag commercial buyers when Ford exits that market by retiring the Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis/Town Car lineup 2010.
Source: The Car Connection
Buick Lucerne Super Priced
General Motors today said the base price of the 2008 Buick Lucerne Super sedan will start at $39,395, including a $765 shipping charge. The luxury sedan is powered by a 4.6-liter V-8 engine producing 292 hp and 288 pounds-feet of torque. The vehicle will arrive in dealer showrooms in early April, GM said.
The Lucerne Super comes standard with heated and cooled front seats, remote start, rear parking assist, heated steering wheel and shifter, OnStar, XM satellite radio and other features. Optional equipment includes touch-screen navigation, 18-inch chrome wheels, power sunroof, and side blind-zone and lane-departure warning systems for $3,990 above the base price.
The Lucerne also will be available in the CX and CXL trim levels. Base prices are $28,285 for the CX and $30,930 for the CXL, including delivery and fees. All Lucernes are built at GM's plant in Detroit.
Source: AutoNews
The Lucerne Super comes standard with heated and cooled front seats, remote start, rear parking assist, heated steering wheel and shifter, OnStar, XM satellite radio and other features. Optional equipment includes touch-screen navigation, 18-inch chrome wheels, power sunroof, and side blind-zone and lane-departure warning systems for $3,990 above the base price.
The Lucerne also will be available in the CX and CXL trim levels. Base prices are $28,285 for the CX and $30,930 for the CXL, including delivery and fees. All Lucernes are built at GM's plant in Detroit.
Source: AutoNews
Domestic Vehicle Ties For 1ST In Reliability
GM earned a big victory as Buick has tied Lexus in J.D. Power and Associates' influential vehicle reliability survey. This had been the Toyota premium brand's stomping grounds for 12 years. Additionally, all other GM brands scored better in the survey than they did in 2006 and Hummer was the most improved of any brand.
"These numbers are from cars that were produced three years ago," GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz said in Traverse City while attending the auto industry's annual Management Briefing Seminars. "We've made tremendous strides in dependability and durability since then. We will not rest until all our brands are above average."
Grand National Turbo 3.8L Powered RX7
From the fresh motor to the fresh paint, this car has been completely gone through, no corner was cut here. Here is your chance to own a truly one of a kind 1g RX7.
Engine:
'87 Buick Grand National Turbo 3.8 with a rebuilt short block
ported/polished heads/intake/doghouse
62mm TB
3" front mount intercooler
O'ringed heads, wire loc gaskets
TE-62 turbo
3" downpipe
50lb injectors
Translator +, ect.
The setup is good for high 10's in a Grand National(and the rx7 is only 2450lbs!)
Other Specs:
Cowl Hood
8.8 ford rear
Ladder bar setup
Mini tub
Weld Racing Draglites
GSL-SE brake conversion
Hawk plus pads
Aluminum Radiator
Poly Motor mounts
Built 200-4r tranny w/ transbrake
3500 coan converter
New slicks/front runners
New wheel bearings/rotors
Cage
Line lock
Gauges: Knock,Water,Fuel PSI,Boost,Tranny Temp, Oil Pressure, A/F
Aeromotive Fuel pump
Coilovers
Custom motor/tranny mounts
Fresh 2004 WRX Impreza paint
A lot of time and money has been put into this car, and with this current setup it will be capable of 9.90's in the 1/4 mile. The car is street legal, but was built with drag racing as its main focus. Check it out!
LS1Tech: GN Powered RX7
Engine:
'87 Buick Grand National Turbo 3.8 with a rebuilt short block
ported/polished heads/intake/doghouse
62mm TB
3" front mount intercooler
O'ringed heads, wire loc gaskets
TE-62 turbo
3" downpipe
50lb injectors
Translator +, ect.
The setup is good for high 10's in a Grand National(and the rx7 is only 2450lbs!)
Other Specs:
Cowl Hood
8.8 ford rear
Ladder bar setup
Mini tub
Weld Racing Draglites
GSL-SE brake conversion
Hawk plus pads
Aluminum Radiator
Poly Motor mounts
Built 200-4r tranny w/ transbrake
3500 coan converter
New slicks/front runners
New wheel bearings/rotors
Cage
Line lock
Gauges: Knock,Water,Fuel PSI,Boost,Tranny Temp, Oil Pressure, A/F
Aeromotive Fuel pump
Coilovers
Custom motor/tranny mounts
Fresh 2004 WRX Impreza paint
A lot of time and money has been put into this car, and with this current setup it will be capable of 9.90's in the 1/4 mile. The car is street legal, but was built with drag racing as its main focus. Check it out!
LS1Tech: GN Powered RX7
Click Thumbs to View Larger Images:
GM Utilizes Blind-Spot Detection
In 2008 certain Buicks and Cadillacs will be equipped with blind-spot detection technology. A light on the side view mirror goes on after the system has calculated another vehicles speed and position and determined that it is in a blind-spot.
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