2012 Buick Enclave Reviews

2012 Buick Enclave Reviews



The Buick Enclave offers three rows of seats standard, with seating for up to eight people. Standard 19-inch aluminum wheels; 20-inch chrome-clad wheels optional

Other than receiving some minor feature changes, the Buick Enclave carries over unchanged for 2012.



Overall, though, the Buick Enclave stands out as a solid pick for an upscale family hauler.



Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2012 Buick Enclave is a large crossover SUV that's offered in four different trim levels. All have a standard seven-passenger seating configuration via second-row captain's chairs and a third-row bench seat. The Leather Group tacks on leather upholstery, heated power front seats (eight-way driver, four-way passenger) and driver memory settings.



The top-of-the-line Premium Group has the above equipment plus 19-inch chrome wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, heated power-folding outside mirrors with built-in turn signal repeaters, heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable steering column, a 115-volt household-style power outlet and a 10-speaker Bose premium audio system with USB/auxiliary audio input jacks and a pair of rear seat headphone jacks.



Major options vary by trim level and include 20-inch chrome alloy wheels, a dual-pane sunroof, the second-row bench seat and a second-row center console. Electronics upgrades include the 10-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system, a rear-seat entertainment system and a navigation system.



The 2012 Buick Enclave is offered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. EPA fuel economy estimates stand at 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined for front-wheel-drive models, while all-wheel-drive versions rate 16/22/18.



Safety

Stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags are standard on every 2012 Buick Enclave. Even the third-row seats are suitable for adult passengers.



Driving Impressions

Other large crossovers feel more nimble, but overall the Enclave's handling inspires confidence.



This Enclave is awfully quiet both in town and on the freeway. Likewise, I found some of the materials unacceptable in this price class. The steering wheel had casting flash and unpleasant hard plastics right at the fingertip touch points. There's lots of room, though, and the Enclave is nicely configurable for multiple needs.



Even a loaded Ford Explorer--more this crossover's competition, whether Buick wants to admit it or not--comes out significantly less than the Enclave and offers a far superior driving experience. Pass.

2012 Buick LaCrosse with eAssist, first hybrid sedan

The 2012 Buick LaCrosse with eAssist, the brand's first hybrid sedan,
The pricing strategy carefully slots the Buick hybrid in a near-luxury hybrid category, just above the 2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid, but below the 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid and the 2011 Lexus HS Hybrid.

The 2012 Fusion Hybrid starts at $29,395, including a $795 destination charge. The LaCrosse hybrid carries a $2,830 premium over the base 2011 Buick LaCrosse CX, which starts at $27,990, including destination.
The LaCrosse also comes with front-wheel drive as standard, though an all-wheel drive option will also be offered.

Though final EPA estimates are yet to come in, GM’s own estimates for the 2012 Buick LaCrosse eAssist are 25/37 mpg city/highway.

The latest version of GM’s eAssist technology pairs the LaCrosse’s 182 horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor rated at 11 kW (15 horsepower). Unlike a full hybrid system, eAssist cannot power a vehicle on electric power alone but works to aid the engine during high load situations and help reduce fuel consumption.

The system also features a regenerative braking system to help charge the car’s air-cooled 115 volt lithium-ion battery pack.

Standard features include dual-zone climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels, and Bluetooth and USB connectivity. The 2012 Buick LaCrosse eAssist will hit showrooms in the next several weeks.

Details are limited, but eAssist has an engine start /stop system and a power boost capability (where the electric motor works with the petrol engine for improved acceleration). Thanks to this setup, the hybrid is expected to return 25 mpg city / 37 mpg highway - an improvement of 6 mpg city / 7 mpg highway

2012 Buick Verano

Riding on a version of the Chevrolet Cruze’s Delta architecture, the Buick Verano will slot beneath the Regal in Buick’s lineup. At the forthcoming North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Buick will reveal publicly its third new model in the past two years and first in the compact luxury segment, the 2012 Buick Verano

Following Buick’s current design language, the Buick Verano features a sculpted design with a familiar Buick face. Historically accurate hood-mounted porthole vents complete the Verano’s front end.
The" Verano’s interior "carries over the theme of luxury and sport, featuring a dash and center stack that is familiar within the Buick family. The 2012 Buick Verano is available with a number of luxury features, including a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, touch screen navigation and Bluetooth connectivity.

Although no timeframe was given, Buick says the Verano will eventually be offered with a 2.0L turbocharged engine. Given the Verano is about 300 pounds lighter than the Regal, a Verano GS would certainly be best performer in the Buick lineup.
Buick failed to release pricing for the Verano, but we expect that information closer to the car’s fourth quarter 2011 launch.

General Motors continues to overhaul its Buick line-up, with the 2012 Buick Verano being the brand’s first compact.Among the big available features are 10 standard airbags, a heated steering wheel and the latest generation OnStar.

Built from the same platform as the recently introduced Chevrolet Cruze and built at the Orion Township in Michigan that will also build the new Chevrolet Sonic sub-compact, the 2012 Verano was introduced at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The overall interior volume is the same as Cruze, but there are differences in leg, shoulder and head room, with Buick Verano bettering Cruze in the width dimensions at the sake of head and leg room.
Four wheel anti-lock disc brakes (with electronic brake force distribution), traction control and Stabilitrak electronic stability control are all standard.

Befitting a Buick, the interior features premium upholstery, metallic or wood trim and soft touch materials for all touch surfaces. Standards include dual-zone climate control, power windows and a sliding console armrest.

2011 Buick LaCrosse Overviews

The 2011 Buick LaCrosse is shot across the bow from GM to longtime luxury leaders like Lexus.The LaCrosse is upscale enough to challenge entry-level luxury cars, but priced like the higher trim levels of some affordable cars. If you're willing to spend more, make your comparisons in the luxury car classes. If you're looking to save a few bucks, compare the LaCrosse to affordable midsize cars.

Like the LaCrosse, it has a zen-quiet cabin. While the ES does cost more than the LaCrosse, the Lexus brand may have more cachet with luxury shoppers.
Also, the four-cylinder model gets a new electric-assist power steering system.
The 2011 Buick LaCrosse has pared down its engine choices this year, as the 255-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 has been discontinued while the 182-hp 2.4-liter inline-4 and the 280-hp 3.6-liter V6 go forward. Overall, we're impressed by the 2011 Buick LaCrosse. The 2011 Buick LaCrosse is offered in three trim levels: CX, CXL and CXS.

The base CX includes 17-inch steel wheels, a power driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with audio controls, full power accessories, OnStar and a seven-speaker audio system with a CD/MP3 player, an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. Options for the CX include 17-inch alloy wheels and a Comfort and Convenience package that includes dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming mirror, Bluetooth, power lumbar adjustment for the driver seat, a power front passenger seat and remote engine start. There's also the optional Luxury package that includes a heated leather/wood-grain steering wheel, ventilated front seats, a power rear sunshade and keyless ignition/entry.

Individual option highlights include a sunroof, chrome wheels, a navigation system (with rearview camera and digital music storage), a rear seat entertainment system (with dual display screens) and the Harman Kardon audio system.

The CXS trim level includes 19-inch alloy wheels and everything above except the navigation system, power sunroof, Driver Confidence package and rear entertainment system, which all remain optional. For CX and CXL trims, a 2.4-liter inline-4 with 182 hp and 172 pound-feet of torque is the standard engine. The CXL is available in either front- or all-wheel drive -- a plus for those in snowy climates. All LaCrosse models feature a six-speed automatic transmission.
The AWD version rates 16/26/20.

Safety
The 2011 Buick LaCrosse features standard front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, OnStar communications, stability and traction control, and antilock disc brakes with brake assist. Rear-seat side airbags are also available as an option. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, the Buick scored "Good" ratings (the highest possible) in that agency's frontal-offset and side-impact tests.

The 2011 Buick LaCrosse boasts an elegant and contemporary interior.
Driving Impressions
From the driver seat, the 2011 Buick LaCrosse exhibits an enjoyable blend of luxury and engagement. Rear visibility, however, is compromised by the car's high rear deck and thick roof pillars.

The 3.6-liter V6 engine will remain.
Vehicle Specifications
Fuel economy: four-cylinder model should get 19 mpg city/30 mpg highway
Engine: 2.4-liter, 182 horsepower inline four-cylinder; 3.6-liter, 280 hp V6
Acceleration: information on the acceleration of the four-cylinder engine is unavailable; the 3.6-liter V6 has plenty of power

Car safety features: car safety features should include side curtain airbags, front side airbags, stability and traction control, OnStar, and antilock brakes. Warranty: four-year/50,000 mile basic warranty; five-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty; six-year/100,000 mile corrosion warranty; five years or 100,000 miles of roadside assistance
Exterior Features
The Buick Lacrosse had its exterior redesigned for the 2010 model year, and the 2011 Buick LaCrosse is not likely to make any changes. The interior of the 2011 Buick LaCrosse shouldn’t change much from the previous year. If you like the Buick LaCrosse, you might like these vehicles as well:

2011 Buick Lucerne Reviews

The 2011 Buick Lucerne offers comfortable seating, plenty of power, and smooth handling. While Buick was considering changing the Lucerne to a rear wheel drive vehicle for 2011, it retains the front wheel drive capabilities.

Even the standard CX package offers luxury features when you’re considering the 2011 Buick Lucerne.
The 2011 Buick Lucerne receives only minor updates, including streamlined trim levels, new audio systems and standard stability control on all models.

Of course, some buyers may appreciate the Lucerne's old-school vibe. If you're partial to the grand Buick sedans of yesteryear like the Park Avenue and LeSabre, you'll feel right at home in the 2011 Buick Lucerne. Smooth and comfortable ride? Check. Check. On the move, the Lucerne disappoints with slow steering, lifeless handling, a bargelike turning circle and barely adequate brakes.
As basic transportation, the 2011 Buick Lucerne is good enough. The 2011 Buick Lucerne is a full-size luxury sedan offered in four trim levels: CX, CXL, CXL Premium and top-of-the-line Super. Five-passenger seating is standard and six-passenger seating with a 40/20/40 front split bench seat is available on all trim levels except Super.

The Comfort and Convenience package includes dual-zone automatic climate control and Bluetooth.
The CXL Premium includes the Driver Confidence package, plus chromed alloy wheels, a driver auto-dimming mirror, a lane-departure warning system, a blind-spot warning system and a nine-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

Finally, the Super trim takes the Lucerne experience to another level with V8 power, 18-inch chrome alloy wheels, a sunroof (optional on CXL and CXL Premium), adaptive magnetic ride control, magnetic steering, perforated leather/faux-suede upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a touchscreen navigation system with real-time traffic. The front-wheel-drive Buick Lucerne offers two engines from which to choose. The CX and CXL models are equipped with a 3.9-liter V6 producing 227 hp and 237 pound-feet of torque.

Safety
Every 2011 Buick Lucerne is equipped with antilock brakes, traction and stability control, front side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags. The Lucerne has not been rated using the government's new, more strenuous 2011 crash testing procedures. The seats are comfortable, with ample room front and back, and a Lucerne advantage is the ability to seat six if needed.

The 2011 Buick Lucerne Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 87 published reviews and test drives of the Buick Lucerne, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
In that respect the 2011 Buick Lucerne is a decent choice.
If you’re looking for a car that’s quiet and comfortable, with a reasonably nice interior and conservative styling, the Lucerne will work just fine. The 2011 Buick Lucerne has one of the highest starting prices in the affordable large car class. The Ford Taurus has been winning great reviews for its sharply-tailored looks and high-tech cabin. If you’re a Buick fan, it may be worth passing over the Lucerne in favor of the Buick LaCrosse.

Buick Lucerne: The Details
The 2011 Buick Lucerne has four available trims: CX, CXL, EXL and the top-of-the-line Super. For 2011, GM’s StabiliTrak electronic stability control system is standard on all trims.

Buick Regal new model for 2011

The 2011 Buick Regal offers midsize sedan buyers a sporty option that can compete with some upscale models.

Not only that, Autoblog, like other reviewers, argues that the Regal can compete with upscale midsize sport sedans like the Acura TSX and Audi A4.

Among midsize cars, the Regal shines with performance that balances fuel economy and power, handling and ride comfort. All in all, if you're shopping midsize sedans, reviewers say that the Regal should be on your short list.

The Regal's price makes it more expensive than most base-model affordable midsize cars, but less expensive than other upscale midsize cars.

Details: Buick Regal
The Buick Regal is an all-new model for 2011.
the Buick Regal nameplate returns after a six-year hiatus. Mention the words Buick Regal and you're bound to get one of three responses. The 2011 Buick Regal is based on the Opel Insignia and as such shares that smart sedan's athletic handling and well-sorted European ride. Basically, you can consider this Buick's midsize car.

The 3,600-pound Regal is available with a 2.4-liter inline-4 that sports direct fuel-injection technology and high fuel economy (up to 30 mpg highway), but we've found its 182 horsepower inadequate for motivating a car with luxury aspirations -- most midsize sedans without luxury aspirations are quicker. A turbocharged 2.0-liter engine sporting 220 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque is also offered and is a much better choice. Buick is positioning the 2011 Regal against the likes of the Acura TSX and Lexus IS 250. The 2011 Buick Regal is a midsize family sport sedan available in two trim levels: CXL and CXL Turbo. Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, heated sideview mirrors, keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, full power accessories, OnStar, leather upholstery, a power driver seat, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, a trip computer, a 60/40-split rear seatback, a seven-speaker stereo (with CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, iPod/auxiliary audio jacks and steering-wheel-mounted controls) and Bluetooth connectivity.

Opting for the Regal CXL Turbo will add rear parking sensors and a 12-way power-adjustable front passenger seat -- both of which are available on the standard Regal CXL as part of the optional Comfort and Convenience package. Options exclusive to the turbo model include 19-inch wheels, xenon headlights and an Interactive Drive Control system with Sport, Tour and Standard modes. Options for either Regal include a sunroof, a hard-drive-based navigation system with digital music storage and a nine-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system.
The EPA estimates fuel economy at 19 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 23 mpg in combined driving for the 2.4-liter engine.

Safety
Standard safety equipment for all 2011 Buick Regal models include antilock brakes, traction control, stability control, OnStar, front seat side-impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.

Driving Impressions
Quick steering and a firm, unwavering attitude on a winding road give the Regal plenty of sport sedan credibility. Sport mode noticeably improves the Regal's sportiness, while Tour gives the car a compliant ride without a hint of old-school Buick float.

This midsize sedan offers luxury and performance.
The turbo also offers the Interactive Drive Control System, which lets you choose from three driving modes: Sport, for the most performance; Tour, for driving long trips; and Standard, the ordinary mode.

The Regal's fuel economy numbers are 18 mpg city, 28 highway for the automatic six-speed to 20 and 32 for the manual.

The turbo offers impressive on-road performance, with good handling and braking. The Regal offers a solid package of safety features, including dual stage front airbags, front seat side impact airbags and head curtain side airbags standard. The 18-inch aluminum wheels are standard, but 19-inch rims are available.

2010 Buick Enclave Reviews

The 2010 Buick Enclave large crossover SUV comes in CX, CXL1 and CXL2 trim levels. All have a standard seven-passenger seating configuration via second-row captain's chairs and a third-row bench seat. The Buick Enclaves CXL1 adds leather upholstery, heated power front seats (eight-way driver, four-way passenger), driver-seat memory functions, rear parking sensors, remote ignition and a back-up camera with a small rearview-mirror display. The CXL2 tacks on active headlamps, power-folding heated outside mirrors with driver-side auto-dimming and integrated turn signals, a power tilt-telescoping steering wheel, a cooling function for the front seats, a 115-volt power outlet and a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound system with a USB audio jack.

Other Enclave options include a dual-pane "SkyScape" sunroof (not available on CX), a second-row storage console with a 12-volt power outlet (also not available on CX) and towing preparation.

The 2010 Buick Enclave offers a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. With the optional trailering package, the Enclave can tow up to 4,500 pounds.

Stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags are standard on all 2010 Buick Enclaves.

The Buick Enclaves boasts one of the most luxurious and quiet interiors in its class. The Lincoln MKX offers an interior that may be even more luxurious than the Enclave’s. The MKX also offers a slightly better fuel economy rating of 18/25 mpg.

If you absolutely need a three-row SUV, consider the Enclave’s platform-mate, the Chevrolet Traverse.

The Buick Enclaves is available in two trims: the base CX, premium CXL and top-of-the-line CXL2. Trims are available with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

The 2010 Buick Enclave offers many new features with the introduction of new top of the line CXL2, standard 19 inch wheels, optional 20 inch chrome wheels, a USB jack for the optional Bose stereo.

The 2010 Buick enclave crossover SUV is available in three trims CX, CXL1and CXL2.

The mid level CXL1 is gains leather upholstery, driver seat memory functions, heated power front seats, rear parking sensors, back up camera, small rear view mirror display, and remote ignition.

This burly edition offers an estimated fuel economy of 17 mpg city levels, 24 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined for front wheel drive and 16 mpg city levels, 22 mpg highway and 18 mph combined on all wheel drive.

The 2010 Buick enclave is equipped with front seat side airbag, full length side curtain airbag, and stability control.
The 2010 Buick Enclave crossover SUV is ideally designed with upscale interiors and slick exterior styling.

Buick Announces Pricing For 2011 Regal

2010-01-21
Buick today announced pricing for the all-new 2011 Regal. Prices start at $26,995 for the premium CXL model, including a $750 destination charge.

Regal’s CXL turbo model will start at $29,495, including a $750 destination charge.

Regal will initially be offered in premium CXL trim only, with additional trim levels to be offered in the 2012 model year. The well-equipped Regal CXL includes the following as standard or available equipment:

Standard 2.4L Ecotec direct injected engine rated at an estimated 182 horsepower (136 kW)

Available 2.0L Ecotec turbocharged and direct injected engine rated at an estimated 220 horsepower (164 kW) – available late-summer 2010 Both engines have six-speed automatic transmission standard with Driver Shift Control (DSC)

Estimated 30 mpg on the highway with the 2.4L and 29 mpg highway with the 2.0L turbo engine

MacPherson strut front suspension and four-link independent rear suspension

Class-exclusive Interactive Drive Control System is available with the 2.0L turbo.

Buick Unveils Regal GS Show Car

At A Glance:

*21st-century successor to Buick’s Gran Sport heritage
*Bold, sporty design with unique exterior details and an aggressive stance
*High-output Ecotec 2.0L turbocharged engine and six-speed manual transmission
*Adaptive all-wheel-drive system and electronic limited-slip rear differential
*0-60 in less than 6.0 seconds
*Buick’s class-exclusive Interactive Drive Control System

With an estimated 255 turbocharged horsepower (190 kW), a six-speed manual transmission and an advanced, adaptive all-wheel-drive system, the Buick Regal GS show car is a high-tech, high-performance version of the brand’s newest sport sedan. It was introduced at the 2010 North American International Auto Show.

The mechanical elements were developed with the aim of delivering a driving experience that is sporting, confidence-inspiring and refined.

It has a performance-oriented drivetrain, a lowered body and lower center of gravity. Exterior and interior cues include two additional vertical front air intakes; large, forged aluminum 20-inch wheels and performance tires; a racing-inspired sport steering wheel and metal pedals. Recaro high-performance front seats feature four-way lumbar support and cushion extensions.

“We designed the Regal GS to explore the appeal of a high-performance variant of the Regal,” said Craig Bierley, product marketing director for Buick. “Like the Regal, the Regal GS is based on the award-winning Opel Insignia, and we believe it will reinvigorate Buick’s storied Gran Sport legacy.”

Turbocharged AWD performance

Power for the Regal GS comes from a high-output 2.0L Ecotec turbocharged engine with direct-injection technology. It is based on the engine that will be offered on Regal CXL models later this summer, but the engine and turbocharger are tuned to deliver greater boost pressure in the GS. The output is estimated at 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (400 Nm).

The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission that directs torque to an adaptive all-wheel-drive system calibrated for performance driving. An electronic, limited-slip rear differential helps ensure the engine’s power is distributed effectively during cornering.

GM To Uncork New Tech At LA Show

GLITR- 22 November 2009

The North American auto show season will kick off in early December with the start of the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.

According to the show’s website, “As the first major North American auto show of the season, the LA Auto Show will deliver a preview of how the recent changes in the industry, the environment and the economy will ultimately affect what consumers drive.”

General Motors will make several announcements and debuts during press days in LA.

With fuel economy on the minds of many, Chevrolet will reveal to North America the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, a compact sedan, on Dec. 2.

With its 1.4 liter, four-cylinder engine, the Cruze will get upwards of 40 MPG on the highway making it a fuel economy leader in the small car segment.

Also appearing is the Chevrolet Volt FlexFuel extended-range electric vehicle, set for production in 2010 and willbe available to the consumer late next year. The Volt will drive up to 40 miles completely gas-free on a fully charged battery and several hundred miles more beyond that with the car’s on-board engine generator. In LA, Chevrolet will also announce the winner of a nationwide consumer competition to name a Volt unique paint color.

On Dec. 3, GM will reveal to North America the 2011 Buick Regal, a new mid-size sport sedan with an available turbo-charged four-cylinder engine and great fuel economy with an estimated 29 mpg. The new Buick Regal will gohead to head with competitors like the Volvo S60 and Acura TSX.  GM’s Cadillac brand will also debut to the worldthe production model of the 2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe a head-turning sports car from Cadillac.

SOURCE:

CLICK icon below For More Cadillac CTS Coupe Images

Buick LaCrosse, Chevy Malibu Named Top Safety Picks

Both Achieve All ‘Good’ Marks from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety;2009-11-18

*Addition of Roof Strength Component Trims Qualifying Vehicles by 71 Percent

*Front, Side, Rear Crash Tests and StabiliTrak Combine to Earn Status

The all-new Buick LaCrosse and the Chevrolet Malibu received Top Safety Pick honors Wednesday from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

“Institute tests represent the four most common kinds of crashes,” said IIHS president Adrian Lund.  “Getting through these tough tests and earning the Institute’s highest award means the Malibu and LaCrosse are in the top tier for safety.” The Top Safety Pick for LaCrosse and Malibu are significant because their principal competitors from Lexus, Acura, Toyota and Honda respectively were dropped from the list, which for the first time required a “good” rating in a roof strength test. This test is a measure to help determine protection in rollover crashes, which are responsible for 9,000 highway deaths a year.

“Customers continue to tell us that safety is a top consideration in a new vehicle purchase and we are listening,” said GM Vice President of  U.S. Sales Susan Docherty.

SOURCE: 

Click Icon Below To Check Complete List Of Vehicle Ratings

IIHS website is displaying the photos of a recent crash test applied to 2009 Malibu & 1959 Belair

In the crash test involving the two Chevrolets, the 2009 Malibu's  occupant compartment 

remained intact (above left) while the one in the 1959 Bel Air (right) collapsed.

click 4 video

SOURCE: 

Blazing Buicks! 335-hp Regal GS, Regal Sport Wagon Being Discussed

GM vice chairman Bob Lutz visited Hollywood for the unveiling of the 2011 Buick Regal. Car & Driver had the rare opportunity to sit down with him and ask what else GM has in mind for its new Euro-tuned sedan. Being studied, he said, are a manual-transmission model and all-wheel drive (which is pretty much a given), as well as a 335-hp, all-wheel-drive range-topper, all of which would complement the front-wheel-drive four-cylinder models that have been announced.

Vaunted Regals include the Grand National and GNX and later the GS and SLP-tuned GSX. Lutz himself used the letters “GS” in the same breath as “335 hp” and “AWD.” Such a variant (rendered above for your viewing pleasure) makes perfect sense given that Opel sells a pretty hot Insignia OPC with a 325-hp turbocharged 2.8-lilter V-6, a six-speed manual, and all-wheel drive.

Lutz confirmed that not only was a Regal Sport Wagon under consideration, but that a Buick version of the Insignia Sports Tourer had been part of the American product plan from the beginning—until, that is, the financial crisis prompted GM to divert the cash required for re-engineering and federalizing the wagon away to other, more pressing programs.

SOURCE: 

GM Execs In Hollywood: Bob Lutz-Susan Docherty-Ed Welburn

The 2011 Regal

A Buick Bred On The Autobahn

Sport Sedan Blends Sleek Design with European Road Manners for Great Driving

Wednesday November 11, 2009

LOS ANGELES – On Thursday Buick will reveal the 2011 Regal sport sedan to customers in the L.A. area. Armed with turbocharged horsepower, a driver-selectable suspension system and a firm, European-tuned chassis, it delivers a driving experience that rivals the best import sport sedans in the segment.

“The 2011 Buick Regal is like nothing you’ve ever experienced from this brand,” said Susan Docherty, general manager of  Buick GMC. “The Regal is the next chapter in Buick’s transformation and will expand the portfolio to include a sport sedan.”

The new Regal arrives in the second quarter of 2010, with its sights aimed squarely on competitors like the Acura TSX and Volvo S60.

QUICK FACTS

A new midsize Buick sport sedan with a European-bred driving experience On sale in the second quarter of 2010 Based on the award-winning Opel Insignia and available now as a Regal in China.

Modern, sleek design with great attention to detail and excellent build quality

Efficient, four-cylinder/six-speed powertrain with 30 mpg (est.)

Turbocharged model available in summer 2010

Driver-selectable Interactive Drive Control System available in summer 2010

Available rear-seat thorax air bags

Standard 18-inch wheels, leather and heated front seats, XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth and OnStar.

Regal at a glance

Regal will initially be offered in premium CXL trim only, with additional trim levels to be offered in the 2012 model year.

The well-equipped Regal CXL includes the following as standard or available equipment:

Standard 2.4L Ecotec direct injected engine rated at an estimated 182 horsepower (136 kW)

Available 2.0L Ecotec turbocharged and direct injected engine rated at an estimated 220 horsepower (164 kW) – available late-summer 2010.

Both engines have a six-speed automatic transmission standard with driver-shifting controlEstimated 30 mpg on the highway with the 2.4L and 29 mpg highway with the 2.0L turbo engine

SOURCE: Media Online

A Buick With Higher Aspirations

By CHRISTOPHER JENSEN

Published: October 29, 2009

AS if the world needed more proof that General Motors’ stars were out of alignment, the company managed to introduce some of its best cars — true world-class competitors — just before it tumbled into the disgrace of Chapter 11 bankruptcy. G.M. finally found the magic formula just as the momentum from decades of mediocrity carried it over the edge.

The latest example of this belated excellence is the 2010 Buick LaCrosse, which joins other top-notch latecomers — like the Buick Enclave, the Cadillac CTS, the GMC Acadia and the Chevrolet Malibu and Traverse — in the newly shrunken universe of G.M. dealer showrooms. The LaCrosse comes with all the important safety equipment, from electronic stability control to side-impact air bags. After crash-testing the LaCrosse, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety declared it a "top safety pick."

Here's to the DESIGN | BUICK LACROSSE
How New Buicks Took Shape in China
Very nice interactive graphic from NYT...../MT

Buick Asking for new Riviera

Buick chief has asked for Riviera for Buick.www.gminsidenews.com/October 16, 2009

By: Nick Saporito

More news out of Tuesday's GMC-Buick dealership meeting in Detroit leads us to another potential Buick product. It is no secret by now that General Motors is heavily investing in the Buick brand thanks to its success in China and impending revitalization in North America. GMI has been told that Buick management has asked that Buick get a new Riviera sometime in the future to further the revitalization. GMI was told that recently Buick management, including outgoing GMC-Buick General Manager Susan Docherty, asked GM management to add a Riviera to the Buick lineup. GMI has not been told of GM management's response.

Buick's New Tagline: "The new class of world class"

When Bob Lutz came to General Motors, he was charged with turning around the company's unimaginative product development. GM's most senior leader is turning his attention to marketing, where the Detroit automaker has been less than cutting edge. Lutz appears to be spending a lot of his time focusing on Buick, a brand turning the corner in terms of product while also simultaneously messing the bed with those awful "Take a look at me now" commercials that have drawn the praise of absolutely nobody. 

2010 Buick LaCrosse

Bob is set to unveil an all new marketing campaign for Buick titled "The new class of world class," which aims to sell new products like the critically acclaimed 2010 LaCrosse. Lutz has said that he wants the new commercials to better convey the design and function of the Buick lineup. He seems to like what he sees from the new spots, which have yet to be aired. Automotive News quoted Lutz as calling the spots "aggressive stuff."

SOURCE: autoblog.com

GM's Got a Winner in This Beautiful Sedan 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS

By Warren Brown Special to The Washington Post
 Having driven the new LaCrosse CXS for a week and shown it to friends and others all over the Washington metropolitan area -- including people who once swore they would never consider a GM product, or that of any other domestic automobile manufacturer -- I think GM will emerge triumphant.
We can love this one. Thank you, GM. Thank you, Buick. Thank you.