2009 Buick Business Concept

Buick Business Concept, a new concept car designed to showcase the vision of Buick "business class on the road" made its world debut at the Auto Shanghai 2009.


The multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) was developed in China by Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC), a design and engineering joint venture between General Motors and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), with input from the overall design.


Buick business concept captures the essence of language as a Buick in an elegant and expressive depth, with its taut surfaces, dual scan begins waistline, front and rear a strong identity and dynamic presence.


"Business Vehicle Buick has a great presence, and makes a strong statement when you pull in front of each plant," said Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design. "Market of China and the businessman has some specific needs. Our team was responsible for a great solution for business and personal needs."


Classical influences with modern design

According to Cao Min, Concept Designer PATAC car chief, the design team wanted to create a modern and global Buick, but also a subtle Chinese essence and influence. To achieve this balance, they tried to pull their heritage outside the automotive industry - from classical art forms and ancient monuments.



Buick Business Concept Vehicle dynamics and external surfaces of the "yin and yang" interior tones are drawn from diverse inspirations including the Buick Riviera concept 2008, Chinese artifacts and modern electronic icons. The vehicle inside and out, communicates elegance correct beyond cultural boundaries and gives peace and power of Buick.

2011 Buick Regal GS Concept

With an estimated 255 horsepower turbo (190 kW), a six-speed manual transmission and an advanced unit, adaptable to all four wheels, the Buick Regal GS is a concept of high-tech, high-performance version of the sedan brand new sport. Which was presented at the 2010 North American International Auto.


Mechanics was developed with the aim of producing a sporty driving experience, confidence-inspiring and sophisticated. It is a performance-oriented transmission, the lower body and a lower center of gravity. Exterior and interior cues include two additional vertical front air intakes and a large, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels and performance tires, racing-inspired steering wheel and pedals alloy. Recaro front seats with high-performance four-way lumbar support pillow and plug-ins.


"We designed the Buick Regal GS to explore the lure of a high-performance variant of the Regal," said Craig Bierley, product marketing manager for Buick. "As the Regal, the Regal GS is based on the award-winning Opel Insignia, and we believe will reinvigorate Buick Gran Sport legendary heritage."




Buick Regal GS exterior stands out from the vents in front of the vertical chain, as well as a unique rocker panels, an integrated rear spoiler, dual exhaust, Olympic white paint and satin-metal accents.

Buick LaCrosse 2012 Review and Spec

Buick LaCrosse 2012
The 2012 Buick LaCrosse powerplant consists of a 2.4L Ecotec direct-injected four-cylinder engine paired with next-generation six-speed automatic transmission. Using the advanced power storage from its air-cooled lithium-ion battery, needed electrical boost can be utilized in various driving scenarios to optimize the engine and transmission. The LaCrosse delivers an estimated 36 mpg highway and 25 mpg city, thanks to the 115V lithium-ion battery and latest-generation 15-kW motor-generator unit. Buick LaCrosse with eAssist technology uses improved underbody aerodynamics for performance, as well as active control of front-end airflow, allowing the LaCrosse to hug the road for better vehicle stability and driving experience.

Inside is a gracefully flowing design theme that surrounds the instrument and door panels. Attention to detail can be found throughout the interior, including the analog gauges, dark wood grain accents, and contrast stitching highlighting various sections of the instrument panel. Ice blue ambient bulbs are used to illuminate the cabin, giving the Buick subtle yet adequate interior lighting. Buick’s signature QuietTuning – an engineering process to reduce, block and absorb interior noise – provides a passenger environment that is distraction-free and comfortable.

[Source: Buick]















Buick LaCrosse 2012
• eAssistlight electrification system provides 20-percent increase in highway fuel economy and 32-percent better city economy


• Estimated 36 mpg highway and 25 mpg city for about $30,000 – with full-size luxury comfort and amenities


• On sale this summer


DETROIT– This summer, the 2012 Buick LaCrosse goes on sale, with the fuel-savingeAssist™system standard. Using a variety of technologies and exterior enhancements, it delivers an estimated 36 mpg on the highway and 25 mpg in the city – a 20-percent improvement in highway mileage and a 32-percent boost in city mileage over previous models.
LaCrosse’s fuel economy rivals – or exceeds – that of small cars like the MINI Cooper (28 city/36 hwy with automatic transmission) and Toyota Corolla (26 city/34 hwy with 1.8L and automatic transmission), but does so in a full-size luxury package that comfortably seats five adults. MSRP is $29,960 before an $860 destination charge.
“Given the uncertainty of today’s fuel prices, the LaCrosse witheAssistis a smart and timely choice for customers who seek excellent fuel economy and want the roominess and features of a full-size luxury sedan,” said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president, Buick marketing. “The winning combination of advanced technology, no-compromise driving performance and luxurious style and passenger comfort stand to make LaCrosse witheAssista must-have sedan.”
The LaCrosse witheAssistnot only rivals the fuel economy of small cars, it trumps the efficiency of non-hybrid segment competitors and is on par with the more expensive hybrid models. The chart below compares LaCrosse with its main competitors’ 2011 EPA-rated fuel economy numbers.




	Buick LaCrosse witheAssist	Acura TL	Lexus ES350	LincolnMKS	Lexus HS Hybrid	LincolnMKZ Hybrid	ToyotaCamry Hybrid
MPG	25 city / 36 hwy	18 city / 26 hwy	19 city / 27 hwy	17 city / 24 hwy	35 city / 34 hwy	41 city / 36 hwy	31 city / 35 hwy

eAssistdetails
TheeAssistsystem is mated to a 2.4L Ecotec direct-injection four-cylinder engine and next-generation six-speed automatic transmission. It uses power stored in an advanced, air-cooled lithium-ion battery to provide needed electrical boost in various driving scenarios, optimizing engine and transmission operation. An advanced 115V lithium-ion battery and latest-generation 15-kW motor-generator unit help increase fuel economy through:

• Regenerative braking, which provides up to 15 kW of electricity to charge the battery


• Providing up to 15 hp (11 kW) of electric power assistance during heavier acceleration


• Automatic and smooth engine start-stop functionality when the vehicle is stopped


• The use of electricity instead of gasoline when stopped


• Aggressive fuel cut-off during deceleration down to zero mph for added fuel savings


• Intelligent charge/discharge of the high-voltage battery.


TheeAssistsystem captures up to 15kW of energy that would be normally lost during braking and uses it to recharge the lithium-ion battery. The system also shuts down fuel delivery in certain deceleration conditions, further improving fuel economy. While in fuel shut-off mode, the motor-generator unit continues spinning along with the engine to provide immediate and smooth take-off power when the driver presses on the accelerator. As the vehicle comes to a stop, the engine’s start-stop function is active when the motor-generator unit brings the engine to a smooth stop to position it properly for a smooth restart when the brake is released.
A hill-assist system captures brake pressure to help keep the vehicle stationary wheneAssist’s start-stop function is activated on a moderate or steep grade, allowing the driver to accelerate more smoothly from a stop.
Buick LaCrosse witheAssisttechnology also features improved underbody aerodynamics and tires optimized for performance and fuel economy, as well as active control of front-end airflow that improves aerodynamics and engine warm-up. Electronically controlled shutters in the lower grille close at higher speeds to push more air over the vehicle, which increases aerodynamic efficiency to enhance fuel economy. All of these technologies increase theeAssistsystem’s regenerative braking capability, while also improving the vehicle’s efficiency while driving.
An ECO gauge on the instrument panel continuously responds to driving behavior, allowing the driver to drive with maximum efficiency.
LaCrosse luxury, quietness and personal technology
In the pursuit of greater fuel efficiency, the LaCrosse witheAssistgives up none of the driving attributes, quietness or technology that have helped make this luxury sedan one of the fastest-selling in the segment.
The driving experience is underpinned by a four-wheel independent suspension system, including a four-link rear suspension that uses isolating mounts to minimize noise and vibration. StabiliTrak electronic stability control system is standard, as is a variable-effort power steering system, four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel ABS, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist system.
Inside is a flowing, uninterrupted design theme that wraps around the instrument and door panels. Attention to detail is evident throughout the interior, including the analog instrument cluster, chrome offset by dark woodgrain accents, and contrasting stitching on the instrument panel. Ice blue ambient lighting is used throughout the cabin, including the center console, instrument panel and door handle pockets.
Buick’s signature QuietTuning – an engineering process to reduce, block and absorb interior noise – provides a distraction-free passenger environment.
The contemporary atmosphere of the cabin is accented with available digital connectivity and personal technologies including in-dash navigation with a 40-gig hard drive (10 gigs reserved for music), Bluetooth, an auxiliary audio input and a USB port. Rear-seat passengers can enjoy an available power rear-window sunshade and a DVD entertainment system with two display screens integrated into the seatbacks.
Later in the year, LaCrosse with eAssist will come with standard Buick IntelliLink, which uses Bluetooth or USB to connect the driver’s smartphone to a new eight-inch, high-resolution, full-color touch screen display radio. IntelliLink expands on Buick’s current Bluetooth and USB capabilities to allow smartphone control via voice activation and steering wheel-mounted controls. It also enables streaming stereo audio from the phone through services like PANDORA®Internet radio and Stitcher SmartRadio®.
Most importantly, Buick IntelliLink enables seamless integration of stowed portable devices with each vehicle’s infotainment system, allowing drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
LaCrosse’s intelligent technologies also work to deliver a 360-degree field of vision behind the steering wheel, for a greater feeling of comfort, security and safety. Side Blind Zone Alert technology, which notifies the driver if a vehicle in adjacent lanes is traveling in the driver’s blind spot, is available, as is a rearview camera system that features a display integrated into the navigation system screen.
The technologies available on LaCrosse enhance standard safety features including front-, side- and roof-mounted head-curtain air bags, and GM’s StabiliTrak stability- and traction-control system. The safety and security of OnStar is also included for the first year of ownership.
LaCrosse witheAssistis manufactured at GM’s Fairfax Assembly facility in Kansas City, Kan.

2012 Buick Regal GS

Revealed the production version of the Buick 2012 Buick Regal GS, expression of even sportier Regal sports sedan went on sale in 2010 and has attracted new buyers to the family Buick. Powered by a high-performance Ecotec turbo engine an exclusive 2.0L mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, the GS has about 255 hp (190 kW) and 295 Nm torque of 00-60 mph performance of less than seven seconds (estimate) .





Buick Interactive Drive System Control is standard on the GS, in which drivers to modify driving experience, changing the suspension settings and steering feel of the three different settings: standard, sport and GS.




"Built on the basis of performance for Regal, Buick Regal GS has been designed as an expression even more athletic performance and style," said John Schwegman, vice president of marketing for Buick. "The driving experience is living and powerful, and GS represent the next record in the Buick product renaissance. "




Product highlights include:

Exclusive Ecotec 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled worth approximately 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (400 Nm)

A six-speed manual six-speed automatic transmission shift control driver is provided later in

Unit Control System SG interactive mode

Four-wheel independent front suspension system HiPerStrut

High-performance four-wheel disc braking system with Brembo front calipers

Standard 19-inch 5-twin-spoke alloy wheels and tires for all seasons and optional 20-inch 5-twin-spoke, polished alloy wheels performance tires.

2011 Buick GL8 Review

The new 2011 Buick GL8 Shanghai GM is now available. The luxury SUV based on the legacy of the original Buick GL8, the first family of executive cars China. Since the model was created in 1999, more than 330,000 were sold in China.

The new model, which will be available in January 2011, seven and 27 technological innovations and improvements in design, space and security, technology, power, functionality and quality. The result is an unprecedented experience in the luxury of an MPV, it is clear the Buick.



"The new GL8 was developed by Shanghai GM in collaboration with the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) in Shanghai with the specific needs of our customers in mind," said Terry Johnsson, vice president of Shanghai GM vehicle sales, service and marketing. "It offers everything consumers have come to expect from Buick, a dynamic, smooth ride, quiet and comfort. Like its predecessor, the new Buick GL8 is the right product at the right time."




The new Buick GL8 has an elegant exterior design is underlined by Buick double sweep spear feature is in the front to back. Decorative metal strips add a sense of sleek, modern elegance. Its classic waterfall grille and portholes chrome greater emphasis on new Buick GL8 is inheritance.

With a length of 5256 mm, width 1878 mm, a height of 1800 mm and a wheelbase of 3088 mm, the new Buick GL8 provides a spacious round for all occupants. The interior fit fuses Eastern and Western aesthetics. It is equipped with ice blue mood lighting and a 360-degree wraparound design inspired by luxury yachts.

Other facilities available are authentic two-tone leather seating ergonomics, a panoramic sunroof in two parts, an electric sliding door anti-pinch, and a touch of power rear lift gate, a 10-speaker 5.1-channel Bose sound system , a 7-inch touch screen at the front and 10.2-inch WVGA HD screen in the back, and OnStar in-vehicle security service, security and communication.




Independent front suspension and improved with the return of sub-frames to ensure a smooth and stable. Tuning Buick signature alone reduces, blocks and absorbs noise, a distraction-free environment, which is comparable to a luxury sedan.




The new Buick GL8 comes with a choice of a 3.0-liter V-6 engine SIDI direct injection 2.4 liters intelligent or Ecotec segment leader in fuel efficiency. GM advanced 6-speed automatic transmission is standard, offering unprecedented power in the segment of the luxury minivan.




In the field of security, the new Buick GL8 is super-solid chassis. Bosch 8.1 ESP system guarantees a share of first quality. It is supplemented by large tires and disc brakes, six airbags available on some models. For maximum visibility, the new Buick GL8 incorporates multidimensional blue ray HID Bi-Xenon headlights and crystal skulls, as Chrome LED.

The new Buick GL8 luxury MPV has a retail price of between RMB 288,000 and RMB 388,000. Shanghai GM is also introducing an upgraded 2011 model of the current Buick GL8 in December 2010, targeting the upper middle segment MPV. It includes a new 2.4-liter Ecotec engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. This "dual strategy of vehicles" Shanghai GM will better address the MPV market, from the mid to upper segments of luxury.

2011 Buick Envision Concept

Imagine the Buick vehicle, which is closer to the ideas of the future and technology to the Buick on the market, made its world debut today. It 'appeared in Shanghai GM in Shanghai's auto division in 2011.

Imagine the Buick design language merged China overall aesthetic for the SUV segment. The legacy of the essence of the "fluid dynamics and comfort peaceful" Buick, GM joined the worldwide leader in plug-in hybrid plug-in hybrid. His vision and people-oriented technology and equipment are designed to change people's perceptions of the SUV.




"Imagine that was jointly developed by Shanghai GM and the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC)," said Shi Hong, Marketing Director of Shanghai GM's Buick. "And 'the trend for the future of Buick SUV products for the market."




According to Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design, The Envision "inherited DNA Buick and design the roof of global design language to new heights Buick. He made an important statement for Buick style and technology, and will affect future patterns of fire. "

Buick Signia Concept

This monstrosity debuted at the 1998 Detroit Motor Show, possibly to prepare the public for the Pontiac Aztec show car that would appear in 1999 and eventually terrorize on public streets.

Looking a bit like an obese station wagon, the Buick Signia (why they cut off the "in" I'm not sure) is a bulky lump of unattractive organic curves, kind of like the older, shorter, fatter, uglier sister to the Buick Enclave. A better name would have been the Buick Rhino.

The car looks it's worst at the front end, where the lines of the car congregate to a strangely protruding nose, with the wide grille and tiny headlights resembling the vacant, gaping stare of a whale shark.

Attack of the Clones: Durango Fandango

I should start off by clarifying that my "Attack of the Clones" posts (admittedly a dated title, but I don't know if I should stop after using it for so long) aren't necessarily saying that the cars featured within are ugly. I realize this may be a bit confusing. I mean - the blog is about ugly cars. However it's mainly a blog where I vent on automotive style, so I think posting cars that tread previously travelled roads when it comes to style are ok to be featured. But I wanted to sure to clarify this, as I don't think the Dodge Durango is an ugly truck.

When Dodge teased shots of the new Durango (although I have to say I prefer the Magnum name, but I understand it's good to maintain consistancy), I thought the revised face was refreshingly attractive, yet masculine and bold. Plus I love the new divided cross hair grille (the new Dodge logo, not so much). I had high hopes from the rest of the truck, mainly because Chrysler corporation cars and trucks have been so disappointing for the past few years, especially since they were a high water mark for design in the 90's.

However, new that the shots of the entire truck have been released, I have to admit I'm a little let down. Not that it's ugly, but from the headlights back the flowing curves look remarkably like those on the Buick Enclave (of the two, I prefer the Durango however). I guess I was expecting something a little more butch, given the angry front end treatment. Although I suppose it's platform-mate the Grand Cherokee got the masculine square shouldered lines, so the Durango had to be unique to that end.

Which is strange considering the taillight treatment. Looking at the rear of both trucks, it's actually a bit hard to tell them apart. I suppose the reverse lamps/turn signal locations are flipped, but the shape of the trapezoid taillights are the same - and both have a chrome strip connecting them. I little variety wouldn't hurt, especially since the trucks share a majority of parts.

Buick Century Tuner Edition

Long before Buick tried to reimagine the Regal as a sports sedan with it's thinly veiled Opel Insignia, Buick tried their hand up at releasing a sporty Century.

Super Stepside

Billed as "the ultimate pickup", the Super Stepside is a bit of an oxymoron - given that the donor "truck" for this kit is full-size GM sedans from the 80's.

I first saw and posted this kit in 2005. I correctly guessed what it was made of, but thought something that looked this horrid was a homemade one-off. But it's actually available to purchase as a kit. People actually bought them, as more than one exist.

Early models such as the one posted earlier don't appear to have headlights, while the one above has some pilfered from the exotic Chevy Malibu.

Pimp my Woody

The first Buick full-size SUV? Needs more TV.

Attack of the Clones: Honda's Buick Odyssey

So Honda's solution for the look of the newest Odyssey was basically be the front end of the second gen Odyssey, the rear end of the current Odyessey and slap them on the Buick Business Concept?


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I wish this fad would die...

This looks sooo stupid. It's like lowriders in reverse.