We don’t know exactly when this is going to happen (yet) – but Buick will be getting a sporty rear wheel drive coupe and convertible based on the Alpha platform (Cadillac ATS, next generation Camaro). Engine options will likely include a twin turbo 3.0 liter V6, the 3.6 direct injected engine currently found in the Cadillac CTS and a single turbo 2.0 liter four cylinder engine. We expect to see this vehicle shortly after the release of the Cadillac ATS.
Buick Regal Named ‘Best Upscale Sedan for the Money’
DETROIT – U.S. News & World Report named the 2011 Buick Regal its annual “Best Car for the Money” awards in the Upscale Sedan category, beating competitors from BMW and Lexus. The ranking was based on the magazine’s analysis of 27 published reviews and test drives of the Buick Regal, as well as analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Regal, which starts at $26,245, was praised for “performance that balances fuel economy and power, handling and ride comfort.” U.S. News & World Report noted that reviewers are impressed with the Regal’s “handsome exterior and comfortable interior” and encourage midsize sedan shoppers to put the Regal on their short list.
“This award confirms what many Buick Regal buyers have already found out,” said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick Marketing. “The Regal delivers a dynamic driving experience that competes with the best import sport sedans in the mid-size car segment. Just as importantly, this sleek, smart, top-safety-rated car is attracting new customers to the Buick brand.”
The well-equipped Regal CXL and CXL Turbo models include the following as standard or available equipment:
- Ecotec 2.4L direct injected engine rated at an estimated 182 horsepower (136 kW)
- Ecotec 2.0L turbocharged and direct injected engine rated at 220 horsepower (164 kW)
- Both engines have a six-speed automatic transmission standard with driver-shift control
- A six-speed manual transmission is available on the turbocharged model
- EPA-rated 30 mpg on the highway with the 2.4L and 32 mpg highway with the 2.0L turbo engine
- MacPherson strut front suspension and four-link independent rear suspension
- All-new Interactive Drive Control available with the 2.0L turbo, offering driver-selectable suspension settings and automatic driver suspension setting adaptability
- Four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel anti-lock braking system, brake assist and electronic parking brake
- StabiliTrak stability control system and full-function traction control
- Dual-stage frontal air bags, side-curtain and front seat thorax air bags and pedal-release system
- Rear-seat thorax air bags
- Navigation system, Harman Kardon premium sound system, hard drive with 10GB for music, and 20 minutes of time shift audio capability to pause, rewind and playback radio programs
- 18-inch alloy wheels (19-inch alloy wheels with Interactive Drive Control)
- 12-way power, leather and heated driver seat; leather and heated passenger front seat; Bluetooth for phone; XM Satellite Radio and OnStar, along with a USB port for iPods and other audio devices. Continue reading Buick Regal Named ‘Best Upscale Sedan for the Money’
Buick Introduces The All-New 2012 Verano
Compact Luxury Entry is Buick’s Third New Model in Two Years
DETROIT – The all-new 2012 Buick Verano compact luxury sedan, the brand’s third new model in the past two years and first in the compact luxury segment, will be revealed at the North American International Auto Show.
Verano goes on sale in the fourth quarter of 2011, the latest model in a product renaissance that began with the Enclave and continued with the LaCrosse and Regal. Like them, Verano is distinguished by luxury and technology, including 10 standard air bags, an available heated steering wheel and a next-generation radio system with OnStar-powered connectivity that enables seamless communication between the Verano and the driver’s smart phone.
An Ecotec 2.4L and six-speed automatic powertrain combination is standard and delivers an estimated 177 horsepower (132 kW) and 170 lb.-ft. torque (230 Nm), 0-60 mph performance of 8.0 seconds and an estimated 31 mpg on the highway. A 2.0L turbo engine will be offered in the future.
“Verano expands our lineup, continues Buick’s momentum and gives us a great opportunity to attract a new generation of customers with a product that delivers on their expectations for design, performance and technology,” said John Schwegman, vice president of Buick marketing. “It is a smart choice that delivers unexpected luxury in a compact sedan – and it will compete head-to-head with competitors from Audi and Lexus.” Continue reading Buick Introduces The All-New 2012 Verano