Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Four-cylinder Buick LaCrosse arrives Q1 next year, to be priced from $26,995*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/four-cylinder-buick-lacrosse-arrives-q1-next-year-to-be-priced/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/four-cylinder-buick-lacrosse-arrives-q1-next-year-to-be-priced/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/four-cylinder-buick-lacrosse-arrives-q1-next-year-to-be-priced/#commentsFiled under:

2010 Buick LaCrosse - Click above for high-res image gallery

A few months back following the debut of the 2010 LaCrosse, Buick surprised us with the announcement that it would add a third powertrain option to the sedan's lineup. After launching with a pair of V6 engines, Buick is now getting ready to start offering a LaCrosse CX model with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This is the same direct injected unit that debuted in the new Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain last summer.

When the four-pot LaCrosse goes on sale early in the new year, it will carry a base sticker price of $26,995 (*including delivery). That's $840 less than what it takes to get the current 3.0-liter V6 powered CX model in your driveway. In addition to the up-front savings, buyers should expect reduced operating costs for the four. Final EPA certification numbers aren't in yet, but Buick is estimating that the LaCrosse four will net 20 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. For comparison's sake, the 3.0-liter is rated at 17/26 mpg city and highway.

The new 2.4-liter LaCrosse is slated to arrive in dealers in the first quarter of 2010. Official details in the presser after the jump.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Buick]

Continue reading Four-cylinder Buick LaCrosse arrives Q1 next year, to be priced from $26,995*

Four-cylinder Buick LaCrosse arrives Q1 next year, to be priced from $26,995* originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Buick2010 Buick LaCrosse2010Buick2010BuickLacrosseBuickbuick lacrossebuick lacrosse 4 cylinderbuick lacrosse four cylinder pricingbuick lacrosse pricebuick lacrosse pricingBuickLacrosseBuickLacrosse4CylinderBuickLacrosseFourCylinderPricingBuickLacrossePriceBuickLacrossePricingLaCrossThu, 17 Dec 2009 15:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Invisible to Cops: Top 10 Least Ticketed Vehicles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/invisible-to-cops-top-10-least-ticketed-vehicles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/invisible-to-cops-top-10-least-ticketed-vehicles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/invisible-to-cops-top-10-least-ticketed-vehicles/#commentsFiled under:



The same company that studied which cars are most likely to get you a ticket also determining which cars are most impervious to the police. Compared to the norm, the most XX sedan will put you at 60 percent less risk of a ticket, while the most resistant-to-the-law sedan will make you 89 percent less likely to be pulled over. That will practically turn you into a covert operative as far as the law concerned.

However, with four sedans, four SUVs, an MPV, and a pickup truck in the mix, you don't have much chance of combining uninterrupted driving and looking good. Luckily the Jag XJ is on the list, and that's good enough for us. Click the link to check out the rest of the cars too slippery for the long arm of Johnny law.

[Source: AOL Autos]

Invisible to Cops: Top 10 Least Ticketed Vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aol autosAolAutosbuickjaguarspeedingspeeding ticketSpeedingTicketTue, 15 Dec 2009 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Buick-GMC general manager Michael Richards leaves after just nine days on the job]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/buick-gmc-general-manager-michael-richards-leaves-after-just-nin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/buick-gmc-general-manager-michael-richards-leaves-after-just-nin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/buick-gmc-general-manager-michael-richards-leaves-after-just-nin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Nine days ago, we posted about Michael Richards getting Susan Docherty's old post at General Motors, brand manager for Buick-GMC. Today, he walked away. According to The Detroit News, the official (yet still unofficial) reason is that Richards' previous employer - Trinity Automotive in Austin, TX - made him a very strong counter offer. Though it seems to us that Trinity would have made the counter offer before Richards packed up and moved north, and we've also heard rumblings from Detroit insiders that there's more to this story than meets the eye.

Whatever the actual reason for Richards' abrupt departure, Buick-GMC is currently without a leader. Chevrolet is in a bit of a better position, even though just yesterday its vice president and 31-year company vet Brent Dewar suddenly retired. Dewar was appointed to his position in July by ex-CEO Fritz Henderson, who just resigned/was outsted from GM... nine days ago. Dewar was immediately replaced by Jim Campbell, Chevy's Fleet and Commercial Operations manager.

It seems mostly obvious to us, that both Richards and Dewar's sudden departures have to do with Henderson leaving. Because honestly, it sure as hell ain't the weather outside the Renaissance Center. As for Richards specifically, it must have been odd and unsettling to start a new career on the very same day that the guy that hired you exits stage left.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Buick-GMC general manager Michael Richards leaves after just nine days on the job originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Brent DewarBrentDewarBuickBuick-GMCChevroletchevyFritz HendersonFritzHendersonGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGMCMichael RichardsMichaelRichardsThu, 10 Dec 2009 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Baby Buick sedan caught in Germany]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/spy-shots-baby-buick-sedan-caught-in-germany/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/spy-shots-baby-buick-sedan-caught-in-germany/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/spy-shots-baby-buick-sedan-caught-in-germany/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Buick small sedan prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yesterday, we showed you the first official rendering of Buick's forthcoming small car, a shrunken LaCrosse lookalike that is expected to be based on the European market Opel Astra. The image was flashed on the screen during General Motors' presentation of the new 2011 Buick Regal at this week's LA Auto Show, and judging by these latest spy shots from our friends at CarPix, it would appear that the rendering gives us a very good look at the upcoming sedan.

As we saw in an earlier batch of shots, the Delta-II platform-based model (known as the Excelle in China) will retain Buick's signature waterfall grille, yet unlike the Regal, it will have a set of horizontally-mounted ventiports to add a bit of the marque's characteristic flash. In the past, the number of ventiport holes indicated the number of cylinders of the engine lurking beneath the sheetmetal, but in this case, we don't expect for the as-yet-unnamed U.S. sedan to carry more than four cylinders.

With the Regal and this forthcoming small sedan, GM is clearly making a big push to lower the average buyer age of its Buick division by injecting a bit of sport and perhaps a greater measure of affordability. Is this the right strategy for the brand, or is The General at risk of revisiting the same brand perception (and brand overlap) issues it had in the Eighties with smaller cars like the Somerset and Century? Be sure to check out our high-res gallery below and then hop into Comments to let us know what you think.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Baby Buick caught in Germany


[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: Baby Buick sedan caught in Germany originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baby buickBabyBuickBuickBuick ExcelleBuickExcelleExcellesmall buickSmallBuickspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsFri, 04 Dec 2009 14:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #155 - 'Twas the night before the LA Auto Show...]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/autoblog-podcast-155-twas-the-night-before-the-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/autoblog-podcast-155-twas-the-night-before-the-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/autoblog-podcast-155-twas-the-night-before-the-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

With the LA Auto Show near at hand, Chris, Dan, and Editor Extraordinaire Paukert sat down and talked over some of the latest for Episode #155 of the Autoblog Podcast. First up is the surprisingly thorough re-rework of the Mustang, before we move on to talk about the early release of U.S.-spec Ford Fiesta pictures. Gazing at photos brings us to the Chevrolet Cruze, which has also been lensed in North American garb. The Chinese-market Buick Excelle is rumored as a possibility for our market, and we scratch our heads about that for a while. Toyota's handling of its gas pedal recall and Nissan's low-priced and well-integrated navigation unit wraps it up before we move on to some of your questions. Right before signing off, we jump back to talk briefly about the newly unveiled Audi A8 and Saab's sad fortunes. At one hour, 50 minutes, it's an epic. We blame Paukert.

If you get bored once the new Autoblog Podcast bliss has worn off, check out our colleagues at Joystiq and Engadget. Let us know what you think by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #155 - 'Twas the night before the LA Auto Show...

Autoblog Podcast #155 - 'Twas the night before the LA Auto Show... originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Ford Mustang2010FordMustang2011 mustang v62011MustangV6audi a8AudiA8auto showautoblogautoblog podcastAutoblogPodcastAutoShowbuickbuick excelleBuickExcellechevroletchevrolet cruzeChevroletCruzechevy cruzeChevyCruzefeaturedfiesta hatchfiesta hatchbackFiestaHatchFiestaHatchbackFord Fiestaford fiesta picturesFord fiesta sedanford fiesta unveilFordFiestaFordFiestaPicturesFordFiestaSedanFordFiestaUnveilla auto showLaAutoShowlos angeles auto showLosAngelesAutoShowlost angelesLostAngelesmustangmustang v6MustangV6nissan navigationNissanNavigationpodcastsaabsaab dealsaab koenigseggSaabDealSaabKoenigseggtoyota accelerationtoyota gas pedaltoyota pedaltoyota recallToyotaAccelerationToyotaGasPedalToyotaPedalToyotaRecallv6 mustangV6MustangTue, 01 Dec 2009 13:31:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #155Autoblog1:49:25LA auto show; cruze; chevrolet cruze; buick excelle; toyota recall; fiesta; ford fiesta; toyota; nissan; nissan navigation; mustang; v6 mustang; mustang v6; autoblog podcast<![CDATA[New Buick Excelle debuts in China, sedan coming to America soon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/new-buick-excelle-debuts-in-china-sedan-coming-to-america-soon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/new-buick-excelle-debuts-in-china-sedan-coming-to-america-soon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/new-buick-excelle-debuts-in-china-sedan-coming-to-america-soon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Buick Excelle XT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Back in August, when General Motors gave the media a tour of its design studios to show off pieces of its upcoming lineup, one of the cars we saw was a compact four-door Buick sedan. That sedan was essentially a re-grilled and trunked version of the recently introduced Opel Astra, but GM did not say what badging the car would receive in North America. However, the five-door hatchback version has just debuted in China at the Guangzhou Motor Show as the newest baby Buick.

In what is Buick's largest market, the compact is badged as the Excelle, and we wouldn't be surprised to see that name come to the U.S. provided there aren't any issues with the similarly named (and defunct) Hyundai Excel. The car we saw in August was identical to the Excelle shown above from the B-pillars forward. It only differs at the rear where the hatch was originally a traditional trunk.

Unlike the last Saturn Astra (and previous attempts at smaller Buicks), the inside of the new car looks much more upscale and should be more appealing to American consumers. We'll probably only get the 181-horsepower, 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder in the Excelle in order to set it apart from the 140-hp Chevy Cruze that shares the same platform. If our version gets the 138-hp 1.8-liter at all, it will probably be paired with the automaker's new, second-generation BAS hybrid system.


Gallery: Buick Excelle XT


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading New Buick Excelle debuts in China, sedan coming to America soon

New Buick Excelle debuts in China, sedan coming to America soon originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 buick2011 buick excelle2011Buick2011BuickExcellebuickbuick chinabuick excelleBuick Excelle Sedanbuick excelle xtBuickChinaBuickExcelleBuickExcelleSedanBuickExcelleXtchinaexcelleMon, 30 Nov 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Next-gen Buick Excelle for China snapped]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/spy-shots-next-gen-cruze-based-buick-excelle-for-china-snapped/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/spy-shots-next-gen-cruze-based-buick-excelle-for-china-snapped/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/spy-shots-next-gen-cruze-based-buick-excelle-for-china-snapped/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Next-gen Buick Excelle for China - Click above for high-res image gallery

Soon Buick will have an entire lineup of competitive vehicles with the Enclave, all-new LaCrosse and soon-to-arrive-from-Europe Regal. Since the latter model is basically a direct port of the Opel Insignia, its success may help General Motors decide whether or not to snag a fourth model from another overseas market. The likely candidate is this car, the next-gen Buick Excelle that is currently sold only in China.

Recently snapped by spy photographers while undergoing testing with very little camouflage, the next-gen Excelle will adopt GM's Delta II small car platform that also underpins the new Chevy Cruze and Opel Astra. It's more closely related to later, however, as previous generations have been not much more than rebadged Astras. Just because Buick could sell the Excelle in the U.S., however, doesn't mean it should. Would the market really accept a Buick this small, especially when the Cruze is on sale across the street? Time will tell but you can let GM know what you think now in the comments.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Next-gen Buick Excelle for China


[Photos: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: Next-gen Buick Excelle for China snapped originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buickbuick chinabuick excelleBuickChinaBuickExcellechevroletchevrolet cruzeChevroletCruzechinacruzeexcellespy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsMon, 23 Nov 2009 12:33:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2011 Buick Regal prototype looks to be a good sport]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/2011-buick-regal-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/2011-buick-regal-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/2011-buick-regal-first-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Buick Regal - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's an odd bit of historical deja vu at work here. Back in the late '60s and early '70s, General Motors wanted to shift a few sporty-ish four-cylinder models from its Opel division into America, so they turned to their Buick dealers. This didn't work out exactly as planned - merchandising these odd European ducks in an outlet best known for sober doctor's cars meant that the GT, Manta and Kadett never managed to make much of a dent in North America's automotive landscape. This time out, with the Opel Insignia-derived 2011 Buick Regal, GM knows it needs massively better results.

This is a Buick the likes of which we have never seen before.
While attending an early drive event for the new Regal last week, we reminded vice-chairman Bob Lutz about the last time his company attempted to sell Opels in Buick showrooms. He laughed his trademark raspy laugh, and reminded us that Car and Driver so loathed the 1968 Kadett that their review featured it photographed in a junkyard. With characteristic candor, Lutz tells us, "It actually wasn't a very good car." Of course, Maximum Bob knows full well that GM can't afford another lost in space Kadett. Does the Regal have what it takes to mollify these "sins of the father" and put Buick on the right track? Click through to the jump to find out.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Buick Regal


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Buick Regal prototype looks to be a good sport

First Drive: 2011 Buick Regal prototype looks to be a good sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 buick2011 Buick regal2011 regal2011Buick2011BuickRegal2011RegalBob LutzBobLutzbuickbuick regalBuickRegalFeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMopelOpel GTopel insigniaOpel KadettOpel MagnaOpelGtOpelInsigniaOpelKadettOpelMagnaregalMon, 23 Nov 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Buick confirms 2011 Regal 2.0T to come with manual transmission. Wait... wha?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Buick Regal live unveiling - Click above for high-res image gallery

Trivia Time: When was the last time a U.S. market Buick was available with a manual transmission? Honestly, we can't recall anything more recent than a buddy in high school having a hand-me-down mid-Eighties Somerset coupe with a stubby, workmanlike five-speed. Even back then its presence in our friend's hooptie was a genuine curiosity and a source of perpetual amusement.

Naturally, we posed this same question to a few Buick PR-types this morning at a first drive event upon learning from vehicle line executive Jim Federico that the reborn 2011 Regal will receive a six-speed manual transmission option (mated to a blown 2.0-liter four, no less). The answer? Shoulder shrugs and sheepish looks. Curiously, nobody even tried to answer our query with a red herring like the ill-fated Reatta coupe (it only came with a four-speed automatic).

So we now know when a Buick will next feature God's Own Gearbox (probably in the third quarter of 2010), but we still can't crack this historical chestnut - so we beseech thee, Autoblog Nation... what year was the last Buick built with a DIY transmission - and what car was it in? Hit us with your best shot in Comments.


Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal Live Unveiling


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

BREAKING: Buick confirms 2011 Regal 2.0T to come with manual transmission. Wait... wha? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Buick2011 Regal2011Buick2011RegalbreakingbreakingnewsBuickBuick RegalBuickRegalJim FedericoJimFedericomanual transmissionManualTransmissionRegalstick shiftstick-shiftStickShiftThu, 19 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: All GM brands to go on sale this week]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-all-gm-brands-to-go-on-sale-this-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-all-gm-brands-to-go-on-sale-this-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-all-gm-brands-to-go-on-sale-this-week/#commentsFiled under:



The holidays are coming and everything must go! So says GM's VP of sales Susan Docherty. "All of our efforts will be to sell down our remaining 2009 inventory." Docherty is expecting all the 2009 cars to be cleared out by January, 2010. The big sales, starting this week, each get their own names. Chevy is having a "Red Tag Sale," Buick-GMC are going with "Holiday Event" and tip of the top Caddy is using, "Seasons Best."

As it happens, that's right about the time that Pontiac and Saturn are set to wander off into the sunset -- for good. As of right now, there's only about 10,000 Pontiacs and 8,000 Saturns left on dealer lots. "We're actually winding down those products quicker than we had anticipated," said Docherty. Curiously, there's no mention of what GM will be calling the Pontiac and Saturn sales, though "Get 'Em While They're On Fire!" has a certain ring to it.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req. | Image Source: Scott Olson/Getty]

REPORT: All GM brands to go on sale this week originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BuickCadillacChevroletGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGMCPontiacSaturnSusan DochertySusanDochertyMon, 16 Nov 2009 17:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Bob Lutz drops more Buick Regal GS, high performance wagon hints]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/rumormill-bob-lutz-drops-more-buick-regal-gs-high-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/rumormill-bob-lutz-drops-more-buick-regal-gs-high-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/rumormill-bob-lutz-drops-more-buick-regal-gs-high-performance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer -- Click above for high-res image gallery

While we were talking about the Escalade EXT launch with Susan Docherty (don't ask) during the Regal reveal at the Hollywood Palladium last week, Car & Driver's Steve Siler was pushing Maximum Bob about sportier versions of the newest Buick. Now, we heard mumblings about a new Buick Regal GS last month, but that was just dealer hearsay. Siler's report is straight from Lutz's mouth, and while he's not exactly the most reliable GM exec we've ever talked with, he does seem to have his finger on the General's performance pulse.

To summarize a bit, a 335-hp, all-wheel-drive manny-tranny version of the Regal might be coming, labeled with the legendary GS badge. There might even be a wagon version of the top of the line Regal - maybe even one with GM's eLSD torque vectoring. In fact, Lutz made it sound like GM might just import the 325-hp turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer, crank up the boost a smidge and slap a Regal GS badge on it - which is more than totally fine with us. In fact, Siler suggests that what GM ought to do is make the tip top Regal wagon-only - sort of like the MazdaSpeed3 or WRX STI. Maybe call it the Buick Regal GSX? But like most such things involving GM these days, we'll believe it when we see it.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer


[Source: Car & Driver]

Rumormill: Bob Lutz drops more Buick Regal GS, high performance wagon hints originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BuickBuick RegalBuick Regal GSBuick Regal GSXBuickRegalBuickRegalGsBuickRegalGsxOpelOpel InsigniaOpel Insignia OPC Sports TourerOpelInsigniaOpelInsigniaOpcSportsTourerRegalRegal GSRegal GSXRegalGsRegalGsxSun, 15 Nov 2009 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Buick Regal likely to be launch platform for next GM hybrid system]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/buick-regal-likely-to-be-launch-platform-for-next-gm-hybrid-syst/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/buick-regal-likely-to-be-launch-platform-for-next-gm-hybrid-syst/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/buick-regal-likely-to-be-launch-platform-for-next-gm-hybrid-syst/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Buick Regal - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last night, General Motors publicly unveiled the 2011 Buick Regal that goes on sale in North America in the first half of next year. The Regal will be Buick's new mid-sized sedan entry and is essentially just a re-grilled version of the Opel Insignia that went on sale in Europe last year. The North American Regal will be built at the Oshawa Ontario assembly plant in Canada beginning in calendar 2011 and will only be offered with a choice of direct-injected four-cylinder engines. However, the Regal is actually slated to go on sale in calendar 2010, and some are suggesting that the sedan will be sourced from Germany for 12 to 15 months.

The base engine will be the 2.4-liter normally aspirated unit that debuted earlier this year in the Chevrolet Equinox, among other models. With a six-speed automatic transmission, the Regal should hit 30+ mpg on the highway. The optional unit will be a 220-hp version of the 2.0-liter turbo, but that powertrain likely won't come on-line right away.

Earlier this year, documents were leaked that listed the Oshawa plant as building a new mid-size hybrid sedan in 2011. It looks like the Regal will be that car with GM's new second generation mild hybrid system that was announced in 2008. The new system uses a more powerful motor/generator and a lithium ion battery. According to Ward's Auto World, the Regal could also get GM's plug-in two mode hybrid system, but that likely won't appear before late 2011 at the earliest.


Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal


[Sources: Ward's Auto World - sub req'd | GM-Volt.com]

Buick Regal likely to be launch platform for next GM hybrid system originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011BuickBuick Regalbuick regal hybridBuickRegalBuickRegalHybridhybridmild hybridMildHybridplug inplug in hybridplug-inplug-in hybridplug-in-hybridplug-in-hybridsPlug-inHybridpluginPlugInHybridpluginsregalregal hybridRegalHybridFri, 13 Nov 2009 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[2011 Buick Regal revealed live at the Hollywood Palladium]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/2011-buick-regal-revealed-at-the-hollywood-palladium/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/2011-buick-regal-revealed-at-the-hollywood-palladium/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/2011-buick-regal-revealed-at-the-hollywood-palladium/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Buick Regal live unveiling - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last night General Motors' superstar train blew into Los Angeles for a gala event at one of Hollywood's most iconic theaters, the Palladium. Designed by Hoover Dam architect Gordon Kaufman and opened by a $1 Frank Sinatra concert in 1940, the Palladium has played host to a who's who of music superstars including James Brown, Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones, Madonna and the Pixies.

The Palladium wasn't just for music. President Jack Kennedy held a dinner there in 1961, and Martin Luther King Jr. was honored at the Palladium in 1965 after he received the Nobel Peace Prize. However, the Palladium's fortunes declined. Things got so bad that it was forced to close down for eight weeks in the early '90s. Recently, however, the Hollywood Palladium underwent a multi-million dollar renovation that successfully returned the theater to its former glory. Which leads us to Buick and the new 2011 Regal.

Continued after the jump...


Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal Live Unveiling


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading 2011 Buick Regal revealed live at the Hollywood Palladium

2011 Buick Regal revealed live at the Hollywood Palladium originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Buick Regal2011 Regal2011BuickRegal2011RegalBob LutzBobLutzBuickBuick RegalBuickRegalEd WelbornEdWelbornfeaturedGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMHollywood PalladiumHollywoodPalladiumPalladiumRegalSusan DochertySusanDochertyFri, 13 Nov 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[2011 Buick Regal returns with four-cylinder only engine lineup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/2011-buick-regal-returns-with-four-cylinder-only-engine-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/2011-buick-regal-returns-with-four-cylinder-only-engine-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/2011-buick-regal-returns-with-four-cylinder-only-engine-lineup/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Buick Regal - Click above for high-res image gallery

Once up a time in the '80s, it was fashionable in Detroit to create so-called Euro-sedans by taking conventional mainstream grandma-mobiles and painting all the chrome black, dispensing with the white walls and installing overly stiff springs. Fortunately, those dark days are gone and General Motors and Ford at least have gotten their heads around how to build the kind of cars they sell in Europe. Just bring over European cars.

When bankrupt GM decreed that Buick would survive as one of the company's four core brands, it quickly became clear that Buick would need more models to flesh out its showrooms alongside the LaCrosse and Enclave. It wasn't long before it became obvious that the next addition would be a new Regal. The Regal is already available in Buick's biggest market of China and it's coming back to North America in 2010 as a 2011 model. Anyone familiar with the Opel Insignia will immediately recognize the Regal as the same car with the brand's trademark waterfall grille swapped in. Read on after the jump for more information.


Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading 2011 Buick Regal returns with four-cylinder only engine lineup

2011 Buick Regal returns with four-cylinder only engine lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 buick2011 buick regal2011Buick2011BuickRegalbreakingbuickbuick regalBuickRegalregalWed, 11 Nov 2009 18:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Make it stop: Bad landau tops]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/make-it-stop-bad-landau-tops/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/make-it-stop-bad-landau-tops/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/make-it-stop-bad-landau-tops/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Silly landau tops - Click above image for high-res image gallery

Landau tops. Frankly, some are fine. Show us, say, a mid-to-late '70s Olds Cutlass or Lincoln Town Coupe gussied up accordingly from the factory, and we're liable to nod in approval and make one of those, "Ehh, not bad at all!" facial expressions in appreciation of the old barge. That said, most modern landau roof applications are dealer-installed, and commensurately disastrous and stupid.

My friend Scott had been telling me about two particularly egregious examples he regularly sees in his Brooklyn neighborhood. "Show me," I told him. So he remembered to tote his camera with him this week and sent me these. The Buick LeSabre isn't all that surprising, gauche though it may be. But the Ford Escort? Yeah, that's a good one. Gotta love those opera lights and the fading "Ghia" lettering, too. Will anything ever stop these people?

Your turn: What's the most terrible landau top application you've personally witnessed? We know you have stories. Share.

UPDATE: TTAC fires a salvo of its own. Fun!


Gallery: Bad Landau Tops


[Images courtesy of Scott Nyerges]

Make it stop: Bad landau tops originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 13:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bad landau topsBadLandauTopsbuickbuick lesabreBuickLesabreescortfordford escortFordEscortghialandau topsLandauTopslesabreopera lampsOperaLampssilly landau topsSillyLandauTopsSun, 01 Nov 2009 13:51:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Northstar-powered 1998 Buick Riviera prototype]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/ebay-find-of-the-day-northstar-powered-1998-buick-riviera-proto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/ebay-find-of-the-day-northstar-powered-1998-buick-riviera-proto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/ebay-find-of-the-day-northstar-powered-1998-buick-riviera-proto/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Northstar-powered 1998 Buick Riviera prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

As we approach the big SEMA show in Las Vegas next week, it's time to look back at a previous star of the show. Sometime back in the mid-80s the decision was made that Buick would abandon V8 engines and instead be the home of the V6. Even for top models like Riviera and Park Avenue, turbocharged and supercharged versions of the long-lived 3.8-liter V6 would serve propulsive duties. Needless to say, not everyone in the bowels of the Warren Tech Center agreed with this approach.

In 1998 a group of GM engineers felt the Riviera should be powered by no fewer than eight cylinders and knew full well it was possible. The Riv of that era shared its platform with other models like the Cadillac Eldorado and Oldsmobile Aurora, which of course were powered by the still contemporary Northstar V8. A single Northstar Riviera example was built as concept and trotted out at the 1998 SEMA Show.

Upper management did not agree with the premise and only a year later the whole Riviera program was euthanized. Somehow, that one V8 powered Riv survived and managed to get sold outside of GM on a salvage title. If the styling of that last Riviera doesn't give you convulsions, the car only has 10,200 miles on it and the Buy It Now price is $20K. The current bid of $3,550 hasn't yet hit the reserve so it's anyone's guess what this will go for - if it goes at all.


Gallery: Northstar-powered 1998 Buick Riviera prototype


[Source: eBay]

eBay Find of the Day: Northstar-powered 1998 Buick Riviera prototype originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Buickbuick rivierabuick riviera conceptbuick riviera v8 conceptBuickRivieraBuickRivieraConceptBuickRivieraV8ConcepteBayebay Find of the DayEbayFindOfTheDayWed, 28 Oct 2009 08:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL aims upmarket and almost hits target]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/2010-buick-lacrosse-cxl-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/2010-buick-lacrosse-cxl-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/2010-buick-lacrosse-cxl-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL - Click above for high-res image gallery

With great fanfare, General Motors has introduced the 2010 Buick LaCrosse, a vehicle with which the automaker hopes to jump-start a sweeping brand transformation for the tired Tri-Shield. For Buick to be a success in GM's post-bailout, post-bankruptcy era, the brand must dump its well-deserved reputation as the preferred marque of last-time buyers. (Average age of previous-model LaCrosse buyer: Around 70.) For better or worse, as it scrambles to get more - and younger - drivers behind the wheel, Buick has elected to position itself as America's Lexus in a bid to give itself some premium cachet.

Frankly, that's a pretty tall order, but if first impressions mean anything, the Buick LaCrosse might be crowned GM's savior on appearances alone, because it's that attractive, especially compared to the fish-faced namesake it replaces. The 2009-and-prior LaCrosse looks like the unfortunate love child of a third-generation Ford Taurus and a Mitsuoka Orochi. Or, put plainly, it looks like some ugly Chinese car. By comparison, the 2010 LaCrosse is classy and stylish. Therein lies the delicious irony: the 2010 Buick LaCrosse's glitzy looks were, in fact, jointly developed with GM China's design team. Go figure, and be thankful. In the metal, this ride draws plenty appreciative stares.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL aims upmarket and almost hits target

Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL aims upmarket and almost hits target originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010 buick lacrosse cxl2010BuickLacrosse2010BuickLacrosseCxlbuickbuick lacrossebuick lacrosse cxlBuickLacrosseBuickLacrosseCxlcxlfeaturedlacrosselacrosse cxlLacrosseCxlreviewreviewsTue, 27 Oct 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: High-performance Buick Regal GS may be coming]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/buick-regal-gs-sport-rumor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/buick-regal-gs-sport-rumor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/buick-regal-gs-sport-rumor/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Opel Insignia OPC (with a Buick grille photoshopped on for fun) - Click above for high-res image gallery

Earlier this week General Motors showed its dealers the new Regal and confirmed that the name and car would be coming back to Buick's lineup soon. GM Inside News has been keeping close tabs on what the dealers are being told, which reportedly includes that two four-cylinder engines will be available at launch, the base a 2.4-liter direct injected engine producing 180 horsepower and up-level turbocharged and direct injected 2.0-liter producing about 220 hp.

The most interesting tid bit of info reportedly told to dealers is that the new Regal will also eventually have a sport model. Rumored to be named the GS, the sport model would reportedly feature the same direct injected 3.6-liter V6 as the LaCrosse. It will also reportedly include 19-inch wheels, Brembo brakes and be available with all-wheel drive like the rest of the Regal lineup. Unlike those other Regals, however, the GS may also be offered with a six-speed manual transmission.

Based on the Euro-market Opel Insignia, the new Regal GS will have a nice precedent already in the Insignia OPC. The OPC features a turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 producing 325 hp, a six-speed manual transmission and a Haldex-based all-wheel-drive system borrowed from the Saab Turbo X. In fact, the Opel Insignia OPC Sport Tourer (wagon) unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show this past September was one of the most lust-worthy production cars we came across.


Gallery: Opel Insignia OPC/Vauxhall Insignia VXR


[Source: GM Inside News]

Rumormill: High-performance Buick Regal GS may be coming originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buickbuick regalbuick regal gsbuick regal sportBuickRegalBuickRegalGsBuickRegalSportregalregal sportRegalSportFri, 16 Oct 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[NA-spec Buick Regal gets posted on Facebook]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/na-spec-buick-regal-gets-posted-on-facebook/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/na-spec-buick-regal-gets-posted-on-facebook/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/na-spec-buick-regal-gets-posted-on-facebook/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Just the other day, General Motors announced that Buick's next injection of fresh product will revive the Regal nameplate that's been absent in the United States for six full years. Based on the same Epsilon II platform as the latest 2010 Buick LaCrosse but about seven inches shorter, the Regal is expected to hit the market with a price that's thousands less than its bigger brother.

Though the Regal has been on sale in China for a little while now, the North American model will apparently differ slightly from that sedan, as can be seen in the photo above, which was recently captured by an eagle-eyed Facebook user and uploaded to Buick's official FB page.

Most readily apparent is the altered front fascia, which features a slightly larger and more rounded-off version of Buick's trademark chrome waterfall grille. Also note the redesigned lower openings below the grille and headlamps along with the new squared-off fog lamps. Thankfully, it seems the American Regal might not sport the chrome fender vents of the Chinese model.

[Source: Facebook]

NA-spec Buick Regal gets posted on Facebook originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick regal2010BuickRegal2011 buick regal2011BuickRegalbuickbuick regalbuick regal spybuick regal spy shotBuickRegalBuickRegalSpyBuickRegalSpyShotregalFri, 16 Oct 2009 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: Regal named next mid-size sedan for Buick]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/buick-regal-named-next-midsize-sedan-official/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/buick-regal-named-next-midsize-sedan-official/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/buick-regal-named-next-midsize-sedan-official/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Chinese-market 2010 Buick Regal - Click above for high-res image gallery

Drum-roll please. After making a point of pausing to listen to its dealers for input and suggestions, Buick has just announced the name of its next mid-size sedan. Plucking a nameplate from its not-too-distant past, the brand has introduced its newest model for America, the 2010 Buick Regal. Believe it or not but it's been six years since any Buick wore the iconic Regal tag, until it was affixed to the Chinese market Insignia-based sedan this year.

Following on the heels of the Enclave and LaCrosse, the Regal hopes to continue the march towards reestablishing Buick as a premium brand worldwide. There's no word yet on what changes we can expect from the Chinese model shown above, but since it's based on the Euro-market Opel Insignia, it will most likely be a fine ride. The full presser is after the jump.


Gallery: 2009 Chinese-spec Buick Regal


[Source: Buick]

Continue reading Officially Official: Regal named next mid-size sedan for Buick

Officially Official: Regal named next mid-size sedan for Buick originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick regal2010 Regal2010BuickRegal2010RegalbreakingbuickBuick RegalBuickRegalregalWed, 14 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST