Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #316]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/autoblog-podcast-316/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/autoblog-podcast-316/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/autoblog-podcast-316/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2013 Detroit Auto Show recap featuring Corvette, plus Ralph Gilles interview autoblog podcast logo

Episode #316 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Chris Paukert and Michael Harley talk about the sights that have been seen at the 2013 North American International Auto Show, especially the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette. Plus, Dan and Zach recorded an interview with Ralph Gilles, head of SRT and design for Chrysler, and we share that as part of the podcast as well. For those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #316:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
2013 Chrysler 300 SRT8
2013 Buick Enclave

Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Paukert, Michael Harley


Runtime: 01:50:11

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #316

Autoblog Podcast #316 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 buick enclave2013 chrysler 300 srt82013 detroit auto show2013 hyundai santa fe2014 chevrolet corvette2014 corvette300300 srt8autoblog podcast 316buickc7chevroletchryslercorvettedetroitdetroit 2013detroit auto showenclavefeaturedgilleshyundaipodcastralph gillessanta fesrtsrt viperviperTue, 15 Jan 2013 16:50:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #316Autoblog01:50:11 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20429206/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/15/autoblog-podcast-316/20429206/article-detail.xml 20429206 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Buick Enclave]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/2013-buick-enclave-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/2013-buick-enclave-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/2013-buick-enclave-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

GM's Flagship Lambda Is (Still) A Smooth Operator

2013 Buick Enclave

Consumers shopping for a domestic full-size crossover have heard all about GM's triplets. The Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave are a very appealing and talented group of siblings. Entering their fifth year of production, albeit middle-age in the automotive industry, each is attractive, well-rounded and very capable on the paved dance floor. While all share nearly identical base DNA and the same basic running gear, subtle physical differences and unique personalities emerge between the trio when one digs a bit deeper.

The most polished of the threesome, without question, is the Enclave from Buick. Fresh off a mid-cycle update (as are its siblings), the flagship of the platform boasts a facelift, innovative new features and an upgraded demeanor for the new model year.

But are the improvements enough to make it the Lambda most worthy of a long-term relationship? And, if it is the best of its breed, is it good enough to secure the segment? We spent an afternoon with the enhanced 2013 Buick Enclave to find out.

Continue reading 2013 Buick Enclave

2013 Buick Enclave originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 buick enclavebuickenclaveenclave imagesenclave reviewenclave videfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveMon, 29 Oct 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20363304/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/29/2013-buick-enclave-first-drive-review/20363304/article-detail.xml 20363304 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-buick-enclave-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-buick-enclave-fd.jpg <![CDATA[GM promises new Buick Regal and LaCrosse along with new GMC Canyon, Sierra and Yukon in next 12 months]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/21/gm-promises-new-buick-regal-and-lacrosse-along-with-new-gmc-cany/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/21/gm-promises-new-buick-regal-and-lacrosse-along-with-new-gmc-cany/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/21/gm-promises-new-buick-regal-and-lacrosse-along-with-new-gmc-cany/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



While Chevrolet and Cadillac are the defining brands for General Motors, Buick and GMC seem to be the middle siblings of the auto giant and, therefore, are often overlooked and underappreciated. This might be changing over the next 12 months, though, as these brands are set to receive nine new or refreshed models in this timeframe.

The sole new model to join the lineup is the sub-$25,000 Buick Encore crossover, but the Regal and LaCrosse are all getting mid-cycle updates at some point over the next year, not to mention the refreshed Enclave that we've already seen. Not to be left out, the Buick Verano will be getting a little more pep under the hood courtesy of a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine.

As for GMC, its full-size truck lineup is being completely overhauled. We've already seen spy photos of the new Chevrolet Silverado testing, and GMC confirmed that the Yukon, Yukon XL, Sierra and Sierra HD will all be introduced by next fall. All four GMC models will continue to be offered with the added luxury of the Denali trim level as well.

Perhaps the biggest news that came from this announcement was that the GMC Canyon is confirmed for a next-generation model, and it will be built alongside the all-new Chevrolet Colorado at GM's Wentzville, Missouri assembly plant.

Continue reading GM promises new Buick Regal and LaCrosse along with new GMC Canyon, Sierra and Yukon in next 12 months

GM promises new Buick Regal and LaCrosse along with new GMC Canyon, Sierra and Yukon in next 12 months originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Sep 2012 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 buick enclave2013 buick encore2013 gmc acadia2014 buick lacrosse2014 buick regal2014 gmc sierra2014 gmc sierra hd2015 gmc canyonacadiabuickenclavegmclacrosseregalsierrasierra hdyukonyukon xlFri, 21 Sep 2012 09:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20329244/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/21/gm-promises-new-buick-regal-and-lacrosse-along-with-new-gmc-cany/20329244/article-detail.xml 20329244 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/buick-gmc-new-models_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/buick-gmc-new-models.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Buick Enclave gets price hike, starts at $39,270*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/14/2013-buick-enclave-gets-price-hike-starts-at-39-270/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/14/2013-buick-enclave-gets-price-hike-starts-at-39-270/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/14/2013-buick-enclave-gets-price-hike-starts-at-39-270/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Buick Enclave - front three-quarter view

The refreshed 2013 Buick Enclave arrives with a number of new features and a $39,270 price tag (*including destination charges), a figure that represents a price hike compared to the 2012 model, which based at $36,500. General Motors also priced its less-expensive Lambda platform-mate, the 2013 GMC Acadia, earlier this week.

The fresh styling and additional features offered on this luxury CUV could help shore up sales. The additional technology added, including dual-flow dampers, front-center airbag and a seven-inch screen with IntelliLink should also help.

According to Autodata, Enclave sales have slipped 5.5 percent this year. However, the Enclave remains the second best-selling vehicle for Buick, behind only the LaCrosse. A new look, freshened interior and perhaps more Marissa Miller ads should give the Enclave a fighting chance for the new year.

Continue reading 2013 Buick Enclave gets price hike, starts at $39,270*

2013 Buick Enclave gets price hike, starts at $39,270* originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Sep 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 buick enclavebuickenclaveenclave pricingintellilinkmarissa millerFri, 14 Sep 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20323716/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/14/2013-buick-enclave-gets-price-hike-starts-at-39-270/20323716/article-detail.xml 20323716 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-buick-enclave-021-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-buick-enclave-021-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Buick begins airing Marisa Miller Enclave ad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/buick-begins-airing-marisa-miller-enclave-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/buick-begins-airing-marisa-miller-enclave-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/buick-begins-airing-marisa-miller-enclave-ad/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Not long ago, Buick released the behind-the-scenes video of its Enclave commercial with Marisa Miller, and now the supermodel's 30-second spot has begun airing. Note: This is a spot for the current Enclave, not the refreshed 2013 model the debuted during April's New York Auto Show.

The Sports Illustrated staple and lingerie model might just be the first person ever to wear a swimsuit in a Buick ad. We could say more about it, but that would delay you from watching Ms. Miller and the Enclave in action. So just scroll down and check out the video, why don't you.

Continue reading Buick begins airing Marisa Miller Enclave ad

Buick begins airing Marisa Miller Enclave ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 May 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 buick enclavebehind the scenesbuickbuick enclaveenclavemarisa millersports illustratedsports illustrated swimsuit editionsupermodelvideoyoutubeWed, 16 May 2012 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239105/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/16/buick-begins-airing-marisa-miller-enclave-ad/20239105/article-detail.xml 20239105 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/enclaveadmiller_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/enclaveadmiller.jpg <![CDATA[Buick takes us behind the scenes with Marisa Miller]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/buick-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-with-marisa-miller/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/buick-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-with-marisa-miller/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/buick-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-with-marisa-miller/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Marisa Miller Buick Enclave

Buick wants you to know that the 2012 Enclave is smart and sexy and has enlisted the aid of Marissa Miller to help get the point across. The redesigned crossover seems more distracting than anything when Miller's in the picture, but we'll assume that's in a good way. And since we don't expect she comes with the car, buyers should be able to focus on the smart and sexy part.

To see the video of the Enclave and Miller behind the scenes, you know where to go.

Continue reading Buick takes us behind the scenes with Marisa Miller

Buick takes us behind the scenes with Marisa Miller originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 May 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 buick enclavebehind the scenesbuickbuick enclaveenclavemarissa millervideovideosyoutubeThu, 10 May 2012 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20235226/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/10/buick-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-with-marisa-miller/20235226/article-detail.xml 20235226 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/marisa-miller-buick_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/marisa-miller-buick.jpg <![CDATA[GM wipes out with recall of 50,000 Chevy Traverse, GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave crossovers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/gm-wipes-out-with-recall-of-50-000-chevy-traverse-gmc-acadia-an/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/gm-wipes-out-with-recall-of-50-000-chevy-traverse-gmc-acadia-an/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/gm-wipes-out-with-recall-of-50-000-chevy-traverse-gmc-acadia-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2011 GMC Acadia Denali front three-quarter

General Motors has announced a recall of certain 2011 and 2012 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia models for wipers that may fail under heavy snow. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, snow or ice buildup may restrict the wiper movement, which may in turn lead to the wiper arm loosening from the vehicle. The ensuing reduced visibility could increase the risk of an accident. The recall only covers models currently registered in heavy snow states - about 50,000 units - including Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware and Idaho, among others. The full list may be found in the recall report after the jump.

GM is expected to begin notifying owners on Monday, April 16, and dealers will address the issue free of charge. In what sounds like one of the simpler and quicker recall fixes we can remember, dealer technicians will tighten the wiper arm nuts to prevent the wiper arms from becoming inoperable. Click past the jump for the full recall notice.

Continue reading GM wipes out with recall of 50,000 Chevy Traverse, GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave crossovers

GM wipes out with recall of 50,000 Chevy Traverse, GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave crossovers originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acadiabuickbuick enclavechevroletchevrolet traverseenclavegm recallgmcgmc acadiatraversewindshield wiper recallwindshield wipersFri, 13 Apr 2012 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20215006/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/13/gm-wipes-out-with-recall-of-50-000-chevy-traverse-gmc-acadia-an/20215006/article-detail.xml 20215006 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2011-gmc-acadia-denali-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2011-gmc-acadia-denali-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Buick Enclave does a slightly different song and dance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/04/2013-buick-enclave-reveal-new-york-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/04/2013-buick-enclave-reveal-new-york-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/04/2013-buick-enclave-reveal-new-york-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Chevrolet Traverse isn't the only grandiose crossover from General Motors to get the refresh treatment at the 2012 New York Auto Show. Buick also unveiled a face-lifted version of its 2013 Enclave today.

Though the tweaks appear slight at first blush, the vehicle boasts an all-new front fascia with a redesigned grille and black-chrome accents, contoured headlamps and a more aggressive hood up front. LED daytime running lights are standard equipment, as are the LED tail lamps out back. A revised rear fascia wraps up the changes out back.

Indoors, designers threw in LED ambient lighting as well as a smattering of soft-touch materials across the dash and door panels. The cabin can be swaddled in a total of four interior combinations with associated "complimenting" wood tones. The center stack has also been reworked with touch-capacitive controls. Here's hoping GM has better luck with the technology than what's found on various Ford vehicles. Keep scrolling for the full press release.

Continue reading 2013 Buick Enclave does a slightly different song and dance

2013 Buick Enclave does a slightly different song and dance originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 buick enclave2013 enclavebuickenclavenew yorknew york 2012new york auto showWed, 04 Apr 2012 11:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20208254/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/04/2013-buick-enclave-reveal-new-york-2012/20208254/article-detail.xml 20208254 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2013-buick-enclave-ny-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2013-buick-enclave-ny-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Buick Enclave debuts with new look over same drivetrain]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/2013-buick-enclave-debuts-with-new-look-over-same-drivetrain/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/2013-buick-enclave-debuts-with-new-look-over-same-drivetrain/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/2013-buick-enclave-debuts-with-new-look-over-same-drivetrain/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Buick Enclave driving shot - front three-quarter view

The Enclave has been a boon for Buick since it arrived in 2007, with impressive sales complemented by profitable transaction prices. And even though the big Buick has gone without a refresh since its debut, the Enclave managed its best year ever in 2011, with a segment-leading 58,000 units sold.

Buick is hoping to stretch that streak with the Enclave's first refresh for 2013. The tweaked three-row crossover will receive several updates, starting with a new front fascia that includes a black chrome waterfall grille and redesigned hood. The front also includes a new headlight design with standard Xenon headlamps and LED daytime running lights. Out back, the 2013 Enclave features new LED taillights and a fresh design with integrated exhaust outlets.

2013 Buick Enclave dashboardOverall, the exterior redesign is evolutionary, but more dramatic changes await inside. The Enclave's cabin was fast becoming outdated, but Buick upped its game with a fresh dash that includes more modern-looking materials and contemporary center stack. There are also tasteful wood treatments, a smattering of chrome accents and attractive stitching throughout. The cabin also features blue LED ambient lighting that accentuates the size of this voluminous crossover.

The 2013 Enclave will also inherit Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system, which offers a brilliant LCD and interactivity with smart phones via Bluetooth and USB connections. The Enclave also features tri-zone climate control and an industry-first front center airbag for additional crash protection.

Buick engineers hasn't made any changes to the tried-and-true 3.6-liter V6 or the six-speed automatic, but the ride and handling setup has been given a bit of love. The front and rear dampers were revised for a smoother ride, with adjustments that also ensure big bumps don't loosen your fillings. The ride has also received more "Quiet Tuning," (read: insulation) which keeps even more unwanted road noise out of the re-imagined cabin than before.

The 2013 Buick Enclave will make its official debut at the New York Auto Show tomorrow. Scroll down to read over the press release from Buick and peruse official high-resolution images in the gallery above.

Continue reading 2013 Buick Enclave debuts with new look over same drivetrain

2013 Buick Enclave debuts with new look over same drivetrain originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 buick enclavebuickenclavegeneral motorsgmintellilinklambdanew yorknew york 2012new york auto showTue, 03 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20205842/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/03/2013-buick-enclave-debuts-with-new-look-over-same-drivetrain/20205842/article-detail.xml 20205842 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-buick-enclave-021-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-buick-enclave-021-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Buick teases 2013 Enclave ahead of debut in New York]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/01/buick-teases-2013-enclave-ahead-of-debut-in-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/01/buick-teases-2013-enclave-ahead-of-debut-in-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/01/buick-teases-2013-enclave-ahead-of-debut-in-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Enclave has been a big breadwinner in the Buick lineup for over five years, with annual sales that have hovered around 50,000 units, and this past year has seen its best numbers yet. Not bad for a crossover that can crest $50,000 with the right options checked, and even better for a vehicle that has seen virtually nothing in the way of engineering or design updates.

That changes for the 2013 model year, as Buick will finally give their range-topper some refreshed duds. The Enclave will be shown for the first time at the New York Auto Show on April 4, and we now have the first official sneak peak of the updated interior. There isn't much to glean from the photo, except for the expected infotainment update and some cool-looking ambient lighting.

We'll probably have to wait until New York for more pics of the Enclave, but for now you can click on the image above to see the pic in higher resolution. Hit the jump for a very short General Motors press release.

Continue reading Buick teases 2013 Enclave ahead of debut in New York

Buick teases 2013 Enclave ahead of debut in New York originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 buick enclavebuickenclavegm lambdalambdanew yorknew york 2012new your auto showThu, 01 Mar 2012 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20183299/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/01/buick-teases-2013-enclave-ahead-of-debut-in-new-york/20183299/article-detail.xml 20183299 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013buickenclaveteaser-2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013buickenclaveteaser-2.jpg <![CDATA[GM debuts new front center airbag [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/gm-debuts-new-front-center-airbag-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/gm-debuts-new-front-center-airbag-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/gm-debuts-new-front-center-airbag-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

GM Center Air Bag

Just when you thought automakers couldn't shove any more inflatables into a vehicle's cabin, General Motors has introduced yet another new airbag. The company's new front center airbag is basically designed to keep the driver in place during a solo far-side impact, as well as prevent occupants from bouncing off of one another if there is more than one person in the car. The new device is set to be introduced as standard equipment on models like the Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia with power seats beginning in the 2013 model year. The tethered, tube-shaped airbag deploys from the right side of the driver's seat and positions itself in the center of the vehicle.

GM says that the company's analysis of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data revealed that far-side impact crashes accounted for 11 percent of the belted front occupant fatalities in non-rollover incidents between 2004 and 2009, and that those deaths represented 29 percent of all fatalities in all side-impact crashes.

Automotive parts supplier Takata co-developed the airbag with GM over the course of three years. Hit the jump for the full press release as well as a video of the device in action.

Continue reading GM debuts new front center airbag [w/video]

GM debuts new front center airbag [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acadiaair bagairbagbuickcenter air bagcenter airbagchevroletenclavegeneral motorsgmgm center air baggmctraverseThu, 29 Sep 2011 13:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20069673/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/29/gm-debuts-new-front-center-airbag-w-video/20069673/article-detail.xml 20069673 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/gm-center-air-bag-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/gm-center-air-bag-628.jpg <![CDATA[Opel to get next-gen Buick Enclave and LaCrosse]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/01/opel-to-get-next-gen-buick-enclave-and-lacrosse/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/01/opel-to-get-next-gen-buick-enclave-and-lacrosse/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/01/opel-to-get-next-gen-buick-enclave-and-lacrosse/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2010 Buick Enclave in white
Buick Enclave and LaCrosse - Click either image for high-res gallery

2011 buick lacrosseTo help build the Buick brand, General Motors has turned the Opel Insignia into a Buick Regal, and in the fall, the Astra will become the 2012 Verano. These new products are proving to be a shot in the arm for Buick, but will the magic work the other way around?

According to a new report by GMInsideNews, we may soon find out. The site claims that The General will make room in the Opel lineup for the next Buick Enclave and LaCrosse. The move would likely make sense from a cost perspective, giving GM economies of scale thanks to increased production, while also adding to the Opel lineup without significant engineering expenditures. The General could also take advantage of its global footprint by building the Opel version of the LaCrosse or Enclave in the U.S. or even China, where labor is cheaper than in Germany.

Can GM succeed in turning the LaCrosse and Enclave into future Opel models? Hard to say, really. On one hand, if GM pursues this path, it will likely reap substantial savings from shared engineering costs between Buick and Opel. On the other hand, the Enclave and LaCrosse are quite large for most European cities and tastes, and GM will need to offer competent diesel and four-cylinder petrol powertrains for the models to have a shot at strong sales.

Opel to get next-gen Buick Enclave and LaCrosse originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buickbuick enclavebuick lacrosseenclavegeneral motorsgmlacrosseopelWed, 01 Jun 2011 09:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19954718/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/01/opel-to-get-next-gen-buick-enclave-and-lacrosse/19954718/article-detail.xml 19954718 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/buick-enclave-white-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/buick-enclave-white-630.jpg <![CDATA[Buick to take its products to the people in search of more sales]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/03/buick-to-take-its-products-to-the-people-in-search-of-more-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/03/buick-to-take-its-products-to-the-people-in-search-of-more-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/03/buick-to-take-its-products-to-the-people-in-search-of-more-sales/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Buick emblem

Buick sales are leading the pack in General Motors' push to gain customers from other brands, pulling in an impressive 40 percent of its sales from other manufacturers' customer bases. To keep the trend going, Buick brass say they need to continue to convince people that Buick doesn't just make retiree barges anymore.

Despite its lineup of the LaCrosse, Lucerne, Enclave and redesigned Regal, all non-barges in their own right, Buick is still hoping to dig more sales out of skeptical Americans. To help make that goal a reality, Buick is sending its dealers to the streets to show off its new wares and convince people that this ain't your daddy's LeSabre. The company is also working with Amazon.com, buying full-screen advertisements on the Kindle in hopes of reaching the younger crowd.

According to the brand's marketing chief Tony DiSalle, the measures are starting to work, with Buick seeing more sales in the Northeast and Southeast. Traditionally, the company has moved the most units in the Midwest. The next geographic hurdle, Buick says, is to break in to markets in areas like Texas and, of course, Southern California.

Buick to take its products to the people in search of more sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 May 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 buick enclave2011 buick lacrosse2011 buick lucerne2011 buick regalbuickcar buyingenclavelacrosselucerneregalTue, 03 May 2011 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19925508/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/03/buick-to-take-its-products-to-the-people-in-search-of-more-sales/19925508/article-detail.xml 19925508 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/buick-shield-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/buick-shield-630.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Buick rolls Enclave in the name of safety]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/23/video-buick-rolls-enclave-in-the-name-of-safety/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/23/video-buick-rolls-enclave-in-the-name-of-safety/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/23/video-buick-rolls-enclave-in-the-name-of-safety/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

buick enclave rollover
Buick Enclave rolls over, plays dead - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Here's an interesting statistic: Rollovers account for just 2.2 percent of all accidents. A small number, no doubt, but those rollovers account for a massive 35.4 percent of all traffic fatalities. With that in mind, Buick engineers are hard at work perfecting technology like the company's StabiliTrak electronic stability control. Available on the 2011 Buick Enclave, among other vehicles, the system features anti-lock brakes, traction control, panic brake assist and rollover mitigation to keep the Enclave and other Buicks on four wheels whenever possible.

When a rollover is unavoidable, Buick's rollover sensing technology will sense the danger within a fraction of a second, firing off seatbelt pretensioners and deploying side-curtain airbags. Hit the jump to pore over GM's press release, then watch the Buick Enclave go head over heals in the name of traffic safety.

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Video: Buick rolls Enclave in the name of safety

Video: Buick rolls Enclave in the name of safety originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 buick enclavebuickbuick enclave rollover safety videoenclaveenclave rolloverrolloverrollover accidentrollover protectionstabilitrakstability controlWed, 23 Mar 2011 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19886956/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/23/video-buick-rolls-enclave-in-the-name-of-safety/19886956/article-detail.xml 19886956 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/enclave-rollover_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/enclave-rollover.jpg <![CDATA[IIHS awards Top Safety Pick to 2011 Honda Odyssey, GM Lambda CUVs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/12/iihs-awards-top-safety-pick-to-2011-honda-odyssey-gm-lambda-cuv/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/12/iihs-awards-top-safety-pick-to-2011-honda-odyssey-gm-lambda-cuv/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/12/iihs-awards-top-safety-pick-to-2011-honda-odyssey-gm-lambda-cuv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2011 Honda Odyssey IIHS roof test, Top Safety Pick
IIHS roof test on 2011 Honda Odyssey - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has announced that the 2011 Honda Odyssey, Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia have all been named Top Safety Picks, the organization's highest honor.

The Odyssey is the second minivan to earn the award since IIHS added roof strength requirements to its criteria for earning the Top Safety Pick designation, the other being the Toyota Sienna. Since the Honda minivan had already been tested and rated Good for front, side and rear crash protection, only the roof strength measurement was required this time around.

Similarly, the GMC Acadia was only tested for roof strength as it had already passed the previous crash-testing regimen. The Odyssey's roof withstood a force more than five times the minivan's weight; the Acadia managed four times its weight. To put this in context, a vehicle's roof must be able to withstand 1.5 times its weight to pass the more lenient federal testing standards.

Because the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave share their architecture with the tested GMC Acadia, those vehicles were also awarded Top Safety Picks. See the photos of the roof testing below and the press release after the break.


Gallery: IIHS roof test on 2011 Honda Odyssey and GMC Acadia

IIHS roof test on 2011 GMC AcadiaIIHS roof test on 2011 Honda Odyssey

[Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety]

Continue reading IIHS awards Top Safety Pick to 2011 Honda Odyssey, GM Lambda CUVs

IIHS awards Top Safety Pick to 2011 Honda Odyssey, GM Lambda CUVs originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Mar 2011 14:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 buick enclave2011 chevrolet traverse2011 gmc acadia2011 honda odysseyacadiabuickchevroletenclavegmchondaiihsinsurance institute for highway safetyodysseytop safety picktraverseSat, 12 Mar 2011 14:07:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19876687/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/12/iihs-awards-top-safety-pick-to-2011-honda-odyssey-gm-lambda-cuv/19876687/article-detail.xml 19876687 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/00-2011-honda-odyssey-iihs-roof-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/00-2011-honda-odyssey-iihs-roof-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Buick sales beating up on Lexus, may be this year's most popular luxury brand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/07/buick-sales-beating-up-on-lexus-may-be-this-years-most-popular/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/07/buick-sales-beating-up-on-lexus-may-be-this-years-most-popular/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/07/buick-sales-beating-up-on-lexus-may-be-this-years-most-popular/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Buick emblem badge

There are a number of simple, reliable truths in the world. The Earth is round. A compass points north. Nobody but the Chinese buy Buicks and Lexus is the best-selling luxury brand in the United States. Well, hold on to your horses. Lowly old Buick, long seen as the doorstop of the luxury segment, has outsold Lexus two months straight and shows no signs of slowing down.

Our friends at Kicking Tires ground through the sales figures and found that Buick also sold more luxury cars in February than Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Acura. In fact, the only luxury brand that sold more cars in the States in February was BMW, and even then only by 800 units.

What makes Buick's meteoric rise to the top of its segment even more impressive is the fact that it has done so with just four nameplates: Enclave, LaCrosse, Lucerne and Regal. By way of comparison, Lexus offers nine models in the States.

And lest you think that buyers are choosing Buicks solely because of a value proposition, Kicking Tires notes that average Buick transaction prices have increased by $11,113 since 2003, according to Buick spokesman Nick Richards. Sounds like Buick deserves some real kudos, no?

We suggest you scan over the whole article from Kicking Tires, it's a very interesting read.

[Source: Kicking Tires]

Buick sales beating up on Lexus, may be this year's most popular luxury brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Mar 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buickbuick salesenclavelacrosselucerneluxury carsregalMon, 07 Mar 2011 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19870398/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/07/buick-sales-beating-up-on-lexus-may-be-this-years-most-popular/19870398/article-detail.xml 19870398 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/buick-shield-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/buick-shield-630.jpg <![CDATA[Review: 2010 Buick Enclave CXL AWD]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/24/2010-buick-enclave-cxl-awd-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/24/2010-buick-enclave-cxl-awd-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/24/2010-buick-enclave-cxl-awd-review-road-test/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Epitome of Inconspicuous Consumption

2010 Buick Enclave CXL AWD - Click above for high-res image gallery

There was a time when Buick was the brand of choice for doctors, lawyers and politicians. Its cars were elegant enough to show success without being overt signals of wealth, they were the epitome of inconspicuous consumption. But that was a long, long time ago. Buicks of the last 30 years look like slightly disguised versions of a run-of-the-mill Chevrolet, with a bit more chrome and better seat fabrics.

The Enclave can be compared to other luxury crossovers in the segment without an asterisk.
Buick design went from purposely understated to flat-out dull, and the average age of the brand's buyers shot up to over 70 in the mid-2000s. If it weren't for Buick's success in China, the Trishield would have likely followed Oldsmobile into retirement. But instead of mothballing Buick for good, General Motors decided to finally give the brand what it really needed: new and exciting products. Former Vice Chairman Bob Lutz went as far as to say that Buick's new products were going to compete against Lexus. We were all a bit skeptical, but one vehicle began making believers.

The Buick Enclave took many by surprise when it debuted in early 2007 with attractive styling and a well-appointed cabin. And since production started, the Enclave has proven to be a strong seller. In fact, the Enclave continually beats the combined sales of its crosstown rivals, the Ford Flex and the Lincoln MKT.

Since Lexus itself does not offer a three-row CUV, does the Buick offer a credible alternative to the hush and plush Japanese automaker? We spent a week with a very well appointed Enclave CXL AWD to find out if GM's highest-end large crossover really represents the brand's new mission. Continue reading...


Gallery: Review: 2010 Buick Enclave CXL AWD


Photos Copyright (C)2010 Chris Shunk / AOL

Continue reading Review: 2010 Buick Enclave CXL AWD

Review: 2010 Buick Enclave CXL AWD originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick enclavebuickenclavefeaturedreviewreviewsTue, 24 Aug 2010 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19604990/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/24/2010-buick-enclave-cxl-awd-review-road-test/19604990/article-detail.xml 19604990 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/lead1buickenclavereview2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/lead1buickenclavereview2010.jpg <![CDATA[GM recalling over 243,000 crossovers over possible seat belt defect]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/gm-recalling-over-243-000-crossovers-over-possible-seat-belt-def/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/gm-recalling-over-243-000-crossovers-over-possible-seat-belt-def/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/gm-recalling-over-243-000-crossovers-over-possible-seat-belt-def/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

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

The summer of 2010's recall hit parade continues unabated today, with General Motors having just announced that it is asking 243,403 owners of its 2009-2010 Lambda crossovers to bring their three-row haulers in for inspection. The culprit? Second-row seat belts in select Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook CUVs have "failed to perform properly in a crash."

GM seatbelt recallAccording to GM, a second-row seat-side trim piece is to blame, as it can impede the upward rotation of the buckle after the seat is folded flat. As a result, if the buckle makes contact with the seat frame, cosmetic damage can occur, potentially requiring additional force to operate the buckle properly. So far, no great shakes, but in the process of applying that additional force, the occupant may push the buckle cover down to the strap, potentially revealing and depressing the red release button. As a result of this, the belt may not latch, or in certain cases, it may actually appear to be latched when, in fact, it isn't.

GM will be working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to administer the recall, which will see owners receiving letters beginning later this month to schedule an appointment for a no-cost inspection and repair of the affected belts. Click through to the jump for more details. Top tip, NOS879!


Gallery: 2010 Buick Enclave


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading GM recalling over 243,000 crossovers over possible seat belt defect

GM recalling over 243,000 crossovers over possible seat belt defect originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Detroit auto industry's annual summer shutdown is a tradition that goes back many decades, but this year, General Motors is taking a pass. It comes from a time when the new model year started in September for every car and they all debuted simultaneously, usually in dealer showrooms. The shutdown was the two week period in the summer during which all the plants installed updated tooling for the new models.

In more recent times, the practice has persisted as a time to do maintenance and other work that might interfere with production - even if it hasn't coincided with the launch of a new model. This year, however, GM's inventories on many models are running so low that nine of the automaker's 11 assembly plants will keep producing vehicles during the designated shutdown period. Among the plants that will stay open are the Detroit-Hamtramck plant that builds the Cadillac DTS, the Delta Township plant builds the Lambda crossovers and the Chevrolet Corvette plant in Bowling Green, KY. Full press release after the jump.

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading GM nixing summer shutdown, hiring thousands of temps to meet demand

GM nixing summer shutdown, hiring thousands of temps to meet demand originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 17:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acadiabuick enclaveBuickEnclaveChevrolet CorvetteChevrolet TraverseChevroletCorvetteChevroletTraverseCorvettedtsenclavegeneral motorsgeneral motors assemblygeneral motors assembly plantsGeneralMotorsGeneralMotorsAssemblyGeneralMotorsAssemblyPlantsGMC AcadiaGmcAcadiano summer shutdownNoSummerShutdownsummer shutdownSummerShutdowntraverseFri, 18 Jun 2010 17:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19520936/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/18/gm-nixing-summer-shutdown-hiring-thousands-of-temps-to-meet-dem/19520936/article-detail.xml 19520936 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/x08buen091_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/x08buen091.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Cadillac to get seven-seat Lambda variant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/27/report-cadillac-to-get-seven-seat-lambda-variant/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/27/report-cadillac-to-get-seven-seat-lambda-variant/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/27/report-cadillac-to-get-seven-seat-lambda-variant/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Brace yourself, Cadillac fans. Word has just come down the pike that The Crest will "absolutely" be getting a new model based on none other than the Lambda architecture. That means that a variant of the Chevrolet Traverse will be sold under all four of The General's brands. So far, drivetrain options are still up in the air and vague at best, but we'd be willing to bet our lucky penny that both front- and all-wheel drive models will be available. Chances are that power will come from the same 3.6-liter V6 found under the hood of every other Lambda out there, too.

It's hard not to approach this with a cynical eye. Right after the company's 2009 bankruptcy blitzkrieg, GM promised the world that it was through with badge engineering for good. Swapping nameplates and fenders had done much to lead the company to the brink of collapse, and the waves of fresh new models hitting our shores had us thinking that maybe the company had turned over a new leaf.

By all accounts, the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave are selling well, so is this a case of Detroit getting greedy or is the company simply trying to spread development costs as thin as possible? Either way, it will take something really special to convince us that this is a smart move.

[Source: InsideLine]

Report: Cadillac to get seven-seat Lambda variant originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 May 2010 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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