Buick: Other Special Convertible Sedan 41c on 2040-cars

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2014 Buick LaCrosse updated with new styling, tech

Buick might have one of the smallest lineups among major automakers, but by the time the 2014 model rolls around, it will definitely have one of the freshest. Debuting at the New York Auto Show this week, the 2014 Buick LaCrosse receives numerous styling changes inside and out, and it benefits from many of the same new features found on closely related models like the Cadillac XTS and the 2014 Chevrolet Impala.
Exterior changes are relatively minor, but they still help give the car a fresh, new look. The new face of the 2014 LaCrosse fits in with recently new or redesigned Buick models with its oversized waterfall grille, LED-trimmed headlights and the signature hood vents being moved to the side of the hood rather than the top. Similar changes have been made to the rear, like the reshaped LED taillights, the full-width chrome trim and a new fascia design; LaCrosse models equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 will still get the integrated exhaust finishers but they're executed in a more stylish manner than the current model. Finishing off the exterior, new wheel designs are also being introduced, which will include bringing 20-inch wheels to the sedan's option list.
Inside, Buick redesigned almost the entire cabin to create a more luxurious and upscale appearance. The instrument panel is essentially carried over, but pretty much everything else has been redesigned and updated with the biggest change being to the driver's area. Dual eight-inch configurable displays make up the center stack and gauge cluster, while the overall number of buttons have been reduced from 17 down to just seven. The 2014 LaCrosse will also be offered with the next-generation IntelliLink, which receives many of the same enhancements as Chevy's latest version of MyLink adding better customization, improved voice commands and more features including Pandora. Additionally, new door panels, seat and center console complete the LaCrosse's interior redesign.

Buick to use Velite name for its Cascada?

Ever since Opel brought out the Cascada convertible last year, rumors have been flying that Buick would offer it Stateside – much like it does with the Insignia-based Regal and the Astra-based Verano. And now we might have our best clue yet as to what Buick might call it. According to GM Authority, General Motors has filed to use the name Velite on a new model. The name first appeared on a convertible concept unveiled over a decade ago at the 2004 New York Auto Show (pictured above), but GM reportedly opened an application to trademark the nameplate for production in 2011, seeking extensions on its application every six months since. Of course the fact that it's applied for its fifth extension (of a permissible six) doesn't necessarily mean that GM will ultimately bring the cabriolet to US showrooms, or that it will use the Velite name if it does, but the fact that GM is keeping the name alive could be a good sign. The market for relaxed four-seat convertibles has been shrinking, leaving it up to drop-top muscle cars like the Chevy Camaro and Ford Mustang. But with entries like the Toyota Camry Solara, Volkswagen Eos and Chrysler 200 Convertible having dropped off the market, the Buick Velite (or Cascada, or whatever it's ultimately called) could have the sedate cabriolet segment all to itself – even if (or especially if) Lexus dealers aren't interested in touching it.

Trademarks indicate Buick Regal wagon could be on the way

American wagon fans have been waiting for General Motors to import a Buick-badged version of the Opel Insignia Sports Tourer since the current Insignia-based Regal hit dealers. If a new patent filing is any indication, that day could be coming soon. Then again, it might not mean anything. AutoGuide reports that Buick has filed two trademarks with the US Patent and Trademark Office for "Motor land vehicles, namely automobiles." You can see the trademarks for "Tourx" and "Regal Tourx" here and here. "Tour" smacks of wagon models, while the "x" – for all-wheel drive – makes us wonder if maybe we'll be seeing a rebadged version of the high-riding Opel Insignia Country Tourer (shown above). This isn't the first time Buick has stoked the hopes of US wagon fans, though. Earlier this year, trademarks were filed for the "Regal Sport Touring," a name that's very close to the Euro-market wagon's title. In fact, that trademark had the same description as the Tourx/Regal Tourx filings. As we've established before, automakers file trademarks all the time. It's far from a guarantee that anything will come of such trademarked names. Still, two wagon-ish filings with the USPTO from Buick in under a year makes it seem like there's at least someone at the Trishield brand that's campaigning for a long-roof Regal. Fight the good fight, friend. Related Video: