1969 - Buick Electra on 2040-cars

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2014 Buick LaCrosse steps up to the big leagues with plenty of luxury

Following the introduction of the updated 2014 Buick LaCrosse and Regal, the oldest vehicle in Buick's lineup will be the Verano, which was just introduced last year. Having such a fresh product mix bodes well for Buick as it tries to create a new image in the US, and after checking out the amount of luxury being stuffed into the new LaCrosse for 2014, GM's awkwardly positioned brand may finally have the ability to stand out.
Granted, the model unveiled was the all-new, top-of-the-line Ultra Luxury Interior Package, but this package brings top-notch leather and soft suede covering everything above the beltline as well as real ash wood accent trim throughout the cabin. While there was no mention of price, we don't expect this model to come cheap in terms of what we expect from Buick, although it will likely be competitively priced with similarly equipped rivals like the Acura TL or Lexus ES. Adding even more to the LaCrosse's interior, dual eight-inch displays make up the gauge cluster and center stack, and the number of buttons on the center stack have been greatly reduced, creating a cleaner look for the instrument panel.
Another big change is the next-generation of Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system that brings with it all of the recent enhancements of the Cadillac CUE and Chevrolet MyLink systems. Differentiating itself from other GM infotainment systems, the new Buick IntelliLink stands out by allowing users to customize the apps they can add and not just being limited to what GM sees fit.

Buick rolls out more potent Encore Sport Touring

Buick has announced a new Sport Touring version of the Encore. And more than a trim level or special edition, we're glad to report that the new model packs a more potent engine. Instead of the 1.4-liter turbo four that produces 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque in the standard Encore, the new Sport Touring model features a newer, more powerful engine that GM says shares little with the existing unit aside from its displacement. The new 1.4-liter turbocharged, direct-injection engine produces a more commanding 153 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque, which is up a good 11 percent and 20 percent, respectively, over the existing engine. It's still mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, and features a stop/start system to optimize fuel efficiency. Buick wasn't willing to estimate where the mile-per-gallon numbers might land, though that information will be available closer to sale. Along with the upgraded engine, Buick is also throwing in 18-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, and the features from the Convenience package as well. The new Encore model follows just a couple of months after we first caught wind of a trademark filed for the Sport Touring name. At the time, it looked like it was set to be applied to the Regal and LaCrosse sedan, which could still follow as well. Related Video: Buick Introduces 2016 Encore Sport Touring New 1.4L turbo engine adds performance, exclusive exterior cues add distinction 2015-07-20 DETROIT – Buick today introduced the 2016 Encore Sport Touring – a more spirited take on the brand's popular crossover. It is distinguished by unique exterior cues and driven by an exclusive, all-new 1.4L turbocharged engine featuring direct injection and stop/start technology. The exterior features include a winged rear spoiler, 18-inch aluminum premium-finish wheels and body-color door handles, while the technologically advanced 1.4L turbo is part of a new, global family of small, power-dense engines developed to balance performance and efficiency with exceptional refinement. Direct injection helps it generate an estimated 153 hp (112 kW) and 177 lb-ft of torque (240 Nm), for about 11 percent more horsepower and nearly 20 percent more torque than the Encore's standard engine – and a greater feeling of power on demand, particularly at low- and mid-range engine speeds. It's matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. Stop/start technology contributes to reduced fuel consumption in stop-and-go driving.

Buick dusting off Grand National, GNX and T-Type nameplates

Inside Line reports Buick is planning to bring back some of the more storied names from the company's past, including the Grand National, GNX and the T-Type. Those cars rose to prominence in the 1970s and '80s to become performance legends of their day.
The new models will reportedly make use of the rear-wheel drive platform that currently underpins the Cadillac ATS and all would arrive as sedans - according to an unnamed source familiar with the initiative. Odds are the T-Type and the Grand National would share a driveline, with honest money being on a new twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 as the engine of choice. Word has it the mill will be good for anywhere from 350 to 400 horsepower.
That leaves only the GNX. Inside Line seems to think that machine could get down the road with some help from the all-new GM LT1 small-block V8. The engineers behind the ATS platform have already told us the engine bay is large enough for to accommodate the big eight pot, and since GM is most certainly working on an ATS-V, a slightly less powerful, less luxurious Buick iteration makes some kind of sense. We can't wait to see these things in the light of day.