Showing posts with label buick. Show all posts
Showing posts with label buick. Show all posts

Sunday, November 19, 2023

Buick Encore GX (2024MY minor change) and Envista

The facelifted Buick Encore GX and the first-ever Buick Envista signaled the new era of Buick because these two crossovers are the first to don the new Buick look and logo. Let's take a look.

2024 Buick Encore GX
2024 Buick Encore GX

Beginning with the Buick Encore GX, this big minor change is the first to wear the new Buick look inspired by the Wildcat Concept. Although seeing the new Buick logo is the scariest thing to do, this new Buick look really means business for this $25,600 crossover.

2024 Buick Encore GX
2024 Buick Encore GX

2024 Buick Encore GX
2024 Buick Encore GX interior

In addition to the heavily revamped styling and the slightly revised rear design, the facelifted Encore GX features a premium Avenir variant with glossier details to ensure this is the top-of-the-line model. The interior layout has been heavily revamped for this minor change and the Avenir model, comes with a BOSE premium 7-speaker audio system including an amplifier, panoramic moonroof, and an Avenir engraving on the front seats, among others. Despite numerous revisions, it can still accommodate up to 50.2 cu. ft. of max cargo capacity, making it capable of almost everything.

The Buick Encore GX still comes with a choice of ECOTEC 1.2L turbo mated to a CVT capable of 30 city / 31 hwy fuel economy and the ECOTEC 1.3L turbo engine mated to a 9-speed AT with 155hp of power and 174lb-ft of torque. Yes, there's 4WD offered but no off-road tuned suspension in sight, meaning the Encore GX is best to be driven on the road rather than off the road because there are no special bits that make it well-behaved on dirt.

The Encore GX comes with Buick Driver Confidence as well as available safety & driver-assistance technologies but the Avenir variant comes with its signature Technology Package which comes with Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Camera Mirror† with rear camera washer, and HD Surround Vision.

2024 Buick Envista
2024 Buick Envista

Now, let's get to know the first-ever Buick Envista, a coupe-crossover that is yours to drive for $22,400 plus additional costs, which is cheaper to own than the Encore GX.

2024 Buick Envista
2024 Buick Envista

2024 Buick Envista
2024 Buick Envista interior

Think of the first-ever Buick Envista as the fancy version of the Chevrolet Trax Crossover because even with the Wildcat-inspired looks, the similarities are all over the Envista apart from the fact that the Envista is cheaper to own than the Encore GX. 

Still, with its coupe-crossover styling, the available Avenir variant with glossier details, Ultrawide 11" Diagonal Infotainment Screen, wireless smartphone connectivity, seating for five, and 42.0 cu. ft. of max cargo capacity, it's no surprise despite being less spacious than its Chevrolet Trax Crossover equivalent, it still works and feels just like it.

Just like its Chevrolet Trax Crossover equivalent, the Buick Envista is front-wheel-drive only and it is powered only by an ECOTEC 1.2L turbo engine that produces 137HP of power and 162lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 6-speed AT, it has an estimated combined fuel economy of 28MPG city/ 32MPG hwy.

In terms of safety, the Envista comes with Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, IntelliBeam Auto High Beams, Following Distance Indicator, Front Pedestrian Braking, and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning as standard. Available extras such as Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert,† Rear Park Assist, Rainsense front wipers, and Adaptive Cruise Control, as well as an automatic-dimming outside driver mirror for the Avenir variant.

These two new crossovers signaled the new era of Buick because they were the first to don the new Buick look and logo. Although the new Buick logo is scary to look at, the Wildcat-styled nose and improved features really made a statement about the two. The question is, which of the new-era Buicks will you drive?

Photo: General Motors

Tuesday, April 13, 2021

Buick Envision (2nd gen)

Back in 2016, Buick imported the Envision from China to the United States, months before Mr. Tariff Man won the elections just to stoke fear about Chinese imports including this, this crossover sparked a lot of questions from customers on the hunt for crossovers and life couldn't get even more confusing with the arrival of the second-generation model, which promises to be more dynamic and more lively to drive compared to the previous model. The question is, should you want one?



You're looking at the all-new, second-generation, Buick Envision, which is still imported from China just like the previous model, but with prices starting at 31,800 US Dollars plus additional costs, it's surprisingly cheaper than the old one, making it the quintessential bargain of the year.

The exterior design of the new Envision is the turning point of this generation because it's surprisingly a big improvement compared to the old Envision several years ago. Although it's lower than the old one, it's now slightly longer and wider, making it roomier on the inside than the old model, which is good, but there's something puzzling about the exterior design because some say, it draws inspiration from the Enspire Concept from the 2018 Auto China in Beijing. Another concept-turned-reality scenario that almost pleases the motoring crowd and from every angle, even when slapped with some Avenir touches for the first time in an Envision, this crossover sure knows how to make a clear statement about it.

On the inside, thanks to its slightly increased wheelbase, it's roomier to live with than the previous model and it's got better boot space as well. Of course, while you are getting cozy, the new Envision packs numerous conveniences toy around such as a heated steering wheel, panoramic moonroof, 10.2-inch-diagonal touchscreen infotainment system, first-ever air ionizer for a US Buick vehicle, wi-fi connectivity, and more you can spend some time with it.

Under the hood, the all-new Envision is powered by a new 2.0L Turbo ECOTEC 4-cylinder engine which sadly produces 228hp of power output, 24hp less than the old model, while mated to a 9-speed Hydra-Matic gearbox. Fuel economy, it has an EPA-estimated MPG of 24 city /31 highway.

What about dynamics? The new Envision features MacPherson Struts on the front, a five-link rear suspension, available Continuous Damping Control, and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes. In front-wheel-drive configuration alone, it feels somewhat civilized like a real commoner in the neighborhood, but when fitted with all-wheel drive and active twin-clutch, it feels dynamic in every way even when wet.

While getting used to its newly improved dynamics, the new Envision has a long list of safety features under the Buick Driver Confidence Plus in addition to its HD Rear Vision Camera, Adaptive Cruise Control, Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist, HD Surround Vision, and Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking. Such safety tech will put drivers on notice.

Although the power drop is what made them lamented, the improved dynamics, interior, tech, and design is what the new Buick Envision is made for. Despite being made by the Chinese, the new Envision feels welcomed in the Land of the Free and Home of the Brave as long as it won't get caught by the Reds under the bed.

Photo: General Motors

Friday, July 31, 2020

Chevrolet Trailblazer vs. Buick Encore GX

As most American carmakers are shifting away from cars in favor of crossovers, General Motors throws a curveball with two new mainstream crossovers; the new Chevy Trailblazer and the Buick Encore GX. How do these two new American crossovers stack up? Let's investigate.

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer

First up is the Chevrolet Trailblazer, which starts at 19,000 Dollars, the cheapest of the Chevrolet SUV range. For some eagle-eyed GM insiders, the Trailblazer name sounds familiar because that was originally used for the seven-seater big brother of the Blazer in 1999 and then re-used in 2012 as the SUV version of the Colorado, which is sold in developing countries as well as Australia as a Holden. Due to progressiveness, the Trailblazer name has been demoted as the little brother of the Blazer, revived last year as a crossover that uses the same bits and bobs as the current GMC Acadia.

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer

Falling victim to the progressive culture, the Trailblazer compact crossover is about as small as the Spark, which makes it a bit "city car class" for a tiny crossover, and in terms of design, the Trailblazer looks a bit like a Hyundai Venue, despite the fact that it's made in Korea, just like its Venue rival. Although not macho for SUV standards, the Trailblazer is not afraid to get its face dirty because getting dirty is almost what this thing does, almost.

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer interior

On the inside, it's anything but typical for the Trailblazer because despite being small in size, it can fit up to five people and up to 54.4 cubic feet of cargo volume when the passenger and 2nd-row seats are folded down, making it the ideal crossover for work and for weekend trips with friends. Although regular, it's about as comfortable as any car can get. Not bad, Chevrolet.

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer

Behind the wheel, the Trailblazer is about as nimble as a city car and as capable as you know what. Under the hood, the Trailblazer is offered with a choice of ECOTEC 1.2L turbo mated to a CVT and the ECOTEC 1.3L turbo engine mated to a 9-speed AT with 155hp of power and 174lb-ft of torque. Feels nippy, of course, and with the 4WD system opted, it's all business as usual for the Trailblazer, but when you went for the ACTIV variant with off-road suspension tuning, the Trailblazer really works its magic, almost. Not bad working on the dirt with the 4WD system running but it should deserve more because it's worth a hundred unanswered questions about this crossover.

In terms of safety, the Trailblazer features Chevy Safety Assist with available Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Rear Park Assist, among many other safety features offered on this crossover.

2020 Buick Encore GX

Shifting gears to the Buick Encore GX, this $24,100 replacement to the old, Euro-sourced Encore, is the cheapest Buick crossover at this moment in time and it's less expensive than the now-defunct Regal TourX, although more expensive than the Chevy Trailblazer mentioned above.

2020 Buick Encore GX

So, what to expect in the newest addition to the Buick SUV range? For starters, the exterior looks pretty much the same as the Encore but because this is the GX, it's slightly bigger than the Encore, so they're no telling why it's bigger. Also, when opted for the ST package, the Encore GX strips off its cladding in exchange for a unique front face and sporty looks, that make it look as clean and fresh as an Irish Spring.

2020 Buick Encore GX interior

The interior may be fancier than the Trailblazer's but the Encore GX still fits up to five people and has foldable seats on the passenger side for space issues in mind, which is still the ideal crossover fit for work or for weekend trips despite being more costly than the Trailblazer's. Sadly, it's less spacious than the Trailblazer because of its 50.2 cu. ft. max cargo capacity.

2020 Buick Encore GX

Like the Chevrolet Trailblazer, the Encore GX is offered with a choice of ECOTEC 1.2L turbo mated to a CVT and the ECOTEC 1.3L turbo engine mated to a 9-speed AT with 155hp of power and 174lb-ft of torque. Yes, there's 4WD offered but no off-road tuned suspension in sight, meaning the Encore GX is best to be driven on the road rather than off the road because there are no special bits that make it well-behaved on dirt. Sorry, Hannibal. This guy doesn't want to play elephant with you.

The Encore GX comes with Buick Driver Confidence as well as available safety & driver-assistance technologies but I'll leave it here because it's too much information.

Which one will you pick? Would you go for the Trailblazer that is less costly to own and spacious? Or would you go for the Encore GX because of its clean, sporty looks at the cost of boot space? It's hard to decide which one will you pick because frankly, they're pretty much the same so they all end in a stalemate. The end.

Photo: General Motors

Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Forza Horizon 4: The Buick GSX

If you managed to get your hands on the ancient Buick GSX muscle car, then congratulations, you just have a piece of American history at your garage and now is the ideal time to talk about the late bloomer of the twilight of the muscle car race that was emerged before the oil crisis plunged the globe.



So, what is the Buick GSX? When Ford and Chrysler went over the 400-cid mark for their big and powerful engines, General Motors became the last to do so, allowing them to unleash some of the fastest muscle cars and this Buick GSX is no exception. Powering the GSX for 1970 is the 455-cid V8 engine, which replaces the old 400-cid one and some with bigger valves, new heads, and a new camshaft, resulting to 350hp of power and 510lb-ft of torque, mated to a Hurst four-speed gearbox, front discs, and heavy duty suspension, among many others. A certain motor magazine clocked this machine with the Stage 1 package at 105.5mph, making it "the quickest American production car" ever tested, while some would do it by 13's. It is a quick car that emerged from the twilight of the muscle car craze before the oil crisis struck the globe.



After all that little talk about the GSX, it's time to see how much of a muscle car this ancient machine will do and since Britain's got heavily occupied after that last tangle, I'm heading out at Fortune Island to flex its American muscles whatever it takes. Anyway, let's get rolling.



Job well done. There's nothing else I can say about it.

Enjoy your new ride.

Sunday, December 31, 2017

New Buick Regal Sportback and TourX

Following the Europeans launching the all-new second-generation Opel/Vauxhall Insignia range, it looks like Buick, General Motors' semi-luxury car brand, is not far behind because they decided to borrow one of these for the all-new Buick Regal and while that sounds good news, it can also be bad news because thanks to PSA, it looks like this is the last time Buick will borrow the Insignia as a Regal. After that, it's no more, and that's kind of sad.

2018 Buick Regal Sportback
2018 Buick Regal TourX
While lamenting that this is the last time Buick will borrow the Opel Insignia as the Regal following Opel's acquisition by PSA, this Euro import Buick Regal now comes with two new body styles to choose from such as the five-door Sportback and the first-ever sport utility wagon called the TourX. Yep, America's back at selling wagons as crossovers like the Subaru Outback, the Audi A4 allroad, and the VW Golf Alltrack but seriously, this is the first time an American car brand selling a station wagon since the forgettable Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon. Sure, it maybe a wagon but they call it an SUV because station wagons are a forbidden fruit on American roads.

Anyway, for a quick refresher, the new Regal range, like the new Insignia, traces its looks from the Mazda Atenza and while this is basically a European copycat of the Mazda Atenza, there are many things that your Mazda doesn't have, even performance but that comes later because let's step inside to see what's what.

2018 Buick Regal Sportback interior

Like the new Insignia, the new Regal's interior may have been as similar to the outgoing model but it's now surprisingly spacious than before so people at the back can get themselves accommodated and as for boot space, the trunk volume of 490 to 1,450 litres makes it enough to accommodate most of your grocery shopping stuff of the day. In the TourX, you can fill up to 1,665 liters of cargo space with everything to your heart's content. Also, the new Regal offers some basic General Motors goodies such as the available OnStar 4G LTE and built-in Wi-Fi Hotspot, meaning there's so much to make topics online while driving one as well has letting the kids at the back binge watch some cartoons. Now that's luxury done right for the new Regal.

For most variants, the sole engine is the 2.0L turbocharged engine that produces 250HP of power and 295 lb.-ft. while mated to an 8-speed AT. Not only this engine provides high performance by midsize car standards but it's surprisingly sporty enough for a Buick because of its 5-link rear suspension and Intelligent All-Wheel Drive that behaves pretty much like the Ford Focus RS in lesser ways.

2018 Buick Regal GS
If you want more, there's the sporty GS variant which features some bits and bobs from the Insignia GSi, including the recalibrated all-wheel drive system but unlike the GSi, the Regal GS is powered by a more powerful 3.6L, 310-HP V6 Engine mated to a 9-speed AT. How come the Europeans withdraw such a powerful offering? Well, no one knows but in Australia's case, the Regal GS will be their Commodore VXR, and that makes it super unfair. Still, since this the Buick Regal, the GS will be the next best thing since the Ford Focus RS because with such powerful dynamics, it can even upset an Audi S4 in a pinch and it could become your favorite Buick for the time being.

What about safety? While the Insignia it was based on comes with a 360-degree camera, Rear View Camera, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Advanced Park Assist, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Following Distance Indication, Forward Collision Alert, Traffic Sign Assist, and a wide range of radar and camera-based automatic assistance, the new Regal is limited to Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. That sounds odd but that's payback for not offering the most powerful variant to European roads.

Price? The Regal Sportback is priced at 24,990 US Dollars (Php 1.25 million), which is cheaper than the previous model it replaces, while the TourX starts at 29,070 US Dollars (Php 1.453 million), which is more affordable than the made-in-China Envision, which isn't bad for a sport utility wagon that competes with the Audi A4 allroad in a pinch.

Sure, the new Regal may be different than the Insignia it was based on, apart from the Regal GS variant that massively produces more than the Insignia GSi it was based on, but differences aside, the Regal is proven to be a decent contender to the Audi A4 because with Focus RS-like dynamics thanks to its clever all-wheel drive system, it can lick the A4 goodbye in a pinch and it's fair value so you can afford one as well.

It's ashamed that it could be the last Insignia-based Regal ever made following Opel being taken over by the French but as the future remains uncertain, let's be thankful that General Motors still sell one of those and while this is basically the last car to share some General Motors components across the Atlantic, now it will be the ideal time try out the newest Regal before its too late.

Photo: General Motors

Opel/Vauxhall Insignia B GSi

The GSi moniker has returned after years of being dormant since the old Corsa GSi and the first to implement the return of the legendary moniker that adorned most hot Opels (Vauxhalls) since the 80s is the latest version of the Opel/Vauxhall Insignia, a car fit for businessmen when they got it as a company car from a fleet.

2018 Opel Insignia Grand Sport GSi
2018 Opel Insignia Sport Tourer GSi
Why bringing back the GSi name all of the sudden? Car enthusiasts wanted to see the latest version spawning a hot version like the previous model's OPC/VXR but sadly, the PSA-owned company decided to ditch them both in favor of returning the GSi marque as the hot ship of the Insignia B range. Starting at 45,595 Euros OTR (2.734 million Php), the Insignia GSi can be offered in the choice of the five-door Grand Sport or the Estate version.

Sure, you can expect the same bits and bobs as you experienced from the normal Insignia but the GSi transforms the motorway cruiser into a posh Ford Focus ST of some sorts because of the recalibrated four-wheel drive system that behaves almost like a Focus ST because of the twin clutch differential on the real axle as well as improved suspension setup and lightweight body that weighs less than the old Insignia OPC/VXR. As a result when engaged to its exclusive Competition Mode, the GSi's dynamics are now more sensational than before and because it almost has no understeer, it won't make you binned to a pile of garbage bins while trying to handle through a corner full of garbage bins. Now that is a good mark for a car that produces less than the old Insignia OPC/VXR, perhaps no wonder they developed it to the Nurburgring just to fine tune its dynamics.

As a rule, a car that is engineered at the Nurburgring is nowhere near as good on the public roads and you can take that as a supreme compliment because there has been some tantrums about the way it behaves on public roads thanks to its Nurburgring-honed dynamics but with a little tough love, the GSi tries to show drivers that it the Nurburgring never ruined the once-known motorway cruiser fit for a fleet of company cars used at your workplace.

The GSi is powered by a choice of two engine choices such as the 2.0 DI Turbo engine and the torquier 2.0 BiTurbo Diesel, mated to an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission that can be controlled via paddle shifters. The hot ship on the GSi range is the petrol engine with 260 hp of power and 400Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in 7.3 seconds and it was electronically limited to 250kph so it sounds fair for a hot ship of the Insignia B range.

My evaluation for the GSi that even though they've gone to the beaten path to abandon the OPC/VXR moniker in favor of the GSi's return, the dynamics are worth the shot, hoping that by the time you try its recalibrated four-wheel drive system, there are slim chances that you'll get binned by the corners and it's great to have the GSi back in this motorway cruiser if you have the resources to buy one.

Photo: Opel

Friday, November 10, 2017

Second Generation Buick Enclave

The Buick Enclave is regarded as a Chevrolet Traverse in fake jewelry swag that makes it look posh enough to get through fancy restaurants and for this second-generation model, the new Enclave tries to prove that this poshed-up Traverse has been one-upped to be more luxurious than the competition.



At first, the new Enclave by Buick is made for those who think today's Chevy Traverse has too much republican views when its seated at the grown-up table and while it runs on the same new platform as the Traverse, Buick's flagship crossover behaves differently than the Traverse because it was made to be as comfortable as the German crossovers, although it remains theoretical, of course.

The new design is like the best of both worlds because up front, it resembles like today's Opels even though Opel now belongs to the French. Looks like the General still hasn't forgot its German friends after all. On the back, it looks more like the one from the Made-in-China Envision, and on the side, it resembles of a Toyota crossover I can't mention it to you due to search query reasons, resulting to some kind of culture clash in the design department.



Inside, the new Enclave is now more luxurious than ever and if you gone for the more luxurious Avenir, which is Buick's equivalent of GMC's Denali line, not only you'll stand out with its blinged-up exterior but also the chestnut interior with ebony trim that makes it look interesting. From its seven-seater capacity, internet connectivity, adjustable seats, and numerous concessions of comfort, it's fair to say that the new Enclave is even more luxurious than the old model. In fact, it's almost an Escalade on the budget because you can get one for $39,995, less expensive than other luxury crossovers.


Unlike other luxury crossovers, the new Enclave is not welcomed to the turbo nonsense its European opposition had because it still runs on its 310hp 3.6L V6 engine mated to a brand new 9-speed AT that delivers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg highway, which is very convincing for a V6 crossover even though it comes with a fuel-saving feature that can shut its engine off when stopped at a set of lights and then restarts when it sets off.

Handling wise, the new Emclave's slightly improved thanks to its five-link rear suspension as well as its Intelligent AWD with Active Twin Clutch that makes it very adaptable on any conditions. While it maybe as nice to drive as a family saloon, it can't match the driving pleasure the Europeans had and it's not somewhat you may call exciting. It may not somewhat sporty by SUV standards but in partial terms of comfort, the ride is good and you can make the most out of it everyday at work or at play. And with a wide range of safety features available, it's easier to live with.

For those who think that the new Traverse has some republican views onto it, the new Enclave can be a liberal alternative to it. It may be heavily improved from the previous model but it struggles to keep up with the competition unless they want this crossover to fight fire with fire, but still, while it's not the most enjoyable crossover you can buy right now, it's a bargaining in the making because of its newly refined dynamics and a whole new level of luxury that makes it a class apart from the rest.

Photo: General Motors



Thursday, July 20, 2017

Opel/Vauxhall Insignia B Grand Sport and Sports Tourer

The Insignia, a favorite among company car drivers and fleet decision makers across Europe, is now on its second generation and it's even more promising than ever thanks to its new look, new interior, new tech, new dynamics, and new engine choices, setting the new gold standard for midsize cars in this ever-changing landscape. So, what's new about the Insignia B range?

2018 Opel Insignia
2018 Vauxhall Insignia
2018 Vauxhall Insignia

The all-new Opel/Vauxhall Insignia range sets the new standards in the executive midsize car market by promising new and exciting features way unheard for most midsize saloons in the market and it promises world-class quality ready for the world's toughest challenges, whatever lay ahead. There are now two styles to choose from such as the Grand Sport fastback and the Sport Tourer and wherever you live, you can see one of these worldwide as either a Buick Regal or Holden Commodore, wait what? 

The new Insignia is the new Commodore in the Aussie market? Sadly, it is and because of Australia stopped making cars at the late quarter of this year, Australians will be getting the new Insignia as their new Holden NG Commodore next year and what does it mean? It's the end of Aussie muscle as we know it but let's not lament on the first-ever front-wheel drive Commodore for the Australian roads. We're talking about Insignia for the European people and in terms of design, there is a high possibility that some people may easily mistake it for a Mazda Atenza because by the looks of it, the new Insignia does look like an Atenza by all means necessary. Because the current Mazda Atenza is a good-looking midsize saloon to look at it, so is the new Insignia and mistaken identity aside, it's still very pleasant to look at one of these on the road and it's now easier to refuel because they have to ditch the old twist-off cap so drivers can refuel it quicker, easier, and without the spills.

2018 Opel Insignia interior

The inside looks rather similar to the outgoing model but because it now runs on a new platform that was used on today's Chevrolet Malibu, it's now surprisingly spacious than before so people at the back can get themselves accommodated and as for boot space, the trunk volume of 490 to 1,450 litres makes it enough to accommodate most of your grocery shopping stuff of the day as well as some stuff your grandma needs such as a walker or a wheelchair. In the Sports Tourer, meanwhile, it's been given more convenient ways to like about its boot space that can accommodate up to 1,665 litres such as the special tailgate that can be opened at the lift of your foot in case your hands are full. Because of such generous space, both the Grand Sport and the Sport Tourer are very accommodating indeed.

Regarding the tech word, both the Insignia Grand Sport and Sport Tourer now come with IntelliLink system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility so no matter your smartphone, these tech saves you more than just distracted driving and for occupants who are so busy doing stuff on their mobile phones, OnStar's 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot is ready for these kinds of people who want to do silly status updates on social media sites. Convenient, isn't it?

2018 Opel Insignia
2018 Opel Insignia

In terms of handling, the new Insignia, apart from its Malibu-derived platform, feels very above average for midsize saloon, in fact it is pretty good indeed for a car made for company car drivers and fleet decision makers but there's a real kicker to this new Insignia because later on, a 4x4 variant with the Torque Vectoring will make the new Insignia range very convincing for a company car because with torque vectoring on a 4x4 Insignia, you might almost have the same driving impression as the Ford Focus RS and that makes it from pretty good to very good if you got the chance to sample its clever four-wheel drive powertrain that works like a Ford Focus RS in every tangible way. Yes, please.

The choice of engines at launch comes with a 1.5L DI Turbo and a 1.5L ECOTEC DI Turbo but later on, a 2.0L turbo, 1.6L diesel (with or without ECOTEC), and a 2.0L diesel may follow, and depending on the choice of engines, they can be mated with either a 6-speed AT, MT, or even an 8-speed AT at a later date. Most of the engines are made out of aluminum and because these engines are very light indeed, they are contributed to such better fuel efficiency fit for today's roads. It may not be much to satisfy your driving style but they're very decent enough for a midsize car like this.

To keep the new Insignia well-suited for today's driving conditions, it's been given a host of safety features such as a brand new 360-degree camera, Rear View Camera, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Advanced Park Assist, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Following Distance Indication, Forward Collision Alert, Traffic Sign Assist, and a wide range of radar and camera-based automatic assistance for a safe driving feel that will satisfy most of health and safety standards.

Should you buy one? The new Insignia starts from 25,940 Euros (17,185 GBP) for the Grand Sport fastback while the Sports Tourer costs 26,940 Euros (18,685 GBP). That sounds like great value for money for a pretty good executive saloon fit enough to become the ideal car for company car drivers and fleet decision makers but the new Insignia is more than just being a company car, it's an ideal family car fit for day-to-day use and it's starting to gain shape with all these new features but demonstrating its world-class capabilities is yet to be seen but I'm sure that for the rest of the world, it feels fine for a midsize saloon of this caliber but for the Australians getting one next year as the new Holden Commodore, that's going to be a very different story that should be taken very seriously.

Photo: Opel/Vauxhall

Sunday, October 9, 2016

Forza Horizon 3: The Grand National


See this little bad boy from the 80's? This is just one of the cars you can win at the Midnight Battle. It's the second out of the four midnight battle cars to win in Forza Horizon 3 and this is the Buick Regal GNX, a cult classic that remains one of the baddest examples of an American muscle revival in the 80's. Anyway, no time to talk more about this car, see what happens when I pit against that kind of car...



After my second Midnight Battle win that earned myself the keys to the car, I had a little quiet digging about this car and as far as I concerned, it's just one of the expert-level cars for tuners who wanted to get the most out of this bad boy and because this is classified as one of the muscle cars on the road, some power-hungry drivers wouldn't bother to give a big hood and a thousand horses on this Buick. In fact, no one bothers why...


So you may asking why would you want to give this Buick GNX a thousand horses and there's a main perspective for this kind of conundrum; you wanted this car to go fast in Bugatti Veyron levels. However, there's a major catch to this one; it's a nightmare to drive because if you're going to give this car the power equivalent of a Bugatti Veyron, be very careful about the torque it delivers because when the race starts, that wheelspin start is a technical act to follow and when you get off; be very careful on driving this thing because a slight mistake could be a major disaster but still, it's an adventure that has some perspective to it.



Call it a disaster or an adventure but hey, at least I still have the best day ever in this classic Buick Regal GNX though. With two more Midnight Battles to go, nothing's like taking a break than burning the midnight oil. That's perspective to you.

Thursday, August 4, 2016

Third-generation Buick LaCrosse

The previous-generation Buick LaCrosse was the dark horse of the luxury car market and for General Motors, it was made to be a world-class luxury car that will make owners of German or Japanese luxury cars envy on how this car behaves. With the all new, third-generation, Buick LaCrosse finally making the spotlight, can its "world-class luxury" promise still be kept like last time?

2017 Buick LaCrosse

First and foremost, let's take a bite on the new LaCrosse's design and for this new model, it looks very rewarding to look at on its first impression and the more you look on its design, the more you'll appreciate its world-class styling that draws flak to the Germans and Japanese. The thing is, the new LaCrosse was heavily inspired from the Avenir Concept, a concept turned reality like the previous model, and it was the first to come with Buick's brand new company face that will soon be applied in future models very soon. The waterfall grille is gone and now comes with the winged grille that harks back to the legendary Wildcat II concept from the 50's. 

A bit of checkered history though, but one thing that makes us noticed is the sideline because when you look further, it looks broadly similar to the Hyundai Grandeur, which costs cheaper than the new LaCrosse's 32,065 US Dollar starting price. Such thing makes us go hmmm...because even though it was costly to own than those Korean premium midsize saloons like the Kia K7 and the Hyundai Grandeur, the new LaCrosse will sadly not make it in the hands of South Koreans as an Alpheon, It's a shame because it looks very nice to look at, compared to the present-day Chevrolet Impala the Koreans got their hands on.

2017 Buick LaCrosse interior
2017 Buick LaCrosse interior

Spend minutes inside the new LaCrosse and you will find that its well-crafted interior is modern Buick mandarin to you and while it promises a world-class level of comfort and silence as learned from the previous model, the new LaCrosse isn't all about business and leisure even after hours. Sure, it now comes with Apple Carplay or Android Auto connectivity, but if you are so busy driving on the road, there's not enough time to toy around with such feature unless if you're stuck at rush hour traffic. Not to worry though because if you were stuck at traffic, you can get in touch with almost anyone thanks to its 4G connectivity that most General Motors models had. If you were being chauffeured by your personal driver, getting indulged inside the new LaCrosse is just one of the many meanings of the lap of luxury because it's like being on a personal office desk on wheels. It's all work, all play that won't make you dull, even on Mondays.

2017 Buick LaCrosse

Being the flagship of the Buick lineup in America, the new LaCrosse comes exclusively with a brand new 3.6L V6 engine, which produces 305 HP of power and 268 lb-ft of torque, mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Living it up to its world-class performance that matches the German saloons, the new LaCrosse comes with a 5-link rear suspension and an optional Sport Mode feature to make it more responsive in the corners. Summing it up, the new suspension doesn't make the LaCrosse feel as American as old Buicks from the last century and therefore, a bit more European, but when compared to cars like the BMW 5-Series and the Lexus GS, the new LaCrosse is nowhere near enjoyable as the other two, but when opted to the optional All-Wheel Drive with Active Twin-Clutch, the way it behaves is somewhat Audi A6 territory, swooning even under the weather.

As a technologically-focused Buick ever made, the new LaCrosse comes with driving aids such as Front Automatic Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Automatic Parking Assist, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and a Rear Vision Camera.

As mentioned, the new LaCrosse starts at 32,065 US dollars, which sounds very reasonably priced to owned but more pricey compared to Korean cars such as the K7 and the Grandeur. It maybe living up to its "world-class" promise but judging from its current standing now, feels like the LaCrosse is almost cutting short from the competition, even though its dream of selling it to South Korea as a new Alpheon was ended in rubbles, thanks to the Chevrolet Impala. That makes us very sad...

Available colors: Crimson Red Tintcoat, Black Onyx, Summit White, Ebony Twilight Metallic, White Frost Tricoat, Graphite Gray Metallic, Dark Sapphire Blue Metallic, Quicksilver Metallic, and Dark Forest Green Metallic.

Photo: General Motors

Tuesday, June 21, 2016

Buick Envision

This is the first time an American car brand is selling a Chinese-made car, which is kinda unorthodox for General Motors to do such a thing. Whatever that is, the first American branded, Chinese import to be sold on US soil is a crossover called the Envision.

2016 Buick Envision
2016 Buick Envision

Although being an import from the People's Republic of China, some might believe that the Envision envisions its unorthodox collaboration between China and US in the same way that the F-2 fighter-bomber plane is for Japan and US. To put it in context, it shares it status as an Asian-American so you might think it targets every single Asian-American customer in its range but you'd be wrong.

Because this is an import from the PRC, the Buick Envision is priced at 42,070 US Dollars, making it the most expensive Buick offered for now but don't worry, they will add a cheaper model later this year starting at 35,870 US Dollars, around two thousand less than its big brother, the Enclave.

2016 Buick Envision

So, what do you know about the first American branded, Chinese import to be sold on US soil? Well, for starters, as commoners might say, everything in this planet is made in China. Your iPhone's made in China, your anime figure's made in China, your computer's made in China, China, China, China, well, you get the idea, but almost most of the stuff around you are made by the world's biggest country. We get used to it using stuff made by those who invented gunpowder and currency and we don't mind if they're expendable or not. The Envision? Well, even it looks American inside and out, there's no hiding that the way it behaves is very Chinese, a bit Asian-American if you like to call it, especially when it comes with a 2,0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 252HP of power while mated with the GEN-3 6-speed AT. Sounds high-performance for a crossover like this but unlike the best of Buicks made by Americans (and Europeans), its dynamics are questionable for a China-made American crossover. Sooner or later, you might start questioning its reliability if things go wrong with it.

2016 Buick Envision interior
2016 Buick Envision interior

So far as styling-wise, the Envision is as well-orchestrated as the interior. It's very nice to be accommodated with and because space in the back matters most than anything else in the car, like what every Chinese businessmen would want for a long-wheelbase versions of luxury compact saloons, the Envision's rear legroom is very good indeed. It's very hi-tech from every nook and cranny and you can even surf the net with your devices on the go thanks to 4G LTE.

So, is there's something to like about the Envision? Probably the spacing, the tech, the design, and pretty much about it but if there's something not to like about the Envision, it would be the pricing that sounds costly for a China-made SUV as well as the way it behaves. So, if there's any question about how the Envision behaves on American roads, don't ask me. Ask General Motors for bringing this crossover that is proud to say "I'm Asian American and I am a Buick".

Available colors: Ebony Twilight Metallic, Summit White, Galaxy Silver Metallic, Bronze Alloy Metallic, Saffron Red Metallic, and Midnight Amethyst Metallic.

Photo: General Motors

Sunday, April 17, 2016

Buick Cascada and Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Convertible

We have two guests who are either late to the party or came here for the very first time. One is somewhat Euro-American and the other is quintessentially British on the other side. So, let's meet up with the open-top slowpokes who came to the open-top party too late or too early.

2016 Buick Cascada

First, let's meet with the latecomer known as the Buick Cascada. Well, basically this is imported from Europe's Opel division and Australians can expect this as a Holden sometime. Anyway, when the Euro-sourced Cascada arrived in America, it seems that its welcoming party got cancelled. VW's Eos and Golf Cabriolet are long dead as are Chrysler's old 200 Convertible. Which means, this car is running unopposed you can't even compare this one to a Mazda Roadster because...that's too cheeky.

Anyway, while Buick's open-top newcomer came here on its own free will, let's get some answers while this car catches some fresh air. Like its European equivalent, the Cascada has the same underpinning as the Verano, meaning that its got some clever Euro-tuned dynamics for a sporty handling that gets the driver into grooves. Under the hood?a 1.6L turbocharged petrol engine generating 200HP of power and 206lb-ft of torque while delivering an EPA-estimated Fuel Economy Highway of 27MPG. Of course, it's mated with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Other features? Well, this open-top Buick comes with a host of tech such as Buick Intellilink, rear park assist, automatic headlamps, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, RainSense wipers, and so much more.

The price? It's 33,990 Dollars for the base 1SV while the top-of-the-range Premium costs 36,990 Dollars. Like I said, it's running unopposed because there are no front-wheel drive convertibles in the market that can compete against the Cascada in the North American market. It's a shame really because while it maybe late for the party, the Cascada tries to reinvent itself from the ground up. So, what about the newcomer who came to the party for the first try?

2017 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Convertible

The world's first open-top convertible from Land Rover, called the Range Rover Evoque Convertible, and remember, you saw this one first because I'm not mentioning about the Cr_ssC_br__l_t (vowels blocked for search query reasons) from a distant past because the Evoque Convertible is the first of its kind and that's the end of it.

Based on the recently-facelifted Range Rover Evoque Coupe, the Convertible features similar stuff from the coupe with the clever Z-folding roof system which can be operated at speeds of up to 30mph. Think of this first-ever convertible crossover is a mixture of a visit to the Caribbean beach to the African safari because this crossover changes everything...well, sorta.

The Evoque Convertible maybe heavier than its hardtop equivalent but its offroad capability still works its charm even with the roof up, meaning this sport utility convertible loves to play rough, rain or shine. On the road, it looks pleasantly head-turning because despite being hunky, the Evoque Convertible still looks attractive, roof up or down. In rough terrain, drivers wouldn't mind getting muddy or wet while driving with the roof open. For a stylish, yet adventurous, luxury convertible, the Evoque Convertible is available with either a 2.0L TD4 diesel or a 2.0L Si4 petrol engine, all mated with the brand new 9-speed automatic gearbox as seen on the facelifted Evoque range. The petrol variant is capable of reaching 0-60mph at 7.8 seconds and onwards to 130mph.

The Evoque Convertible starts at £47,500 OTR and just like the Cascada from Buick, it's running unopposed. It's kinda shame really but when you are going to compare these guests who are either late to the party or came here for the very first time, it will be humorous enough to see the late bloomers edging out together. So, which of those late bloomers would you choose? These convertibles maybe late for the party but it would be a blast to give them a try.

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

2014 Opel/Vauxhall Insignia facelift previewed via 2014 Buick Regal

2014 Buick Regal GS

If this hints what the 2014 Opel/Vauxhall Insignia facelift would look like, yes. The 2014 Buick Regal range, set for debut at the 2013 New York Auto Show, DOES preview the Opel/Vauxhall Insignia facelift. You can expect new front noses, new rear lamps, and a new interior.

There is a drawback regarding the updated version. On the GS model, the 2.0L Turbo engnie had suffered a power drop from 270HP to 259HP, which is bad but this 2.0L Turbo engine that now churns 259HP of power can be offered on the normal Regal Turbo version, which is good. The Regal eAssist with the 2.4L engine and eAssist light electrification technology that makes 182 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque still retains as well.

For added good news though that both the Regal Turbo and the Regal GS with automatic trannies will come with a new AWD system that incorporates electronic limited-slip differential to help optimize traction in all driving conditions.

Like the 2014 LaCrosse big brother, the 2014 Regal comes with new safety features such as Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert and Collision Mitigation Braking.

Look for the 2014 Regal range this fall 2013.

Story: http://www.carscoops.com/2013/03/buick-shows-facelifted-2014-regal-gs.html

2014 Buick LaCrosse (GM Korea Alpheon) for NY debut

2014 Buick LaCrosse
Set for New York Auto Show debut, the minor change version of the Buick LaCrosse for the 2014 is getting a bit more interesting and a bit more "flagship" for a world-class luxury car. Aside from a well-refined exterior, the interior is now all new and it even comes with Buick's IntelliLink telematics system.

It's now safer as well thanks to numerous safety features such as Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Change Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Automatic Collision Preparation.

It still comes with front- and all-wheel-drive models with two gasoline powertrains: a 2.4-liter engine with eAssist or a 3.6-liter direct-injected V6, both linked to a six-speed automatic transmission.

This car is set for NY debut and sales start in Summer 2013. Sadly though, it is unclear for Koreans if the Alpheon will get the same treatment as the 2014 LaCrosse.

Story: http://www.carscoops.com/2013/03/2014-buick-lacrosse-features-mild.html