Chinese language-exclusive minivan noticed vital updates for 2024.
It would shock you that in China, the Buick model is held in excessive esteem, on the extent of Audi or Lexus in North America. Mother or father-company Basic Motors has leveraged that reputation to provide some distinctive automobiles in that market. A type of is the GL8, an MPV (multi-purpose automobile, aka minivan) that sports activities some surprisingly high-end appointments.
Buick GL8
Initially launched for the 2000 mannequin yr, the primary GL8 appeared just like the North American Chevrolet Enterprise. Subsequent design generations upped the luxurious issue, with the present mannequin having debuted for 2022.
GL8 Lineup
The GL8 lineup is as huge as it’s deep with a wide range of trim ranges and seating configurations, together with four-, six, and seven-passenger choices. Patrons could make their automobiles as utilitarian or luxurious as they need. On the prime of the lineup can be found options resembling Nappa leather-based upholstery with 18-point therapeutic massage operate for the second-row; a 21-speaker Bose sound system; a “starry roof” that employs 366 LED and 162 flashing lights to create customized present; 128-color inside ambient lighting; and a 32-inch sliding display screen that may partition the entrance seating space from the rear.
Most fashions use a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 9-speed computerized transmission. For the 2024 model-year the corporate added a plug-in fuel/electrical hybrid possibility that has a 1.5-liter fuel engine with a devoted battery pack.
Pricing for the Buick GL8 begins at about $50,000 U.S. and skyrockets from there. Count on this automobile to stay unique to the Chinese language market indefinitely.
CG Says:
There’s a Chinese language-made Buick that’s obtainable on the market in North America – the Envision SUV. Whereas actually not as opulent because the GL8, it’s a stable sufficient entry in its phase. An ultra-luxury minivan is one thing that hasn’t been tried in North America and certain by no means will likely be. There may be doubtlessly a market right here, however such examples must be outfitted with each single bell and whistle and imported in extraordinarily restricted portions.
Hearken to the Automobile Stuff Podcast
Comply with Tom on Twitter
Buick GL8 Footage
Click on beneath for enlarged pictures
The Buicks of 1986
Shopper Information Automobile Stuff Podcast Episode 240: Legendary Mercedes Designer Passes, Buick Enclave Impresses, Patrons Choose Their Favourite Automobile Options
