The next generation of Buick GL8 was recently sighted without camo in downtown Shanghai and shows that the GL8 is very close to production. The GL8 was introduced into China in 2001 and quickly became the industry standard for business use MPV’s within China. As it was popular from the start it only gained two major updates in its life time, although it is rumored that the new generation will launch before the years end.
The new GL8 has borrowed heavily from the Lacrosse and Excelle GT design styling in its front end and rear end, which as per usual have the rear lights dripping with chrome. Engines for the GL8 are expected to be a 3.0L V6 that is taken from the Lacrosse and also the 2.4 four cylinder engine. The 3.0L V6 will be quite the power house with 258bhp on tap thanks to its SIDI engine, also it is rumored that the GL8 will become a mild hybrid thanks to stop and start technology.
The GL8 will have some stiff competition in 2011 from Mercedes who are producing the Viano and Vito in Fujian, and also from FAW-Mazda who are planning to launch the Mazda8 MPV around the same time.
Wow how neat is this GL8, I sure with “BUICK” would make the mini Buick SUV Crossover with some of the qualities that appear to be in this Buick GL8. To bad I don’t want a big vehicle. Buick is missing the goat if the patten the new Buick SUV Crossover after the Chev Aveo, which is NOTHING like the Buick Enclave. What a let down, disappointment in the style and size of the Buick mini SUV Crossover.
it needs sidepipes!
Sidepipes?
Adaval,
From what I understand, there maybe a Buick mini SUV coming to China soon.
http://www.chinacartimes.com/2010/05/06/buick-china-to-launch-crossoversuv-model-to-attract-younger-buyers/
A few questions, is that a China only model? Is it based on the previous underpinnings or is it an all new model? If it is new, is it based on the soon to be launched Opel / Vauxhall Zafira (itself based on stretched delta platform) ??
Looks pretty good.
Originally it was a China only model, although I am sure it will be extended to North American markets over time. As for platform, we are not sure either. It is a lot bigger than the Zafira, it could be based on the Lacrosse platform.