Buick Regal, 2014

 

 

•  Buick Regal, 2014

Buick revealed the new 2014 Regal, designed to be a sportier and smarter evolution of the brand's dynamic midsize sedan. New purposeful technologies enhance safety and the driving experience with a more refined turbo engine - along with the introduction of all-wheel drive.

The new Buick Regal also introduces new radar- and camera-based safety features - including Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert and Collision Mitigation Braking - for surround protection. In-vehicle connectivity is enhanced with next-generation Intelli Link, featuring simpler, more intuitive controls and natural speech recognition.

Adaptive Cruise Control is also offered. It senses traffic in front of the Regal to adjust vehicle speed, including stopping the vehicle in heavy traffic and accelerating again.

New front and rear styling, with bold, signature wing-shape LED daytime running lamps and LED tail lamps were designed to give Regal a more contemporary and premium presence. The interior features a redesigned central instrument panel and console along with a new fashion interior trim combination.

The new 2.0L turbo engine delivers 18 percent more horsepower in the Regal Turbo, for a greater feeling of on-demand power The available Haldex all-wheel-drive system helps make the most of traction in all driving conditions and also enhances the cornering capability of the Regal GS when driven in the GS mode of the Interactive Drive Control System.

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Buick La Crosse, 2014

 

 

•  Buick La Crosse, 2014

The Buick La Crosse represents an evolution of the landmark luxury sedan that established the brand's modern sedan lineup with design leadership and technological innovation.

The full-size Buick La Crosse offers new interior and exterior design cues, advanced safety technologies and enhanced in-vehicle connectivity. New front and rear styling, featuring available signature wing-shape LED daytime running lamps and LED wraparound tail lamps, complements its sculpted exterior design. The interior is more contemporary, with new seats, enhanced materials, redesigned central instrument panel and console - and an all-new, available Ultra Luxury Interior Package. The cabin also incorporates Buick's next-generation Intelli Link infotainment system, with intuitive controls and natural voice recognition.

New radar- and camera-based safety features help surround the new La Crosse with protection. They include Lane Change Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Automatic Collision Preparation. GM's patented Safety Alert Seat works with many of these features, providing seat vibration pulses indicating the direction of a potential crash threat.

Full Speed Adaptive Cruise Control is also offered. It senses traffic in front of the Buick La Crosse to adjust vehicle speed, including bringing the vehicle to a complete stop and accelerating again.

Globally, Buick LaCrosse sales have exceeded 500,000 since its 2009 introduction and U.S. sales topped 57,000 in 2012, making it more popular than many other full-size luxury sedans, including Lexus ES, Acura TL and Lincoln MKZ.

The La Crosse is offered in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models and offers two power trains: a 2.4L engine with eAssist light electrification technology (FWD only) or a 3.6L direct-injected V-6 (FWD and AWD). Each is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

All models feature Buick's Quiet Tuning engineering process that reduces, blocks and absorbs unwanted noise from the La Crosse's cabin, making it one of the quietest in the segment.

The suggested retail price is $34,060, including a $925 destination charge.

Buick La Crosse is available in a four trim levels, including La Crosse (1SB), Leather (1SL), Premium I (1SP) and Premium II (1SR). Standard equipment on all trims:

•         Eight air bags, including rear-seat thorax air bags
•         Stabili Trak electronic stability control with full-function traction control
•         Four-wheel anti-lock brakes with Intelligent Brake Assist
•         OnStar (complimentary six months of Directions and Connections service)
•         Premium audio system with AM/FM/SiriusXM Radio/XM Travel Link (with three months of service), Bluetooth, USB port, CD player, auxiliary input jack, steering wheel-mounted controls, Buick Intelli Link eight-inch color touch-screen radio
•         Leather-wrapped steering wheel
•         Dual-zone automatic climate control
•         Remote keyless entry
•         Power windows with driver and front passenger express up/down
•         Heated and power outside rear view mirrors
•         Electric parking brake
•         High-resolution driver information center
•         Auto-dimming inside rearview mirror
•         Eight-way power seat in addition to four-way power driver lumbar
•         Remote start
•         Universal Home Remote.

A more expressive design
Buick La Crosse's flowing, sculpted styling helped redefine Buick's design language at its introduction in 2009. The 2014 La Crosse introduces a more expressive interpretation of that successful design, with elements and cues that enhance the car's well-planted, wide stance. Highlights:
    New front fascia, sculpted hood and more prominent waterfall grille
    Lower front active grille shutters are included on every model and close at highway speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag
    New headlamp designs, with available Bi-Xenon High-Intensity Discharge lamps (HID), Articulating Headlamps and LED wing-shape signature lighting
    New rear fascia and deck lid, with integrated spoiler
    New wraparound tail lamps with LED lighting.

The Buick La Crosse's new appearance is instantly recognizable as a modern Buick and the LED lighting elements enhance its technologically advanced presence. The headlamp housings, for example, have a more angular appearance and LED signature accents that echo a familial appearance introduced on the 2013 Enclave crossover. They've also been positioned slightly outboard to reinforce the car's presence.

The new Bi-Xenon headlamps incorporate new technology with enhanced brilliance that improves visibility, is energy-efficient and environmentally friendly (mercury-free). Articulating Headlamps are paired with these HID lamps, turning them with the direction of the front wheels to enhance visibility around corners.

At the rear, a full-width chrome accent reinforces the car's stance, while fully enclosed exhaust outlets (3.6L models) are framed with a chrome finish within a new rear fascia. It's a more integrated appearance designed to show Buick's attention to detail. An integrated rear spoiler is incorporated in the trailing edge of the deck lid to help improve aerodynamic performance and new LED tail lamps - in all-new, wraparound housings - provide a safety benefit by illuminating more quickly than conventional bulbs when the brakes are applied.

In the front and rear, Buick La Crosse's new LED lamps continue the wing-shaped signature appearance that distinguishes Buicks day and night.

New interior environment
The 2014 La Crosse's interior creates a more contemporary ambience and supports the integration of Buick's next-generation Intelli Link infotainment system. Highlights:

        New instrument panel "center stack" and integrated floor console with more storage
        Configurable eight-inch color driver information and cluster display
        New, more comfortable front seats with four-way adjustable headrests
        New door panels with revised door lock, seat memory and trunk release controls
        New, available Ultra Luxury Interior Package with a synthetic suede headliner and pillars coverings, semi-aniline leather seating, authentic Tamo Ash wood trim and more.


While the Buick La Crosse's new interior brings more amenities and enhanced personal technology with next-generation Intelli Link, it does so with greater simplicity. The new center stack radio controls, for example, have only seven buttons vs. the previous 17. The large, eight-inch color touch screen is designed to be easier to operate with intuitive controls and smartphone-influenced swipe recognition for easier navigation. Dual-zone climate controls also feature capacitive-touch operation and are framed in chrome.

The rear-seat headrests fold down to enhance rearward visibility, while the new four-way adjustable front headrests are designed to provide a greater range of comfort, particularly for taller drivers.

Four interior color/trim combinations are available for 2014:
    Light Neutral seating/Cocoa accents, offered with cloth or Soleil Keisel leather seats and Kyoto Maple wood-style décor
    Ebony, offered with cloth or Soleil Keisel leather seats and Cellini Wood décor
    Choccachino seating/Cocoa accents, with Soleil Keisel leather seats with contrast stitching and Phantasm Wood-style décor.

Ultra Luxury Interior Package
Sangria seating color and Ebony accents, with semi-aniline leather seats and trim, along with Shadow Tamo Ash wood décor, represents La Crosse's new Ultra Luxury Interior Package.

"The warm color combinations, premium interior materials and advanced technology in the 2014 La Crosse provide the interior environment our discerning luxury customers are seeking," said Ven Lai, Buick creative designer for color and trim.

The new Ultra Luxury Interior Package features premium semi-aniline leather. It covers the seats, console armrest and door armrests and is complemented by synthetic suede on the headliner and door pillars. The Sangria contrast color with the Ultra Luxury interior is exclusive to La Crosse.

Quiet Tuning
LaCrosse's use of Buick's unique Quiet Tuning engineering defines Buick quality, sound and vibration characteristics and refinement by following a three-point strategy of reducing sounds at their source, blocking sounds from entering the cabin and absorbing any remaining sounds.

Buick La Crosse's specific Quiet Tuning features include acoustical laminate on the windshield and front side glass; steel laminate on the front-of-dash body area; expanded baffles in the roof pillars; extensive use of melt-on sound deadeners throughout the entire lower body structure; and sound-absorbing material throughout La Crosse's engine, passenger and cargo compartments.

Next-generation Intelli Link
Buick's next-generation Intelli Link infotainment system debuts on the 2014 La Crosse. It offers more features designed for intuitive, easy-to-use functionality and incorporates a higher level of wireless connectivity and customized options building on the safety and security of On Star.

In addition to easily identifiable icons covering everything from navigation to phone to music apps such as Pandora, next-generation Intelli Link is designed to accommodate new features and enhancements and be highly customizable. It also features natural language voice recognition, which allows customers to safely place calls, enter destinations, browse media, play music and control other functions simply by telling the vehicle what to do.

The system can store up to 60 favorites, including radio stations (AM/FM/XM), tone settings, contacts, destinations and music from other media. This feature is convenient for those who travel to the same destination regularly and want to save locations such as hotels and restaurants.

On its eight-inch screen, customers can swipe and drag. Users with compatible smartphones can pair them with Intelli Link using Bluetooth or a USB connection. This gives customers the ability to play passengers' music or other media through the vehicle.

Another feature allows customers whose Buick LaCrosses are equipped with available embedded navigation to enter destinations in a single step, without having to enter the state, city, street number and street name in successive efforts. City-by-city weather reports are also provided, so XM Travel Link customers can access the service via the screen display.

A new audio system conveys the music and radio selections called up through IntelliLink's myriad of infotainment options. Featuring seven standard speakers - including strategically placed tweeters- the system was developed to complement LaCrosse's quiet, acoustically optimized interior with rich sound. An 11-speaker Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound system is available.

New safety features
The 2014 LaCrosse employs new safety features with carefully developed directional alerts that help drivers quickly identify potential crash situations so they can react. They include radar- and camera-based features offered in two Driver Confidence packages:

    Driver Confidence 1 package includes Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, High-Intensity Discharge headlamps with Articulating Headlamps, fog lamps and Head-Up Display.
    Driver Confidence 2 package adds Collision Preparation (with Collision Mitigation Braking), full-speed-range Adaptive Cruise Control and the Safety Alert Seat.

The Collision Mitigation Braking feature can intervene in certain crash-imminent situations, automatically triggering emergency braking if the driver fails to respond to a previous alert. The Safety Alert Seat vibrates on the left or right side, or both sides simultaneously, depending on the direction of the crash threat.

The Buick LaCrosse is one of the first vehicles to offer Lane Change Alert, which warns the driver of fast-approaching vehicles in the next lane that are up to 230 feet (70 meters) behind the car.

LaCrosse's safety features also include eight standard air bags, including rear-seat thorax air bags, StabiliTrak, traction control and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and Intelligent Brake Assist. A rear-vision camera is available.

Efficient, refined driving experience
The Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a choice of two efficient engines: the standard 2.4L four-cylinder engine with e Assist light electrification technology, rated at 182 horsepower (136 kW); and an available 3.6L V-6 rated at 304 horsepower (227 kW). Both are mated to six-speed automatic transmissions.

Buick LaCrosse with eAssist uses a lithium-ion battery system and electric motor-generator to enable regenerative braking capability. Instead of providing all-electric propulsion, the system provides power assistance to the internal combustion engine. The eAssist system also allows the engine to shut down fuel delivery in certain deceleration situations, or at a stop, which saves additional fuel.

New 17-, 18-, 19- and 20-inch tires, along with revisions to some chassis and suspension elements, contribute to stronger handling across the model range, while new wheel designs - including LaCrosse's first 20-inch wheel - match driving experience with style. LaCrosse is also available with an advanced Haldex all-wheel-drive system with electronic limited slip differential (eLSD) that automatically decides how to distribute torque based on vehicle speed, throttle position and individual wheel slip. It also contributes to a refined driving experience, with minimal torque transferred to the rear wheels when all-wheel-drive traction isn't required, for a quieter, smoother ride.

Available on 3.6L front-wheel-drive models with 19- or 20-inch wheels is real-time damping and Sport Mode Selectivity, which uses four electronically controlled dampers to constantly "read" the road and make adjustments within milliseconds. It also features Buick's HiPer Strut front suspension, which enhances ride and handling by reducing torque steer, delivering more linear and communicative steering through improved camber control and delivering improved impact isolation on bumps and rough surfaces.

Electric power steering is standard on models with the 2.4L engine, as well as 3.6L-equipped front-drive models. This technology helps save fuel by drawing energy only when the wheels are turned. It also contributes to the Buick LaCrosse's driving experience with variable assistance at different vehicle speeds.

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Buick Riviera Concept, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Buick Riviera Concept, 2013

The new Buick Riviera concept vehicle made its global debut at the 2013 Auto Shanghai.

The coupe combines avant-garde aesthetics and advanced technology, including plug-in hybrid electric vehicle propulsion, in a single package. It is the fourth global concept vehicle jointly developed by GM's Shanghai GM and Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) joint ventures in Shanghai.

Elegant Design Inspired by the Dynamic Nature of Water
The new Riviera's designers took inspiration from the Chinese saying: "The greatest good is like water." The vehicle's sweeping design, which goes from thick to thin, has the vibrant nature of a moving river embodied in its athletic shape, elegant ambience and deeply sculpted lines.

The concept's silhouette with Buick's recognizable "sweep spear" has a three-dimensional effect that resembles waves in the ocean coming to a standstill for a split second. Buick's unique gull-wing doors exude a dynamic yet elegant ambience. The new Riviera has an ice celadon finish inspired by jade.

Up front, the concept vehicle's updated waterfall grille and wing-shaped daytime running lights will both become key elements of Buick's future design DNA.

The new Riviera has a low drag coefficient and a harmonious balance between style and performance thanks to its raked windshield, 14-degree fastback design and metallic fiber spoiler, which are complemented by active grille shutters and diffusers, and active pneumatic wheels.

The interior carries on Buick's signature 360-degree integrated design with high levels of elegance and refinement. The eaglewood tone interior features the abundant use of refined materials such as sand-blasted aluminum alloy, lava suede and ebony used in a bold style reminiscent of traditional Chinese jade-inlaid wood. This creates a striking visual effect as well as a subdued sense of luxury.

The new Riviera's compact yet well-structured center console, front floating seats and adaptive seating system, as well as its noise-absorbing head restraint system, represent the best combination of interior design and elegance.

Innovative Propulsion, Infotainment and Safety Technology
The new Riviera has adopted BIP (Buick Intelligent Performance) technology. It is equipped with GM's all-new, dual-mode W-PHEV (wireless plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) propulsion system. The user can drive the car on green power in electric mode and enjoy the exhilarating handling and performance of a sports car while driving "green" in hybrid mode. In addition, the vehicle can be charged with a traditional cable or wirelessly via a sensory recharge panel on the car's chassis. The charging port is integrated into Buick's iconic porthole design.

The new Riviera is also equipped with intelligent four-wheel steering, an electromagnetic-controlled suspension and an air spring package for sure handling and comfort in extreme conditions.

The innovative mobile Internet system adopted in the new Riviera supports high-speed 4G LTE network use. The concept vehicle offers real-time traffic information, weather updates, and news and entertainment while communicating with other vehicles. The vehicle's voice commands and controls along with touch and gesture recognition activate a range of vehicle systems and enable seamless interaction between driver and vehicle.

The new Riviera employs a forward-looking active safety system that collects traffic information through 10 high-resolution cameras (for image monitoring) and 18 micro high-precision sensors (for distance monitoring). The information is integrated and presented in a holographic image onto the windshield.

The intelligent driver assist system provides occupants a high level of active safety and security. The system incorporates a variety of driver assist functions, including: an eagle view record system, night view assist, side blind-zone alert system, lane departure warning system, full-speed range-adaptive cruise control system, lane change assist system, parking assist system, rear cross-traffic alert system, autopilot system and "transparent" A pillars.

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Buick Verano Turbo, 2013

 

 

• Buick Verano Turbo, 2013

The Buick announced the 2013 Verano Turbo luxury sedan will be powered by an Ecotec 2.0L turbocharged engine with direct injection and continuously variable valve timing that produces an SAE-certified 250 horsepower (187 kW) at 5300 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. (353 Nm) of torque at 2000 rpm. Acceleration from 0-60 mph is an estimated 6.2 seconds. The Buick Verano Turbo goes on sale in late 2012.

More than 90 percent of the Buick Verano Turbo's peak torque - more than 234 lb.-ft. - is available between 1700 to 5500 rpm. Its closest competitor, the 2013 Acura ILX 2.4L, offers a peak of 170 lb.-ft. of torque.

In December 2011, Buick's 2.0L turbocharged Ecotec engine was named one of WardsAuto World's 2012 10 Best Engines for North America. At the time, the publication's editor-in-chief, Drew Winter, said: "This engine delivers a level of power and sophistication that redefines Buick."

The choice to use a small-displacement turbocharged engine for a more powerful Verano model is consistent with Buick's effort to downsize its powertrains without sacrificing performance. Verano and the Regal luxury sport sedan are available exclusively with four-cylinder engines, while the LaCrosse luxury sedan comes standard with a four-cylinder engine paired with eAssist technology, which uses an electric motor and battery to boost both performance and fuel economy. The standard 2013 Regal four-cylinder engine also is equipped with eAssist.

"Buick's engine strategy continues to be driven by intelligent performance," said Tony DiSalle, vice president of Buick Marketing. "Four-cylinder engines, turbocharging and eAssist are all the right solutions for today's market. With these advanced technologies, Buicks are more efficient without sacrificing their smooth, quiet character."

According to IHS Automotive, use of four-cylinder engines in North American vehicles will grow 74 percent from 6.9 million to 12.2 million units over the next 10 years.

The Buick Verano Turbo will be available with a choice of a six-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox.

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Buick Encore, 2013

 

 

 

• Buick Encore, 2013

Buick introduced the all-new 2013 Encore - a luxury small crossover that delivers Buick's signature style, interior acoustic refinement and collection of luxury amenities in a maneuverable, versatile and efficient package.
The Buick Encore is on display at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, and goes on sale in early 2013.

Buick models continue to gain in popularity, with two consecutive years of higher retail sales. The Encore joins Verano - Buick's third all-new sedan in three years - to round out the brand's lineup and continues the momentum established by the Enclave crossover almost five years ago.

With room for five and up to 48.4 cubic feet (1,372 liters) of storage space with the rear seat folded, the Buick Encore offers substantial cargo capacity along with the confident, higher driving position, all-wheel-drive capability and contemporary styling of a crossover.

Additional features include 10 standard air bags and an Ecotec 1.4L turbo four-cylinder/six-speed automatic powertrain, along with standard and available technologies such as Buick's voice-activated IntelliLink - which uses Bluetooth or a USB to connect the driver's smartphone to a high-resolution, full-color seven-inch LCD display radio.
And because it's a Buick, QuietTuning is standard on the Encore, which also features Buick's first use of active noise cancellation technology.

Contemporary design offers versatile spaciousness
In keeping with the global design language that has come to symbolize the brand, the Buick Encore's sculpted and elegant styling traits - including sweeping character lines - make it instantly identifiable as a contemporary Buick. Signature cues include a waterfall grille, chrome accents and surrounds, portholes on the hood and painted lower panels, similar to the Enclave.

Blue-accented projector-beam headlamps and detailed taillamps enhance the premium appearance; and 18-inch, five-spoke painted aluminum wheels are standard. Seven-spoke chrome wheels are available.

Inside, the Buick Encore's organic styling carries over to a flowing instrument panel that wraps naturally into the door panels. A prominent central instrument panel houses the large, full-color, seven-inch LCD display for the IntelliLink voice-activated radio system. It also features displays for the SiriusXM satellite radio, as well as available navigation and rear camera systems.

A contemporary mix of dark and light tones distinguishes the cabin, which is accented with ice blue ambient lighting, select use of bright trim and wood-grain trim. Premium seats featuring high-density foam for greater comfort on long drives are trimmed with either a contemporary cloth/leatherette motif or available leather. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel are available. The rear seat features a fold-down armrest with cup holders.

More of the Buick Encore's comfort and luxury features - standard and available - include:

•     Remote vehicle start
•     Dual-zone automatic climate control
•     Rainsense wipers
•     Bose premium sound system
•     Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls
•     Six-way, power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar adjustment and driver memory.

Buick Encore also features plenty of storage capacity and storage compartments. It offers 18.8 cubic feet (533 liters) of storage behind the split-folding rear seat and 48.4 cubic feet (1,372 liters) with the rear seat folded. With the rear seat in place, there's room for at least six full grocery bags and with the rear seat folded, there's room for golf clubs and overnight bags for a weekend getaway. Even the front passenger seat folds flat to extend the cargo length and accommodate long items that would not normally fit in a vehicle of this size.

QuietTuning gets 'active'
QuietTuning is the process of defining Buick quality, sound and vibration characteristics and designing and refining the vehicle following a three-point strategy of reducing sounds at their source, blocking sounds from entering the cabin and absorbing any remaining sounds.

For the Buick Encore, specific content was applied to achieve 40 sound benchmarks for refinement, including Buick's first application of active noise cancellation. With it, ceiling-mounted microphones detect engine noise, the frequencies of which are processed by a computer that directs counteracting sound waves through the audio system's speakers and subwoofer.

Additional standard QuietTuning features:

•     Acoustically treated headliner with a tuned gap between it and the high-strength-steel roof panel
•     Sound-absorbing materials used in the cabin, under the hood and in the wheel house liners
•     HydraMatic 6T40 six-speed transmission with neutral gear disengagement
•     Quiet-tuned 18-inch Continental tires
•     Aero-optimized outside mirrors
•     Ultra-quiet engine alternator
•     Acoustic-laminated windshield and thicker 5mm side window glass
•     Foam baffle insulation at the opening of body structure cavities.

The new Buick Encore is built on a global small-crossover platform and engineered with a "one-tire" philosophy. Everything is optimized around a single 18-inch tire specification, designed for more precise suspension tuning, driving refinement, quietness and a feeling of control.

The Buick Encore's 100.6-inch (2,555 mm) wheelbase and wide stance - 60.6-inch (1,540 mm) front and rear tracks - contribute to a more confident-feeling driving experience, while a strong structure enables greater suspension precision and a quieter ride. Tuned engine, including two hydraulic mounts, are tailored to the engine's inherent torque axis to disrupt the transmission of vibration and noise. This configuration also helps control the transfer of momentum, resulting in improved dynamic balance.

A MacPherson strut front suspension is used with coil springs, a large stabilizer bar and side-load-compensated front strut modules. The rear suspension incorporates a compound crank (torsion beam) design, with a double-wall, tubular V-shape beam profile with gas-charged twin-tube shocks. It combines all the advantages of a conventional torsion beam axle, including minimal space requirements, with low weight and consistent camber control. Urethane spring isolators are used to dampen noise.

The Buick Encore also features a column-mounted, variable-effort electric power steering system. It contributes to a 36.7-foot (11.2 meters) turning diameter, while also saving fuel compared to an engine-driven power steering pump.
Safety technology helps protect occupants

Buick Encore is designed with technologies - including radar-based features - to help avoid crashes and protect occupants in case one occurs. Technologies that help avoid them:

•     Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control
•     Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake force distribution
•     Cornering brake control and brake assist
•     Available all-wheel-drive system that seamlessly shifts power to the rear wheels when required for better traction and handling
•     Available forward collision alert and lane departure warning
•     Available front and rear park assist
•     Available rear vision camera.

When it comes to occupant protection, the Buick Encore's body structure forms a protective cage around the passenger compartment. Sixty-three percent of the underbody structure is comprised of high-strength steels, while 57 percent of the upper body uses high-strength steels, including ultra-high-strength steel. That protection is complemented with 10 standard air bags, which:

•     Driver and front passenger frontal air bags
•     Driver and front passenger knee air bags
•     Front and rear thorax air bags (all outboard positions)
•     Side curtain air bags for front and rear outboard passengers.

Buick Encore's suite of safety features is rounded out with exclusive OnStar technology, which includes the Advanced Crash Response System, emergency assistance and more.

Ecotec turbo engine drives efficiency
The Buick Encore is powered by an efficient, power-dense Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission. It generates an estimated 140 horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque (200 Nm) between 1,850 rpm and 4,900 rpm. The wide rpm range for the maximum torque - a specific trait of turbocharged engines - helps it deliver a better driving experience and performance.

The 1.4L's turbocharger is integrated within the exhaust manifold, for reduced weight and greater packaging flexibility. A reinforced crankshaft and forged connecting rods deliver additional strength to support the engine's pressurized power and torque over a wide rpm band.

Several of the engine's features contribute to the Buick Encore's overall fuel efficiency:

•     A high-efficiency alternator
•     Regulated voltage control
•     Electronically controlled returnless fuel system
•     Deceleration fuel cut-off.

They complement other vehicle-wide systems and components that also help improve efficiency, including low-rolling-resistance tires, electric power steering, neutral idle feature and optimized aerodynamics.

A Hydra-Matic 6T40 six-speed automatic transmission backs the Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine. It is part of a family of six-speed front and all-wheel drive transaxles developed for small cars and crossovers. It has a unique design, with the planetary gearsets positioned on the same axis as the engine crankshaft centerline, making the entire powertrain unit shorter fore-to-aft. This design enables a shorter overall vehicle length, increased interior space, enhanced safety crush zones and lower weight.

The Hydra-Matic 6T40 offers a "steep" first gear and a "tall" overdrive top gear to achieve a wide ratio spread of 6.14:1. This allows the Buick Encore to achieve robust acceleration, as well as fuel efficiency and lower engine noise at highway cruising speeds. A neutral-gear disengagement feature helps enhance smoothness and efficiency.

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Buick Enclave, 2013

 

 

 

 

• Buick Enclave, 2013

Buick introduced the new 2013 Enclave, an evolution of the industry's best-selling three-row luxury crossover. It offers new styling, new safety technologies, in-vehicle connectivity and a more refined driving experience.

LED daytime running lamps and LED taillamps complement a more sculpted exterior design. The interior is more contemporary, with ambient lighting and IntelliLink in-vehicle communications with touch-screen control and navigation. The industry's first front center air bag system and new dual-flow front struts highlight the safety and performance enhancements.

The 2013 Buick Enclave makes its public debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show. It goes on sale in fall 2012.
Buick Enclave saw record sales in 2011, making it more popular than the three-row crossovers from Acura, Audi and Lincoln. More than 58,000 were sold last year - with nearly 50 percent sold to customers switching from non-General Motors vehicles.

The Enclave is offered in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models, and powered by a direct-injected 3.6L V-6 and an updated six-speed automatic transmission that contribute to the more refined driving experience. Buick's QuietTuning engineering process reduces, blocks and absorbs unwanted noise from the Enclave's cabin, making it quieter than a Lexus RX350.

Sculpted exterior advances Buick's design language
Buick Enclave's sculpted styling redefined Buick's design language upon its introduction more than five years ago. The 2013 model adds new signature cues:

•     New front fascia with LED daytime running lamps
•     New headlamp design, with standard Xenon high-intensity discharge lamps (HID) and LED accent lighting. Articulating headlamps are available
•     New hood and black-chrome waterfall grille
•     New rear fascia design with integrated exhaust outlets
•     New LED taillamps
•     New 19-inch and 20-inch aluminum wheel designs
•     Monochromatic exterior appearance with chrome accents.

The Buick Enclave's new appearance is instantly recognizable as a modern Buick and the LED lighting elements enhance its technologically advanced presence. The blue translucent rings around the Xenon HID headlamps are Buick design cues found on other models, adding distinction across the brand's lineup.

At the rear, the exhaust outlets are framed with a chrome finish within the rear fascia, for an integrated appearance that exemplifies Buick's attention to detail. New LED taillamps provide a safety benefit by illuminating more quickly than conventional bulbs when the brakes are applied.

Harmonious interior environment
The 2013 Enclave's interior is defined by luxurious amenities and high-quality material, with changes that create a more contemporary ambience and support the integration of Buick IntelliLink. Highlights:

•     New ice blue LED ambient lighting around the dash highlights Enclave's flowing lines, emphasizing the cabin's spaciousness
•     Eight-way power front driver and passenger seats with four-way adjustable head restraints emphasize seat comfort
•     Details including soft touch materials and live stitching throughout the cabin, as well as true chrome accents
•     Four interior color combinations are available with complementing wood tones, including a new Cocoa leather combination
•     A new "center stack" with standard IntelliLink LCD display, tri-zone climate system, capacitive touch controls and available navigation system.

The new center stack was developed for easy, intuitive interaction with the new IntelliLink system, along with redundant controls on the genuine Mahogany-accented steering wheel. The tri-zone climate system's new controls are designed to be more intuitive, too, with easier, at-a-glance operation, bold digital temperature readouts and larger controls that are easier to operate with gloves.

Buick Enclave offers three rows of seating, available in seven- or eight-passenger configurations. The second-row seats feature the SmartSlide system, which allows easier entry to the third row, with the pull of a single handle. There is 23.3 cubic feet (660 liters) of cargo space behind the third row and a maximum of 115.2 cubic feet (3,263 liters) of cargo space available when the second and third rows are folded. That's more than the Mercedes-Benz R Class, Infiniti JX, Acura MDX, Lincoln MKT, Audi Q7 and the Volvo XC90.

Intelli Link brings wealth of choices
Buick's IntelliLink system is standard on all models and enhances the driving experience with a higher level of wireless connectivity and customized options - all while building on the safety and security of OnStar.

IntelliLink is intuitive and easy to use and includes the capability of setting up a "home page" for favorites. It integrates online services such as Pandora® internet radio and Stitcher SmartRadio using hands-free voice and touch-screen controls via Bluetooth-enabled smartphones, building on the voice-activated Bluetooth hands-free calling capability already offered in other Buick models. Additional features:

•     High-resolution color display with touch-screen control
•     Bluetooth with hands-free (for phone calls) and A2DP audio-streaming protocol support
•     Address book download and hands-free calling
•     USB port
•     Auxiliary audio input port
•     Redundant steering wheel controls
•     Enhanced voice recognition powered by Nuance
•     AM/FM/Audio CD/MP3 CD/ HD Radio
•     SiriusXM Satellite Radio and data services
•     Selected Smartphone apps can be controlled through the IntelliLink interface via the touch-screen, steering wheel controls or voice commands. The first apps to be supported are Pandora and Stitcher
•     Supports playback of MP3 files stored on flash memory drives.

Intelli Link is standard with all Enclaves, including those with the optional navigation system. The Intelli Link screen also serves as the display for the standard rearview camera system. A premium 10-speaker Bose audio system is also available and is optimized for the Enclave's refined interior acoustics.

Industry-first front center air bag highlights comprehensive safety package
In 2012, every Buick model was named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, underscoring the brand's commitment to safety leadership. The 2013 Buick Enclave builds on that commitment with the industry's first front center airbag - a standard feature.

The front center air bag, standard on all 2013 Enclave models, was created to help protect drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes. It deploys from the inboard side of the driver's seat and positions itself between the driver and front passenger, delivering a more comprehensive occupant restraint system. No other air bag in passenger vehicles today offers this type of protection in the front seat.

Standard safety features also include Stabili Trak, traction control, panic brake assist, rear-vision camera system and seven total air bags - including head-curtain side air bags covering outboard occupants in all three passenger rows. Rounding out this suite of safety features are two systems available for the first time on the 2013 Enclave: side blind zone alert and rear cross traffic alert, which use radar to watch spots the driver may not be able to see - and provide visible and audible warnings to help prevent collisions.

Additionally, customer convenience features such as a power liftgate and remote start are standard. The Buick Enclave also comes with six months of complimentary On Star Directions and Connections service, which includes automatic crash response, turn-by-turn navigation, roadside assistance, emergency services link and remote door unlocking. The my Buick mobile app with OnStar Remote Link offers connectivity to the Enclave from outside the vehicle, including extended locking and unlocking capability and extended remote start functionality.

A smoother, more controlled driving experience
The Buick Enclave's engineers improved its carlike driving experience with revised front and rear dampers, for greater smoothness and an enhanced feeling of control. In the front suspension, new dual-flow dampers and rebound springs are used to reduce the jarring feel of bumps, as well as provide a quieter and smoother ride. In the rear, new low-velocity control shocks help reduce road inputs that could be felt inside the passenger compartment.

All models feature independent front and rear suspensions, with variable-effort power-assisted steering; and a direct-acting stabilizer bar on the front MacPherson-strut suspension helps provide a more immediate feeling of responsiveness during turns. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard and 19- and 20-inch wheels are available.

Revised controls in the next-generation Hydra-Matic six-speed automatic transmission also contribute to Enclave's smoother feel behind the wheel. They improve the shift feel and overall driveability - and the fuel-saving six-speed design helps the three-row Buick Enclave deliver an EPA-estimated 24 mpg on the highway (FWD models).

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