Here at GM Authority, we have been salivating over the upcoming Opel GTC hatchback, and we can only wish that it will launch in U.S. shores. And according to Car & Driver, we could be getting our wish and more.
According to C&D, the upcoming Opel GTC will in fact be making its way to America as a Buick, thought it’s not clear on whether or not it will feature a more unique exterior design than what will be seen in Europe, or a quick badge swap a la Insignia/Regal. However we can at least expect the Buick hatch to be called something other than GTC.
Engines are still being hammered out, but expect it to share the engines and transmissions that will be found in the upcoming Verano along with a range-topper with around 300 horsepower.
Now for the speculation. Since Opel has confirmed a still-to-be-officially-named Astra-based convertible (there have even been spy photos of the vehicle), C&D thinks that it’s not too far of a stretch to think such a vehicle will eventually find its way to the Buick portfolio as well.
We don’t want to be picky or anything, but we feel these sporty little cars would receive better reception as Chevrolet models… but that’s just us.
Source: Car & Driver
Comments
If these cars are built in Europe; the US/Euro dollar ballance will probably price this car out of the Chevrolet range, however; making GTC a Buick would both provide the Buick brand with a more youthfull/sophisticated/urbane image AND allow GM to price the product so it can break even, maybee even turn a bit of a profit (allthough a real tiny one) if a car like GTC is successfull, GM could swich production to a North American plant. If not Oh well no harm no foul, just go back to the padedd roofs and fake wood. I’ts in the consumers hands, as allways.
Jason,
This vehicle could be built domestically in Orion Twp. MI next to the Buick Verano.
WoW!
You’ve got MY attention!
Do you know if this car would be classified as a Compact or Subcompact?
If Subcompact, I’d like to be the first to suggest bringing back the “Skyhawk” name for this new little Buick.
Any rumors to a release date?
It’s a compact — built on the Delta II like the Cruze; basically an Astra with a different name.
But as Buick becomes more Opel, why not simply dump Buick for Opel in the US? It’s Opel everywhere else! Bringing the Astra range (besides the Verano/Astra sedan) gives Buick only 2 “unique” vehicles — the LaCrosse and the Enclave. Everything else is a rebadged Opel.”
I wonder if they’ll have an easier time selling Opels to Americans rather than trying to re-invigorate a tarnished nameplate.
I’d say do it but also put this on a Cruze if possible to go up against the Focus ST
Chevrolet desperately needs small sporty cars to replace the now dead HHR/SS and the Cobalt SS. The New Cruze it the logical candidate for a LT/LTZ/SS Coupe and LTZ/SS Convertible. Sales would be much greater at Chevrolet. I am not opposed to Buick having Verano versions of a Coupe/Convertible either but if only one Division can have them, then it should definately be Chevrolet!.
Buick should get Coupe and Wagon versions of Regal!
There were once rumors of GM working on a small Mini Cooper-like Buick. That would be great!
Buick is having an identity crisis, I see. Now the convertible is fine I think, but 300 horsepower is something Chevrolet or Cadillac should have. Buick should be going for ‘wild Italians’ (MPGs) if you ask me.
I still look for a BADBOY ride to replace the Pontiac brand. Buick could fill that spot with something as ‘Darth Vaderish’ as the ’87 GN. And Ruess is the guy that could get that done.
I definitely like this vehicle for Buick as it would help liven-up a “performance” image which does need–let’s face it, Pontiac is gone for good and Buick could stand to have a BOOST to upgrade it’s image and the name for this vehicle needs to be Skyhawk. In regards to the Opel contribution to the Buick line-up I think that it would be great for this (our) U.S. market to have the return of the Opel Kadetts in no less than 3 body styles (2-dr sedan, 4-dr sedan, and 4-dr wagon) to renew new interest in the best possible fuel misers EVER offered by Buick and if the “Skunk Works” there at GM wish to offer a Pocket Rocket for the youth oriented crowd—so be it, a new GNX to make the heartbeat beat faster. Change for the better is always good.