If Buick decided to show off its own take on the all-new Opel Astra GTC this year at, say, the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show this November, would you be interested in such a vehicle? It could very well happen. Yes, Buick is going to launch the Astra-based Verano sedan later this year, but Opel CEO Karl-Friedrich Stracke “could easily see (the GTC) as a Buick,” according to Inside Line.
We’re not too sure how we feel about such an aggressive hatchback donning an elegant waterfall grille and TriShield badge. But hey, that didn’t stop us from liking the Regal GS. That aside, what do you think? Opine in the comment section below.
Source: Inside Line
Comments
I think yes!!
Since the Verano is based on the Chevy Cruze, I think the Astra GTC would be better suited to a bow tie rather than a shield.
A sporty car like this at Buick is a recipe for brand confusion. What is a Buick? GM needs a clear message and it’s been doing that with the LaCrosse and Regal. I also think the Astra (in the 3-door configuration) is too small for Buick and it would be much better marketed as a sporty Cruze coupe. Customers understand a sporty Chevy – think Camaro and Corvette and a long list of Super Sport variants. Buick had stuff in its past, but I doubt that Buick customers remember those glory days.
Absolutely and totally agree with you here Todd. I see no reason why the Cruze isn’t a full range of vehicles like that of VW Golf/Jetta/Eos. There should be:
1. Cruze sedan
2. Cruze 5-door hatch
3. Cruze 5-door wagon
4. Cruze 3-door hatch
5. Cruze Coupe
Some of those should have performance variants like the GTI/GLI. Heck, even the new Focus accomplishes 1-3 at launch, and will most likely get the remaining two in due time.
Well the thing is that the bowtie is rumored to get a Cruze hatchback but all they probably need is to retune the engine to make it sporty. So the idea of astra being a Buick would be a niche product considering they already have it in China as the excelle hatchback with the 1.6 turbo
Vic, we have it on good record that the Cruze Hatch is coming to the U.S. soon:
http://gmauthority.com/blog/2011/08/sources-chevrolet-cruze-hatch-coming-to-gms-lordstown-ohio-plant/
That I know.
Years ago, no. But since this is the “new” Buick, then yes. If they want to supposedly compete against Lexus, Acura, etc, this would be another good addition to the lineup, however; the first agenda should be getting a RWD car innthe lineup.
This thing will probably be priced below the Verano… how is that competing with Acura or Lexus? That’s $1,500 above average Cruze transaction price!
yes, i like it. perhaps the new Buick Somerset or the new Buick SkyHawk?
Buick, JUST DO IT!
That is one attractive looking car! 🙂
I bet this is going to sound stupid but I think part of the reason I like it so much is because of the lights. For me they are like the icing on the cake haha 🙂