We here at GM Authority rather like the Opel Adam. It’s an inexpensive, lively little hatchback with as many options for customization as there are stars in the sky.
Now, as Automotive News reports, the next-generation Opel Adam could be imported to the US as a Buick model.
The problem with expediting that process is simply a matter of planning – or more rather, a lack thereof. Opel never intended the Adam to export to the United States, so reformatting the car for sale outside of Europe would be expensive. In the case of the Opel/Buick Cascada, which was also never intended for US sale, General Motors made the decision to swallow the costs.
Buick and GMC Vice President Duncan Aldred is determined to ensure that the next-generation Opel Adam is engineered from the get-go with the US in-mind. He remarked that the $15,500 Adam is “probably the most premium model in the Opel and Vauxhall range as far as content and materials. In terms of changing expectations of the brand, that would be another absolutely jaw-dropping moment for Buick.”
The next-generation Opel/Buick Adam could see a release as soon as 2018.
Comments
I definitely agree with Buick receiving a version of the next-gen Opel Adam. Buick is the perfect place in GM’s portfolio to offer a Mini competitor since Buick is essentially a tier-2 luxury brand. GM has only begun to tap Buick’s growth potential in the premium market.
Buick should develop new flavors of their existing models similar or identical to a T-Type sport trim and an Ultra luxury trim.
Buick can introduce niche premium sports coupes such as a modern Grand National and GNX. Buick can offer a more mainstream version as a premium Regal coupe. A luxurious Riviera coupe on a stretched wheelbase could be possible wearing unique sheetmetal and containing a different interior.
Another niche market Buick is perfect for is a modern luxury roadster similar in concept to the Reatta.
There’s no need to explain why Buick requires the upcoming luxury rwd flagship sedan/four door coupe. The flagship Buick sedan/four door coupe should be the vehicle GM offers to livery services and for customization Instead of the Cadillac XTS.
An opportunity being overlooked is a halo high-performance sports car following up to the WildCat III. Cadillac may no longer be the place for a Corvette-derived sports car but a limited edition Buick Wildcat based on the Corvette would round out Buick’s performance model series and give Buick something to offer as an alternative to the new Acura NSX.