Right around the same time General Motors teased the world with a new "Baby Buick" at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show, several lightly-camouflaged examples of the Delta-platform based, Opel Astra-infused premium compact sedan were spotted in Germany having a siesta.
In addition to avoiding the hatchback bodystyle, GM will also likely avoid the mistake of not installing U.S.-market switchgear -- a gaffe it made when it brought the previous-generation Astra over as a Saturn. Unlike the recently unveiled Chinese-market Buick Excelle, which is essentially the 2010 Astra hatch with a Buick grille, the U.S. model will have a more unique front end. Under the camo, these examples looks to be virtually identical to that of the car shown in GM's LA show teaser.
Engine options will most likely consist of the 138-hp 1.4-liter turbocharged four also set to be offered in the Chevrolet Cruze (and the Astra), with the Regal's 182-hp 2.4-liter four possibly offered as a premium.
In China, the Excelle is offered two 1.6-liter four-bangers making 116 or 138 hp and a 181-horse 1.6-liter turbo-four, but those are not used in the U.S. and would have to be separately EPA certified. Still unclear is whether the U.S. Buick will wear the Excelle badge or something different. Skyhawk and Skylark are nameplates that were used on previous similarly-sized Buicks and one could possibly be revived for the new car.
Given how close to production these spied prototypes appear, it's not out of the question that a prototype version of the new Buick could show up in January at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show, but at this point we'll just have to wait and see.
Given how close to production these spied prototypes appear, it's not out of the question that a prototype version of the new Buick could show up in January at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show, but at this point we'll just have to wait and see.
Thanks to: Motor Trend
