Buick is adding sportiness and better fuel economy to expand its lineup and attract younger buyers.
On tap: a late-2011 launch of the Verano, Buick's first compact car in about 20 years. This fall Buick also will introduce the Regal GS, a sporty turbocharged model.
Also this year, Buick will introduce eAssist on the 2012 Buick LaCrosse and Regal. General Motors picked Buick for the debut of the light-hybrid system, which is likely to work its way across GM's brands in coming years.
For the 2013 model year, Buick likely will roll out a small crossover. It's also considering bringing the sporty three-door Opel Astra to the United States.
Here are highlights of Buick's plan for the 2012-14 model years.
LaCrosse: In August the sedan will become the first GM car to get eAssist. A reskin that's likely to include a new grille, hood, front fascia and rear tailgate
is expected for the 2013 model year. The next generation is expected in model year 2016.
Regal: This fall Buick launches the Regal GS as a halo model, with a 2.0-liter engine putting out 270 hp and 295 pounds-feet of torque.
GM is considering a Regal wagon for China but hasn't decided if the vehicle will come to the United States. A Regal wagon, recently spotted in spy photos, would be a counterpoint to the recently launched Acura TSX wagon.
Encore: The five-seat compact crossover, referred to as a "Baby Enclave," is expected for the 2013 model year, two years later than GM originally forecast. It will be built on GM's Gamma subcompact platform, which underpins the Opel Meriva MPV.
Verano: Buick hopes the compact Verano will compete with premium Asian models, including the Acura TSX. It will get Buick's new IntelliLink infotainment system as a standard feature. It shares a platform, but not engines, with the Chevrolet Cruze. Expect a turbocharged option and the addition of eAssist in 2012.
Enclave: The three-row crossover is expected to be reskinned for the 2013 model year, with extensive interior upgrades including Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system. A redesigned Enclave should arrive in 2015 as a 2016 model.
Astra: GM will bring to the United States a rebadged version of the redesigned Opel Astra.
The three-door Astra originally was planned for the now-defunct Saturn brand. It would share Buick's compact front-drive platform with the Verano. Engine options and the timing of a U.S. launch are unclear. c
Rick Kranz contributed to this report
