Buick launches new-Generation GL8 and GL8 Avenir MPV for China

Buick has launched the new-generation Buick GL8 and GL8 Avenir luxury multi-purpose vehicles in China on November 5. They build on the heritage of the popular GL8 MPV family, which has been a mainstay of the Chinese market since 2000.

Over the years, more than 700,000 GL8s have been sold in China. According to the company, “the next generation of the GL8 family, which includes the first Buick model from the Avenir sub-brand, inherits the nameplate’s reputation as a “business class on wheels.” Five trims priced from RMB 289,900 (Rs 29.42 lakh) to RMB 449,900 (Rs 45.74 lakh) are being offered.

“The new-generation GL8s build on the success of their predecessors to set a new benchmark for large luxury MPVs,” said Wang Yongqing, president of SAIC-GM. “They will inject vitality into the Buick brand while keeping up with the changing demand of consumers in one of the most vibrant domestic market segments.”

The new-generation GL8 has a sculptured profile, with a split-wing grille, a seemingly floating roof thanks to a special D-pillar design, a layered rear end, high-tech wing-shaped front and rear LED lights, and a rear side window made of light impact-resistant polycarbonate materials.

The interior employs Buick's 360-degree integrated design and also the brand's latest wing-shaped design. Three-dimensional folding surfaces, soft materials and seats covered in full-grain leather create a luxurious feeling. It also features an extra-large dual-panel panoramic sunroof and Moon White ambient lighting.

Like its predecessor, the new-generation GL8 has an extra-long 3088-mm wheelbase, as well as a wider front and rear track for a larger cabin and greater carrying capacity. A height-adjustable rear power liftgate with the foot-sensing function makes it easy to get items in and out.

The newly developed seats feature an optimised ergonomic design for long-distance riding comfort. The first-row seats offer expanded headroom, legroom and knee room. The second-row seats include separate heating, ventilation and massage functions together with adjustable armrests, six-way adjustable aircraft headrests, a pop-up double cup holder and mobile phone tray, and a USB charging port. The third-row seats have a theatre-like raised seating design and the only centre armrest in the GL8’s class.

All-new chassis and suspension system and upgraded powertrain

The new-generation GL8 has adopted a newly developed chassis and suspension system. Paired with a rear sub-frame featuring four-point vibration isolation, the model's four-link independent rear suspension has been tuned to deliver superior ride comfort. Its reinforced MacPherson strut suspension with three-way shock absorbers and hydraulic control arm bushings offers excellent handling and shock-absorbing performance.

The new-generation GL8 also has a newly developed body structure. With 73 percent of its body made of high-strength steel, the model has a 45 percent improvement in torsional rigidity over its predecessor, comprehensively improving safety, stability, vibration and noise suppression, as well as fuel economy. The segment-leading belt drive electric power steering (EPS) system automatically adjusts in accordance with speed changes.

The new model is powered by a high-performance 2.0T SIDI engine. Paired with an intelligent six-speed DSS transmission with start/stop technology and steering wheel paddle shifters, the engine generates maximum output of 191 kW/5400 rpm and peak torque of 350 Nm/5000 rpm. The new-generation GL8 can accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 9.3 seconds while achieving combined fuel consumption of 8.9 litre per 100km.

Raft of safety features

The new-generation GL8 comes with a range of advanced safety technologies, including the Bosch ESP 9.1 electronic stability system with 24 expandable functions such as Automatic Vehicle Hold (AVH), Fading Brake Support (FBS), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC). It also adopts Buick's new-generation intelligent safety technologies that include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Alert (FCA), Collision Mitigation Braking (CMB), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA) and Automatic Park Assist (APA).

They are accompanied by the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), an Electric Parking Brake (EPB), reverse radar and a head-up display (HUD).

Among the connectivity technologies in the new-generation GL8 are OnStar 4G LTE and Buick's latest IntelliLink infotainment system with support for smartphone display mirroring and natural voice recognition. Occupants will also enjoy the premium Bose Centerpoint 12-channel surround sound system, Air Quality System (AQS) and double-effect nanometer-grade PM2.5 air filter.

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