Buick Explores Future With Concept Car : The Avenir

Though the name might at first recall Buick’s stodgy, long-time stalwart Park Avenue, “avenir” happens to be a French word meaning “future” or, more specifically, “coming soon”.

General Motors surprised more than a few spectators at the 2015 North American International Auto Show with the presentation of their newest concept sedan, the Buick Avenir. This concept proceeded to win the 2015 Eyes on Design Award as the “Best Concept Vehicle” at the event.

Avenir’s sleek new 4-passenger concept combines a full menu of new features. As a possible future flagship of Buick’s fleet, many features of this new design are intended to become the platform for other Buick models of the future. The front and side views of the Avenir seem to retain the general identity of recent Buick models. However, the lower profile and wider stance evoke suggestions of a streamlined sports car with a roomy interior design, but still inspired by Buick’s historic designs. According to Car and Driver, the subtle bobtail backside is conceptually derived from the Buick Riviera of the past.

The concept is a product of GM’s global design team with most of the input coming from the Holden Australia Group.

The Avenir is a rear-wheel drive sedan powered by a next generation V6 engine. According to autoblog.com, the Avenir comes with a “twin-clutch, all-wheel drive system” and a nine-speed automatic transmission. For economy, the engine employs a stop-start system to eliminate wasting fuel while idling.

Electronic features of the Avenir are a mixture of new and upgraded versions of old. Mobile device wireless recharging is an innovative and trendy option that recognizes a breakthrough in technology that likely will become the state-of-the-art. The “infotainment” system will come with a 12-inch-diagonal color touch screen. A Wi-Fi “hotspot” is also envisioned.

The concept version is a four-passenger model with four luxurious bucket seats and lots of potential for advanced electronics and plug-ins in the rear console. It is likely that room for a third second-row passenger will need to be offered though.

The Buick brand has enjoyed a revival in China during the past several years, according to Business Insider. Owning luxurious foreign brands is preferred among business executives and government officials. Buick has become one of the most popular choices. Sedans, specially-designed mini-vans and the SUV Enclave are all selling very well. With all the bells and whistles, the Avenir could very likely succeed as a luxury sedan in China, suitable even in a “limousine” role when equipped with a personal chauffeur.