Riviera Redux?

2009 Riviera Concept

When I was young, a gentleman friend of my grandmother owned a beautiful Marlin Blue '63 Riviera with a white leather interior.  I remember riding on the rear center console of the Riviera going to a drive-in movie with the windows down and the sound of the exhaust burbling the tune of that Wildcat 401 cubic inch V-8 engine.  That car quickly cemented in my mind what a Buick should be and I've been fond of "real" Buicks since that time, especially Rivieras.

From 1963 to 1999, the Riv was the flagshp coupe in the Buick lineup.   During that time, the Riviera was arguably the styling leader within General Motors.  The '63-'65 models were highly praised for their style.  Bill Mitchell's boat-tail design for the third generation Riv shocked everyone in the auto industry and, while polarizing for many, could not be ignored.   The last of the big Rivs arrived with the beautiful 8th generation cars based on the G-body platform with the last one being produced in 1999.  It was the end of an era not just for fans of the Riviera, but also fans of personal luxury cars.

2004 Mercedes Benz CLS

In today's market, large coupe's are not viable business cases, but General Motors should consider bringing back the Riviera as a flagship personal luxury car not as a standard 2-door coupe, but as a 4-door coupe.   In 2004, Mercedes Benz created a new class of vehicles with their CLS-class.   The model has been a huge success with luxury car buyers.   Volkswagen followed up in 2008 with the CC, bringing the 4-door coupe to more people with a far lower price than the Mercedes.   The American car companies do not have a vehicle in this class, and for General Motors to be a full line vehicle manufacturer a 4-door flagship coupe would be a nice addition to Buick's portfolio of vehicles.  

Development costs for the new Riviera would be relatively low because General Motors already has many components already developed.  There current long wheelbase Epsilon II architecture is a stiff platform and offers the flexibility of either front or all wheel drive.  The new Riviera would be powered by new LFX 3.6 liter V-6 with direct injection and 6-speed automatic.  This engine produces 303 horsepower in the 2012 LaCrosse.  For drivers who wanted a high mileage stylish coupe, an eAssist model could also be offered.  Currently, the eAssist LaCrosse gets 26 mpg city/37 highway.  An eAssist Riv would do similarly well depending on the weight differences between the Riviera and LaCrosse.

The major development costs for General Motors would be the exterior and interior styling of the car.  A Riviera must be the most beautiful of all Buicks.   As a four-door coupe, it would need a sloping roofline that would give the car a sleeker appearance.  The interior would be more luxurious than that of the LaCrosse, offering more standard equipment such as standard leather and MyLink touch screen Infotainment.   As the flagship, it should also offer features that are not available on any other Buick car.

Volkswagen CC VR6 4Motion

General Motors recently released a statement saying that the market will drive new models instead of the unions.   There is a market for a four door coupe in this price range.   The Volkswagen CC currently has no competition at it's price point.  A four door Riviera coupe could compete with the Volkswagen CC with a price beginning at an estimated $35,000 and rise to $45,000 for a fully loaded model with all wheel drive.  While the Riviera would never be the best selling car in the GM stable, it's styling would increase showroom traffic to Buick dealers, bringing increased sales across the brand and give Buick a flagship car to help continue to improve the image of Buick in the minds of consumers at little development cost.

Straightening GM's Bowtie

Chevrolet has been on a roll with the new generations of small cars.  The Cruze was the best selling car in June 2011.  Sales of the Malibu, Equinox, and Traverse are staying strong.   The new GM is here to stay.   This fall, the 2012 Sonic arrives and has already been getting good reviews from the auto rags.   Late this winter, the much anticipated global Malibu arrives.  Chevrolet needs to continue this momentum with more improvements to an already good lineup of vehicles.   Below is my wish list of what I would like to see from GM's bowtie division.

CARS

Sonic
Models:  Sonic LS, Sonic LT, Sonic LTZ, Sonic RS
Architecture: Gamma (FWD)
Bodystyles:  Sedan, 5-door Hatchback
Engines:  DI 1.8 liter I-4, Turbo DI 1.4 liter I-4, DI 2.0 liter I-4
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
Competition: Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa, Honda Fit

**High end engine for Sonic RS

Cruze
Models:  Cruze LS, Cruze LT, Cruze ECO Cruze LTZ, Cruse RS
Architecture:  Delta II (FWD/AWD)
Bodystyles:  Sedan, 5-door Hatchback, Wagon
Engines:  DI Turbo 1.4 liter I-4, DI 2.0 liter I-4, DI 2.5 liter I-4, Turbo DI 2.0 liter I-4
Transmissions:  6-speed manual,  6-speed automatic
Competition:  Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Honda Civic, VW Jetta/Golf/GTI

**5-door hatchback and wagon bodystyles for North American market.
**All wheel drive models for the snow belt regions.
**Upgraded powertrains to differentiate from the Sonic, improve performance.
**Sporty Cruze RS added as a separate model instead of a package.

Malibu
Models:  Malibu LS, Malibu LT, Malibu ECO, Malibu LTZ
Architecture, Epsilon II - short wheelbase (FWD, AWD)
Bodystyles:  Sedan, Wagon
Engines:  DI 2.5 liter I-4, eAssist DI 2.4 liter I-4, DI 3.0 liter V-6
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, 8-speed automatic
Competition:  Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, VW Passat, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata

**Wagon model added for more utility.
**DI 3.0 liter V-6 added for those who prefer V-6 to an I-4.
**8-speed automatic to stay ahead of the competition

Impala
Models:  Impala LT, Impala ECO, Impala LTZ
Architecture:  Epsilon II - long wheelbase (FWD, AWD)
Bodystyles:  Sedan
Engines:  DI 2.5 liter I-4, eAssist 2.4 liter I-4, DI 3.6 liter V-6
Transmissions:  6-speed automatic, 8-speed automatic
Competition:  Toyota Avalon, Ford Taurus

Volt
Model: Volt
Architecture:  Delta II (FWD)
Bodystyle: 5-door hatchback
Engine: 1.4 liter I-4 with 111kw electric motor/generator
Transmission: CVT Automatic
Competition:  Toyota Prius, Nissan Leaf

Camaro
Models:  Camaro LS, Camaro LT, Camaro LTZ, Camaro SS, Camaro ZL-1
Architecture:  Zeta - short wheelbase (RWD)
Bodystyles:  Coupe, Convertible
Engines:  Turbo DI 2.0 liter I-4, DI 3.6 liter V-6, DI 5.5 liter V-8, Supercharged DI 5.5 liter V-8
Transmissions:  6-speed manual, 8-speed automatic
Competition:  Ford Mustang, Hyundai Genesis Coupe


**New base engine Turbo I-4 with 270 hp, improved fuel economy.
**8-speed automatic


Chevelle
Models:  Chevelle LT, Chevelle LTZ, Chevelle SS
Architecture, Zeta - short wheelbase (RWD/AWD)
Bodystyles:  Sedan, Wagon
Engines: Turbo DI 2.0 liter I-4, DI 3.6 liter V-6, DI 5.5 liter V-8
Transmissions:  6-speed manual, 8-speed automatic


Caprice
Models:  Caprice LT, Caprice LTZ, Caprice SS
Architecture:  Zeta - long wheelbase (RWD)
Bodystyle:  Sedan
Engines:  DI 3.6 liter V-6, DI 5.5 liter V-8
Transmission: 8-speed automatic

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CROSSOVERS/SUV'S

Trax
Models:  Trax LS, Trax LT, Trax ECO, Trax LTZ
Architecture:  Delta II (FWD/AWD)
Bodystyle:  5-door Hatchback
Engines:  DI 2.0 liter I-4, eAssist DI 2.4 liter I-4, DI 3.0 liter V-6
Transmission:  6-speed automatic
Competition:  Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue

**New compact SUV based on the Delta II architecture to compete with compact SUV's.

Equinox
Models:  Equinox LS, Equinox LT, Equinox ECO, Equinox LTZ
Architecture:  Epsilon II (FWD/AWD)
Bodystyle:  5-door SUV
Engines:  DI 2.5 liter I-4, aAssist 2.4 liter I-4,  DI 3.6 liter V-6
Transmissions:  6-speed automatic, 8-speed automatic
Competition:  Ford Edge, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Dodge Journey

**Moved to the Epsilon II architecture.
**eAssist model added for increased fuel economy.
**DI 2.4 liter I-4 replaced with DI 2.5 liter I-4 from the new Malibu.
**DI 3.0 liter V-6 replaced with DI 3.6 liter V-6 as top engine.
**8-speed automatic

Traverse
Models:  Traverse LS, Traverse LT, Traverse LTZ
Architecture: Lambda (FWD/AWD)
Bodystyle: 5-door SUV
Engine:  DI 3.6 liter V-6
Transmission:  6-speed automatic, 8-speed automatic
Competition:  Ford Flex, Dodge Durango

**8-speed automatic

Blazer
Models: Blazer LS, Blazer LT, Blazer Z-71, Blazer LTZ
Architecture: GM2XX - short wheelbase (RWD/4WD)
Bodystyle: 5-door SUV
Engines:  DI 3.0 liter V-6, Turbodiesel 2.8 liter V-6, DI 3.6 liter V-6
Transmissions:  6-speed automatic, 8-speed automatic
Competition:  Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee

**New Colorado-based SUV

Tahoe
Models:  Tahoe LS, Tahoe LT, Tahoe Z-71, Tahoe LTZ
Architecture:  GM2XX - medium wheelbase (RWD/4WD)
Bodystyle:  5-door SUV
Engines:  DI 3.6 liter V-6, Turbodiesel 4.5 liter V-8,  DI 5.5 liter V-8
Transmission: 8-speed automatic

**Duramax 4.5L V-8 and 8 speed automatic.
**New generation of truck V-8's.

Suburban
Models:  Suburban LS, Suburban LT, Suburban Z-71, Suburban LTZ
Architecture: GM2XX - long wheelbase (RWD/4WD)
Bodystyle: 5-door SUV
Engines: DI 5.5 liter V-8, Turbodiesel 4.5 liter V-8, DI 6.2 liter V-8
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Competition:  Ford Expedition EL

**Duramax 4.5L V-8 and 8-speed automatic
**New generation of truck V-8s.
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TRUCKS

Colorado

Models:  Colorado LS, Colorado LT, Colorado Z-71

Architecture: GM2XX - short wheelbase

Bodystyles:  2-door regular cab, 4-door extended cab, 4 door crew cab

Engines:  DI 2.5 liter I-4, Turbodiesel 2.8 liter V-6, DI 3.6 liter V-6

Transmissions:  6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic

Competition:  Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Ram Dakota, Honda Ridgeline

Silverado

Models:  Silverado WT, Silverado LS, Silverado LT, Silverado Z-71, Silverado LTZ

Architecture:  GM2XX - various wheelbases

Bodystyles:  2 door regular cab, 4-door extended cab, 4 door crew cab

Engines:  DI 3.6 liter V-6, Turbodiesel 4.5 liter V-8, DI 5.5 liter V-8, DI 6.2 liter V-8

Transmissions:  6-speed manual, 8-speed automatic

Competition: Ford F-150, Ram Truck, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan

**Duramax 4.5L V-8 and 8-speed automatic.
**New generation of V-8's.

Silverado HD

Models:  Silverado HD WT, Silverado HD LS, Silverado HD LT, Silverado HD LTZ

Architecture: GM2XX - various wheelbases

Bodystyles: 2-door regular cab, 4-door extended cab, 4-door crew cab

Engines: DI 5.5 liter V-8, Turbodiesel 6.6 liter V-8, DI 6.2 liter V-8

Transmissions:  6-speed manual, 8-speed automatic

Competition:  Ford F250/F350, Ram HD

**New generation of truck V-8s and 8-speed automatic.

Professional grade future

GMC needs to further differentiate themselves from Chevrolet.   GM has taken strides by differentiating the styling of many GMC models and establishing the successful Denali luxury line.   Despite initially polarizing styling, the Terrain is proving to be a good seller for the brand.  The Acadia continues to sell at consistent numbers.  The Sierra and Yukon are holding their own.   The future of GMC should continue to distance itself from Chevrolet Trucks and expand the lineup.  The Denali line should also be expanding to the Terrain models and be further differentiated from lesser trim levels by more equipment and more powerful powertrains.

CROSSOVERS/SUVs

Granite
Models:  Granite SLE, Granite SLT
Architecture:   Delta II (FWD/AWD)
Bodystyle: 5-door SUV
Engines:  DI 2.4 liter I-4, Turbo DI 1.4 liter I-4, DI 3.0 liter V-6
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
Competition:  Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue

Terrain
Models:  Terrain SLE, Terrain SLT, Terrain Denali
Architecture:  Epsilon II - short wheelbase (FWD/AWD)
Bodystyle:  5-door SUV
Engines:  DI 2.4 liter I-4, eAssist DI 2.4 liter I-4, DI 3.0 liter V-6,  Turbo DI 3.0 liter V-6 (Denali)
Transmissions: 6-speed automatic, 8-speed automatic (Denali)
Competition:  Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander,  Ford Edge, Nissan Murano

**Epsilon II platform used instead of Theta to reduce company costs by limiting the number of platforms.
**eAssist high mileage model added to increase company CAFE, improve sales.
**Denali model receives turbo 3.0 liter engine and 8-speed automatic transmission.

Acadia
Models:  Acadia SLE, Acadia SLT, Acadia Denali
Architecture:  Lambda (FWD/AWD)
Bodystyle: 5-door SUV
Engines:  DI 3.6 liter V-6,  Turbo DI 3.6 liter V-6
Transmissions:  8-speed automatic

**Turbo DI 3.6L V-6 for more power/towing.
**Upgraded to 8-speed automatic.

Yukon/Yukon XL (1500/2500)
Models:  Yukon SLE, Yukon SLT, Yukon Denali
Architecture:  GMT2XX (RWD/4WD/AWD)
Bodystyles:  5-door SUV/5-door extended wheelbase SUV
Engines:  DI 3.6 liter V-6,  Turbodiesel 4.5 liter V-8,  DI 4.6 liter V-8, DI 5.5 liter V-8, DI 6.2 liter V-8
Transmissions:  6-speed Allison automatic (diesel), 8-speed automatic
Competition:  Ford Expedition/EL, Toyota Sequoia

**base V-6 now DI 3.6 liter V-6.
**Small Duramax diesel for fuel economy and high tow ratings.
**All new range of V-8's for trucks
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TRUCKS

Canyon
Models:  Canyon SL, Canyon SLE, Canyon SLT
Architecture: GMT2XX (RWD/4WD)
Bodystyles:  2-door Regular cab, 4-door Extended Cab, 4-door Crew Cab
Engines:  DI 2.4 liter I-4, eAssist DI 2.4 liter I-4, Turbodiesel 2.8 liter V-6, DI 3.0 liter V-6
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, 8-speed automatic
Competition:  Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Honda Ridgeline, Ram Dakota

**GMC version of upcoming Chevrolet Colorado
**Engine lineup includes DI 2.4, Duramax 2.8 V-6, and DI 3.0 liter V-6.

Sierra
Models:  Sierra SL, Sierra SLE, Sierra SLT, Sierra Denali
Architecture:  GMT2XX (RWD/4WD/AWD)
Bodystyles:  2-door regular cab, 4-door Extended Cab, 4 door Crew Cab

Engines:  DI 3.6 liter V-6,  Turbodiesel 4.5 liter V-8,  DI 4.6 liter V-8, DI 5.5 liter V-8, DI 6.2 liter V-8

Transmissions:  6-speed Allison automatic (diesel), 8-speed automatic

Competition:  Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra, Ram, Nissan Titan

**Duramax 4.5L V-8 added for fuel economy towing for half tons.

Sierra HD (2500/3500)

Models:  Sierra HD SL, Sierra HD SLE, Sierra HD SLT, Sierra HD Denali

Architecture: GMT2XX (RWD/4WD)

Bodystyles:  2-door regular cab, 4-door Extended Cab, 4 door Crew Cab

Engines:  DI 5.5 liter V-8, DI 6.2 liter V-8, Turbodiesel 6.6 liter V-8

Transmissions:  6-speed manual, 8-speed automatic

Competition:  Ford F250/F350, Ram HD

Lining up the Tri-Shields.

Buick has gone from being the stale geriatric brand to becoming a brand that represents understated affluence with beautiful design.  The result:  Buick is the fastest growing near luxury brand in the industry right now.   Since 2008, Buick has introduced three new models.  This fall, the Verano, a new luxury compact joins the lineup.  With the lineup rounding itself out, Buick now has a full line of vehicles that finally represent Buick with respect.   Despite the all new lineup, there are a few model gaps that still need filled and some changes that should be made.

Changes denoted by **.

Verano
Models:  Verano, Verano Turbo
Architecture:  Delta II (FWD)
Bodystyles:  Sedan, 3-door Hatchback
Engines:  DI 2.4 liter I-4, eAssist DI 2.4 liter I-4, DI Turbo 2.0 liter I-4
Transmissions:  6 speed automatic, 6 speed manual (turbo only)
Competition:  VW Jetta SEL (sedan), VW Golf/GTI (hatchback)

**eAssist model added for high mileage engine option.

Regal
Models:  Regal, Regal Turbo, Regal GS
Architecture:  Epsilon II - short wheelbase (FWD, AWD)
Bodystyles:  Sedan, Wagon
Engines:  DI 2.4 liter I-4, eAssist DI 2.4liter I-4,  DI 3.0 liter V-6, turbo DI 3.0 liter V-6
Transmissions:  6-speed automatic, 6-speed manual (Turbo, GS), 8-speed automatic
Competition:  Acura TSX

**Wagon model added.  Prototypes already seen around Detroit.
**AWD currently not available, but should be so it was added.
**Direct injected 3.0L V-6 added.  Cars in this segment need a V-6
**Upcoming 8-speed automatic added to high end models

LaCrosse
Models:  LaCrosse, LaCrosse GS
Architecture:  Epsilon II - long wheelbase (FWD, AWD)
Bodystyles:  Sedan, Wagon
Engines:  eAssist 2.4 liter I-4, DI 3.6 liter V-6, turbo DI 3.6 liter V-6
Transmission:  8 speed automatic
Competition:  Lexus ES, Lincoln MKZ, Acura TL

**LaCrosse GS - performance model with stronger turbo V-6
**Wagon bodystyle - improved economy for people who need utility
**Upcoming 8 speed automatic

Electra
Models:  Electra
Architecture:  Zeta - long wheelbase (RWD)
Bodystyles:  Sedan
Engines:   DI 3.6 liter V-6, DI 5.5 liter V-8
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Competition:  Lexus LS

**Extended wheelbase Zeta rear wheel drive large car with V-6 and V-8 power.
**Electra could be sold to livery companies for "black car cabs" and limousines.

Riviera
Models:  Riviera, Riviera Turbo
Architecture:  Epsilon II - long wheelbase (FWD, AWD)
Bodystyles:  4 door Coupe
Engines:   DI 3.6 liter V-6, turbo 3.6 liter V-6
Transmission:  8 speed automatic
Competition:  Volkswagen CC

**Flagship design leader 4-door coupe to compete with the VW CC.
**Epsilon II architecture utilized for cost efficiency.
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Envision
Models:  Envision, Envision Turbo
Architecture:  Epsilon II - short wheelbase (FWD, AWD)
Bodystyles:  5 door SUV
Engines:  DI 2.4 liter I-4, eAssist 2.4 liter I-4, Turbo 2.0 liter I-4, DI 3.0 liter V-6
Transmissions:  6-speed automatic, 8-speed automatic
Competition: Lincoln MKX, Acura MDX, Lexus RX

**New small(er) SUV based on Epsilon instead of Theta.  Too many platforms within GM these days.
**eAssist model for high mileage

Enclave
Models:  Enclave
Architecture: Lambda (FWD, AWD)
Bodystyles: 5 door SUV
Engines:  DI 3.6 liter V-6
Transmission:  8 speed automatic
Competition:  Lincoln MKT,  Ford Explorer Limited, Toyota Highlander Limited

**Upcoming 8-speed automatic replaces currently 6-speed automatic

Rounding out the Wreath & Crest

Cadillac's rebirth has been tremendous.   The rebirth began in mid 2002 with the radically different 2003 CTS.   It was like no Cadillac in history.   The car received mostly good reviews for its drivetrain and handling prowess, but was panned for its chintzy interior materials (and rightly so).   Despite the cheap interior bits, the CTS sold well and other angularly chiseled Cadillacs followed.  Cadillac was well underway in its reinvention process.   Fast forward nine years.  The CTS is now battling mid size luxury cars from the German automakers at the same price as a 3-series or C-Class.  The Escalade is still the high zoot SUV to have.  The newly styled and resized SRX is proving successful among buyers as well.  Cadillac, however, needs to be a full line luxury car line to fully compete with the German automakers they are targeting.

Below I have created my wish list for a complete Cadillac lineup that would compete well against BMW, Mercedes Benz, and Audi.  I am starting small and working up in size.

ATS Series

ATS 2.0T, ATS 3.6, ATS-V

Architecture:  Alpha (RWD, AWD)

Bodystyles:  Sedan, Coupe, Wagon, Convertible

Engine lineup:  DI Turbo 2.0 liter I-4, DI 3.6 liter V-6, Twin Turbo 3.0 liter V-6

Transmissions:  6-speed manual, 8-speed automatic

Competition:  BMW 3-series, Mercedes Benz C-Class, Audi A4

**I believe the production ATS will be close to these specifications.
**Sedan will roll out first, then wagon, coupe, and convertible.

CTS Series

CTS 3.0, CTS 3.6, CTS 5.5, CTS-V

Architecture:  Alpha-L (RWD, AWD)

Bodystyles:  Sedan, Coupe, Wagon, Convertible

Engine lineup:  DI 3.0 liter V-6, DI 3.6 liter V-6, DI 5.5 liter V-8, Supercharged 5.5 liter V-8

Transmissions:  6-speed manual, 8-speed automatic

Competition:  BMW 5-series, Mercedes Benz E-class, Audi S6

**I believe the next generation CTS will be close to these specifications.
**Sedan will roll out first, with wagon, coupe, and then convertible following within 18 months.

XTS Series

XTS 3.6

Architecture:  Epsilon II (AWD)

Bodystyle:  Sedan

Engine lineup:  DI 3.6 liter V-6

Transmission:  8-speed automatic

Competition:  Lincoln MKS

STS Series

STS 3.6, STS 5.5

Architecture:  Omega (rear wheel drive)

Bodystyle:  Sedan

Engine lineup:  DI 3.6 liter V-6, DI 5.5 liter V-8

Transmission:  8-speed automatic

Competition:  BMW 7-series, Mercedes Benz S-class, Audi A8

**STS is just a guess at what the 2015-2017 Omega based flagship Cadillac will be named.

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SRX series

SRX 2.0T, SRX 3.6

Architecture: Delta II (AWD)

Bodystyle:  SUV

Engine lineup:  DI Turbo 2.0 liter I-4, DI 3.6 liter V-6

Transmission:  8-speed automatic

Competition:  Audi Q5, BMW X3, Mercedes Benz GLX-class

**Delta II instead of Theta-Epsilon.  There are too many platforms at GM and consolidating them would be more cost effective for GM.

TRX series

TRX 3.6

Architecture:  Epsilon II (AWD)

Bodystyle:  SUV

Engine lineup: DI 3.6 liter V-6, turbo 3.6 liter V-6

Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Competition:  BMW X5, Mercedes Benz ML-class

**New midlevel luxury SUV to compete with X5 and ML-class
**Based on Epsilon II architecture utilizing all wheel drive drivetrain standard.

Escalade/ESV

Escalade 5.5, ESV 5.5
Architecture:  GMT20XX

Bodystyles:  SUV

Engine lineup:  DI 5.5 liter V-8

Transmission:  8-speed automatic

Competition:  Navigator/Navigator L, Mercedes Benz GL-class

Missing Out(back)

2011 Subaru Outback

A few days ago I posted my thoughts on the future of wagons at General Motors.   After publishing the article, I was pondering other ways in which these wagons could add sales to their prospective model lines.   Subaru sells <100,00 Subaru Outbacks per year.   In 2010, sales of the Super Outback skyrocketed, forcing Subaru to add shifts to increase production of the SUV alternative.   General Motors is missing out on a growing market segment that currently only offers one car.   The Epsilon II platform that underpins the Malibu was designed to accommodate all wheel drive.  Chevrolet could invest in adding all wheel drive, raising the ride height, and butching up the styling for a Malibu based SUV alternative that would compete directly with the Subaru Outback.   Sales of the Outback will continue to rise and GM should take notice and bring to market a competing model to steal some sales away from Subaru.  

2005 Holden Adventra

GM's Australia division Holden introduced a butched up Commodore Wagon called the Adventra.  The big wagon was powered by eith a 3.6 liter V-6 or a 5.7 liter V-8.  Sales of the model were slow due to its high price and high global petrol prices.  A modern, all wheel drive sedan based on the global Malibu would be a better alternative in today's market for people who need the utility and traction of an SUV with the fuel efficiency of a modern car.   If GM wants to be a full line automaker, it should introduce cars across all of its brands that compete in every segment.

Cops, Cabs, Livery & Onions

Before I begin, I'd like to tip my hat to the Ford's Panther platformed cars for their service to our country.   The Crown Victoria has served as a trusted police car for more then 30 years.   The Crown Vic and Grand Marquis have been reliable taxi cabs for many in great cities such as New York and Chicago.  The Town Car has served as a limo for weddings, funerals or an executive express "black car" in large cities.  

With the demise of the Panther platform, there is currently a unique opportunity for General Motors to rise to the occasion and grab thousands of livery sales from the competition.  The new 2011 Chevrolet Caprice PPV is only offered to law enforcement buyers currently.   The Caprice PPV is built off of an extended wheelbase rear wheel drive Zeta platform that we knew in America as the superb Pontiac G8 and in other markets as Holden Commodore (Australia), Chevrolet Lumina (Arabia),

2011 Chevrolet Caprice PPV

Currently, the Caprice is only offered to law enforcement, unfortunately limiting the model to only a small percentage of the livery market.   If GM believes the Caprice is tough enough to be a police cruiser, then it should be able to handle the crowded big city streets of New York and Chicago.   In Australia and China, the Holden Caprice/Buick Park Avenue are sold as high end luxury models with posh appointments in both the front and back seats.   The Caprice could be offered in high end luxury trims that would rival the outgoing Lincoln Town car and offer livery companies a highly capable, roomy, luxuriously appointed "Black car" for executives to be chauffeured from place to place.   The Caprice could also be extended into a stately limousine as well.

The potential for sales in the livery market is huge.  There would be nominal cost for GM to modify the Caprice for taxi and livery service.  The money made from taxi and livery services would more than make up for this cost.   In closing, just do it GM, and while you're creating the livery version, give Chevrolet and Buick (Park Avenue redux) one as well.

Wagons HO!

'10 Holden Commodore Sportwagon            Source:  Holden Australia

 

I have a question for you.  When you think of station wagons, what comes to mind?  Mostly likely, it is your mom and dad's wood-grained car that took you to soccer and baseball games.  Well folks, get ready for your vision of the family wagon to be shattered.  No, seriously!  The wagon above is what the much loved high performance G8 would have looked like as a functional station wagon.  Today's wagons are not only sporty, but they are a more fuel efficient way to carry your children, the dog, and all of your stuff.

In a world where fuel costs are as unstable as the Pacific plate, wagons are a good choice for carrying people and cargo.  Today's wagons are not the stodgy, floaty barges of our youth.  Most are fast, handle well, and do so with greater fuel savings to any SUV or crossover vehicle.   Wagons are based on cars instead of trucks so they are lighter.   Wagons can come equipped with all wheel drive is you so choose, and again, provide four wheel propulsion with better fuel efficiency.  Wagons are also arguably safer due to their better handling ability and lesser-likeliness to turning turtle during evasive maneuvers at freeway speeds.

2011 Cadillac CTS-V Wagon                   Source: Autoblog

More wagons need to be brought to the retail market by all manufacturers.   General Motors took a risk and released the first regular production Cadillac wagon ever:  the beautiful CTS.  Available in rear wheel drive or all wheel drive, the CTS caters to those who like the idea of having utility without the added height and fuel economy of a crossover or SUV.  GM then followed up the CTS with the monstrously absurd CTS-V wagon (read:  I want one!).  Imagine a 556 horsepower brute of a station wagon that handles the Nurnburgring comparable to sports cars that cost twice as much.   Of course, all of this performance comes at a price few can afford.   The base price for a CTS-V is $63,660 and fully equipped at $72,320.

Buick LaCrosse Wagon (digital image)

In the near future, General Motors can have several more affordable wagons to offer the public.   Buick, for example, is one of the fastest growing brands in the auto industry right now.   The only crossover that Buick currently offers is the large Enclave.   The LaCrosse and Regal have recently been resigned and have been well received with consumers and the automotive media.  Wagon version of the LaCrosse and Regal would add sales to each nameplate and offer buyers a more efficient alternative to crossovers and SUV's.    Both the LaCrosse and Regal ride on GM's mid-size Epsilon II architecture that is suitable for both front wheel drive and all wheel drive configurations.  Currently, only the LaCrosse offers an all wheel drive option.   That option is expected to arrive on the Regal, possibly in 2013.  The LaCrosse wagon would offer buyers a near luxury wagon and give Buick a leg up on archrival Lexus that does not offer a luxury wagon of any type.   It would be offered with two powertrains.  The new for 2012 eAssist direct injected 2.4 liter I-4 engine with a six speed automatic transmission.  Currently, the 2012 eAssist sedan is EPA estimated at 25 mpg city/37 mpg highway.  The wagon would add weight but would only decrease mileage to an estimated 24 city/36 highway.  There are currently no large wagons on the market that achieves such lofty fuel economy numbers.  The top engine would be a no cost option LFX DI 3.6 liter V-6 engine with 6 speed automatic that produces 303 hp and 264 lb. feet of torque.  The V-6 model could be had with either front wheel drive or all wheel drive.  The mileage with the V-6 would be around 18 city/27 highway for the front wheel drive model and 17 city/25 highway with the all wheel drive option.    Estimated base price for the LaCrosse would be slightly more than the sedan, around $30,000 to $31,500 for an all wheel drive V-6 model.  Loaded models could reach $40,000.

Buick Regal Turbo Wagon                Source: Autoblog

The Regal Wagon would be positioned below the LaCrosse as the entry level midsize Buick.  The Regal wagon would be offered with the base DI 2.4 liter I-4 engine with or without the eAssist mild hybrid option, both with 182 hp.  The optional engine would be the existing turbo DI 2.0 liter I-4 engine with 220 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque.  The top model could be the GS model with a 270 hp version of the top turbo engine. There is a version of the Regal Wagon currently on sale in the European market as the Opel Insignia.  General Motors could quickly and easily give it the Buick treatment for very little development cost.  In fact, there have been Buick Regal wagons spotted around Detroit  for a year now wearing  "X" badging, denoting all wheel drive, something not currently offered on the Regal.   Base pricing for a Regal Wagon would run between $28,000 to $35,000 for the high performance GS Wagon.

2013 Chevrolet Malibu ECO Wagon      Source:  Orphiluschin

2013 Malibu ECO Wagon                   Source:  Ophiluschin

If the Buicks' price tags still cause you to quake in anxiety, the upcoming 2013 Malibu would make a beautiful wagon for someone who needs a value packed mid size wagon that gets good fuel economy.  The Malibu is being completely redesigned for 2013 on the Epsilon II architecture and is the first Malibu to be a world car.   It is the first Malibu that will be sold in Europe, Asia, North America, and Australia.  In Europe, wagons are very popular because of their utility and efficiency.  For the Malibu to be taken seriously in Europe, a wagon will be needed for improved sales.  Offering a Malibu wagon worldwide will spread development costs globally while improving sales for the brand.   Being on the Epsilon II platform, the wagon could be all wheel drive for wintry climates around the world.  The wagon would offer the same engines and transmissions as the sedans.  In North America, it would be the eAssist DI 2.4 liter I-4 with 182 hp returning 27 city/38 mpg highway. Buyers could also choose the new DI 2.5 liter I-4 with 190 hp and 180 pound-feet of torque while returning an estimated 35 mph highway.  On the wish list would be a redesigned version of the current DI 3.0 liter V-6 offered in the Equinox and Terrain.  Pricing would range between $24,000 and $30,000 for a loaded LTZ model.

Chevrolet Cruze LT Wagon (digital image)   Source: Orphuschin

For compact car buyers, Chevrolet could offer a wagon version of the wildy popular Cruze.   The Cruze has been on the market since 2009 in Australia, Asia, and Europe, and 2011 in North America.  Since arriving in North America, the Cruze has become the sales leader among all compact cars, and in June 2011 was the best selling car on the market and third best overall.   A Cruze wagon would compete with European wagons from Ford, Opel, and Peugeot.  The North American Cruze wagon would offer the same base 1.8 liter I-4 and turbocharged 1.4 liter I-4 of the current sedan models, but also add the upcoming turbodiesel 2.0 liter I-4 that is coming for 2013.   The upcoming turbodiesel is expected to get 50 mpg highway.  The current Delta platform is not compatible with all wheel drive powertrains.  All current generation Cruze wagons would be front wheel drive.  Pricing in North America would fall between $18,500 and $28,500.  Because wagons of this size sell very well in Europe, designed a Cruze wagon would be a good way to increase global sales of the model and help GM improve their reputation for building premium small cars.

The future of wagons could be bright.  If General Motors would introduce the models above, the station wagon could again be the choice of families who want all the functionality of an SUV with the fuel economy and sportiness that today's cars offer.