Buick Returns To The Performance Segment With The Avista Concept

Performance and Buick two words that do not usually get put together, but they once did.

In fact Buick made one of the hottest street performance cars of the 80’s; the Buick Grand National.

Specifically the 276 horsepower turbocharged V-6 1987 GNX model. Only 547 were made and they are still sought after by collectors.

It has been nearly 30 years since the GNX ruled the roads and Buick shifted its focus to the retirement segment of the population.

Once again Buick is looking to wow the enthusiast market with 2016 concept the Avista.

Looking back to the GNX DNA, engineers have followed the same turbo-6 powertrain, but this time to the tune of 400 hp.

1987 Buick GNX

True to enthusiast desire the Avista will be rear wheel drive, but without a manual transmission. An 8-speed automatic is on offer as the only tranny.

Looking at the Avista will never become dull, the sleek lines and sculpted profile are at once elegant and aggressive.

It bears a striking resemblance to the Avenir concept and many of the styling cues are found in the 2017 Lacrosse.

Bryan Nesbitt, executive director Global Buick Design described it well when he stated; “It was designed to capture the spirit of the perfect drive.”

It certainly looks the part and has the power one would require for a perfect drive.

The Superior Blue base colour found on the exterior is complemented by the Mist Gray leather inserts in the seats and doors.

The sense of premium performance is also suggested by the use of carbon fibre and aluminum throughout the cabin.

The design is ultra-modern and, as is the case of nearly every concept, not exactly (or even close in some cases) what will be found in the production version; still it is nice to dream.

A couple of interesting features caught my attention.

For instance 3D printing technology was used for the door and seat trim; the center console extends to the rear seats; the widescreen instrument panel; aromatherapy.

If Buick can keep the accountants at bay and keep to the concept styling, the Avista will surely be a stunner on the streets.

Can’t wait for this one!