Despite having a somewhat shallow lineup, Buick has managed to earn big accolades and growing sales with vehicles like the Encore and Regal. But one thing that Buick has been missing is a genuine sports car, despite the best efforts of the short-lived Regal GS. Executives have apparently been listening to customers though, as the new Buick Avista Concept could solve the brand’s blandness.
Boasting rear-wheel drive and a 400 horsepower twin-turbo 3.0 liter V6 paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Buick Avista is a Wildcat for the 21st century. Riding on the same Alpha platform was the 2016 Chevy Camaro, the Avista stands a good chance of making it to production more-or-less as it looks now.
We say “more-or-less” as we imagine the nifty-but-less-practical 2+2 seating setup might give way to a more-standard 2+3 setup like the aforementioned Camaro. In addition to getting the same platform as the Chevy muscle car, the Avista also borrows its Magnetic Ride Control for a firmer riding experience. A start-stop system and cylinder deactivation also add real-world practicality to the Avista’s calling card by giving it an air of eco-friendly efficiency as well.
It’s a stunning-looking concept too, understated in typical Buick fashion with the only hints of it being a performance car coming from the wide dual exhaust tips at the back. The interior is similarly simple in its splendor, boasting a suite of high-tech features that includes Buick’s next-gen IntelliLink infotainment system. Buick Regal GS notwithstanding, it’s been a long, long time since a Buick concept car got us excited.
What makes the Avista particularly appealing is that it’s based in the real world, using real parts, making the likelihood of Buick selling it that much more likely. With the Regal GS model cancelled, will the Avista step in and fill the roll of a 21st century Grand National?