The aggressive vertical-bar grille, inspired by Buick's 2000 concept car, the LaCrosse, integrates a new chrome see-through tri-shield badge in the center. This grille is a modern interpretation of a design created for the 1938 Buick Y-Job by Harley Earl, General Motors' first design chief. A new monochromatic tri-shield badge is on the grille and trunk lid.
Fender portholes and chrome-plated exhaust tips Portholes, another classic Buick design feature, are reappearing for the first time since the 1980s. Three functional chrome-plated portholes on each front fender give the vehicle a powerful look and help cool the engine compartment. The number of portholes is related to the number of engine cylinders. Chrome-plated exhaust tips are standard for 2003 and are custom-designed for the Ultra.
Contemporary interior features
Changes to the Park Avenue Ultra interior create a rich sense of style. The new Polished Walnut Woodgrain can be found on the steering wheel, instrument panel trim and door trim. Increasing front seat storage space, the optional convenience console creates a five-passenger seating environment that offers an elegant appearance with woodgrained door lids. Bright aluminum sill plates with raised ridges line the floor on the front door openings. Seats are embroidered with the Buick tri-shield on all four headrests. An updated instrument panel with contemporary gauge cluster graphics enhances the premium appearance of the Ultra's interior.