Now a much more practical four-seat convertible will be soon be revealed at the New York International Auto Show next month. Up an extra set of rear seats over the concept roadster, Buick will reportedly call the new model the Velite.
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| After the ill-fated two-seat Reatta, GM is set to reveal a practical four-seat Buick convertible at the New York International Auto Show next month. (Photo: General Motors) |
"Velite is a new expression of Buick's longstanding heritage in understated yet sophisticated design," stated Anne Asensio, Executive Director GM Advanced Design. "While certainly an expression of premium American style, the Velite's impressive stance and overall presence emphasize a sumptuous driving experience that further pushes Buick on to the center of the world stage of luxurious touring cars."
No doubt Buick was influenced away from a two-seat design because of poor past sales of its ill-fated and now collectible Reatta coupe (1988 to 1991) and convertible (1990 to 1991).
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| The Velite will be joining a rejuvenated lineup that should shortly include a revised Rendezvous based on the Centieme concept car. (Photo: General Motors) |
While reports of a new Buick convertible based on GM's Kappa architecture have been milling around since Pontiac introduced its upcoming Solstice roadster, the truth of the matter is the new car will be underpinned by GM of Australia's Zeta platform, initially developed the Holden VE Commodore sedan.
A car such as the Velite, joining a rejuvenated lineup of new models that should shortly include a revised Rendezvous based on the Centieme concept car, as well as the recently unveiled LaCrosse midsize sedan that replaces the current Regal and Century, sees Buick directly targeting Toyota's upscale Lexus brand.