It looks like the 2020 Encore and Encore GX won’t be
the only models unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show as Auto 163 is reporting
Buick will also introduce the GL8 Avenir concept and the electric version of
the Velite 6. The Velite 6 EV was announced last year and it will follow in the
footsteps of the plug-in hybrid variant which has a naturally aspirated
1.5-liter engine, a lithium-ion battery and two electric motors.
The new model will ditch the engine and instead use
a 35 kWh lithium-ion battery and an electric motor that produces 114 hp and 255 Nm of torque. This setup will enable the car to
accelerate from 0-50 km/h in 4.4 seconds and travel up to 301 km on a single charge.
The model also promises to be pretty practical as it
has a cargo capacity of 455 liters. That can be expanded to 1,098 liters by folding down the rear seats. ess is known about the GL8 Avenir
concept, but the teaser image suggests it will be a stylish minivan with a
prominent grille that flows into distinctive LED headlights. The concept also
has curvy bodywork and a contrasting silver or chrome accent on the lower air
intake.
Buick already offers a GL8 Avenir in China and it
features a unique exterior with a mesh grille and 18-inch alloy wheels. Bigger
changes occur in the cabin as the van has perforated leather upholstery,
special wood trim and second row captain chairs with power footrests. Other highlights
include a panoramic glass roof, ambient interior lighting, a suede headliner
and thicker “home-quality” carpeting.
The GL8 Avenir starts at ¥ 449,900 (US$ 66,970) and
features a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 256 hp and 350 Nm of torque. It is connected to a six-speed transmission
which enables the minivan to run from 0-100 km/h in 9.3 seconds
before hitting a top speed of 205 km/h.
