Buick’s presence at the Shanghai Auto Show also includes the GL8 Avenir
Concept. Interestingly, Buick already offers a GL8 Avenir in China and has
done it since 2016 when the sub-brand debuted in the country. However, the
concept version features design changes and additional equipment.
Developed by GM’s Pan Asia Technical Automotive
Center (PATAC) joint venture in Shanghai, the GL8 Avenir study is fully
functional and hints at Buicks to come. Since the automaker describes it as the
Buick concept vehicle that’s “the closest to mass production,” one can assume
it previews a facelifted GL8 Avenir or an even more upscale version.
On the outside, the GL8 Avenir study doesn’t look that
different from the existing production model. The biggest changes occur at the
front where the MPV features new headlights, updated grille, and a redesigned
bumper.
Inside, the concept draws inspiration from
waterfalls when it comes to the design of the seat backs, seat cushions, and
armrests. The interior also pays homage to traditional Chinese ink painting via
light gray and blackish-blue hues, complemented by a dark blue ceiling and
fine-woven light cashmere carpet.
The Buick GL8 Avenir Concept also features
significant updates to the dashboard which now houses a 12-inch touchscreen
display, a digital instrument panel, and a 14-inch head-up display (HUD)
system. The show car also features two luxury seats on the second row that come
equipped with a central armrest that houses a cooled wine cabinet.
