Buick GL8, since its delivery in 2000, has reached nearly 1.8 million in holdings, maintaining its position as China’s number one MPV market, as well as the leader in MPV end delivery from 2000 to 2023. However, issues with fuel consumption, idleness, and poor power have always been a issue for pure fuel MPVs.
Hence, the all-new Buick GL8 Luxuz PHEV was launched in the market during the Buick Brand Day before the 2024 Beijing Auto Show. On April 24, 2024, Buick, a brand under SAIC-GM, officially launched the all-new Buick GL8 Luxuz PHEV at its annual brand day event. The new model comes in three configuration versions:
- Luxury six/seven-seat version, priced at 419,900 yuan;
- Royal version, priced at 389,900 yuan;
- Smart version, priced at 359,900 yuan.
Currently, those who purchase the top version receive 30,000 yuan worth of NOP Smart Pilot, 15.6-inch rear cabin smart screen, dynamic island platform, and winged carpet. Buyers of the Royal version receive 10,000 yuan worth of a 15.6-inch rear cabin smart screen, a dynamic island platform, and a winged carpet. The entry-level version comes with a winged carpet. Moreover, the all-new GL8 Luxuz PHEV is an all-Avia version.
Looking at the configurations, the GL8 Luxuz PHEV offers two cabin layouts and introduces four different configuration versions, covering a price range of 359,900 yuan to 419,900 yuan. The new model is equipped with SAIC-GM’s latest developed PHEV Smart Hybrid System, the highlight of which is its long overall endurance mileage and significant improvement in vehicle power performance.
In terms of exterior design, the GL8 Luxuz PHEV uses Buick’s new generation of family-style design language, and the difference with the GL8 Century is not much.
The interior incorporates high-tech features like a Smart Touch sensory control panel, dynamic island platform, and a 15.6-inch rear cabin smart screen, enhancing passenger comfort and smart experience.
The all-new Buick GL8 Lu Zun PHEV, topping up 800km on urgent stamp duty, has now become increasingly efficient. Initially, the comprehensive range of the all-new GL8 PHEV has reached 1,370 km, which is relatively high among MPVs. Following that, the power is up to 292 kW, equating to a remarkably swift GL8 on the roads, boasting 400 horsepower and a torque of 580 N•m. The acceleration to 100 km takes just 7.8 seconds. Wouldn’t it be invincible if all the GL8s in drivers’ hands were upgraded to the PHEV version?
In addition, the new model provides an external power supply feature of 3.3 kW, further maximizing its practicality. Configurations such as the VCS smart cockpit and the iKey mobile key add to the convenience of the driving experience.
Safety has always been a pain point for MPVs. The all-new Buick GL8 Lu Zun PHEV was developed basing on the CNCAP 5-star standard. Although it has not yet been sent for testing, the all-new GL8 has already earned an A grade in SAIC GM’s internal development testing.
The vehicle’s architecture employs a “cage armor” body structure with 10 cross beams and 6 longitudinal beams as well as ultra-high strength steel of 1,700 MPa. Apart from the standard, the airbags feature primary and co-driver knee airbags.
The design of the health cabin is another prominent feature, equipped with BioCare smart ventilation systems and various air quality monitoring systems. This ensures passengers with a healthier travel environment.
The new car model comes pre-installed with NOP smart navigating support and features an APA automatic parking assistance system and SRP remote parking assistance system, greatly enhancing safety and convenience during the driving process.
Following the launch of the brand new Buick GL8 Luxurious PHEV, it was additionally announced that an all-electric GL8 is underway, equipped with a CYP framework, 900 V high voltage, a solid-state battery, and a SiC motor, among others. Therefore, for those keen on acquiring the all-electric version of GL8, the wait is ongoing.
This indeed indicates that the Buick brand is actively deploying into the new-energy automobile market, adapting to the transformation in the automobile industry and changes in consumer demands. Interestingly, the GL8 Luxurious PHEV’s price did not surge after being infused with PHEV technology. In fact, it is comparatively lower than the current GL8 ES Avia version, revealing the sincerity of the Buick GL8 PHEV.
This article is a translation by AI of a Chinese report from 42HOW. If you have any questions about it, please email bd@42how.com.