Buick’s China-Focused Compact SUV
GM’s China division has cooked up a tasty little concept for its Buick sub-brand. Although there’s no official name, General Motors and the designer, Sangmin Kim, describe it as a “fun, family-oriented” premium car. This comes as part of GM China’s Advanced Design team, which recently revealed multiple interesting-looking concept cars likely headed for the Chinese market.
General Motors
In the traditional sense, this Buick might seem like a hatchback, but according to modern nomenclature, this is a compact SUV. Regardless, the design is striking, which shouldn’t come as a surprise given its concept nature. There is a distinct EV-esque theme, with no apparent grilles or any kind of ventage up front. You’ll also notice the split LED headlights that feature a very Audi-like internal graphic, which we assume, animate—the automotive norm these days.
General Motors
Moving to the sides, traditional mirrors are swapped with what looks like cameras, also something very common in modern premium cars—across the pond, at least. The sleek profile continues until the rear door, where you’ll find a kink near the lower shutline, just above the side skirts, tastefully breaking up what would otherwise be a bland three-quarter design.
A Design Study for the Slightly Adventurous
In tune with its concept aesthetic, the compact SUV sports fairly large wheels, which, given our understanding of design studies, will likely not find their way into the production version. The muscle around the rear wheel arches give the otherwise boring SUV canvas a bit of sculpture.
General Motors
Towards the back, the C-pillar morphs into a wrap-around glass area, beneath which, GM’s design house integrated the slim yet futuristic-looking taillights. Although they seem multi-layered, evidenced by their depth, it’s likely a visual trick. But to be honest, the rear styling looks generic. The spoiler probably adds a bit of visual flair, but that’s about it.
General Motors
Clearly, it seems Buick intends to position this SUV as a lifestyle product, should it ever make it into production. The design study has the makings of an urban crossover for the slightly adventurous. Will it reach U.S. shores? Unlikely. Well, GM hasn’t said anything about it, so it’s a may or may not.
