It’s hard times in the world of General Motors, and it shows. First, they spoke of layoffs, next, they canceled the debut of a convertible 2010 Camaro. Now, Buick is suffering from the financial stress hitting America’s automotive industry. (more…)

A computerized navigational system in 1983? That’s right - Buick (specifically GM) was one of the first American automotive companies to play with in-dash maps and GPS. What other 21st Century ideas did this little Questor have in mind? Several: including a back-up camera, anti-theft, road traction monitoring, television rear-view mirror and touch-command entertainment systems. One piece of equipment which did not remain in Buick’s technological arsenal - the cassette deck.

Buick’s Questor remained very popular with automotive press outlets, and was a gem at Flint, MI’s AutoWorld amusement center. It’s fascinating to see where many of the standard control and navigational systems we see in automobiles today had their first exposure to the public.

The hybrid systems is the same used in U. S. Malibu and Saturn Aura hybrid vehicles. The LaCrosse hybrid achieves fuel efficiency 15% better than the non-hybrid LaCrosse available in China and with 15% lower emissions. No official price has been released for the Chinese hybrids, but expect it to be more than the conventional model.

Buick is not alone in the GM-China alternative fuel market. Cadillac’s Escalade will be available in hybrid next year. China will also be one of the first major markets to sell the Chevrolet Volt, some time in 2010. Cadillac’s Provoq will also hit China, which seems to be Caddy’s equivalent to the Volt. GM execs hope to turn China into a massive green vehicle market. As for the North American market - sadly, GM does not expect to release a hybrid LaCrosse in the states.

The Wildcat II circa 1954 - Who needs side view mirrors? You have a giant bumper and police search light!

How about a tricked out 1967 Wildcat? Can’t go wrong with an American Flag/Bald Eagle vanity plate.

The 1970 Buick design is something you’ve seen parked outside your grandparent’s house (or, at least in their neighborhood).

The Wildcat 2010 Concept from Buick - with hints of a T-Top?

Maybe the 2010 Wildcat Sedan? Only time will tell.

Buick’s Roadmaster Concept

The Lucerne will be no more in a few years - but will be replaced by Roadmaster. It includes a smaller RWD train, powerful V8 engine and “a refined and upscale interior.” Other reports say the standard model will include a V6 with 6-speed automatic. GM/Buick is hoping the Roadmaster will become “the integral part of Buick’s renaissance plan, an excellent selling, high profit model in the Buick lineup.”

Roadmaster Coupe Concept

According to Buick, the Wildcat is “the ultimate expression of Buick’s renaissance…” Wildcat’s 4.4L Supercharged Northstar V8 engine (pumping 425 horsepower) will surely turn heads when this concept hits your street. One of the most interesting style features leaking is the possibility of T-Tops! The Riviera-type back end is promising, and for a price tag ranging from $58-62k you can bet there will be more than a few style additions. Stay tuned, once interior spy shots hit the web we will post them at BuickPedia!

Buick Wildcat Concept

Photos courtesy of GM

These photographs come from a Buick Press Release, where they claim “You’re looking at a new set of values for automotive design.”

The ‘71 Riviera was available in 7 colors, with optional 8-Track player and a 455 V-8 engine. It also came equip with “MaxTrac Computer-controlled Power” - making it sound like the car was going to take off with or without you.

Thanks to The Old Car Manual Project for posting this!