The Buick Riviera is Back!
In the 1970’s if you were rolling down the streets of (insert major American city here) and wanted to show your pimp hand, you could do it in a low ridin’ Buick Riviera. Riviera was one of the most popular Buick models from its initial run in 1963 until it’s last production model in 1999. During that time, Riviera sold 1.1 million units in the United States Alone. Well car fans, brace yourself, because The Riviera may be coming back in the near future!
Yes, Buick’s Riviera Concept in fact has gull wing doors. A design theory shared by Japanese and German auto makers alike, it looks like America can jump on the vertical door bandwagon. This original concept was introduce in China, where Buick still sells very well (even to those who are not over the age of 65 and half blind). American made automobiles are a hot commodity over seas, to the point that Chinese car companies copy American design ideas into their own vehicles. This car is expected to be fuel efficient and full of the latest Green technologies.
Outside, concept engineers tried to continue the Y-Shaped body of original Rivieras. This proud, massive grill houses misty blue headlights as well as an illuminated Buick logo. From there an additional straight blue light starts from the hood’s peak and stretches all the way back to the windshield. Buick’s logo, hood strip, headlamps, side mirrors and rocker covers also have icy green back lights available at night.
Inside, Buick wants the Riviera to be your “Sanctuary” - leather seating stretches back with a T-console separating the driver from its passenger. A three-dimensional speedometer is gorgeous to look at, and accents the touchpad dash very well. Buick claims interior designers were encouraged to “consider people’s personal belongings to enhance their feeling of familiarity and comfort in the vehicle.” The Riviera is comfortable to sit in and wonderful to look at. But will it be a joy to drive? Keep your fingers crossed and maybe we’ll see the New Riviera at a GM dealership soon.
Either I am getting old or that car is gorgeous. Since when do I like Buicks???