We've come to a point in GM's existence when China is a bigger, more important market for Buicks than America. Why do we say that? Because they've just unveiled the Envision 20T SUV model, and it's equipped with things that aren't available elsewhere.
First of all, there's a new type of engine, a 1.5-liter four-cylinder with direct injection and a turbocharger. It's something Opel doesn't yet have, and the output figures are respectable. This new SIDI unit is said to produce 169 PS (166 hp or 124 kW) and 250Nm (184lb-ft) between 1,700 rpm and 4,400 rpm.
The gearbox it's linked to is also new, a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that does quicker work of swapping gears than any of us can. We saw it last year, on the brand new Chevy Cruze for China, but this is its first use in an SUV.
Equipped with a start/stop as standard, the engine averages 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 mpg US) in the Envision 20T. It's said to be the most efficient in its class and can also be ordered with all-wheel drive.
And just to give you an idea of how well Buick and the Envision are doing in China, each month, sales of this SUV have exceeded 10,000 since last October. So far, the model available was the 28T, which came with a 2-liter turbo making a bit over 250 hp and mated to a 6-speed conventional automatic.
To ensure the new 1.5-liter turbo powertrain lives up to the rigors of the Chinese market, 1,600 vehicles with the 20T’s engine were put through 3.25 million kilometers of road testing. 270 other vehicles were put through severe endurance testing, running at full throttle nonstop for 12 straight weeks to ensure durability.
That almost sounds impossible, but if anybody can do it, it's the Chinese!
The gearbox it's linked to is also new, a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that does quicker work of swapping gears than any of us can. We saw it last year, on the brand new Chevy Cruze for China, but this is its first use in an SUV.
Equipped with a start/stop as standard, the engine averages 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 mpg US) in the Envision 20T. It's said to be the most efficient in its class and can also be ordered with all-wheel drive.
And just to give you an idea of how well Buick and the Envision are doing in China, each month, sales of this SUV have exceeded 10,000 since last October. So far, the model available was the 28T, which came with a 2-liter turbo making a bit over 250 hp and mated to a 6-speed conventional automatic.
To ensure the new 1.5-liter turbo powertrain lives up to the rigors of the Chinese market, 1,600 vehicles with the 20T’s engine were put through 3.25 million kilometers of road testing. 270 other vehicles were put through severe endurance testing, running at full throttle nonstop for 12 straight weeks to ensure durability.
That almost sounds impossible, but if anybody can do it, it's the Chinese!