Buick Gives Us a Glimpse Into the Future With its Avenir Concept

2015 Buick Avenir Concept (Credit: © GM)

Buick has been working overtime in recent years to rid itself of the “old person’s car” persona that it’s had for so many years. With cars like the Century , Skylark and LeSabre all sticking in our minds, this is an uphill battle that will take some serious effort. Only time will tell if it succeeds in its task of clearing its name and opening the door for all buyers or if it will die trying like its now-deceased sibling, Oldsmobile, did. However, if the latest concept that Buick has on display at the Detroit Auto Show is any indication of things to come, I will go on record saying that this transition will be rather smooth.

The new concept, which is dubbed the Avenir (“Future” in French), is anything but an “old man’s” car, as its elongated hood, wide stance, shooting brake-like look, and wheels that are pushed to the corners all ooze of both performance and luxury. The cab-rearward stance of the Avenir is complemented by angular body lines and a wide front grille. Flanking the grille are full LED headlights that are matched in the rear by LED taillights. The short overhangs on the front and rear, and the 21-inch wheels all enhance the luxurious and sporty look of this concept sedan.

2015 Buick Avenir Concept (Credit: © GM)

In terms of size, the Avenir is gargantuan, measuring 204.5 inches long and 76 inches wide. This massive body gives the room needed to create a peaceful and roomy cabin that has four personal seats for optimal comfort. Premium leather, ambient lighting, Ionic air filtration, and silk and bamboo carpeting all add to the serene envelope that encases the passengers. Within this envelope are tons of premium features, like  oiled and buffed wood trim, Galvano satin-chrome accents, 4G LTE connectivity, a customizable instrument panel, automatic driver recognition and adaptation, rear-seat USB ports, and rear-seat video screens. The Avenir can even integrate your home security system into its controls and give you access to your security cameras or give you the ability to close you garage door from across the country.

2015 Buick Avenir Concept (Credit: © GM)

Under the hood of this concept is a next-generation, direct-injected, V-6 engine that features Active Fuel Management and automatic stop/start. This engine mates to a nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. An unannounced amount of power travels to all four wheel via a twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system.

As for production plans for this concept, Buick has remained mum. That said, this car is fairly production-ready for a concept and could indeed be a preview to a future return of the flagship Buick Riviera. The press release even compares the Avenir concept directly to the Riviera of yesteryear. Keep it locked here for additional details.