Buick Reveals The 2016 Cascada Convertible

2016 Buick Cascada (Credit: Buick )

Buick is back in the topless game, thanks to the all-new 2016 Cascada. It’s the first convertible model from the brand in 25 long years, which is a welcoming sign to some who cling fondly to the past. The overall design is markedly different from previous drop-top Buicks, thanks to a design that was developed using a global team. Of course, Buick plans on selling the Cascada all over the world, so it needed a look that appeals to more than just Americans, one that really sells in the all-important Chinese market.

Both the Cascada and Verano roll on the same platform, one that has been used successfully by GM. The convertible is longer than the discontinued Chrysler 200 convertible, but is a little shorter than the VW Eos. From the looks of things, adults might actually be able to sit in the rear seats. Trunk space is surprisingly decent at 13.4 cubic feet, but folding down the top shrinks it to 9.8 cubic feet. The only option for the top is fabric, and it can be retracted in just 17 seconds at speeds of up to 31 mph.

Astute car enthusiasts will notice that the Buick Cascada is indeed the Opel Cascada with the three shields affixed to the front and rear. The big difference with the European model is that the engine’s output has been bumped up slightly from 197 to 200 horsepower. Likely, nobody would even notice the difference. Under the hood is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that has an overboost function to temporarily increase max torque output from 206 to 221 lb.-ft. So far, Buick says it has no plans to use the engine on other models, but the future could change things.
To show that Buick is thinking about useful details, the Cascada features heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as part of its standard equipment. That will allow owners to drive the car for more of the season, instead of retiring it to the garage once the weather turns.