Buick

Buick
	File:Buick logo 2023.svg Buick logo
Company type	Division
Industry	Automotive
Founded	January 1, 1899; 127 years ago
Founder	David Dunbar Buick
Headquarters	Detroit, Michigan, United States
Area served	Worldwide
Owner	General Motors
Parent	General Motors

Buick () represents a division of the American car manufacturer General Motors (GM). Established by automotive innovator David Dunbar Buick in 1899, it ranks among the earliest American automobile brands and was instrumental in the creation of General Motors in 1908. Prior to GM's establishment, its founder William C. Durant acted as Buick's general manager and principal investor. After the discontinuation of Oldsmobile in 2004, Buick emerged as the longest-standing American automotive marque still in operation. It occupies a premium market segment beneath GM's luxury leader, Cadillac.

Early years

As one of the most enduring American car brands, Buick traces its origins to 1899 and 1900 when chief engineer Walter Lorenzo Marr built the first two vehicles. However, company founder David Buick initially concentrated on stationary and marine engines and was hesitant to pursue automobile manufacturing. Marr departed in 1901 to launch his own firm. He was succeeded by Eugene Richard, who secured a patent for Buick’s valve-in-head (overhead valve) engine in 1904.

In 1903, under Richard’s leadership, Buick produced its third vehicle. That same year, the "Buick Motor Company" relocated from Detroit to Flint, Michigan, where Marr returned as chief engineer to initiate production. Buick’s manufacturing output expanded swiftly: from 37 units in 1904 to 750 in 1905; then 1,400 in 1906; rising to 4,641 in 1907; and reaching 8,820 by 1908—surpassing rivals such as Ford and Oldsmobile. During that period, Buick proclaimed itself the world’s largest automobile manufacturer.

David Buick formally incorporated the company on May 19, 1903, in Detroit. Initially funded by Benjamin Briscoe, ownership transferred later that year to James H. Whiting of Flint Wagon Works, who moved Buick operations to Flint to facilitate engine integration into wagons. Production began modestly with the Model B in 1904 until capital shortages led Whiting to bring in William C. Durant as controlling investor.

From 1904 onward, Durant dramatically increased production volumes and elevated Buick to become America’s best-selling automobile brand within four years. He shifted much of manufacturing to Jackson, Michigan before completing Factory #1 back in Flint by 1907. David Buick sold his shares in 1906 and exited with substantial wealth but passed away with modest means years later. In 1907 Durant began supplying engines to Canadian automaker R.S. McLaughlin and subsequently founded General Motors in 1908.

Between 1899 and 1902, Walter Marr developed two prototype vehicles featuring tiller steering reminiscent of the Oldsmobile Curved Dash. In mid-1904, an endurance test of a prototype convinced Whiting to approve public production based on this design.

The initial production vehicle—the 1904 Model B—was equipped with a horizontally opposed two-cylinder engine displacing 159 cubic inches and assembled at Flint Wagon Works; today only replicas remain.

Buick’s early achievements were largely attributed to its patented overhead valve engine developed by Eugene Richard and Walter Marr. The Model F incorporated a two-cylinder engine mounted on an 87-inch wheelbase chassis weighing approximately 1,800 pounds. This powertrain configuration introduced with the Model B persisted through the Model F until 1909.

Both the Model F and the more affordable Model G roadster utilized a two-cylinder engine producing , paired with a two-speed transmission and mechanical rear-wheel brakes.

The flat-twin powerplant delivered balanced longitudinal torque and was positioned mid-vehicle.

Billy Durant’s marketing acumen propelled Buick to become America’s leading car manufacturer. He orchestrated numerous acquisitions under General Motors, establishing Buick as a premium brand positioned just below Cadillac within GM’s hierarchy. To maximize efficiency, Buick shared platforms with Chevrolet, Oakland, Oldsmobile, and Cadillac through GM’s A platform architecture.

Buick briefly participated in auto racing, capturing victories including the inaugural race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

In 1907, Buick expanded its lineup beyond the Model B by introducing its first full-size vehicle: the four-cylinder Model D featuring a T-head engine mounted at the front with rear-wheel drive—one of Buick’s rare side-valve powerplants.

1910s–1920s

In 1910, Buick introduced the Model 10, equipped with an overhead valve (OHV) four-cylinder engine. The following year, in 1911, the company unveiled its first enclosed-body automobile, the Buick Six. These vehicles were produced at the newly established Flint facility, later known as Buick City, helping to establish Buick’s reputation as a luxury marque. Throughout the 1920s, Buick expanded its lineup to include a range of vehicle sizes, with series identifiers transitioning from numerical to alphabetical designations. Among the larger offerings was the Buick Master Six, powered by a straight-six engine. After General Motors underwent management reorganization in November 1910, production of the Model 10 was discontinued.

During this timeframe, Buick gained considerable traction in the Chinese market, emerging as a favored brand among elite political figures and even the Emperor, who imported two Buicks in 1924—marking the introduction of automobiles into China. By 1930, Buick commanded approximately one-sixth of China's automobile market share. Currently, roughly 80% of Buick's vehicles are sold within the People's Republic of China, where it maintains a dominant presence, while its impact remains limited in Taiwan.

In 1929, under General Motors’ companion make initiative, Buick launched the Marquette brand to fill the pricing gap between Buick and Oldsmobile. Marquette boasted unique styling and advanced suspension technology but was discontinued by 1930. Beginning in 1926, Buick shared the GM B platform with Marquette, Viking, and Oldsmobile models—demonstrating GM’s strategic use of platform sharing across its divisions.

1930s

For the 1931 model year, Buick introduced two significant technological advancements: the Overhead Valve (OHV) Straight-8 engine and a synchromesh transmission available on all models except the Series 50. The Straight-8 engine came in three sizes: a 220 cubic inch version producing 77 brake horsepower for the Series 50; a 272 cubic inch variant delivering 90 brake horsepower for the Series 60; and a larger 344 cubic inch engine generating 104 brake horsepower for the Series 80 and Series 90. These innovations strengthened Buick's position in powertrain engineering.

Additionally, Buick was among the first to implement an automatic vacuum-operated spark advance system, replacing the traditional steering column spark lever with an emergency lever positioned on the dashboard. In 1939, Buick led automotive safety innovation by being the first manufacturer to offer turn signals—features that would not become widespread among competitors until nearly ten years later. That same year, all models were equipped with a steering column-mounted gear shift lever for improved driver ergonomics.

Buick's prestige received a boost during the mid-1930s when British monarch Edward VIII acquired McLaughlin-Buick vehicles—automobiles produced by General Motors’ Canadian subsidiary. Furthermore, Buicks were selected as official royal transport during King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon’s 1939 Canadian tour, enhancing the brand’s stature and influence.

In this period, Cadillac and Buick automobiles were preferred choices for long-distance passenger services such as those operated by the Nairn Transport Company in the Middle East, reflecting their reputation for durability and global appeal.

1940s

Buick introduced the "Estate" label on its Super station wagon in 1940. Production halted in 1942 due to World War II, during which Buick contributed by manufacturing the M18 Hellcat tank destroyer and producing radial engines for military aircraft such as the B-24 Liberator and C-47 Skytrain. Manufacturing recommenced towards the end of 1945. Notable innovations included the 1948 debut of the Dynaflow automatic transmission and the introduction of Buick’s distinctive VentiPorts in 1949.

1950s

The 1950s marked a period of substantial growth for Buick. Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 1953, the company unveiled the Buick V8 engine along with the Roadmaster Skylark model. In 1955, Buick set a sales record by selling 738,814 vehicles, a figure that remained unsurpassed until 1977, reflecting robust consumer demand. Technological progress featured the release of a 364 cubic inch engine block and ball joint front suspension in 1957, with aluminum finned brake drums enhancing Roadmaster performance. The late decade saw an expanded lineup with the introduction of Electra, Invicta, and LeSabre models in 1959, powered by a new 401 cubic inch V8 engine for Electra and Invicta. That year, an Electra also served as pace car for the Indianapolis 500, highlighting Buick’s brand prominence.

1960s

Throughout the 1960s, Buick bolstered its offerings with significant new models. The Electra 225 acted as pace car at the Daytona 500 in both 1960 and 1963, demonstrating Buick’s involvement in motorsports. The Fireball V6 engine was launched in 1961 as a notable advancement. The Skylark returned as the flagship model of the new Buick Special compact series, which earned Motor Trend Car of the Year honors in 1962. The Wildcat initially appeared as an Invicta trim before becoming a separate model in 1963, coinciding with the Riviera’s introduction. Midway through the decade, Buick expanded internationally by marketing German-built Opel vehicles through its North American dealerships. By 1967, radial tires became available across all full-size Buicks, reflecting ongoing product innovation.

1970s

During the 1970s, Buick’s strategy centered on broadening its market reach through new models and trim levels. The Estate Wagon became a distinct model in 1970, followed by introductions of the Centurion (1971), Apollo (1973), and Skyhawk (1975). The Park Avenue trim debuted on the Electra 225 Limited in 1975, elevating luxury options. Buick sustained motorsport exposure with a Century pacing the Indianapolis 500 twice during this period. Collaborations included rebadging Isuzu Gemini vehicles as Opels starting in 1976 to replace Opel Kadett models. Downsizing efforts in 1977 affected Electra 225 and LeSabre models to meet shifting market preferences, contributing to record sales of 773,313 units that year. In celebration of its 75th anniversary in 1978, Buick introduced redesigned Century and Regal models featuring a turbocharged V6 option, boosting sales to a new peak of 795,316 vehicles. The Riviera S-Type redesign earned Motor Trend Car of the Year honors in 1979, reinforcing Buick’s leadership in design and performance.

In the following decade, Buick’s lineup underwent major transformations including model downsizing and an emphasis on turbocharged performance under general manager Lloyd Reuss until his departure in 1984 to briefly serve as GM president. Key introductions included a Diesel engine option on select models in 1980, Riviera’s T-Type performance trim in 1981, and Regal’s Grand National high-performance package debuting in 1982. Sales reached their apex at 810,435 units sold in 1983.

By 1984, Buick had become the official vehicle sponsor for the XXIII Olympiad and restructured its manufacturing and marketing operations. The inauguration of "Buick City," an advanced assembly facility located in Flint, helped propel sales to a record-breaking total of 906,626 vehicles with global sales surpassing one million.

The sixth-generation Electra was downsized for the 1985 model year as GM’s first front-wheel-drive full-size unibody sedan featuring transverse-mounted engines. It offered various V6 powerplants alongside a diesel variant paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel-drive station wagons retained the Electra name through 1989. Additionally, Buick introduced the Somerset as an independent model and achieved notable success at Indianapolis with Buick-powered cars securing leading qualifying positions. This year also marked the last rear-wheel-drive LeSabre before transitioning to front-wheel drive in 1986. Sales climbed to an all-time high of 915,336 units.

In 1986, LeSabre adopted GM's front-wheel-drive H platform shared with Oldsmobile Delta 88 while abandoning traditional Buick styling cues such as ventiports and sweepspear trim. A limited-edition LeSabre Grand National was produced to meet NASCAR homologation requirements. The Riviera was downsized and converted to unibody construction featuring a V6 engine along with advanced electronic controls including a dash-mounted CRT managing climate and audio systems. Despite gains in fuel efficiency and handling dynamics, higher pricing combined with reduced size led to sales dropping to just over twenty-two thousand units.

The final turbocharged and intercooled Regal Grand Nationals were released in 1987, including a limited run of 547 exclusive GNX editions marking the end of rear-wheel-drive Regal production. Under general manager Ed Mertz's leadership, Buick adopted "Premium American Motorcars" as its marketing theme emphasizing heritage.

In 1988, Buick was designated official vehicle supplier for the U.S. Olympic Team and launched the two-seat Reatta coupe followed by a convertible version two years later. The Regal was downsized further and switched to front-wheel drive; notably that year Bobby Allison won the Daytona 500 driving a Regal race car. The slogan "The Great American Road Belongs to Buick" was also introduced.

For model year 1989, Buick unveiled the Park Avenue Ultra trim on Electra models featuring extensive luxury appointments such as leather interiors with dual twenty-way power seats shared with Cadillac vehicles, unique exterior styling elements, anti-lock brakes, and premium materials—positioned above Cadillac’s Sedan de Ville price point. The Riviera received restyling that increased overall length. During this era, quality improvements propelled Flint-built LeSabre to first place nationally and second globally in a major quality survey prompting Buick’s updated slogan: "Buick: The New Symbol for Quality in America."

1990s

Buick introduced its first Reatta convertible in 1990 and phased out the Electra as the Park Avenue became a standalone model in 1991. That same year, Buick led the automotive sector in both sales and market share expansion. The brand unveiled a new four-door Regal—the first sedan introduced since 1984—and added a supercharged 3.8-liter V6 engine to the Park Avenue Ultra. By the turn of the millennium, Buick had become a pioneer in the supercharged vehicle segment. The Roadmaster made a comeback in 1991 after a 33-year absence, initially returning as a wagon, with a sedan variant following in 1992.

In 1992, the LeSabre underwent a redesign to reflect styling cues from the Park Avenue, alongside a revamped Skylark model. The following year, Buick released a special 90th-anniversary edition of the LeSabre featuring enhanced trim and commemorative badges.

The Riviera was reintroduced in 1995 with bold, avant-garde styling and came standard with a naturally aspirated 3800 V6 producing 205 horsepower. An optional supercharged variant delivered 225 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. Production was moved to Lake Orion, Michigan, where it shared the GM G platform with the Oldsmobile Aurora.

By 1996, Buick discontinued both the Roadmaster sedan and wagon models. In 1998, the company relocated its headquarters from Flint to Detroit. Amid leadership transitions at General Motors, Bob Coletta managed Buick's entry into China before Roger Adams assumed general manager responsibilities. That year also saw the opening of the Buick Gallery and Research Center at Flint’s Sloan Museum during a restructuring that separated sales operations from marketing.

The last Buick produced at Flint’s Buick City was a 1999 LeSabre, marking the conclusion of nearly 16 million vehicles assembled there. In an independent quality assessment that year, Buick ranked second globally and first among domestic manufacturers; Buick City was recognized as one of the world’s premier automotive assembly plants. Due to declining coupe sales, production of the Riviera ceased after the 1999 model year, ending on November 25, 1998. The final 200 units featured exclusive "Silver Arrow" trim as a tribute to Bill Mitchell’s Silver Arrow concept cars. The eighth-generation Riviera boasted Buick’s most powerful V6 engine since the Grand Nationals of the 1980s, delivering substantial torque and acceleration while achieving an EPA fuel economy rating of 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

2000s

During the 2000s, Buick redirected its emphasis away from compact cars and performance vehicles toward expanding its presence in the crossover and SUV segments. The redesigned 2000 LeSabre—one of America’s top-selling full-size cars for eight consecutive years—was built on GM’s G platform but retained its H platform designation. Produced at Detroit/Hamtramck and Lake Orion Assembly facilities, it featured updated grille styling and slightly reduced exterior dimensions without sacrificing interior space. In 2001, Buick entered the crossover arena with the introduction of the Rendezvous for the 2002 model year. The brand celebrated its centennial in 2003 with the Centieme concept car, which influenced design elements later seen on the 2008 Enclave crossover. Additional lineup expansions included the Rainier mid-size SUV debuting in 2004 and the Terraza minivan arriving in 2005.

By 2008, Buick had streamlined its North American offerings to three primary models: LaCrosse/Allure, Lucerne, and Enclave. The Super performance trim was reintroduced on both LaCrosse and Lucerne after a hiatus of five decades. Despite facing declining sales in the U.S. market and an aging customer base, Buick maintained strong profitability bolstered by robust demand in China—an advantage that contributed to General Motors’ decision to discontinue Pontiac.

Starting in 2005, General Motors merged Buick dealerships with those of GMC and former Pontiac outlets into a unified Buick-GMC dealer network. Following GM’s Chapter 11 restructuring in 2009, Buick was designated as one of GM’s core brands due to its success in China. Several products originally intended for other GM brands were reassigned to Buick; for instance, the Opel Insignia was introduced as the second-generation Buick Regal instead of being marketed as a Saturn Aura. In the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study conducted in 2009, Buick tied with Jaguar for highest dependability among U.S. brands.

2010s

During the 2010s, Buick revived the iconic Regal name and expanded its lineup by introducing several new models, including its first hatchback since 1987, the first factory-made convertible since 1991, and the first station wagon since 1996. The brand also increased its footprint in the rapidly growing crossover and SUV segments.

In early 2009, Buick unveiled the 2010 LaCrosse sedan featuring a redesigned appearance that incorporated classic Buick styling cues. This model was well-received in the marketplace and drew favorable comparisons to luxury competitors such as the Lexus ES. By 2010, Buick had emerged as the fastest-growing automotive brand in the U.S., successfully attracting a younger customer base. General Motors positioned Buick as a "premium" brand aimed at entry-level luxury buyers, competing against Acura, Infiniti, Lexus, and Volvo, while Cadillac targeted the luxury performance niche.

The 2011 Regal sedan marked Buick’s comeback after a seven-year hiatus and was based on the European Opel Insignia. In 2012, Buick added the compact Verano sedan—derived from the Chevrolet Cruze—and introduced the performance-focused Regal GS, which was Buick’s first turbocharged manual transmission vehicle in nearly twenty years. That same year, Buick debuted hybrid technology with eAssist on the LaCrosse and Regal models, improving fuel economy by up to 38%. The Enclave crossover continued to enjoy strong sales, while the smaller Encore crossover made its debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. Turbocharged versions of the Verano and redesigned Enclave models followed in 2013.

GM revealed plans to develop a "hybrid global brand" by merging Opel/Vauxhall with Buick to capitalize on shared product development. Both the LaCrosse and Regal underwent updates for the 2014 model year. In 2015, Buick introduced the subcompact Cascada convertible at Detroit’s auto show. The completely redesigned 2017 LaCrosse premiered at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show, and the compact Envision crossover arrived in North America during summer 2016. By 2017, Buick discontinued the Verano in North America. Following GM’s sale of Opel/Vauxhall to PSA Group in March 2017, Buick began distancing itself from Opel-based designs.

In 2018, Buick replaced the Regal sedan with a new model that offered both hatchback and station wagon versions—marking the brand’s return to hatchbacks in North America since 1987 and station wagons since 1996. That year also saw the launch of the Avenir sub-brand for premium trim levels, adopting a strategy similar to GMC’s successful Denali line. By 2019, both the Cascada convertible and LaCrosse sedan were discontinued globally and in North America respectively.

2020s

In 2020, Buick introduced the Encore GX crossover positioned between the smaller Encore and larger Envision models. That same year saw the discontinuation of both Regal hatchback and station wagon variants in North America.

In June 2022, Duncan Aldred, Buick Global Chief, outlined a strategic plan to transition Buick’s entire vehicle portfolio to electric powertrains by 2030. Dealers were given buyout options rather than being required to convert solely to electric vehicle sales, recognizing that significant investments would be necessary for dealership upgrades. Aldred also pointed out that many Buick dealers represent multiple GM brands, so buyouts would not necessarily result in dealership closures. The Encore—formerly Buick’s best-selling model in North America—was phased out in 2022 as consumer preference shifted toward the larger Encore GX. The Envista was introduced for the 2024 model year.

Currently, Buick’s North American lineup consists of subcompact crossovers Envista and Encore GX, alongside compact Envision and mid-size Enclave crossovers.

China

Electra E5 (2023–current)
Enclave (2020–current)
Envision S (2015–current)
Envision Plus (2021–current)
GL8 (2000–current)
LaCrosse (2006–current)
Regal (1999–current)
Velite 6 (2019–current)
Verano (2010–current)

North America

Enclave (2008–current)
Encore GX (2020–current)
Envision (2016–current)
Envista (2024–current)

Discontinued

Model B (1904)
Model C (1905)
Model D (1907–1908)
Model F & G (1906–1910)
Model K (1907–1908)
Model 10 (1908–1910)
Model S (1907–1908)
Model 5 (1908)
Model 14 & 14B (1910–1911)
Model 16 (1909–1910)
Model 17 (1909–1910)
Model 19 (1910)
Models 28, 29, 34, 36 & 43 (1912)
Models 24, 25, 30, 31 & 40 (1913)
Series B through Series 24 (1914–1924)
Master Series, Standard Series, Series 116, 121 & 129 (1925–1929)
Series 40, Series 50, Series 60 (1930–1935)
Special (1936–1958, 1961–1969)
Roadmaster (1936–1958, 1991–1996)
Century (1936–1942, 1954–1958, 1973–2005)
Super (1939–1958)
Skylark (1953–1954, 1961–1972, 1975–1998)
Invicta (1959–1963)
Electra (1959–1990)
LeSabre (1959–2005)
Wildcat (1963–1970)
Riviera (1963–1993, 1995–1999)
Estate (1970–1979, 1990)
Centurion (1971–1973)
Apollo (1973–1975)
Skyhawk (1975–1980, 1982–1989)
Opel (1976–1979)
Somerset (1985–1987)
Reatta (1988–1991)
Park Avenue (1991–2005, 2007–2012)
Sail (2001–2004)
Rendezvous (2001–2007)
Excelle series: Excelle, Excelle GT, Excelle XT (2003–2023)
Rainier (2004–2007)
Royaum (2005–2006)
Terraza (2005–2007)
Lucerne (2006–2011)
Encore (2013–2022)
Cascada (2016–2019)
Velite series: Velite 5, Velite 7 (2017–2022)
GL6 (2017–2023)
Electra E4 (2023–2025)

Concept vehicles

Buick was a trailblazer in concept car development with the introduction of the Y-Job in 1938. More recently, its electric vehicle concepts such as the Buick Enspire in 2018, Electra in 2020, and Wildcat in 2022 illustrate the brand’s commitment to advancing EV technology.

Trishield emblem

The Buick Trishield emblem traces its origins to founder David Dunbar Buick’s family coat of arms. Initially a single shield in 1937, it expanded to three shields by 1960 to symbolize the prominent LeSabre, Invicta, and Electra lines. After various redesigns over time, the emblem reverted in 2023 to its classic red, white, and blue palette to emphasize the brand’s heritage and strengthen its market presence.

VentiPorts

Debuting in 1949 as functional engine vents on the front fenders, VentiPorts have become a hallmark styling feature for Buick. Though originally serving ventilation purposes, they transitioned to purely decorative elements that also communicated model differentiation. The quantity of VentiPorts historically indicated engine displacement or body style; since 1961, they have corresponded to cylinder count—three for V6 engines and four for V8s. Revived in models such as the Park Avenue Ultra and Lucerne starting in 2003, VentiPorts remain a distinctive design cue linked to Buick’s engineering heritage.

Sweepspear

The Sweepspear was a uniquely curved trim feature that adorned Buicks from the 1940s through the 1970s, serving to strengthen brand identity and consumer appeal. Debuting as an optional detail on the 1949 Buick Roadmaster Riviera hardtop coupe, it initially appeared as a chrome-plated steel strip running along the vehicle’s side, contributing significantly to Buick’s distinctive styling and competitive edge in automotive design.

This styling cue originated from GM's 1942 "Airfoil" trim, which extended across the front doors with chrome highlights. By 1951, the Sweepspear had become a standard feature on all Buick models, frequently acting as a separator between two-tone paint finishes and enhancing Buick’s market presence through its unique visual signature.

Originally crafted from stainless steel, the Sweepspear later evolved into vinyl rub strips or simple sheetmetal character lines, examples of which include the 1968–1969 Skylark and the 2008 Invicta concept vehicle. Optional trim packages were available to accentuate these body contours, reflecting Buick’s flexible approach to styling trends.

Delta fin

Inspired by the late 1950s fascination with space-age design, Buick transformed the Sweepspear into the "Delta Fin" for its 1959 lineup, adopting rocket-like styling cues to attract buyers. This element was highly visible in 1959 models but was diminished in 1960 and phased out by 1961, demonstrating Buick’s agility in adapting to changing consumer tastes and market dynamics.

Taillight shapes

During the 1950s, Buick taillights commonly featured clusters of small circular bullet-shaped lamps, reinforcing brand identity. In the early 1960s, taillight design shifted toward broader rectangular forms, culminating in full-width rear lighting on the 1965 Skylark and Electra, aligning with contemporary automotive styling trends to sustain competitive positioning.

Classic grille styling

From 1942 until 1958, Buick’s hallmark grille displayed a horizontal oval shape with slender vertical chrome ribs that protruded forward, earning it the nickname "dollar grin." The 1950 model emphasized this design by extending ribs over the bumper, promoted with the slogan "Front and Center with Duty plus Beauty." In contrast, the 1951 version scaled back this approach by relocating bumper guard ribs behind the bumper assembly.

Waterfall grille

Since its introduction in 2004, Buick has embraced a waterfall grille motif, first showcased on the Buick Velite concept and subsequently appearing in production form on the 2006 Buick Lucerne. This grille design draws inspiration from elements seen on 1980s models such as the Buick Grand National.

Nailhead

The Nailhead V8 engine earned its nickname due to its relatively small intake and exhaust valves that resembled nails. Popular among hot-rodders during the 1950s and 1960s, its vertical valve cover mounting facilitated compact engine packaging and simplified maintenance access.

Performance

Buick has maintained a notable presence in performance-oriented vehicles with iconic models like the Gran Sport and Skylark GSX during the 1960s and ’70s, followed by the Grand National and GNX in the 1980s. The brand later reintroduced performance editions through its T-Type package.

Asia

Buick commands a substantial portion of the Chinese automotive market, with sales surpassing 1.1 million units in 2016 alone. The brand has enjoyed longstanding popularity, historically chosen by influential Chinese figures such as Puyi, Sun Yat-sen, and Zhou Enlai. Since 1999, Shanghai GM has been manufacturing models tailored specifically for China, including the Buick Regal, which targets affluent professional households. The regional lineup also features the compact Excelle hatchback and the GL8 minivan, both equipped with smaller, more fuel-efficient engines than their American counterparts.

In Taiwan, GM began operations in 1989, where Buick vehicles like the Park Avenue and Regal gained popularity throughout the 1990s. In 2005, GM entered a joint venture with Yulon Motor—known as Yulon GM—to produce Buick models under license.

Buick made its entry into South Korea with a localized version of the LaCrosse called the Alpheon, introduced in April 2010.

Mexico

Buick was available in Mexico from 1921 until 1962, when protectionist government policies restricted imports of parts and vehicles. Subsequently, GM products were distributed exclusively through Chevrolet dealerships. In 1990, GM restarted assembly of the Buick Century at its Ramos Arizpe facility in Coahuila, marketing it via Chevrolet outlets; this model became colloquially known as the "Chevrolet Century." Buick sales halted again in 1997 but resumed in 2009 following Pontiac’s discontinuation. At that time, GM Mexico president Grace Lieblein reintroduced Buick with models such as the LaCrosse and Enclave, sold alongside Pontiac and GMC at shared dealerships until Pontiac’s phase-out in 2010.

On March 26, 2019, Buick Mexico announced a strategic pivot to focus exclusively on crossover SUVs—including the Encore, Envision, and Enclave—discontinuing sedans like the LaCrosse and Regal. This decision coincided with Opel’s transition under Stellantis and Buick’s concentration on sedan sales primarily in China.

Middle East

In Israel, Universal Motors Ltd. (UMI) imports Buicks along with other General Motors brands. Between 2004 and 2008, models such as the LeSabre, Rendezvous, LaCrosse, and Lucerne were available. Buick maintained a presence throughout Middle Eastern markets until withdrawing from Gulf Cooperation Council countries by 1996 after discontinuing the second-generation Roadmaster.

New Zealand

At one time, Buick vehicles were sold and assembled in New Zealand at General Motors New Zealand’s Petone factory located near Wellington.

Motorsport

Buick has a rich history in motorsports, initially acting as an alternative to Chevrolet. A notable early achievement was Phil Shafer’s victory at the 1933 Elgin Trophy driving a Buick stock car—a landmark moment in American stock car racing.

Beginning in the 1960s, Buick competed in prestigious events such as the Indianapolis 500 and participated actively in the Grand National stock car series with models including the Regal and Gran Sport. The brand reached its motorsport zenith during the 1980s when General Motors entered the Regal Grand National into NASCAR competition alongside Oldsmobile Cutlass entries. Buick engines also powered teams competing in IndyCar and IMSA GT Series races, especially within the IMSA GTP category.

By the 1990s, Buick’s involvement in racing diminished as GM shifted emphasis toward Oldsmobile—phased out in 2004—and subsequently Pontiac until its discontinuation in 2009 before transitioning focus to Chevrolet. Additionally, Buick took part in the Trans Am Series throughout the 1980s and 1990s using aftermarket V8 powerplants.

Enthusiast organizations

Founded in 1966, the Buick Club of America operates as a nonprofit organization committed to the conservation and restoration of automobiles produced by the Buick Motor Division of General Motors.

External links

In-depth business review of Buick's market presence in China and its role within GM in 2019 – video by CNBC