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New 2028 Buick sedan for the US. Return of the Le Sabre?

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For the past few years, it looked like sedans were disappearing from the American market. And they did. But that trend might be reversing, as GM will soon launch three brand-new sedans across its major brands. Including an all- new Buick for North America.

We already know Cadillac CT5 is getting a second generation. The new sedan is rumored to ride on an updated version of GM’s Alpha platform, internally known as Alpha 2-2.

Recent reports suggest General Motors is also hard at work on a Chevrolet and even a Buick version of this new rear-wheel-drive sedan architecture. If true, it could be the return to the classic GM strategy of multiple yet closely related sedans. At least the Cadilalc and Chevrolet models are rumored to include a V8 option. (perfect timing isn’t it…)

However, a big gas-powered sedan may appeal mostly to a small niche of buyers in today’s market. The broader market has moved toward electrification and efficiency, meaning such a model might struggle outside of a loyal enthusiast audience. Overexcited car journalists don’t actually buy these cars. No matter what they write about them.

A new Buick sedan could face a familiar challenge.

Historically, Buick often sat between Chevrolet and Cadillac, which often made it difficult for its models to stand out. If GM launches all three sedans, Buick would once again need a clear identity.

One possible solution: electrified powertrains.

The upcoming Alpha 2-2 platform is rumored to support hybrid systems alongside traditional internal-combustion engines. That could give Buick an opportunity to carve out its own niche. Offer something a bit more special.

In China, Buick already sells several electrified models, including sedans with range-extended (REV) powertrainsthat combine a small gasoline engine with electric motors and a large battery. A similar setup, using a 1.5-liter engine as a generator, could make a US-market Buick sedan feel modern and distinct.

While Buick has almost completely shifted to SUVs in the US, the brand still sells multiple sedans in China, including the new Buick L7 and the latest Buick LaCrosse.

These models ride on different platforms and are not currently planned for the American market, but they show Buick still has strong sedan expertise. Interestingly, recent market research suggests younger car buyers may be rediscovering sedans.

After more than two decades of SUV dominance, some drivers appear ready for something different. Kids who grew up with parents driving SUVs seem to want something different. Lower, sleeker cars could start gaining attention again, especially if they offer hybrid or electrified performance.

If these rumors are true, GM could introduce three completely new sedans in the coming years: a Cadillac, a Chevrolet, and a Buick.

That would be big news in a market where sedans have been steadily disappearing.

And who knows, if these cars succeed, maybe the Chrysler 300 could eventually return in a new generation too…

As far as a name for this new Buick Sedan, my vote goes for Le Sabre. How about you?

Conversation 6 comments

  1. I like LeSabre, Park Avenue, even Century. Something tells me Buick would go with Regal. The thing is, if recent market research suggests younger car buyers may be rediscovering sedans, then a recycled name from the old days isn’t going to resonate with them or help Buick. So perhaps they’d go with yet another uninspired E name like they’ve slapped on the SUVs. Although Electra would be nice to see again in the U.S., if younger buyers knew it.

  2. Buick Riviera is it for me. It evokes a more romantic and elegant take on luxury as Buick should be.

    I can see it now… “The Riviera by Buick” …!

    Alas it’s GM, so they could do a curveball and reincarnate a name you wouldn’t have thought, such as the Buick Allure, which is what the Lacrosse was called in Canada.

  3. It should be Regal and it should be a RWD sport back. If they want to go either their current nomenclature, perhaps “Enchant.”

  4. Gotta give GM credit. From the Regal wagon to the Pontiac GTO and Chevy SS, they just keep launching quite good cars into segments the public couldn’t care less about. Anyone want to wager on whether the new Buick will outsell the Reatta?

  5. It would be nice to see a sedan in Buick’s lineup once again. I agree with the person who suggested using the “Riviera” name on this vehicle. If it will look anything like the sedan in the speculative illustration, I think “Riviera” would work just fine, even if it has two additional doors on the side.

  6. At this point I feel like “Regal” is the default chalice as it the one that most are familiar with. It will probably be an “En-“ name to fit the rest of the lineup while still standing out.

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