We’ve consistently reported about some of Opel’s hotter models being imported to the United States and sold as Buicks, and we’ve already seen the top-selling Insignia sedan arrive as a Regal as well as the soon-to-be released Verano, which is essentially a reskinned Opel Astra and Chevrolet Cruze.
However, it’s not often that we hear about some of Buick’s top models making their way over to Europe. Of course, there are the Chevrolet Volt and Opel Ampera twins, but according to a new report there could be a couple of Buick models being sold in Europe as Opels in the near future as well.
As part of General Motors Company's [NYSE:GM] plans to better align its Buick and Opel brands, the next-generation Buick LaCrosse sedan and Enclave crossover is thought to be destined for Europe where they would wear Opel badges.
It won’t happen for some years, however, as the redesigned Enclave isn’t expected to arrive until the 2017 model year, and a similar release date is expected for the next LaCrosse. Note that GM is likely to introduce a facelifted Buick Enclave for the 2013 model year to keep its upmarket crossover looking fresh.
Not much is known about the redesigned LaCrosse and Enclave, except that both vehicles will likely keep their current platforms but be made lighter and more fuel efficient. Four-cylinder engines are also likely to be made an option on the next Enclave while possibly becoming standard on the LaCrosse.
If accurate, we could even see GM revive the Omega name for Opel’s version of the LaCrosse.
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