When it comes to automakers, the majority of them will do whatever they can to find another spot to stick their badge onto a vehicle. While that’s become the norm, Buick is heading in a different direction and is planning to take badges off of cars.
According to CNET, Buick will drop the “Buick” badge from the rear end of its 2019 model years. For individuals with a sharp eye, the minor change can be seen on the 2019 Buick Envision (pictured below) that came out towards the end of February. While the main draw of the ’19 Envision was a revised front end and a redesigned rear end, looking at the back of the SUV reveals the scope of the changes.
If you look at the gorgeous behind of the Regal Wagon, you’ll see the word “Buick” on the left side of the rear end, while the right side of the vehicle says “Regal.” The “Buick” part is what’s missing from the new Envision.
The minute change will happen to other models as more 2019 model years roll around. Some enthusiasts will like the change, as it gives the car, at least on the Envision, a cleaner look, but Buick claims its in the name of global consistency.
“Mostly, it was for global consistency because we don’t put the name badge on [Buicks] in China,” a Buick spokesman told the outlet. “It also makes room if we decide to add an Avenir badge on the rear.”
For those not in the know, Avenir is Buick’s version of a luxury sub-brand, kind of like what GMC does with the Denali. Models with the Avenir badge are the best of the best, taking luxury to new levels that Buick hopes will rival offerings from Cadillac.
The brand’s Tri Shield badges aren’t going anywhere, as Buick believes that it’s iconic enough to stand on its own now. We reached out to Buick for a comment, but haven’t heard back yet. If we do hear back from the brand, we’ll update the post.
Stuart Fowle responded to our request for a comment and provided us with the following response in regard to the brand’s decision to remove the “Buick” badge: “We removed the Buick badge from the rear for global consistency and because the tri-shield badge is recognizable to consumers and able to stand on its own. The move also makes Buick’s approach more consistent with our premium competition, and it does not impact any other Buick branding on the vehicle or broader marketing strategy.”
Post has been updated with new information from a Buick spokesperson.