Buick GL8 PHEV Debuts With 30-Inch Display And Second-Row Aviation Seats

Buick has introduced the new GL8 Lu Zun plug-in hybrid minivan in China. It follows in the footsteps of the Century and adopts the brand’s new design language.

This is a welcome change as the van has split lighting units and a “parametric grille reflecting mountains and seas.” Moving further back, we can see streamlined bodywork, flush-mounted door handles, and power sliding rear doors.

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They’re joined by stylish chrome accents and 18-inch wheels. Other highlights include a power liftgate and a standard front sunroof. The model can also be equipped with an optional panoramic roof for rear seat passengers.

Since this is just an extensive update, the van continues to measure 205.5 inches (5,219 mm) long, 73.9 inches (1,878 mm) wide, and 71.1 inches (1,807 mm) tall with a wheelbase that spans 121.6 inches (3,088 mm).

The makeover continues inside as the GL8 has a modern and upscale interior. Drivers are greeted by a minimalist dashboard that features hidden air vents as well as a freestanding 30-inch curved display.

Buick didn’t release full equipment details, but the van comes nicely equipped with perforated Nappa leather upholstery as well as heated and ventilated front seats. Other highlights include a 128 color ambient lighting system, “Smart Touch” controls on the door panels, dual- and tri-zone climate control systems, and an 8- or 14-speaker audio system.

While the front passenger compartment is refreshingly luxurious, the second-row is where all the action happens and customers can choose between VIP or Aviation seats. Both have heating and ventilation, but the latter have additional power adjustment and an available massage function.

A third-row bench comes standard, but rear VIP seats are also available. They cut the seating capacity to six, but rear seat passengers will find individual thrones with power adjustment as well as heating and ventilation.

Besides fancy seats, second-row passengers will find folding tray tables as well as an available 15.6-inch rear entertainment system that supports wireless screen projection from smartphones. Second-row passengers also have access to the “smart island” front center console.

It houses cup holders, a wireless smartphone charger, and a compartment that can cool items to 41° F (5° C) or heat them to 122° F (50° C). To help keep things within easy reach, the console can apparently slide 10.2 inches (260 mm) front to rear.

Motivation is provided by a plug-in hybrid powertrain that consists of a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, a battery and an electric motor. This setup gives the van a combined output of 392 hp (292 kW / 397 PS) and 428 lb-ft (580 Nm) of torque. Despite those impressive figures, the dash from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) takes 7.8 seconds. On the bright side, the van can travel 86 miles (138 km) on electricity alone in the CLTC cycle.

Besides the eco-friendly powertrain, the GL8 has adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and automatic emergency braking. Other highlights include side blind zone warning, forward collision warning, and traffic sign recognition technology. Higher-end variants can be equipped with additional features including remote smart parking assist.

Pricing starts at ¥359,900 ($49,668) and climbs to ¥419,900 ($57,948) for the range-topping six-seat variant.