cars news 10: We Hear: GM Close to Approving Chinese-Market Buick Envision for U.S.

When the Buick Envision midsize crossover debuted for China last year, we posited that the model would also be a good fit for the U.S. Now, a report from Automotive News makes that possibility all the more real. Two people familiar with Buick’s plans told the outlet that GM is likely to greenlight the Envision for the U.S. as early as next spring.

AN’s sources stopped short of saying the plan was finalized, but another report from The Wall Street Journal suggests GM is targeting U.S. sales of 30,000-40,000 units annually. The Envision would likely be exported to the U.S. from China, where it’s currently built. If the crossover is exported, it will be the first Chinese-built vehicle sold in the U.S. by any Detroit Three automaker. UAW leaders objected to this plan during contract negotiations, but “appear to have come to an understanding” with GM, the Journal reports.

The Envision would slot beneath the Enclave in Buick’s U.S. lineup, bringing the number of crossovers to three. In China, the Envision comes standard with all-wheel drive, and is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 making 256 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The crossover also features GM’S FlexRide chassis management system, which can adjust ride and handling characteristics through four driver-selectable modes.

Do you think the Envision is right for the U.S. market? Tell us in the comments below.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription required), The Wall Street Journal