Overview & Reviews

Owned by General Motors, Buick is one of this country's oldest brands, with a rich tradition of innovation that dates back more than a century. Though long known for catering to retirement-age customers with its full-size sedans, the automaker's lineup now includes SUVs and sport sedans designed to bring younger buyers into the showrooms of Buick dealers.

The company was founded in 1903 by David Dunbar Buick, a Scottish industrialist. He built his first car in 1904; called the Model B, it had a two-cylinder engine with an advanced-for-its-time overhead-valve cylinder head design. In 1907, Buick unveiled its first four-cylinder production car, dubbed the Model D. The following year, the Flint, Michigan-based Buick Motor Company was bought by William C. Durant as part of a new company called General Motors. By 1914, all Buicks were built with six-cylinder engines and purchased primarily by upper-class professionals, thus earning the nickname "doctor's cars."

The manufacturer proved itself a trailblazer in the early 1920s when it introduced four-wheel brakes. This technology had been seen before on custom-built cars, but Buick was the first to figure out how to successfully apply it to mass-produced vehicles. Eight-cylinder Buick cars emerged in the 1930s and became immensely popular; these advanced engines received steady improvements for several years. The '30s also saw Buick's introduction of the industry's first rear turn signal to use a flasher.

Models such as the Estate Wagon and the ever-popular Roadmaster kept Buicks happily ensconced in driveways all across the nation in the 1940s. In 1948, Buick introduced Dynaflow, the first torque converter-type automatic transmission offered in U.S. passenger cars. The 1950s and 1960s witnessed Buick continuing to zoom ahead of the curve; it was among the first to offer vehicles with power brakes and steering, and 12-volt electrical systems. The marque was also behind the introduction of the first American V6 passenger car engine and introduced the Riviera personal luxury coupe in the early '60s.

On the whole, though, Buick had made its name as a manufacturer of stately land yachts such as the Electra 225. To meet the changing times, the automaker downsized its full- and midsize models during the 1970s and began offering compact and midsize sedans for the 1980s. During the latter period and into the '90s, Buick changed things up by introducing the Regal Grand National muscle car and Reatta luxury coupe and convertible. But its core product continued to be luxury sedans aimed at an older audience.

Today, Buick specializes in sedans and crossover SUVs and is modifying its philosophy in the hopes of attracting younger buyers. Luxury and class are still common themes, but newer models have European influences in their handling and ride dynamics. As such, many modern Buicks, such as the compact Verano sedan provide a more entertaining drive and more contemporary styling than people might expect from this "old" nameplate.

User Reviews:

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  A terrific decision - 2003 Buick Rendezvous
  By Liz Sihto - March 17 - 2:00 am

  Our Buick Rendezvous is the MOST comfortable vehicle ... after test driving many models in this class, we decided to buy the buick. Our decision was based on the most vehicle for the best price, but we were so pleasantly surprised it even surpassed our expectations. Dont let anyone tell you different - this is a great vehicle.

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  Satisfaction - 1995 Buick LeSabre
  By Mary Theriot - March 12 - 4:03 pm

  I have bought only Buicks since 1952. I have had LeSabres and larger ones and this model is the best I have ever had. I have had no large problems.

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  98 Supercharged Regal - 1998 Buick Regal
  By beckblom - March 12 - 11:51 am

  Car has been excellent, a blast to drive, extremely comfortable. Major problems-a heated seat cover had to be replaced (warranty) fading temp control unit replaced twice under warranty, however this may have been my fault due to pulling running light fuse control unit for locks and windows replaced (my cost) Minor problems: minor dash squeak fixed by dealer (no charge) trunk had minor leak until I sealed fasteners and crimped areas with silicone.

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  buick - 2002 Buick LeSabre
  By ade/nin - March 10 - 8:06 pm

  great value, great ride, great workmanship, pepy acceleration, only $1500 more than comparly equiped Chevy Impala

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  Perfect vehicle for Mini Van Denial - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
  By JBinOhio - March 9 - 4:36 am

  After a long and extensive search, we settled on the Buick Rendezvous. It is smooth, plenty powerful, and has lots of room. I am 66" and I have more headroom than in my Crown Victoria. The vehicle is solid and rides beautifully. While it may not be the best looking vehicle on the road, all the kids in the neighborhood think the car is pretty cool!

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  Riding right! - 1997 Buick LeSabre
  By Juan - March 8 - 4:46 pm

  Very comfortable even for long runs.

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  A beautiful vehicle - 1995 Buick Roadmaster
  By KayD - March 7 - 7:59 pm

  This has been a great car! We bought it used from a relative and have enjoyed its power and luxury. Economical for such a big, safe, powerful car too. Gas mileage is exceptional.

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  My best driving experiances - 2000 Buick Park Avenue
  By Leo W. Dupuis - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Driving for over 42 years and being in the automotive repair trade for more than 35 years doesnt make me an expert but Ive owned and driven many more vehicles than the average person and can say that this car is a compliment to the American car industry.It is truly the luxury vehicle of its time.Even without considering all the "bells and whistles" its basic features are all you could ask for in a full sized luxury "RIDE".

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  Needs more power on hills - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
  By aawoodchip - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Great performance on highway however, it struggles on mild to medium hills. Great solid ride; wonderful speakers. Uncomfortable front seat head rests.

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  Buick has a winner - 2006 Buick Lucerne
  By Jim Van Auwelaer - March 2 - 7:03 am

  Owned this car for three months and love its handling, performance, and styling. If you can afford the extra money and the 2 less miles/gallon, the Northstar V8 is the only way to go. Much more refined than the 3.8 6 cyl. Also the speed sensitive steering with the V8 makes handling much better. Without it, the cars steering is too loose and gives the feeling of instability at higher speeds. Quietest car Ive ever owned.