If you skipped the Super Bowl last month because of the NFL’s associations with domestic abuse and ignoring brain damage among players, you might have missed Buick’s first national reveal of its new convertible, the Cascada.
Convertibles are fun, which may be the main message Buick was sending to America: we are fun, SEE. And with a two-door model like the Cascada, we can’t argue with that.
The price point of the low $30s is attainable to many. The turbo-four engine is strong. The six-speed automatic transmission is a welcome relief to the deflated CVT transmissions flooding the industry. The top insulates well against cold and noise, and it operates at the single press of a button.
How about technology, though?
The Cascada has the most advanced technology in automotive today, namely crash avoidance warnings and lane-departure warnings. These represent the coming trend among cars to be watching the road just as much as you, if not more.
It’s a better way of protecting the investment that is your car. Twenty years ago if you bought a new convertible, you’d be watching everyone around you and parking far away from other cars to prevent even the slightest of scratches. Today, however, the car actively participates in keeping itself safe, which is a good value for the money.
Conclusion
Overall this is a big deal for Buick. It appeals to people who want some sun, who enjoy driving, who want their car to be more than an appliance, and who don’t always have practicality on the mind.
Interestingly, the Cascada is a product of Buick’s German counterpart, Opel. This is a super old car company with roots back to the 1860s. GM bought Opel in the 1930s and has used them to source Buick vehicles (the Regal and LaCrosse) as well as the Saturn Astra.
In any case, the Cascada will be here soon enough for you to test drive. Call Leith Buick GMC to set up your appointment!