Open Air at Last! 2016 Buick Cascada convertible
Buick has introduced the 2016 Cascada – a dynamic, stylish convertible that uses innovative powertrain and chassis technologies to complement the driving experience. The Cascada will be the first Buick convertible offered in North America in 25 years with a 2+2 configuration offers comfortable room for four adults.
Designed from the outset as a convertible, the Buick Cascada has a flowing, sculpted profile, with fast-raked A-pillars that convey a wind-in-the-hair flair. When lowered, the top folds neatly and completely beneath a hard tonneau behind the rear seats, giving the car a pure open-air aesthetic.
The windswept exterior design is further accentuated with a sweeping body-side line and sleek headlamps that flow into the front fenders, with Buick’s signature wing-shape light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lights delivering a distinctive appearance. Chrome trim bridges between the wing-shaped taillights, which are also LED-lit.
The rear deck lid opens rearward to accommodate the folding softtop. The electro-hydraulic power roof system features multilayer construction – including acoustic and thermal barriers – designed for a comfortable ride in various conditions. The soft top lowers in just 17 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph. When it’s up, superior thermal and acoustic insulation contribute to driving comfort.
Power for the all-new Buick convertible is generated by a 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This motor delivers strong torque and features an overboost feature that briefly increases torque by an additional 20 lbs-ft. Direct injection and variable valve timing complement the turbo engine’s performance with efficiency. It is backed by a six-speed automatic transmission.
The Cascada’s rigid body structure features high-strength steel in strategic areas, reinforced side sills and press-hardened steel in the A-pillars. It is the foundation for the Cascada’s driving experience, contributing to steering precision, ride quality and quietness – as well as safety. The new Buick rides on an innovative suspension system which employs the sophisticated HiPer Strut front suspension pioneered on the LaCrosse and Regal.
HiPer Strut is based on the MacPherson strut design and features dual-path top mountings that separate the transfer of spring and damper loads to the body structure. It enhances ride and handling by reducing torque steer; more linear and communicative steering through improved camber control, and improved impact isolation on bumps and rough surfaces.
A responsive Watts Z-link design helps center the rear axle during cornering, which helps keep the Cascada’s handling responses symmetrical on both left-hand and right-hand turns. The linkage’s capability to center the axle during cornering delivers a more-balanced driving experience because the rear suspension better follows the lead of the front suspension. The Z-link design is also lighter and requires less space than a typical fully independent rear suspension. The lower weight enhances efficiency, while the compact design enables the Cascada’s generous cargo room.
Inside the passenger compartment, a thoughtfully trimmed and comprehensively equipped cabin reflects Buick’s renaissance. The instrument panel is wrapped with soft-touch material featuring authentic stitching, while heated front seats and steering wheel offer comfort in colder weather conditions.
The instrumental panel includes Buick IntelliLink with a seven-inch-diagonal color touch screen featuring Text Message Alerts, Siri Eyes Free for Apple phones with an iOS 6 or newer operating system and navigation OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.
The Cascada also has plenty of storage space for the trappings of a weekend getaway, while the rear seatbacks fold down electronically to expand cargo capability for longer items.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 106.1; overall length: 184.9; width: 72.4; height: 56.8
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder – 200 hp/206 lbs-ft (221 lbs-ft with overboost)
Transmission: six-speed automatic
Cargo capacity: 9.8 cubic feet (top down); 13.4 cubic feet (top up).
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side impact airbags, dual front knee airbags, automated rollover pop up bars, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, traction control, StabiliTrak stability control system, navigation system, Bluetooth hands free phone system, OnStar communications system, rear vision camera, remote keyless entry, remote vehicle engine start system, content theft alarm, tire pressure monitoring system, LED daytime running lights, front fog lamps, automatic articulating high intensity discharge headlamps, rear parking assist, and battery rundown protection.
Optional safety features include forward collision alert, lane departure warning, front/rear parking assist, Rainsense windshield wipers and automatic headlamps with tunnel detection.
Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile
Powertrain: 7-year/70,000 mile
Corrosion: 6-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 6-year/70,000 mile 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2016 Buick Cascada starts from $33,065 for the 1SV model and $36,065 for the Premium. Destination charges add $925.
