2025-06-26
SHANGHAI – Buick today launched the new GL8, reinforcing its position as China’s definitive premium MPV with thoughtful upgrades to design, chassis, cabin refinement, safety, and connectivity. Priced at RMB 229,900, the new GL8 builds on its 26-year heritage while addressing evolving user expectations for premium mobility.
Ride and Refinement Enhancements
The new GL8 features a critical chassis upgrade with its rear suspension evolving from a torsion beam to a new four-link independent suspension. This structural improvement, combined with refined damping and high-rigidity components, delivers highway-stable, bump-smoothed, and rough-road-resistant dynamics – a significant evolution in driving comfort.
Complementing the suspension upgrade, the cabin achieves new acoustic excellence through double-layer acoustic glass and liquid applied sound damping materials. Acoustic specialists validated the results using Sone-based quietness evaluation, creating a truly tranquil cabin environment.
Seating comfort sees equally notable improvements. The second-row seats now feature flip-up armrests and anti-dizziness dampers – technology specifically engineered to minimize motion discomfort. All seats utilize patented dual-density foam, rigorously tested across 101 durability certifications to maintain support over years of use. The full-size third row retains its signature space efficiency, comfortably accommodating three adults with multi-angle recline adjustments.
Safety: Structural Integrity First
Safety enhancements focus on structural reinforcement. The GL8 maintains its ten horizontal and six longitudinal beam body structure, integrating submarine-grade 1,700MPa ultra-high-strength steel and a full-frame subframe. A key design philosophy remains the non-recessed third-row seating, preserving floor integrity for optimal crash protection.
New expanded side-curtain airbags now cover the entire window area, exceeding safety standards by 50% to better protect occupants’ heads and necks. Eco-conscious interior materials align with global health standards, creating a family-first cabin environment.
Technology for Intuitive Use
The refreshed GL8 features a redesigned dashboard centered on twin 12.3-inch displays, providing clear access to vehicle data and infotainment. An upgraded voice recognition system processes 10 commands within 25 seconds with high accuracy, supporting Apple CarPlay® integration. New remote climate control functionality allows pre-conditioning the cabin before entry.
Proven Performance, Classic Dimensions
The GL8 retains its practical 5,219mm length, 1,878 mm width, 1,807 height and 3,088mm wheelbase – dimensions engineered to navigate urban streets while offering best-in-class third-row space and 1,650L cargo capacity with seats folded. Powered by a 2.0T engine and a 9-speed transmission (174kW/350Nm), the new GL8 delivers smooth responsiveness and efficiency with cylinder deactivation technology.
A Legacy of Recognition
With over 2 million owners in China, the GL8’s reputation for quality is underscored by recent accolades, including No.1 rankings in J.D. Power’s APEAL and China IQS studies for large MPVs, "Outstanding Corrosion Resistance" certification, and segment-leading 5-year residual value retention.
The launch of the new GL8 strengthens Buick’s MPV leadership alongside the GL8 Lu Shang PHEV, GL8 ES, GL8 ES PHEV and the Buick Century, collectively serving diverse preferences under the brand’s "Fuel + Electric Strategy".
Buick has found success offering premium SUVs and cars with sculptural designs, refined performance, modern interiors and thoughtful personal technologies. Buick’s award-winning customer service and sales experience, along with the Avenir trim, the highest expression of Buick luxury, are attracting new buyers to experience Buick’s unique approach to attainable luxury in North America and China. Buick has sold over 10 million vehicles in China since its introduction by SAIC-GM in 1998. More information about Buick vehicles in China, its largest market, is available at www.Buick.com.cn.
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