Buick is coming out with a new SUV in 2010 that is a revamped version of the deceased Saturn Vue, and shortly thereafter Buick is planning to release a plug-in hybrid model into production by 2011. This new crossover SUV is still yet to be named and Buick expects the SUV to become “the first available plug-in hybrid SUV made by a major automaker.” Though, before any plug-in can be debuted, the new crossover SUV has to launch.
The Saturn-based unnamed SUV will come with a four cylinder 2.4Liter direct injection engine that GM says will produce a minimum of 30 miles to the gallon. There is also a 3.0Liter six cylinder direct injection engine available. Although the 2.4L will get a MPG rating of about 30, it can be expected that the mpg ratings for the plug-in hybrid will increase dramatically. This is due to the hybrids two mode system with a conveniently stored lithium-ion battery under the cargo grounding and two electric motors. The two motors are paired with a 3.6Liter V6 engine. The plug-in requires a 110 volt outlet for recharging that will take about four to five hours.
To optimize mpg, the plug-in vehicle allows driving for about 10 miles at low speeds with electric-only propulsion. Currently GM’s 2-mode hybrid system is available on the Saturn Vue Green Line. Couple this 2-mode hybrid system with same drive train as the Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain which get up to 32 MPG on the highway and you have the makings of one very fuel efficient Buick SUV.
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