Highlight: It’s the first 2017 convertible to receive a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score for safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $37,990 (Base model $33,900)
Seating Capacity: 4
Standard Safety Features: airbags; ABS; rearview camera; a stability control system; a tire pressure system; OnStar concierge service; a rear parking alert system; and a spare tire
Standard Equipment (Base Model): 20-inch wheels; power heated front seats; leather seats; a leather wrapped steering wheel; a 7-inch infotainment screen; an easy rear entry system to the back seat; automatic level control headlight system; and a one touch power operated top
Standard Equipment (Sport Touring): air deflector, rear and front seats; a forward collision alert system; a lane departure warning system; alloy pedals; front fog lamps; front and rear park assist system; and rain sense wipers
Options: 20-inch black gloss finish wheels; sport red exterior; body color rear accent molding; and rear accent stitching on instrument panel and seats
Other Trim Level:
Base
Premium
Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD with satellite radio
Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes
USB Connectivity: Yes
Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty: 6 years or 70,000 miles
Standard Engine/Horsepower: 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder/200-hp
Recommended Fuel: Regular
Standard Fuel Mileage:
20-city/27-hwy
What’s New: After joining the Buick lineup in 2016, the Cascada is basically a carryover. A new dark effects package with a new black out package makes the vehicle’s exterior pop.
Why:
While convertibles seem to be a thing of the past, thank God Buick has added
one in its portfolio. The Cascada, which was borrowed from one of GM’s former partners - Opel - is a great open air vehicle.
The
front wheel drive, open
air four seater,
is available in three trims. We had an opportunity to review a top end trim,
which was outfitted with 20-inch black wheels. This new special effect package
changed the overall appearance
of the convertible, as well as improved the road manners of the convertible.
Our striking red exterior flanked by the black wheel and tire package was literally was a standout.
In
addition to the overall appearance, there were other notable features that made
this vehicle pop. From
the easy-to-use power operated convertible top to the comfortable front seats
to GM’s user friendly infotainment system, the Cascada is great for short
drives, as well as cross country trips.
Furthermore,
this is an all-season vehicle, too. With the heated front seats, Buick’s convertible is
suitable for cold days too. In fact,
for those who enjoy cruising
around with the top down in breezy climates, the heated seats are a welcome
feature.
So, no matter if the top is up or down,
visually the appearance of the Cascada is appealing to the eye.
But:
The rear seating area is not designed for long trips. Legroom is virtually non
existent, unless the front seat occupants are severely height challenged.
Moreover,
Buick’s
engineering team should consider adding ventilated front seats and a heated
steering wheel to accommodate a variety of weather climates.
Verdict:
For buyers, who are
looking for something a little larger than a two door compact roadster, the
Cascada seems to fit the bill. Unfortunately, in the days where consumers taste
have shifted from cars to crossovers, SUVs and trucks, the future of
convertibles seems to be dim. Its a great looking car with the top up or down.
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