2017 Buick Cascada Sport Touring: One Of The Last Convertibles Available On The Market

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.

Competition: BMW 2-Series; Audi A3; and Audi A5