By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos GM Media
For 2017, the Buick Cascada convertible delivers the freedom of open-air motoring through a driving experience with unexpected luxuries such as UV-reflective leather-appointed seats and a quiet, triple-insulated top. The Cascada’s attainable luxury will now include the reward of a uniquely bold style statement with an all-new Sport Touring edition.
Exterior
Designed from the outset as a convertible, the Buick Cascada Sport Touring 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 daytime running lights delivering a distinctive appearance.
For 2017 Cascada ST is only available in True Blue Metallic, a paint color not offered on other Cascada models. The unique paint is complemented by a black cloth top that includes three layers of fabric structure for signature Buick quietness and insulation. Five-spoke, 20-inch wheels are new for the Cascada ST.
Interior
Inside, 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; In addition, the Cascada ST includes sport pedals and a flat-bottom sport steering wheel.
An electronic rear-seat entry system automatically powers the front seats forward by simply pressing the seatback forward. It moves the seats back when the seatback is returned to the upright position. Additionally, electric safety belt presenters use telescopic arms to slide the upper front safety belt assemblies from behind the front seat into closer reach for easier buckling.
The Cascada ST also has plenty of storage space for the trappings of a weekend getaway, including 13.4 cubic feet of cargo room with the top up and 9.8 cubic feet with the top down. It also has as a 22.4-inch x 12.6-inch pass-through from the trunk to the passenger compartment. When the 50/50-split rear seat is folded, longer items such as skis can be stowed inside.
Turbocharged performance, engaging driving experience
Under the hood, the Cascada ST is driven by a 1.6L turbocharged engine rated at 200 horsepower. With more than 100 horsepower per liter, it’s one of the most power-dense engines in the segment. It delivers strong torque, estimated at 207 lb-ft and an estimated 221 lb-ft with the overboost feature.
Power from the turbocharged engine is translated into driving enjoyment via the innovative suspension system, which employs the sophisticated HiPer Strut front suspension; 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.
Summary
A 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, The Cascada’s ST 2+2 configuration offers comfortable room for four adults, and a strong performance from a 200-horsepower turbocharged engine.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $37,990.00, for the 2017 Buick Cascada 1SH Sport Touring including destination charge. The EPA fuel economy estimates 20 MPG City and 27 MPG Highway.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
