The exterior, finished in superior blue,[3] boasts a low-slung flowing pillarlesscoupe design with a sloping fastback roofline. The front fascia is said to have been inspired by the 1954 Buick Wildcat II concept car.[5] On the inside, the seats are upholstered in mist gray leather, complete with carbon fiber aluminium accents to give the driver's compartment a more sporty appearance. The dashboard features a wide touchscreen previewing a "future version" of Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system. The doors and interior components were 3D-printed.[6]
The concept car was met with critical acclaim, winning the 2016 EyesOn Design award (also won by the Buick Avenir in the previous year),[9] as well as being named "Best Future Concept" by The Detroit News.[10] The fastbackcoupe concept was applauded for its perfectly proportioned rear-drive stance.[11]
The Avista nameplate, meaning sight in Italian, was previously filed for trademark registration by General Motors on September 22, 2015.[12]
Production consideration
Although the car was merely intended as a design study,[13] GM considered putting the Avista or a similar car into production as a halo vehicle for Buick, according to a Buick representative.[5] A production version was expected to retain the platform and engine from the concept.[3] Its prospects were boosted by the great fanfare generated by its introduction at the Detroit Auto Show.[14]
Rear view
However, Buick ultimately decided not to make the Avista. Despite the interest, Buick restated it was a design study and would not be produced. They also decided not to make a sedan version of the Avista to replace the Buick Regal.[15]
