This is the new Buick Excelle GT sedan that is set to go on sale in China on 23 June 10. Marketing positioning places it as a high-end mid-size car with very high build, comfort and engine quality. Styled along the lines of the Buick LaCrosse sedan, the Excelle GT is based on the all-new Opel/ Vauxhall Astra platform.

The exterior is characterised by Buick's waterfall front grille, distinctive headlights, porthole vents on the bonnet and eye-catching taillights. The interior shows very strong links with the new Astra and roominess comes courtesy of a 2,685mm wheelbase.

It is the engine compartment where things get interesting. Engine options include the 1.8-litre Eco Smart with 138bhp and 175Nm of torque, and a more powerful 1.6-litre turbo. The latter makes 181 bhp and 235Nm of maximum torque. It puts many engines of larger capacity to shame and I am sure many would like to see this powerplant in some GM models in Singapore. The new Opel Astra and Chevrolet Cruze could be the likely candidates. Let