Let’s just say that we are glad it didn’t make the cut to production…
Signia: Buick Signia
First Debut:1998 North American International Auto Show
Specifications: Based on the Park Avenue supercharged 3.8-liter V6 with 240 horsepower, all wheel drive
If the idea of form following function is overemphasized, it can lead to a car that’s very practical but not easy on the eyes.
The relatively short-lived Rendezvous was not forgotten. Although the Buick Pontiac Aztek’s Buick counterpart will not be remembered as the most beautiful crossover, it was certainly better than that. The Signia was unveiled in 1998, three years before production. It offered an intriguing combination: incorporating crossover cues into Park Avenue’s sedan.
Although it sounds great, especially considering Buick changed from front-to all-wheel drive, we found the final result to be questionable. Perhaps the most controversial part of the car’s back was its twin, side-opening “barn door” doors and massive canopy that made it look like a hearse. We can also say that the beak at the front was not as good, and the hips of the rear bumpers are equally bad. It might look a lot like the SsangYong Rodius from the side.
The Signia was not all bad. Buick provided a lot of useful features for the unusual concept to make it practical and versatile. The composite-plastic rear hatch could be removed, making it possible to convert the concept into a pickup truck with a power floor that extends out the back as far as 15 inches (38 cm). Large rear doors with a 90 degree opening made loading and unloading cargo much easier. The hinged hatch could also double as a cargo carrier because it had roof rails.
Buick’s original description of the “upscale family sedan with SUV attributes”, never saw production. However, official images of the concept are still haunting us.