Wednesday, December 7, 2011

New Small Buick Crossover: Apollo Reborn as MPV

Buick Apollo MPV—Since the new Buick Regal and the even newer Buick Verano are based on GM's European Opel division, I looked through their porfolio to see what else might be in the pipeline. Opel markets a very cool "mini people mover" or MPV, called the Zafira. It's a versatile, compact tall wagon, with family features so many Europeans have become enamored with since the first Renault Scenic hit the streets fifteen years ago. I created a Buick version of the Zafira, and reached back into the Buick archives for the Apollo nameplate. The first Buick Apollo, 1973-75, was a hurriedly put together compact based on the Nova platform, and gave Buick a small car to sell after that first gas crisis in 1973. Besides the Buick grille and cues, I gave the D pillar a bit more width for a more cohesive, and American, appearance.

Bonus Chop:
It wouldn't be an "artandcolour" wagon if it didn't come with a Woody package! Optional on my Apollo MPV would be this Estate Wagon option, with walnut microveneers adhered to the four doors and layered under the paint's clearcoats for a maintenance free gloss finish.

6 comments:

  1. I was never a small MPV type of person, well the Mazda 5 and Ford Max seem tempting, but the Apollo caught my attention. The raked back windshield with the additional surface area on top enriches the panoramic viewing experiece of the world around you.

    Also, as a single individual, I would have plenty of room to take a nap with my dog along side of me, perfect!

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  2. Hi, Casey. I thought you might enjoy this blast from the past. Click on the 'video' heading above the '66 Eldorado Convertible, sit back for a moment and travel back in time. Very nice site, great collection. Enjoy!

    BobF

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  3. Casey, sorry I clicked a bit too soon.

    http://www.mcsmk8.com/cadillacs/mycads.htm

    BobF

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  4. thanks, Bob. Those are some beautiful Caddys! I love the '71 and '72 Cadillacs, regular coupes/sedans and Eldorado. I don't think they get the love the Sixites get. Yet. As most cars, they were ruined by the bumpers that came in '73 and later, but those '71s and '72s were so tasteful and well designed. Much better than the '69 and '70s to me. Thanks for the link.

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  5. It's a busy time. With friends, relatives and neighbors all needing a bit of your time it can be hard to have somne time for you. Try to get a few moments of time just for you to enjoy the spirit of the season. Your site is a great escape for me. I wish it was full of new cars everyday. Thanks for the escape. I hope you and the folks near you have a safe and happy holiday season.

    BobF

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  6. I wish I could do a new car for every day! my best wishes, too, for you and yours during the holidays!

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