Buick plans to add a crossover in 2010, a plug-in hybrid in 2011

Buick's lineup is growing--it's getting a new five-passenger crossover in 2010, with a plug-in hybrid following in 2011.

The yet-to-be-named vehicle will be smaller than the Enclave and uses a different version of the platform that underpins the GMC Terrain and the Chevrolet Equinox. The move signals General Motors' renewed commitment to its venerable Buick brand, fortifying it with cutting-edge technology and fresh sheetmetal as the company tries to be competitive with four core brands.

The gas-powered model will have direct-injection engines, a 2.4-liter Ecotec four-cylinder and a 3.0-liter V6.

The plug-in hybrid marries several technologies and will have a range of 10-15 miles of pure electric driving in heavy urban-driving conditions, a spokesman said. It combines a modified version of GM's 2-Mode hybrid system used in its large trucks with a version of the lithium-ion battery cells and charging technology used in the Chevy Volt.

The hybrid technology will work with a 3.6-liter V6 flex-fuel engine.

The Buick hybrid is the successor to the ill-fated Saturn Vue plug-in, which is scrapped as a result of the potential sale of Saturn to car dealer and IndyCar team owner Roger Penske.

GM vice chairman Tom Stephens made the announcement Thursday at an industry event in northern Michigan.

“Buick has always been at the forefront of new technology, so it is only fitting that the brand should debut our new plug-in hybrid technology in a beautiful new crossover,” Stephens said in a statement. “This will firmly put Buick, and GM, front and center in the advanced-technology game.”

By Greg Migliore