Opel Insignia may come to America as Buick and Cadillac

Rumor has it that the Opel Insignia may be on its way to the U.S. The car could take over as either a Buick, replacing the Regal, or even a Cadillac.

Originally picked to replace the Saturn Aura, GM is weighing new options for the Insignia after they dropped Saturn from their roster. As a Buick, the Insignia would have the problem of competing with the Buick LaCrosse. Both vehicles are front-wheel-drive, and use the exact same platform. On the other hand, Buick desperately needs a new model to breathe new life into the brand. Perhaps in the Insignia, they see a vehicle that may attract a younger crowd, including first-time sedan buyers, and new families.

The car also would have benefits to the Cadillac brand, just by virtue of being a front-wheel-drive. Anybody who participates in winter driving conditions knows a rear-wheel-drive Cadillac does not perform at the top of its game. Under a historically luxe label, GM would have the opportunity to jack up the price with premium options like leather, all-wheel-drive, wood trim, adaptive headlights, upgraded seats, lane departure warning, and a variety of other choices.

One thing is for sure: GM will have to make a decision on a relatively quick timetable. The Opel Insignia can only help their U.S. brands.