Buick Will Get New Grand National, GNX and T-Type Models

Grand National, T-Type and GNX are three special editions offered by Buick for its second-generation Regal: the Grand National arrived in 1982, the T-Type in 1983 and the GNX in 1987. All three names were dropped once the third-generation Regal debuted. All of you gearheads already knew that, right?

We’re willing to bet that you didn’t know that rumors are floating around that Buick will resuscitate all three nameplates in the upcoming years. All three models will be offered as four-door sedans and will be built on GM’s new rear-wheel-drive Alpha platform, which will be shared with the Cadillac ATS.

Just like in the past, the Grand National and the T-Type will come with the same powertrains and suspension calibrations. The only distinctive feature being the exterior color, as the T-Type will be offered in a full color palette and the Grand National only in a black, staying true to the original. Inside Line reports that the Grand National and GNX will likely be powered by GM’s new twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V-6 engine with an output in the 350- to 400-horsepower range.

The GNX will be the most powerful version and will likely get a nice helping of LT1 V-8 muscle. We’re not too sure if GM will detune the new LT1 before installing it in the GNX, if it happens, but if not, this would put it at 450 horsepower. We wouldn’t be surprised to see it cranked down to 425 ponies – God forbid, GM step on its precious Corvette’s toes.

All three models are expected to come with six-speed manual transmissions standard with the option of a six-speed automatic.

Muscle car enthusiasts everywhere are now jumping with joy at this announcement, but keep your cool fellas, we don’t expect them to hit the Auto Show scene until sometime in 2014.

Full details on the three models will be revealed in the upcoming month, so stay tuned!