Brief Introduction of Buick Park Avenue
The Buick Park Avenue is a full-size luxury sedan that holds a significant place in the brand’s history. Initially introduced as a premium trim level for the Buick Electra in 1975, it evolved into a standalone model in 1991. Known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and a host of luxury features for its time, the Park Avenue catered to a demographic seeking traditional American luxury. Spanning two primary generations in North America before being discontinued, the Park Avenue was also revived for the Chinese market, showcasing its global appeal. It offered multiple variants, most notably the high-performance “Ultra” model which featured a supercharged engine, distinguishing it from the standard offerings.
Buick Park Avenue Overview
| Brand | Buick (a division of General Motors) |
| Model | Park Avenue |
| Launch Year | 1991 (as a standalone model) |
| Price | Used prices for the last generation range from approximately $1,499 to $11,370. |
| Variants | Base, Ultra |
| Body Type | Sedan |
| Engine | 3.8L V6, 3.8L Supercharged V6 |
| Power & Torque | Naturally Aspirated: Up to 205 hp & 230 lb-ft; Supercharged: Up to 240 hp & 280 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 4-speed Automatic |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Mileage | Approximately 18-20 MPG city / 27-29 MPG highway |
| Colors | Information not publicly available for all model years. Light Driftwood was a popular color. |
| Safety Rating | The 2005 model received a “Good” rating in the moderate overlap front crash test from the IIHS. |
| Dimensions | (Second Gen) Length: ~206.8 in, Width: ~74.7 in, Wheelbase: ~113.8 in |
| Boot Space | Approximately 19 cubic feet |
Generations and History of Buick Park Avenue
The Park Avenue nameplate was first used in 1975 as a luxury appearance package for the Buick Electra 225 Limited. It became an official trim level of the Electra in 1978 and remained so until the Electra was discontinued. In 1991, the Park Avenue became its own standalone model.
First Generation (1991–1996)
The first-generation Park Avenue was introduced for the 1991 model year, evolving from the front-wheel-drive GM C-platform that underpinned the previous Electra Park Avenue. This new model showcased a more modern, aerodynamic design with rounded lines, heavily influenced by the 1989 Buick Park Avenue Essence concept car. Standard power came from a 3.8L V6 engine. A significant addition came in 1992 with the introduction of the Park Avenue Ultra, which featured a supercharged version of the 3.8L V6, offering a considerable performance boost. Key features for this generation included the availability of driver and later passenger airbags, dual-zone climate control, and traction control. The Ultra models also offered options like variable-effort power steering.
Second Generation (1997–2005)
The second generation debuted for the 1997 model year on the GM G platform, which provided a stronger and more substantial structure. This iteration continued with a base Park Avenue and the supercharged Park Avenue Ultra. The exterior design was an evolution of the previous generation, featuring a wider stance and a more refined appearance. Inside, the second generation boasted a redesigned interior with improved ergonomics and luxury appointments. Standard features on the base model eventually included leather upholstery, and new options like ultrasonic rear parking assist became available. The Park Avenue Ultra came standard with a host of premium features, including a more powerful stereo system and advanced safety features like StabiliTrak stability control.
Third Generation (2007–2012 – China Exclusive)
After its discontinuation in North America, the Park Avenue nameplate was revived in 2007 for the Chinese market. This model was a significant departure from its American predecessors, as it was based on the rear-wheel-drive Holden WM/WN Caprice from Australia. This Chinese-market Park Avenue was positioned as a premium luxury sedan and was offered with V6 engine options. It was discontinued in 2012.
Latest Generation
The Buick Park Avenue is a discontinued model and is not currently in production. The last North American models were produced for the 2005 model year, and the China-exclusive model ended production in 2012.
Buick Park Avenue Facelifts and Yearly Updates
| Year | Change / Update |
| 1992 | The high-performance Park Avenue Ultra is introduced with a supercharged 3.8L V6 engine. |
| 1997 | Complete redesign for the second generation on the new GM G platform. Updated exterior and interior styling. |
| 1998 | Enhanced safety features were added. |
| 2000 | Front side airbags became standard on both models. GM’s StabiliTrak system became standard on the Ultra and optional on the base model. |
| 2001 | Leather upholstery became standard on the base model. Ultrasonic rear parking assist was introduced as a new option. |
| 2003 | The Park Avenue Ultra received a bolder grille, new 17-inch wheels, a revised interior, and the return of Buick’s “Ventiports” on the front fenders. |
| 2005 | For its final year, the base model received a revised grille and the previously Ultra-exclusive Ventiports. The rear fascia was also updated. |
Buick Park Avenue Variants and Features
Throughout its production in North America, the Buick Park Avenue was primarily available in two main variants: the standard Park Avenue and the more powerful and luxurious Park Avenue Ultra.
Park Avenue (Base)
The standard Park Avenue was well-equipped for its time, featuring a comfortable and spacious interior. Early models often came with velour cloth upholstery, with leather being an optional upgrade that later became standard. Comfort and convenience features often included power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, and a premium sound system. By the end of its run, the base model included many features that were once considered luxury options.
Park Avenue Ultra
The Park Avenue Ultra was the top-of-the-line variant, distinguished by its supercharged engine and a host of additional luxury and performance features. Standard on the Ultra was a leather-appointed interior, often with more advanced power seat adjustments. The Ultra also typically featured a more sophisticated suspension system, larger alloy wheels, and advanced safety technologies like traction control and later, StabiliTrak stability control. A premium sound system and other upscale amenities were also standard on the Ultra.
Buick Park Avenue Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience
The driving experience of the Buick Park Avenue was defined by comfort and a smooth, quiet ride. The suspension was tuned to absorb road imperfections, providing a serene cabin environment. The first-generation models were powered by the naturally aspirated 3.8L V6, which provided adequate power for relaxed cruising. The introduction of the supercharged 3.8L V6 in the Park Avenue Ultra transformed the car into a more capable performer, offering significantly better acceleration. The second generation continued this powertrain strategy with updated versions of the 3.8L V6. The base engine produced around 205 horsepower, while the supercharged Ultra model delivered up to 240 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This allowed the large sedan to achieve respectable acceleration times. Handling, while not sporty, was competent and predictable, especially in the Ultra models equipped with the Gran Touring suspension package.
Buick Park Avenue Pricing and Mileage
When new, the Buick Park Avenue was positioned as a premium full-size sedan. As a used vehicle, its pricing varies significantly based on model year, condition, and mileage. For the second generation (1997-2005), used prices can range from roughly $1,499 to $11,370. In terms of fuel economy, the Park Avenue offered reasonable mileage for a large car of its era. The naturally aspirated 3.8L V6 models from the second generation could achieve around 20 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The more powerful supercharged Ultra models had slightly lower fuel economy, typically in the range of 18 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. Real-world mileage as reported by owners is often consistent with these figures, with some reporting even better highway mileage.
Buick Park Avenue Colors, Design, and Dimensions
The exterior design of the Buick Park Avenue evolved from a more formal, upright style in its early days as an Electra trim to a sleeker, more aerodynamic look as a standalone model. The first generation was characterized by its smooth lines and full-width taillights. The second generation adopted a more substantial and rounded design. A popular color for the Park Avenue was Light Driftwood. Inside, the design prioritized space and comfort, with a wide dashboard and plush seating for up to six passengers in some configurations. For the second generation, the dimensions were quite generous, with an overall length of approximately 206.8 inches, a width of 74.7 inches, and a wheelbase of 113.8 inches. This provided ample interior room and a large trunk with a capacity of around 19 cubic feet.
Buick Park Avenue Safety Features
Over its lifespan, the Buick Park Avenue was equipped with an evolving array of safety features.
- Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags were available in the first generation and became standard. Second-generation models added standard front seat-mounted side-impact airbags.
- ABS / EBD: A four-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) was a key safety feature.
- Electronic Stability Control: GM’s StabiliTrak stability control system became standard on the Park Avenue Ultra and optional on the base model in 2000.
- Crash Test Ratings: The 2005 Buick Park Avenue received a “Good” rating in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) moderate overlap front crash test.
- Other advanced safety systems: Traction control was also a standard or available feature on many models.
Buick Park Avenue Infotainment and Connectivity
The infotainment and connectivity options in the Buick Park Avenue were contemporary for their time. Early models featured AM/FM radios with cassette players, with CD players becoming available later. The second generation offered a more advanced audio system, with some models featuring a nine-speaker concert sound system. While lacking modern features like large touchscreens and smartphone integration like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, higher trim levels did offer steering wheel-mounted audio and climate controls. A notable feature available in later second-generation models was a head-up display that projected key information onto the windshield.
Buick Park Avenue Owner Reviews & Ratings
Owner reviews for the Buick Park Avenue are generally positive, particularly for the second generation. Owners frequently praise the vehicle’s comfort, quiet and smooth ride, and the reliability of the 3.8L V6 engine. The spacious interior and large trunk are also commonly cited as strong points. Some owners of the Ultra model appreciate the extra power provided by the supercharged engine. Common complaints are relatively minor and can include issues with some interior plastic components and the vehicle’s large size making it cumbersome in tight parking situations. Overall, owner satisfaction scores are high, with many considering it a dependable and comfortable vehicle.
Buick Park Avenue Comparison with Similar Cars
During its production, the Buick Park Avenue competed with other full-size and near-luxury sedans. Its primary domestic competitors included the Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and the Lincoln Town Car. Compared to these rivals, the Park Avenue offered a more modern front-wheel-drive platform and a more sophisticated V6 engine lineup. It also competed with Japanese luxury sedans like the Lexus ES 300 and the Infiniti I30. While these competitors often offered a more refined interior and a sportier driving experience, the Park Avenue appealed to buyers seeking a more traditional American luxury car with a spacious interior and a comfortable ride at a competitive price point.
Buick Park Avenue Awards and Recognition
- Information not disclosed
Interesting Facts about Buick Park Avenue
- The Park Avenue name was inspired by the affluent Park Avenue in New York City.
- The 1989 Buick Park Avenue Essence concept car heavily influenced the design of the first-generation production model.
- The base model of the second-generation Park Avenue was the last Buick sold in the United States to feature a factory hood ornament.
Buick Park Avenue Legacy and Influence
The Buick Park Avenue played a crucial role in defining Buick’s brand identity as a purveyor of comfortable and luxurious sedans throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. It was a consistently popular model for the brand, appealing to a loyal customer base. The introduction of the supercharged Ultra variant also allowed Buick to compete with more performance-oriented luxury sedans, broadening the model’s appeal. While the market has since shifted away from large sedans towards SUVs, the Park Avenue remains a well-regarded vehicle among enthusiasts for its combination of comfort, reliability, and classic American style.
Buick Park Avenue Global Availability
The Buick Park Avenue was primarily manufactured and sold in North America. However, the first-generation model was also available in Europe from 1991 to 1996 with modifications to comply with European regulations. As previously mentioned, the Park Avenue name was revived for a completely different, rear-wheel-drive model sold exclusively in China from 2007 to 2012. This Chinese model was based on an Australian-built Holden.
Buick Park Avenue Maintenance and Ownership Costs
The average annual maintenance cost for a Buick Park Avenue is estimated to be around $352, which is quite reasonable for a luxury sedan. Repair and maintenance costs can vary depending on the specific service, but generally fall within an expected range for a domestic vehicle. Common maintenance items include oil changes, brake service, and fluid replacements. The 3.8L V6 engine is known for its durability and reliability, which can contribute to lower long-term ownership costs. Spare parts are generally available, especially for the more common components.
Final Words about Buick Park Avenue
The Buick Park Avenue stands as a testament to a bygone era of American automotive luxury. It successfully blended traditional comfort with modern (for its time) technology and performance, especially in the supercharged Ultra models. For buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and reliable used sedan with a touch of classic American style, the Park Avenue remains a compelling choice. While it may not offer the cutting-edge technology and dynamic handling of modern luxury cars, its enduring appeal lies in its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and dependable nature. The Park Avenue has left a lasting legacy as one of Buick’s flagship sedans, fondly remembered by those who owned and appreciated them.