Edmunds and many leading automotive blogs are speculating that Buick will ultimately go on and build a sport version of its well-liked LaCrosse midsize sedan. Not like the original model, the suggested auto will be a real dragster as Buick tries to inject some youthfulness into its aging model line. This is serious news for Buick, which hasn’t built a true youth oriented car since stopping production of the hot-rod Regal Grand National during the 1980s. Does the Super Sport be enough to help Buick recapture a lost segment of the marketplace? That remains open to argue, so let’s examine what Buick is planning with the Super Sport and then you can decide for yourself.

For the past several years, Buick has been close to the top in most client satisfaction and quality surveys. After years of languishing much further down the list, Buick made a decision to actually stress quality and that move has paid off. However, quality vehicles are one thing while exciting autos are another. Quite simply, Buick has not been building vehicles that are high on the “wow” factor list. Sales have remained flat as the age level of its buyers continued to rise. Anyone that understands the business of cars will tell you that you should ceaselessly appeal to a younger audience to grow and thrive. Let’s just say that even younger AARP drivers haven’t been heavily drawn to the current Buick model line up.

As far as the Super Sport goes, the car is based on the idea Velite a car that has been appearing at car shows during the last few years. Very like the Lexus SC430, the Super Sport will be targeting upscale buyers drawn to a combo of luxury, performance, and premium styling. While drive train information hasn’t been finalized, reports of a three hundred hp V8 being offered has been circulating. Likely, this engine will be mated to a 6 speed automatic. A 3.6L twin turbo producing more than four hundred hp has been rumoured for the Super Sport, but that engine choice could be scratched if gas costs remain historically high.

Information about specific Super Sport features is rather limited, but if the auto holds true to the Velite idea, buyers can expect the following with the Super Sport:

— Heritage styling based on a late 1930s Buick boat tail design. Buick’s recognizable waterfall grille design coupled with decorative side portholes are also expected to appear on the Super Sport.

— twenty in. front wheels and 21 inch rear wheels; drive.

— Leather two and two seating.

— A retractable hood that will fit snugly into the trunk.

— Full cabin comforts including OnStar and XM satellite radio switches integrated into the dashboard.

Beyond what’s been listed, the rest is speculation including possible build and release dates for the Super Sport. GM’s current financial problems will impact the last call as to whether to build this auto, but if approval is given a 2008 or 2009 release is possible.

Yes, Buick requires an auto of this caliper to respire new life into a uninspiring line up. Costs for the Super Sport will likely exceed $40,000 limiting the vehicle’s appeal to those with major means. Still, if Buick is able to pull it off the Super Sport it may pave the way for additional model changes, perhaps even opening the door for a Regal-inspired car to rejoin the line up. Now that would be great news for a brand that sorely needs a fresh youth injection.

For more reviews about sports cars, visit thesupercars.org and while you are at it, you might also want to have a look at Buick LeSabre used car.