Manufacturer Buick (General Motors) Class Compact | Production 1985–1987 Body style 2-door coupe | |
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Also called Buick Somerset Regal
Buick Skylark Assembly Lansing, Michigan, United States | ||
The Buick Somerset was a compact coupé produced by Buick between 1985 and 1987. Buick had previously used the "Somerset" name as a trim-level package on the Buick Regal in the early 1980s.
The Somerset was one of a number of down-sized cars built on General Motors' N-body. Destined to replace the Buick Skylark, the Somerset name badge failed to resonate with the buying public. Initially launched as the Somerset Regal in 1985, the name was shortened to Somerset in 1986, when a four-door sedan version of the car was added under the Buick Skylark name.
The Somerset did not do as well in the marketplace as the Pontiac Grand Am which was based on the same platform. The Somerset did have some interesting features such as an all-digital instrument cluster, passive restraints, and a surprisingly luxurious interior despite its small size.
Nonetheless, there were some problems with the Somerset Regal. The factory alternator was unable to adequately handle the electricity demands of the all-digital dashboard, often resulting in charging system failure.
The standard I-4 "Iron Duke" engine also was criticized as being too underpowered and noisy, even for an entry-level personal luxury car. All V6 models required the optional 3-speed automatic; the standard 5-speed manual was for 4-cylinder models only.
The Somerset was recalled for fuel system problems for the 1985 through 1987 model years. [1]
Starting in 1988, the Somerset name was discontinued, and all models were called Skylark.
The Somerset was entered in the Trans Am Series using an aftermarket V8 engine.