
The Buick GL8's multifunction steering wheel has cruise control, voice control, and phone function buttons on the left side; on the right side are volume control, track switching, and multifunction dashboard control buttons. Behind the steering wheel are the light lever and wiper lever, with paddle shifters located above. Additional information about the Buick GL8 is as follows: 1. Column Shifter: The column shifter, or 'huai dang' in Chinese, refers to the gear shift lever located below the steering wheel. It is called 'huai dang' because the lever is pulled towards the driver's chest when shifting gears. The gear arrangement is the same as that of a regular automatic transmission. Vehicles with column shifters are generally designed with automatic transmissions. 2. Gear Shift Lever: The gear shift lever can be arranged as a floor shifter or a column shifter. The column shifter is located below the steering wheel, hence the name 'huai dang.' This design is more common in American cars. The gear arrangement is identical to that of a regular automatic transmission. 3. Column Shifter: Related models are usually automatic transmissions. Common American cars with column shifters in China include the Buick GL8 and the old Regal. German brands like Mercedes-Benz also use column shifters in models such as the R, E, S, ML, and GL classes.

As a GL8 owner for several years, I can say this MPV handles quite smoothly. Upon entering, insert the key or press the start button - the engine sound confirms ignition. Then shift to D mode to get moving. The chassis feels stable during drives, with light steering that makes turns effortless. The center console features a large touchscreen for adjusting AC temperature, fan speed, and connecting smartphones for music playback. The highlight is the second-row seats - their electric adjustment buttons recline them fully, making long journeys supremely comfortable. Remember to regularly check tire pressure and oil levels - proper maintenance optimizes fuel efficiency. The roof sunshade and sliding door controls by the door are user-friendly, ideal for family trips or business receptions.

I just got my driver's license and started driving a GL8. The operation is actually not difficult to get used to. Sitting in the driver's seat, stepping on the brake, and pressing the ignition button starts the vehicle; then push the gear lever to D and start slowly. At first, the car body felt large, but with the wide field of vision, it drives steadily. The air conditioning switch is on the front dashboard, and the temperature can be easily adjusted with the knob; the rearview mirror has an electric button to adjust the angle. As a beginner, I love the storage compartment in the center armrest the most, where I can conveniently place my phone and water bottle. When parking, the electronic parking brake button automatically locks, so there's no need to pull the lever hard. For daily short commutes, just pay attention to the fuel gauge to avoid it being too low. This car has sufficient power and is quiet.

Driving the GL8 as a family car, I pay special attention to safe operations. Before ignition, check the light control knob to ensure the headlights are working, and use the rearview camera when reversing to observe the rear. Adjust the rearview mirrors properly to see blind spots clearly, and the equipped blind spot monitoring system will alert you for safe lane changes. Fasten the seatbelt before driving, and the cruise control button helps maintain a stable speed on the highway. Avoid setting the air conditioning button too low to prevent catching a cold, and use the child lock switch on the rear doors to protect children. Daily operations include the electric opening and closing of the tailgate, with the button located near the driver's seat to avoid manual effort. The key point is regular maintenance, checking engine oil and brake fluid, to ensure worry-free long-distance trips.


