What are the differences between the Buick GL8 and GL8 ES?

[VonIsabela]

Buick GL8 ES and GL8 differences are as follows: The standard GL8 Business Travel version offers a choice between 2.5L and 2.0T engines; the GL8 ES only has a 2.0T engine. The standard GL8 Business Travel has a trunk volume of 475-1605L; the GL8 ES has 521-1650L. The standard GL8 uses a torsion beam non-independent suspension; the GL8 ES uses a multi-link independent suspension. Additional information: The GL8 ES is a new luxury business travel vehicle with a relatively higher price and higher grade. The GL8 Business Travel 25S version is a minor facelift of the previous generation business vehicle, equipped with a new 2.5L engine, and its configuration is much lower than the ES version, such as lacking a panoramic sunroof, ACC, heads-up display, electric footrests, etc.

[VonAllison]

As a long-term Buick owner, I think the main differences between the GL8 and GL8 ES lie in comfort and tech features. The base GL8 drives steadily and has decent space, but the ES version is noticeably more luxurious. I've driven my friend's ES—the seats are leather, and the second row has heating, making long trips less tiring. The regular GL8 has a simpler interior, while the ES adds a large touchscreen navigation and rearview camera, making driving more convenient. Both have a 2.0T engine, but the ES is tuned smoother with less noise. The ES costs around 10,000–20,000 RMB more, but the upgrade is worth it for families or those who value prestige. Personally, I prefer the ES because it’s more hassle-free for road trips with kids, and the slightly larger trunk fits a stroller more easily.

[SanTeagan]

From a technical perspective, the main differences between the Buick GL8 and GL8 ES lie in platform upgrades and driving control. As someone who pays attention to car design, I've noticed that the GL8 uses a traditional suspension, which can feel a bit bumpy over speed bumps. The ES features a newer chassis system with better shock absorption, paired with electronic power steering for more agile and safer turns. Both models have similar engine parameters, but the ES has optimized fuel injection, resulting in slightly lower fuel consumption. In terms of interior, the ES uses higher-end materials, such as thicker sound insulation, making it noticeably quieter at high speeds. Tech features like automatic air conditioning and blind-spot monitoring are standard on the ES, while the standard GL8 requires additional payment for these options. Maintenance-wise, ES parts are more expensive, but overall quality is stable with no major issues reported. Having test-driven both, I feel the ES is better suited for those who prioritize driving experience.

[VanAriel]

When considering space and practicality for our family car, we've used both the GL8 and GL8 ES. The ES is more expensive, but it has a better interior layout with sliding second-row seats, making it more flexible for picking up and dropping off kids. The regular GL8 has a slightly smaller trunk, while the ES offers more space—enough to fit two additional suitcases without a problem. Comfort is the key difference: the ES seats come with extra padding, reducing fatigue on long trips, whereas the base GL8 has fabric seats that can get stuffy in summer. Technologically, the ES comes standard with rear entertainment screens, which are great for kids watching cartoons, a feature the GL8 lacks. Maintenance costs are slightly higher for the ES, but both models share the same safety features, including ABS systems. If the budget allows, the ES is the more hassle-free choice, as family trips prioritize comfort.