What car is the gr8?
4 Answers
There is no gr8, only the GL8, which is an MPV model under the Buick brand. The new Buick GL8 is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine across the lineup. This engine delivers a maximum power of 191 kW and a maximum torque of 350 Nm, with the maximum power achieved at 5400 rpm and the maximum torque available between 2000 to 5000 rpm. The engine features direct fuel injection technology and utilizes an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. It is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The front suspension of the vehicle uses a MacPherson strut independent suspension, while the rear suspension of the ES variant employs a multi-link independent suspension. The standard version, however, uses a torsion beam suspension for the rear. In fact, most MPVs adopt torsion beam rear suspensions, but engineers tune them to provide exceptional comfort. If you are interested in the Buick GL8, you can visit a local Buick dealership for a test drive. The Buick GL8 has been available in the Chinese market for quite some time, and it enjoys a good reputation and strong sales. The GL8 is one of the best-selling and most value-retaining models in the MPV segment. Other common MPVs in China include the Honda Odyssey, Honda Elysion, Buick GL8, Toyota Sienna, and Toyota Alphard. MPVs are often the preferred choice for families with two children due to their spacious interiors, which can comfortably accommodate the entire family for trips. Additionally, MPVs offer excellent comfort for long-distance travel.
Speaking of the GR8 code name, it actually refers to Honda's internal naming convention for the Freed model, which was specifically designed for the Japanese domestic market. I've looked it up—when the Freed was first launched in 2008, its chassis code was from the GD series. By the second generation, it was renamed the GR series, so some people got used to calling it GR8. This car is particularly suitable for families. The body looks compact, but the interior space is ingeniously arranged, with its magic seats allowing flexible adjustments—it can comfortably fit seven adults without feeling too cramped. In terms of powertrain, it exclusively uses small-displacement naturally aspirated or hybrid engines, which are genuinely fuel-efficient, consuming just over 5 liters per 100 kilometers in city driving. However, the chassis is relatively thin, so wind and tire noise become quite noticeable at highway speeds. In recent years, domestic parallel importers occasionally bring in a few used models, mostly right-hand-drive versions, which take some getting used to when driving.
I've studied car model codes, and the designation GR8 primarily refers to the second-generation Honda Freed. This compact MPV is particularly popular in Japan, with a vehicle height exceeding 1.7 meters - the generous headroom makes entering/exiting the vehicle without bending especially elderly-friendly. The powertrain options are quite interesting, offering both a conventional 1.5L gasoline engine with CVT version and a hybrid variant that's nearly silent at startup. What's most impressive is its space utilization - the rear seats can be completely stowed beneath the floor, transforming it into a small cargo van when needed. However, the suspension tuning leans soft, resulting in noticeable body roll during faster cornering. You'll rarely see new models in China, though occasionally gray-market imported older versions appear in used car markets at reasonable prices - the real challenge lies in sourcing replacement parts.
GR8 is actually a nickname for the Honda Freed among car enthusiasts, a Japan-exclusive model. This car takes the space magic of K-Cars to the extreme, squeezing three rows of seats into a mere 4.3-meter body. The 1.5L engine paired with the hybrid system delivers a city fuel consumption of around 5L, more economical than many compact cars. The center aisle design is particularly practical, allowing movement inside the car even while holding a child. Unfortunately, there's no four-wheel-drive version in the lineup, which is a bit of a letdown for Hokkaido users. The steering feels light, making it very easy for women to drive. The interior has a strong plastic feel, but all button placements are ergonomically friendly, allowing adjustments like the air conditioning at red lights without needing to look down.
