Buick Cascada gives GM first mainstream convertible in 5 years

DETROIT – GM injected some much needed romance into its car lineup with the first peek at its all-new Buick Cascada convertible. GM's drop-tops have been limited to masculine sport models like Camaro and Corvette since the Pontiac G6 convertible disappeared during bankruptcy.

The sleek new Cascada promises roomy seating for two adult passengers in the backseat, with a split fold option allowing for more cargo space on demand. Most recent entries from other automakers have ridiculously scant legroom for backseat passengers.

The Cascada's top will retract in just 17 seconds at speeds up to 31 MPH for those who don't want slow down to feel the wind in their hair.

The Cascada gives GM's near luxury brand an important entry for true driving enthusiasts. However, it's not a lucrative market segment. IHS automotive reports market shares for convertibles have fallen 40% in the last 5 years, accounting for just 1% of the market.

Nevertheless, it offers some graceful excitement to the Buick brand--something missing since Pontiac's demise.