Buick does big business in China, so it was no surprise to see it unveil a new concept -- a futuristic take on one of its most iconic models, the Riviera.

The svelte concept, styled by a team at GM's China-based design studio, is claimed to preview the future styling direction for the entire Buick brand, including models sold in North America.

Make yourself familiar with the new waterfall grille, heavily swept turret line and the taut surfacing treatment of its bodywork. They are tipped to influence the styling of a new coupe based on the same platform as the LaCrosse; a car which may take the Riviera name back into production, according to rumors at the show.

“The Riviera concept offers a preview of Buick's future design language,” said Shanghai General Motors president, Ye Yongming. “By integrating advanced technologies, flexible functions and contemporary aesthetics, it heralds the start of a new chapter for the 110-year-old Buick brand.”

Buick used its latest concept to showcase a dual mode wireless plug-in hybrid gasoline-electric system. No specific details were revealed although officials were keen to suggest the new system, allowing the car's batteries to be charged wirelessly when parked atop a mat, does have a production future, even if it is some way off.

The Riviera concept also uses a new touch- and gesture-recognition control system, a contemporary head-up display projecting holographic images from 10 cameras and 18 micro sensors on to the windscreen, and 4G connectivity.

Buick introduced the Riviera concept at the Shanghai motor show. Newspress

The annual China auto show, which alternates between the cities of Beijing and Shanghai, begins with a press day on Saturday, April 20, while public days run from April 21-29. This year's highlights include the BMW Concept X4, a new Lamborghini Aventador anniversary edition and the Mercedes-Benz GLA crossover concept.

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