I hate to contribute to any GM bashing. They are definitely turning out a solid product these days.
My apprehension comes at the thought of plocking down $33k on a Buick.
Even if it is the BEST luxo barge out there for the money, there is the intangible/image aspect for car buyers. It still says "Buick" on the trunk.
Reputation follows you forever.
If you get drunk at a college party and stick your wang in the potato salad, people are going identify you with that act. (Just a random example.)
GM should have killed off all of the name plates and rebranded when they had the opportunity.