While most reviewers have commented that previous models of the LaCrosse may have been underwhelming on the market, the 2017 model paves the way to bring the car back into the spotlight. Featuring a near-complete overhaul and a 300-pound weight-loss, the LaCrosse is not one to be written off in the luxury car market. More than half of that loss is due to a lighter steel structure.
While the exterior did not receive a large amount of changes, with GM opting to keep the vehicle distinctly Buick and LaCrosse in appearance, there were some minor changes. The new LaCrosse has a longer-wheelbase, similar to that of the Malibu Epsilon II, and makes use of GM’s new 3649-cc V-6, an engine that also appears in the Camaro. It can produce around 305 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, and while it is barely more than the previous 3.6-litre V-6, the new LaCrosse has less weight to worry about hauling.
Two notable changes to the exterior include a contemporary modern twist on the vehicle’s grille, featuring new ‘wings’ and a coloured tri-shield, as well as High-Intensity Discharge (HID) xenon headlamps. LED-accented tail lamps also come standard on the 2017 LaCrosse.
GM describes the interior of this full-size luxury sedan as ‘stylish, spacious, and sophisticated.’ Along with moon-white ambient lighting and the option for heated and ventilated leather-appointed massage front seats, the LaCrosse screams comfort.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard features in the LaCrosse, as does the Wi-Fi hotspot capability and OnStar 4g LTE.
Along with several of the same safety features as the Envision (such as Side Blind-Zone/Lane Change alarms and the rear traffic alert), the LaCrosse also includes a forward collision alert and a lane departure warning that notifies drivers when they have drifted out of their current lane without turning on an indicator.
With a 5-link rear suspension and the new electronic shift, GM promises the new 2017 Buick LaCrosse delivers on performance and improves handling for an enhanced ride.
Pricing for the LaCrosse begins at $35,445.
