2017 LaCrosse 'introduces new face of Buick'
Buick has unveiled a redesigned LaCrosse sedan for the 2017 model year that sheds its cascading grille in favour of a look inspired by that of the Avenir Concept the automaker unveiled earlier this year.
The 2017 Buick LaCrosse is slightly longer, lower and wider than the current model, while shedding 300 lbs. compared to the current car thanks to the expanded use of high-strength steel and new, lighter sound-deadening materials.
The car's wheelbase has been stretched 65 millimetres, while the overall length is only 15 millimetres longer than the current LaCrosse.
Likewise, the 2017 LaCrosse is 10 millimetres wider, with its wheels pushed outward 33 millimetres up front and 28 millimetres out back, but the roofline is 40 millimetres lower than the current car.
Underpinning the third generation sedan is a new five-link rear suspension setup and available electronically controlled Continuous Damping Control active suspension, as well as Buick's first twin-clutch all-wheel drive system.
According to Buick, the system offers better performance during acceleration and cornering by splitting torque between the rear wheels and uses independent clutch actuation to determine and control the amount of torque sent to each wheel.
The 2017 LaCrosse also gets a revised rack-mounted electronic power steering system that incorporates so-called "lead-pull compensation," which automatically adjusts the steering angle to account for factors like crowned roads or high crosswinds.
Also new for 2017 is an overhauled 3.6-litre V6 that makes an estimated 305 horsepower and 268 lb.-ft. of torque, and features start/stop and cylinder deactivation technology.
The engine is paired to a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
Inside, the redesigned LaCrosse gets a "single cockpit design aesthetic," highlighted by a horizontal form that sweeps across the instrument panel and into the doors.
The sedan's interior also features a "floating" centre console.
Stay tuned for more.
