2016 Buick LaCrosse Sedan. 3rd generation
The Buick LaCrosse is the flagship sedan of the brand. Just like other typical Buick models, it is huge and truly comfortable. The car can compete with executive sedans not only in terms of finishing, but also in power.
Competitive advantages
The new Buick LaCrosse is known as a reliable, well-built and safe vehicle. It is able to compete on equal terms in the heavy vehicle segment with such strong opponents as the Lexus ES, Chevrolet Impala and Chrysler 300.
Its competitive advantages comprise a sophisticated design, which is moderately aggressive, but still impressive. The designers have significantly worked on the previous generation. They have eliminated a too short rear roofline, which created problems for tall passengers, and squeezed the body from the sides for greater aerodynamics.
It is also one of the few vehicles in the class to offer all-wheel drive. The manufacturer has offered many options that make it easier to drive and ensure a comfortable daily traveling. The 2019/2020 Buick LaCrosse is positioned as an ideal sedan for everyday traveling, as it is luxurious enough to look presentable in any situation and practical enough not to bother with its status.
The LaCrosse is an ideal sedan for everyday traveling, as it is luxurious enough to look presentable in any situation and practical enough not to bother with its status.
Engines and chassis
The LaCrosse is standardly equipped with a 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine with 340 hp, coupled with a 6-speed gearbox that transmits power to the front axle.
In fact, there is also a hybrid 4-cylinder eAssist unit, but the LaCrosse is really a big, heavy and long sedan, so only a 340 hp petrol engine can propel it properly. With such an engine, the LaCrosse is one of the best in the class. Plus, this engine allows having an all-wheel drive system.
The hybrid engine has an undeniable advantage: it saves fuel and features a calibrated automatic ‘Start-Stop’ system, ensuring smooth switching from an electric motor to a petrol one. And yet the dynamics of a car with such an engine is sluggish.
Regardless of the engine, the LaCrosse provides a very soft, comfortable and quiet ride, a nice cornering stability and excellent visibility from the driver’s seat. The rear view is not so good, but there is a standard rear-view camera.
Trim levels
The new Buick LaCrosse is available in six trim levels: 1SV, Base, Leather, Premium 1, Premium 2 and Premium 3:
- Base 1SV LaCrosse: V6 petrol engine, tilt and sliding steering wheel, remote ignition, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, 2-zone climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, 8-way power driver’s seat, cruise control, IntelliLink infotainment system, reversing camera, audio system, satellite radio and two USB ports and a few other options. Plus, there are the standard Sport Touring and Comfort and Convenience versions. The sports version includes a rear spoiler, rear parking sensors, auto-dimming side mirrors with integrated signal duplicators, ambient lighting, keyless entry and ignition. The comfort version has the same equipment and also includes leather upholstery, heated front seats and an eight-way electric front passenger seat.
- Premium 1: Everything the 1SV offers, plus the heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, power rear window sun visor and 11-speaker Bose audio system.
- Premium 2: Everything the Premium 1 offers, plus plus 20-inch wheels, torque-resistant front suspension, adaptive dampers and a navigation system.
- Premium 3: Additional advanced safety and traffic control features.
An Ultra Luxury Package is available as an option for all models except the 1SV and Base LaCrosse. The package includes enhanced leather upholstery with extended coverage (including center console and door armrests), faux suede headlining and natural wood accents.
Safety
The new Buick LaCrosse has received the maximum 5-star rating in the frontal and side impact tests. The IIHS has awarded the LaCrosse with the highest points.
The standard safety features of the 2020/2021 Buick LaCrosse include:
- Anti-lock braking system;
- Stability and traction control;
- Front and rear side airbags;
- Side curtains;
- Breakdown notification system;
- Anti-theft system;
- Rear view camera;
- Rear parking sensors (except for the basic trim level).
There are additional Driver Confidence safety features, including lane departure warning system, automatic braking system, xenon headlights, fog lights, head-up display, blind spot monitoring system, and rear cross-traffic alert.
According to the results of national tests, the new Buick LaCrosse has received the maximum 5-star rating in the frontal and side impact tests. The IIHS has awarded the LaCrosse with the highest points.
