2017 Buick LaCrosse Is a Buick That's Actually Gorgeous

The new face of Buick has been introduced with the 2017 Buick LaCrosse at the 2015 L.A. Auto Show.

The all-new 2017 Buick LaCrosse has been heavily influenced by the dramatic cues of the Avenir concept. Boasting a new grille design up front with a large opening distinguished by the return of the red, silver and blue Buick tri-shield insignia, the front grille is further accented by wing-shaped elements set against darkened waterfall grille bars.

But there’s a lot more to the new sedan than its styling and front grille: the 2017 Buick LaCrosse is longer, lower and wider than the outgoing model. It is also built on a stronger yet lighter structure, so it weighs about 300 pounds less than its predecessor.

Under the hood is a second-generation 3.6-liter V6 engine sporting 305 horsepower and 268 pound-feet of torque, mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission. New features on the powerplant include Active Fuel Management and stop/start technology, with Active Fuel Management temporarily deactivating two cylinders in light-load driving conditions, which enhances fuel efficiency.

SEE ALSO: 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show Coverage

The 2017 Buick LaCrosse is also equipped with the American automaker’s first twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system along with a new five-link rear suspension that improves ride and handling characteristics. According to Buick, the new suspension setup helps reduce roll center motion, enabling positive lateral control and excellent dynamic stability. Up front, the LaCrosse will come standard with a MacPherson-strut suspension and Buick’s HiPer Strut suspension is used on the front-wheel drive models. Electronically-controlled Continuous Damping Control is available that further optimizes ride comfort and handling capabilities for the sedan.

The 2017 Buick LaCrosse will go on sale in the U.S. next summer and expect pricing information to be announced closer to its launch.

“The new LaCrosse signals the next phase of Buick’s international momentum,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Buick Sales and Marketing. “Its quietness, comfort and connectivity were developed to set new standards in the segment, supported by technologies not offered on competitors such as the Lexus ES. It is also drop-dead gorgeous.”

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