Oct 2016
Fleet Focus – 2017 Buick LaCrosse
As GM continues the total overhaul of the Buick lineup, it’s clear that the somewhat bulky and boxy body-styles are no longer in the plans. The 2017 Buick LaCrosse is now available and has been sculpted to match these forward progressing plans.
While the 2017 LaCrosse is slightly longer, lower, lighter, and wider than the previous model, it hides the extra length and width very well due to sleek lines prevalent throughout the design. The wheelbase was extended by 2.7 inches, though the overall length is only 0.6-inch longer. This longer wheelbase, paired with the wider stance, helps to improve the overall driving experience, most notably while cornering. HID headlamps vividly illuminate the road while the LED accented head and tail lamps increase the aesthetic appeal. The hooked taillights are set below a chrome accent for an updated look to the rear.
The 2017 Buick LaCrosee comes with active grille shutters. This unique feature results in improve fuel efficiency as they automatically open and close in order to control airflow and reduce aerodynamic drag. The 3.6L V6 is also equipped with start/stop technology to aid in improving fuel economy.
The interior is extremely inviting. The simplified dash console makes for a sleek and modernized look throughout. The cleaned-up dash is in line with many modern models that are utilizing traditional knobs and buttons for climate control while mostly everything else is controlled using the touchscreen. The available ambient lighting that outlines the beautifully sculpted interior adds a modern touch to the classically designed interior. An electronic gear shift is used in place of a traditional gear shift and is yet another modernization, while it also allows for more convenient storage spaces and a cleaner look altogether.
Although Buick is working to redefine their brand, they’re not deserting some of the positive aspects that the outgoing models delivered to customers. One such feature is the high level of comfort afforded to the driver and passengers. The QuietTuning includes active noise cancelling, laminated glass, and additional acoustic materials to absorb road and engine noise. The perforated leather-appointed front seats even have a lumbar massaging feature (standard on Premium), in addition to being heated and ventilated (standard on Essence and Premium). The Premium trim level also comes standard with memory settings for both the driver seat and the exterior mirrors, in addition to a heated steering wheel.
Technological additions include available heads-up display, 4G Wi-Fi capability, and the increasingly common Apple CarPlay compatibility. The My Buick App allows you to remote start and unlock the LaCrosse, locate where you parked, and you can even send directions from your phone to the vehicle’s navigation system.
The LaCrosse has no shortage of available safety features; however, the majority of these are only available on the highest trim level (Premium). The standard safety features at this top trim level include forward-collision warning with emergency braking, lane keep assist with departure warning, auto-park assist, and adaptive cruise control. In the middle of the trim levels, the Essence has the option of blind-spot warning with lane-change alert and rear cross-traffic alert. All trim levels come standard with ten airbags.
By staying true to their core values while modernizing the look and feel of the brand, Buick has created a recipe for future success. And with a starting MSRP ranging from $32,065 to $45,060, the LaCrosse should be a significant ingredient of that recipe while appealing to a wide range of consumers.
