An evolution of the current LaCrosse, this mid-cycle refresh doesn't bring with it any major structural or powertrain changes. However, the the big sedan has been treated to a simplified, more elegant exterior design that's reminiscent of the automaker's smaller Buick Verano. The now-trademark waterfall grille Buick reintroduced to its cars a while back is larger and more expressive than before, and it's newly flanked by LED running lamps and optional HID headlamps.
Inside, the look is again more contemporary and simple than before. Gone is the outgoing model's button-heavy center stack. An eight-inch touch screen system is used for Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system and another eight-inch screen is now included in the instrument cluster.
Functionally, the interior gains four-way adjustable headrests and revised seats plus repositioned window and lock controls on the door panels. Taking a page from the Buick Enclave full-size crossover, the LaCrosse's interior will be offered in four trim combinations: light neutral/cocoa (in cloth or leather), ebony (again in cloth or leather), Â choccachino, a rich mocha offered only with leather seats and a special sangria shade (pictured) included with a new Ultra Luxury Package.
That package brings with it semi-aniline leather on the seats, center console armrest and door armrests. Additionally, it adds synthetic suede to the headliner and door pillars.Â
On the safety front, LaCrosse gains radar and camera-based safety technologies including a forward collision alert system, adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation braking (which applies the brakes to reduce the risk of an impending impact).Â
Powertrain options
Buick says that some suspension revisions should give the 2014 a better ride and improved handling.
As before, a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with the automaker's eAssist mild hybrid system is standard. Rated at 182 horsepower, the system includes a trunk-mounted battery that both powers the vehicle at a complete stop and provides some performance assistance during acceleration. Unlike full hybrids, the LaCrosse cannot be driven on electric power alone.
A 3.6-liter, 304-horsepower V6 remains optional, as does all-wheel-drive. Six-speed automatics are standard across the line.
Buick has not released fuel economy figures for the 2014 models.Â
All LaCrosses use electric power steering, while V6 models equipped with the optional Touring Package include four-way adjustable shock absorbers. That package also brings with it Buick's HiPer front strut system that reduces torque steer (pulling to one side under hard acceleration).Â
Buick says to expect the updated LaCrosse in its showrooms this summer.Â
Live images by Mark Elias.
