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- Highs Capable powertrain, comfort-tuned suspension, roomy and plush interior.
- Lows Low on driver engagement, ride may be too soft for some drivers, awkward interior storage bins.
- Verdict The LaCrosse is a handsome American sedan, with a host of standard features, that provides traditional ride and handling.
Overview
Depending on its equipment, the LaCrosse can either be a plush-riding land yacht or—thanks to an optional adaptive suspension, 20-inch wheels, and available all-wheel drive—a confident all-weather touring sedan. The LaCrosse’s standard V-6 engine is adequately muscular and does a commendable job of conserving fuel. Other large sedans in this category may be slightly roomier and cheaper, but the big Buick offers comfortable accommodations for four adults, a high-tech infotainment and connectivity suite, and sophisticated styling that won’t look out of place at the valet stand.
What's New for 2017?
Buick’s flagship sedan is all-new for 2017. It benefits from a modern chassis, a more comprehensive list of standard and optional luxury features, and the latest infotainment tech, while maintaining classically handsome styling and all-American image.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- Base: $32,990
- Preferred: $36,990
- Essence: $39,590
- Premium: $41,990
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The LaCrosse is powered by a 310-hp 3.6-liter V-6 that provides both quiet operation and effortless acceleration. An eight-speed automatic transmission shuffles gears quickly and transmits nary a shudder into the cabin. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available, although it is only available on the top-of-the-line Premium trim level. In either guise, the LaCrosse’s engine note is rich and the car feels quick, both when dashing around the city and when pulling out to pass on the freeway. Although tuned for comfort, the LaCrosse manages a surprising measure of handling prowess, especially with the available adaptive suspension system.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
A rich interior with a contemporary design gives the LaCrosse a luxurious feel compared with many rivals. Its tall dashboard with sweeping lines is covered in upscale materials including wood, faux leather, and satin-chrome trim. Comfortable, standard power-adjustable seats up front and dual-zone automatic climate control are perfect for long-distance cruising. Stepping up to the Essence trim adds heated leather seats, and the Premium’s seats are both heated and cooled. With plenty of space for a run to the airport or a lengthy road trip, the LaCrosse should suit most people’s needs, but there are rivals that simply outhaul it. Cubby storage inside the cabin is adequate but difficult to access due to hard-to-reach locations.
Infotainment and Connectivity
When it comes to connectivity, the LaCrosse has it all, and most of it is standard. The Buick IntelliLink software impressed us, not only with its intuitive menus, but also with quicker-than-average response to touchscreen commands. All models feature an 8.0-inch full-color touchscreen display that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navigation with real-time traffic and weather updates is optional on the Essence and Premium models. Otherwise, all other connectivity features are standard across the range, including a 4G LTE data connection with onboard Wi-Fi.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
For more information about the Buick LaCrosse’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
