The Buick LaCrosse was axed four years ago in North America but it continues to soldier on in China and has just been thoroughly overhauled for a new generation. This is our first time seeing it in the flesh, courtesy of images from China.
The design of the new LaCrosse is a dramatic departure from the previous model. This is immediately evident from the front where the conventional headlights have been replaced by sharp LED units with angular daytime running lights and main headlamp units that extend down the fascia. Buick’s designers have also completely redesigned the LaCrosse’s front grille so it now looks more similar in shape to those of the new Buick Electra 5 EV and facelifted Encore GX also recently previewed in the People’s Republic – though, we won’t blame you if see some 5th gen Toyota Avalon in there too.
Thorough revisions have also been made to the rear of the LaCrosse. These include new LED taillights with a prominent light bar and a piece of chrome trim connecting them. New dual exhausts are also featured, as is a black diffuser area.
Read: Buick Channels Electra-X Concept For Stretched And Facelifted Encore GX In China
Technical specifications released about the new Buick sedan reveal that it is 4,996 mm (196.6 inches) long, 1,866 mm (73.4 inches) wide, and sits 1,472 mm (57.9 inches) tall. It also has a wheelbase of 2,905 mm (114.3 inches). This means it is 30 mm (1.1 inches) shorter than the outgoing model but equally as wide and rocking the same wheelbase.
In China, the new Buick LaCrosse will be sold standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that pumps out 237 hp. This engine is expected to be coupled to a 9-speed automatic transmission. It should sip approximately 6.5/100 km (36.1 mpg) over the combined cycle.
The new Buick LaCrosse will launch in China next year but it is not yet known when prospective buyers will have their first opportunity to see it in the flesh.
