Speaking of the road, under the power-operated hood that incidentally opens from the side, resides a 265-horsepower, 4.2-L version of GM's premium V8 adorned with Buick branding, currently found in the Oldsmobile Aurora. It connects to an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission. This is a high-tech aluminum block and head engine, with chain-driven double overhead camshafts and 4-valve combustion chambers.
Handling should be good too. Its 21-inch bi-metallic wheels enwrapped in Michelin run-flat tires are attached to a 4-wheel independent suspension. Braking comes via Brembo 4-wheel antilock discs.
Details aside the LaCrosse presents interesting possibilities. Unlike GM's El Camino, a car-based pick-up sold during the 70s and 80s, the new concept offers the styling and convenience of a 5-seat sedan while mixing in pick-up truck functionality, for when you just happen to find that perfect antique dining suite at a garage sale.
But still, this is a dream car not a reality. Why get us all excited? GM states that the LaCrosse's technological advancements will soon be practical for regular production. After all, it was created basically on the architecture of Buick's 2000 Park Avenue luxury sedan so production wouldn't be too much of a stretch. Its structural reinforcements in the roof arches and door sills are also designed with safety in mind, despite the car's open body design. Cross-car beams strengthen the front portion of the roof as well as the load floor between the rear wheels. No less than eight airbags are located throughout the cabin to help protect against injury in a collision - specifically two up front in the dash, one on each side of both front and rear seats and one in each roof rail.