There’s a completely redesigned Buick LaCrosse sedan coming up for 2017, and GM today gave us a preview ahead of the official premiere at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show in November.
Actually, all we have is a picture of the front grille, but the automaker says the new LaCrosse borrows many design cues from the Avenir concept, which debuted in Detroit earlier this year.
Look at the new, three-colour tri-shield insignia set on a wing-shaped element. Contrasting with darkened waterfall grille bars and spanning the width of the opening, it connects the grille and headlamps, and emphasizes LaCrosse’s new sculptural surfacing. The chassis, meanwhile, is lighter and stiffer than the outgoing model’s.
“The Avenir concept shattered expectations of what a Buick could be and the 2017 LaCrosse promises to do the same,” said Mike Speranzini, brand director of Buick in Canada. “Its expressive design represents a break from convention and highlights the progressiveness in all new Buick models.”
New technologies such as a five-link rear suspension will contribute to a more responsive ride, GM claims, and it’s a premium feature not found on many other full-size luxury models, including the Lexus ES.
Other than the new grille, the Buick Avenir concept stood out with 21” alloy wheels, full LED exterior lighting, a next-generation, direct-injected V6 engine with fuel-saving Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation), and a 9-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
With regard to infotainment, Buick designers pushed the Avenir’s technologies for home integration, allowing access to home security cameras or the capability of turning on outside lights and closing a garage door that was inadvertently left open. Personal connectivity extended to rear-seat passengers, where USB ports and video screens allowed occupants to plug in to their favourite media and slip into complete relaxation.
How many of these features will be found in the 2017 Buick LaCrosse? We’ll have to wait until the Los Angeles Auto Show… or maybe a bit sooner.
