Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL aims upmarket and almost hits target]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/2010-buick-lacrosse-cxl-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/2010-buick-lacrosse-cxl-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/2010-buick-lacrosse-cxl-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL - Click above for high-res image gallery

With great fanfare, General Motors has introduced the 2010 Buick LaCrosse, a vehicle with which the automaker hopes to jump-start a sweeping brand transformation for the tired Tri-Shield. For Buick to be a success in GM's post-bailout, post-bankruptcy era, the brand must dump its well-deserved reputation as the preferred marque of last-time buyers. (Average age of previous-model LaCrosse buyer: Around 70.) For better or worse, as it scrambles to get more - and younger - drivers behind the wheel, Buick has elected to position itself as America's Lexus in a bid to give itself some premium cachet.

Frankly, that's a pretty tall order, but if first impressions mean anything, the Buick LaCrosse might be crowned GM's savior on appearances alone, because it's that attractive, especially compared to the fish-faced namesake it replaces. The 2009-and-prior LaCrosse looks like the unfortunate love child of a third-generation Ford Taurus and a Mitsuoka Orochi. Or, put plainly, it looks like some ugly Chinese car. By comparison, the 2010 LaCrosse is classy and stylish. Therein lies the delicious irony: the 2010 Buick LaCrosse's glitzy looks were, in fact, jointly developed with GM China's design team. Go figure, and be thankful. In the metal, this ride draws plenty appreciative stares.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL aims upmarket and almost hits target

Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL aims upmarket and almost hits target originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010 buick lacrosse cxl2010BuickLacrosse2010BuickLacrosseCxlbuickbuick lacrossebuick lacrosse cxlBuickLacrosseBuickLacrosseCxlcxlfeaturedlacrosselacrosse cxlLacrosseCxlreviewreviewsTue, 27 Oct 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Buick LaCrosse and Nissan Versa latest to earn IIHS Top Safety Pick awards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/buick-lacrosse-and-nissan-versa-latest-to-earn-iihs-top-safety-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/buick-lacrosse-and-nissan-versa-latest-to-earn-iihs-top-safety-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/buick-lacrosse-and-nissan-versa-latest-to-earn-iihs-top-safety-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Buick LaCrosse - Click above for high-res image gallery

There was a time when the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety was the ball buster of safety standards, while the National Highway Traffic Safety Association gave out Five Star ratings like glitter at a gentleman's club. Times have changed and automakers have evidently picked up on what IIHS is looking for, and more and more new vehicles are receiving the top designation of "Good." To get the top score, stability control is the price of entry, and features like side curtain airbags can really help the cause. And unlike NHTSA's 35 mph impact speeds, the IIHS smacks concrete at a more impressive 40 mph.

The two newest members of the "Good" club cater to very different customers, but both have great safety chops. The 2010 Lacrosse is all-new for 2010, and the IIHS found the newest Buick very worthy in front, side and rear impact collisions. As you might expect, the Lacrosse comes standard with stability control and side curtain airbags.

The Nissan Versa has been on the market for a while now, and the 2010 subcompact has once again earned the top designation from the IIHS. The Versa scored well in front, side and rear collisions, and with optional stability control, it was able to fetch a top score.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


[Source: IIHS]

Buick LaCrosse and Nissan Versa latest to earn IIHS Top Safety Pick awards originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010 nissan versa2010BuickLacrosse2010NissanVersabuick lacrosseBuickLacrosseiihsinsurance highway safetyInsuranceHighwaySafetynhtsanissan versaNissanVersaFri, 25 Sep 2009 14:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Buick's New Tagline: "The new class of world class"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/buicks-new-tagline-the-new-class-of-world-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/buicks-new-tagline-the-new-class-of-world-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/buicks-new-tagline-the-new-class-of-world-class/#commentsFiled under: ,

2010 Buick LaCrosse - Click above for high-res image gallery

When Bob Lutz came to General Motors, he was charged with turning around the company's unimaginative product development. In Maximum Bob part deux, GM's most senior leader is turning his attention to marketing, where the Detroit automaker has been less than cutting edge. Lutz appears to be spending a lot of his time focusing on Buick, a brand turning the corner in terms of product while also simultaneously messing the bed with those awful "Take a look at me now" commercials that have drawn the praise of absolutely nobody.

Blogger Bob is set to unveil an all new marketing campaign for Buick titled "The new class of world class," which aims to sell new products like the critically acclaimed 2010 LaCrosse. Lutz has said that he wants the new commercials to better convey the design and function of the Buick lineup. He seems to like what he sees from the new spots, which have yet to be aired. Automotive News quoted Lutz as calling the spots "aggressive stuff." We're looking forward to to seeing them ourselves, as long as they don't involve an annoying guy with a bull horn and an Enclave by the pool.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd]

Buick's New Tagline: "The new class of world class" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010 lacrosse2010BuickLacrosse2010Lacrossebob lutzBobLutzbuickbuick lacrosseBuickLacrossegeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmWed, 16 Sep 2009 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[GM exercises self-love, plans to re-name Canada's Buick Allure LaCrosse after all]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/gm-exercises-self-love-plans-to-re-name-canadas-buick-allure-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/gm-exercises-self-love-plans-to-re-name-canadas-buick-allure-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/gm-exercises-self-love-plans-to-re-name-canadas-buick-allure-l/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Buick LaCrosse: Click above for high-res image gallery

When General Motors named the Chevrolet Nova, the majority of customers in America had no issues whatsoever with the spacey moniker. Spanish speaking countries were a different matter entirely, as the literal Spanish translation of "no va" is "no go." As the story goes, Chevy's Nova was less than successful south of Texas, although some analysts (armchair and otherwise) dismiss this historical naming issue as nonsense. Whether the Nova was an issue for GM or not, the automaker wasn't looking to tempt fate when the Buick LaCrosse began production in 2005. The French translation of "LaCrosse" is something along the lines of "self love" - not a flattering name for a family sedan. This being the case, the LaCrosse was renamed Allure in Canada and Buick buyers north of the border were free of ridicule and humiliation.

After careful consideration, GM has decided to ditch the Allure nameplate and instead leave the LaCrosse badging on the sedan's boot for the new 2010 model. GM Canada spokesman George Saratlic told the National Post that the decision was made to help streamline marketing costs. The feeling at GM is that Québécoise accept the name lacrosse in reference to the popular sport, so the benefits of having a consistent naming convention across North America far outweighs the negative stigma of the name.

Saratlic adds, "We do think that this will help customers learn more about the new Buick LaCrosse sedan thanks to the strengthened advertising push this will enable and that the car will have distinctly upscale characteristics that clearly define what it stands for in the market." Since we've poured precisely zero dollars into investigating the impact of the LaCrosse name in Canada, we'll take the company at its word. We would, however, suggest that Canadian LaCrosse drivers keep both hands on the wheel, at least for now.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


[Sources: National Post, Snopes]

GM exercises self-love, plans to re-name Canada's Buick Allure LaCrosse after all originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010BuickLacrossebuickbuick allurebuick lacrosseBuickAllureBuickLacrossecanadacanada allurecanada lacrosseCanadaAllureCanadaLacrosselacrosseFri, 04 Sep 2009 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[GM reportedly holding up some shipments of Buick LaCrosse over quality concerns]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/gm-reportedy-holding-up-some-shipments-of-buick-lacrosse-over-qu/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/gm-reportedy-holding-up-some-shipments-of-buick-lacrosse-over-qu/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/gm-reportedy-holding-up-some-shipments-of-buick-lacrosse-over-qu/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Buick LaCrosse - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The high-profile 2010 Buick LaCrosse, the vehicle the automaker hopes will lure younger buyers into its showroom, is being delayed a few weeks due to manufacturing quality concerns. Mark LaNeve, GM's VP of U.S. Sales, told reporters and analysts that although 300-400 cars were shipped in August, future deliveries will be halted until Buick works out the so-called "quality issues." While there was no elaboration or specifics, LaNeve added that the issues "were not serious but were enough to delay us three or four weeks while we made sure they were fixed so that our customers didn't have any problems."

Arguably the most important vehicle launched by the brand in decades, Buick is positioning its all-new LaCrosse as a serious competitor to Volvo, Lexus, and Acura. Furthermore, the mid-size luxury sedan is bait for people in their mid-40s and 50s, decidedly younger than the brand's 68-year-old median age buyer last year. Few would consider a short quality-related delay a stain on the launch of the new model. In fact, the publicity this is generating will likely help spread Buick's LaCrosse message.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Buick LaCrosse



[Source: ABC News]

GM reportedly holding up some shipments of Buick LaCrosse over quality concerns originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Sep 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 Buick LaCrosse2010BuickLacrosseBuickBuick LaCrosseBuickLacrosseDelayHoldIssuesLaCrosseQCQuality ControlQualityControlRepairThu, 03 Sep 2009 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Oldplay: Inside Line pits Buick LaCrosse against Lexus ES 350... who wins?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/02/oldplay-inside-line-pits-buick-lacrosse-against-lexus-es-350/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/02/oldplay-inside-line-pits-buick-lacrosse-against-lexus-es-350/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/02/oldplay-inside-line-pits-buick-lacrosse-against-lexus-es-350/#commentsFiled under: ,


2010 Buick LaCrosse - Click above for high-res image gallery

When it comes to isolating the two most important stats automakers consider when determining a vehicle's success or failure, the Lexus ES350 is a smash it. The stats in question are sales volume and profit, and the ES typically tops the entry-level luxury sales chart while often exceeding its competition in terms of price. Conversely, Buick has been stuck at the opposite end of the spectrum, with little in the way of product or respect - at least until recently. The well-received Enclave proved that General Motors' one-time bastard child could make competitive product, but the 2010 LaCrosse is tasked with taking on the likes of Acura and Lexus.

Inside Line was impressed enough with a LaCrosse it reviewed earlier that the online publication pitted Buick's upstart against the long dominant ES350. IL notes that the Lacrosse outweighs the ES by nearly 500 pounds, generates 2.5 fewer miles per gallon and has a .6 second slower 0-60 mph time, yet it handily bests the aging ES in nearly every category. Hit the read link below to check out the comparison. Has Buick arrived as a legitimate contender to Lexus? It's definitely too early to tell, but it looks like the division could finally be ready to put up a good fight.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


[Source: Inside Line]

Oldplay: Inside Line pits Buick LaCrosse against Lexus ES 350... who wins? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010 es3502010BuickLacrosse2010Es350edmundsinsidelinelacrosselexus eslexus es350LexusEsLexusEs350Wed, 02 Sep 2009 13:59:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Buick LaCrosse looks to breathe life into old brand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/16/first-drive-2010-buick-lacrosse-looks-to-breathe-life-into-old/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/16/first-drive-2010-buick-lacrosse-looks-to-breathe-life-into-old/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/16/first-drive-2010-buick-lacrosse-looks-to-breathe-life-into-old/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Buick LaCrosse - Click above for high-res image gallery

Make no mistake, the 2010 Buick LaCrosse is the most important vehicle launched by the brand in decades. Buick, nearly consigned to the dustbin of history a few short years ago, is now one of General Motors' four remaining "core" brands. And if it weren't for the Chinese market's love affair with the marque, there's little doubt Buick would've followed Oldsmobile into the afterlife. Instead, GM is attempting to (once again) refashion the brand as a serious competitor to Acura, Lexus and Volvo, and the LaCrosse is the opening salvo in the battle for hearts, minds and market share - not to mention pocketbooks.

Technically, the "New" Buick was born two years ago when the Enclave debuted, but in reality, that was simply a new segment for the brand. In contrast, the LaCrosse marks the initial transformation of Buick's future. CEO Fritz Henderson has stated that new Buicks (and actually all GM vehicles going forward) must be more than competitive - they must be superb. They can't merely match the competition, they have to surpass them in every quantifiable way. So the launch of the LaCrosse couldn't be more fortuitous or fraught with risk. Developed before bankruptcy, bailouts and government intervention, the LaCrosse is what GM envisioned for the future of Buick over two years ago. But is it good enough to revive the marque? Time to find out.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Buick LaCrosse looks to breathe life into old brand

First Drive: 2010 Buick LaCrosse looks to breathe life into old brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> featured first drive FirstDrive2010 buick lacrosse2010 buick lacrosse price2010 buick lacrosse pricing2010BuickLacrosse2010BuickLacrossePrice2010BuickLacrossePricingbuickbuick lacrosseBuickLacrossefeaturefeaturedfeaturesfirst driveFirstDrivelacrosseThu, 16 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Buick announces starting price of $27,835 for 2010 LaCrosse]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/08/buick-announces-starting-price-of-27-835-for-2010-lacrosse/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/08/buick-announces-starting-price-of-27-835-for-2010-lacrosse/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/08/buick-announces-starting-price-of-27-835-for-2010-lacrosse/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Buick LaCrosse - Click above for a high-res image gallery

General Motors introduced the world to the 2010 Buick LaCrosse at the Detroit Auto Show to a chorus of angels primarily positive reviews. Now, GM's finally decided it's high time to announce pricing for the entry-level luxury sedan. Base price for the 2010 LaCrosse CX is $27,835, including a $750 destination charge. That sum will net you a 3.0-liter direct injected V6 engine putting out 255 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission.

For those keeping track of such things, that's a good bit less than the starting price for the 2009 Acura TSX ($29,160), Lincoln MKZ ($32,695) and Lexus ES350 ($34,320). Sounds pretty good so far. Let's add some options. Step up to the $30,395 CXL model and you'll get heated leather seats, automatic climate control and 18" alloy rims, among other things.

All-wheel drive is available on the CXL model, starting at $32,570. A top-level LaCrosse CXS will run $33,765 and brings a 3.6-liter version of the DI V6 engine with 280 horses and 259 lb-ft or torque. Want one? Production is scheduled to begin "early this summer," which, last time we checked, was just around the corner. Full press release after the break.


Gallery: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


[Source: Buick]

Continue reading Buick announces starting price of $27,835 for 2010 LaCrosse

Buick announces starting price of $27,835 for 2010 LaCrosse originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Apr 2009 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010 buick lacrosse price2010 buick lacrosse pricing2010BuickLacrosse2010BuickLacrossePrice2010BuickLacrossePricingbuickbuick lacrossebuick lacrosse pricebuick lacrosse pricingBuickLacrosseBuickLacrossePriceBuickLacrossePricingWed, 08 Apr 2009 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Where have we heard this before? Report says future Buicks to be based on Opels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/09/where-have-we-heard-this-before-future-buicks-based-on-opels/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/09/where-have-we-heard-this-before-future-buicks-based-on-opels/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/09/where-have-we-heard-this-before-future-buicks-based-on-opels/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse

General Motors may be taking a page out of its own book as it reportedly plans to raid the Opel parts bin for future Buick models. The last time GM decided to import Opels to the United States, it did so with the Saturn brand, and we all know how well that exercise turned out.

Regardless of its past failures, it does make sense to design platforms that can be used in all of the global markets that GM has access to, and the upcoming 2010 Buick LaCrosse uses the same Epsilon II underpinnings as the latest Opel/Vauxhall Insignia. That car debuted to mostly rave reviews at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year and it proves that not all vehicles using the same platform need to be identical, as they were in large part between the Open and Saturn brands.

As noted U.S. philosopher George Santayana once famously said, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." Here's hoping that GM's been paying close attention these last few years.


Gallery: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Where have we heard this before? Report says future Buicks to be based on Opels originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010BuickLacrossebuickbuick lacrossebuick opelBuickLacrosseBuickOpelepsilon 2epsilon iiEpsilon2EpsilonIiGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsgmopelopel insigniaOpelInsigniaMon, 09 Mar 2009 16:26:00 EST<![CDATA[GM to make new Buick in Germany?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/28/gm-to-make-new-buick-in-germany/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/28/gm-to-make-new-buick-in-germany/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/28/gm-to-make-new-buick-in-germany/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the Chinese-spec Buick Regal

GM might make a swap in its European production plans, shifting Buick assembly to Opel and Saab assembly to Sweden. Names of the models in question haven't been mentioned, but the Opel Insignia, Chinese-spec Buick Regal and coming Saab 9-5 are all built on GM's Epsilon II platform.

The original plan was to produce the Saab 9-5 in Sweden, and Saab has been studying the Trollhatten factory's viability for the task. Factory representatives at the Russelsheim plant have also been lobbying for more cars to produce, thinking the operation underutilized, and they would certainly be building more Buicks than Saabs. And if other rumors are correct, it would keep siblings that GM plans to bring closer together - Opel and Buick - under the same roof.

The swap, which would mean not building any new Saabs in Germany, would also send 9-3 production to Sweden. Sending 9-5 production there as well could also be seen as another step in extricating Saab from GM's web to assist in efforts to find a buyer for the brand.

Gallery: 2009 Chinese-spec Buick Regal


[Source: Reuters]

GM to make new Buick in Germany? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010BuickLacrosse9-5buickbuick lacrosseBuickLacrosseeuroeuropegmlacrossemanufacturingopelplantsproductionrusselsheimsaabsaab 9-5Saab9-5Wed, 28 Jan 2009 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: 2010 Buick LaCrosse [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/detroit-2009-2010-buick-lacrosse-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/detroit-2009-2010-buick-lacrosse-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/detroit-2009-2010-buick-lacrosse-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click image above for live photos of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse from Detroit

While the outgoing Buick LaCrosse featured one distinct superpower -- invisibility -- the 2010 iteration could be a savior for the brand. With classy sheetmetal that will probably remind you of the Buick Invicta concept, vastly improved interior materials, and an all-new powertrain, the 2010 LaCrosse should compete better with cars like the Lexus ES350 and the Lincoln MKS. Powered by either a 260 hp, 3.0L direct injected V6 or a 280-hp 3.6L, it should offer performance to match its portholed good looks.

We actually took a close look at this new LaCrosse a couple of weeks ago, and you can see that video and review by clicking here, but for now we've added a new live gallery from Detroit and posted the press release after the jump. There's also some new video to see of the unveiling. Hit the jump to view the live press video for yourself, and if you'd like to read our extensive preview of Buick's newest sedan, click here.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


Gallery: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Detroit 2009: 2010 Buick LaCrosse [w/VIDEO]

Detroit 2009: 2010 Buick LaCrosse [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 16:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010 lacrosse2010BuickLacrosse2010Lacrossebuick lacrosseBuickLacrossedetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShownaiasnaias 2009Naias2009Sun, 11 Jan 2009 16:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Preview: 2010 Buick LaCrosse breaks cover]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/08/detroit-preview-2010-buick-lacrosse-breaks-cover/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/08/detroit-preview-2010-buick-lacrosse-breaks-cover/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/08/detroit-preview-2010-buick-lacrosse-breaks-cover/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse

If the car you see here looks somewhat familiar, it should. It appeared in concept form at last spring's Beijing Motor Show as the Buick Invicta concept. At the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, the Invicta becomes the 2010 Buick LaCrosse. Like many recent examples, the Invicta was a less a concept than a very mildly disguised version of the upcoming production car. Just before the Christmas break, General Motors gave the media a preview of the new production LaCrosse in the design dome at the company's tech center in Warren, MI.

GM North America VP for Buick-Pontiac-GMC Susan Docherty, global mid-size car vehicle line executive Jim Federico, and Buick brand character chief designer Dave Lyon provided a run-down for us on the new LaCrosse. The mid-size Buick is the first North American market application of the revised Epsilon II architecture that debuted last summer as the basis of the Euro-only Opel Insignia. Follow the jump and we'll tell you all about it.

Gallery: 2010 Buick LaCrosse - LIVE


Gallery: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Detroit Preview: 2010 Buick LaCrosse breaks cover

Detroit Preview: 2010 Buick LaCrosse breaks cover originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010BuickLacrossebuick lacrosseBuickLacrossedetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowepsilon 2epsilon iiepsilon2EpsilonIiepsilonplatformfeaturedThu, 08 Jan 2009 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Details on new Buick LaCrosse emerge, new DI 3.0L V6 added]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/30/details-on-new-buick-lacrosse-emerge-new-di-3-0l-v6-added/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/30/details-on-new-buick-lacrosse-emerge-new-di-3-0l-v6-added/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/30/details-on-new-buick-lacrosse-emerge-new-di-3-0l-v6-added/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of Buick LaCrosse spy shots

Judging from spy pics we've seen of the upcoming 2010 Buick LaCrosse, General Motors may have a winner on its hands, even if it is getting delayed. If specs from GM Inside News are accurate, Buick's new midsize sedan will have significant new powertrains, too. The big news comes from an all-new 3.0L, direct-inject V6 engine based on the larger 3.6L VVT powerplant that the General uses now. The small-displacement V6 packs some serious punch at 250 hp, and will be mated to the automaker's new 6T70 six-speed transmission for improved efficiency. The new 3.0L engine is likely to achieve a significant fuel economy gain over the 3.6, with highway economy estimated at close to 30 mpg. The new LaCrosse will also feature the same 3.6L powerplant that underpins the Chevy Traverse, with direct injection and an estimated 290 hp.

Other details about the new LaCrosse include HID headlamps, a heads-up display, rear view camera and all-wheel-drive. We haven't received any details on the AWD system, but we're guessing it will be the same unit that currently drives all four wheels of the new Saab 9-3X. We're looking forward to getting more details on the Buick LaCrosse, and when we do, you'll be the first to know.

Gallery: 2010 Buick LaCrosse - spy shots II


[Source: GM Inside News]

Details on new Buick LaCrosse emerge, new DI 3.0L V6 added originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010BuickLacrosse3.0L DI v63.0lDiV6buick lacrosseBuickLacrosseThu, 30 Oct 2008 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2010 Buick LaCrosse caught with little camo plus interior]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/19/spy-shotss-2010-buick-lacrosse-little-camo-plus-interior/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/19/spy-shotss-2010-buick-lacrosse-little-camo-plus-interior/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/19/spy-shotss-2010-buick-lacrosse-little-camo-plus-interior/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res spy shot gallery of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse

Let's forget about the Pontiac G3 for now and focus on what General Motors is doing right. Case in point is the upcoming 2010 Buick LaCrosse, which has just been caught undergoing testing wearing very little camouflage. We can clearly see now that Buick designers drew heavily on the Invicta concept for inspiration. Even the concept's character line remains that kinks just ahead of the rear wheels to create a smooth arch over the rear fenders.

Photographers actually caught two LaCrosse models out testing, one of which showed a clean rear bumper and the other was brandishing two large, rectangular tailpipes and wearing demonstrably larger wheels. They even managed to snag a clear shot of the interior that shows an impressive dash design with what appears to be very high quality materials like a double-stitched leather dash and real wood accents.

Thankfully, the 2010 Buick LaCrosse looks like a winner along the lines of the Cadillac CTS and even Buick's own Enclave. It may even add ammunition to the argument that GM can build a world-class car when it wants to, but we'll wait until we see one in person and get some seat time to make our final judgment.

Gallery: 2010 Buick LaCrosse - spy shots II


[Source: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: 2010 Buick LaCrosse caught with little camo plus interior originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Sep 2008 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010BuickLacrossebreakingbuickbuick lacrosseBuickLacrosselacrosselacrosse spy picslacrosse spy shotsLacrosseSpyPicsLacrosseSpyShotsspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsFri, 19 Sep 2008 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: GM releases teaser pic of 2010 Buick Lacrosse]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/la-preview-gm-releases-teaser-pic-of-2010-buick-lacrosse/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/la-preview-gm-releases-teaser-pic-of-2010-buick-lacrosse/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/la-preview-gm-releases-teaser-pic-of-2010-buick-lacrosse/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to enlarge

Oh sure, we've already shown you spy shots of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse that reveal the kit and kaboodle, but don't let that take away from GM's release of a teaser shot showing the upcoming sedan's new grille. Along with the pic, GM confirmed that the new LaCrosse will debut at the upcoming LA Auto Show in November. We'll be there to cover the reveal, as this smallest of Buick sedans (for now) will be a big player in the brand's future success. It's nice and all to have a critically acclaimed full-size crossover in the Enclave, but more and more buyers are moving away from big CUVs into smaller vehicles at the moment, and Buick hopes they'll move right into the new LaCrosse.

[Source: GM]

LA Preview: GM releases teaser pic of 2010 Buick Lacrosse originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Aug 2008 15:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010BuickLacrossebreakingbuickbuick lacrosseBuickLacrosselacrosseMon, 25 Aug 2008 15:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2010 Buick LaCrosse caught completely uncovered]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/08/spy-shots-2010-buick-lacrosse-caught-completely-uncovered/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/08/spy-shots-2010-buick-lacrosse-caught-completely-uncovered/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/08/spy-shots-2010-buick-lacrosse-caught-completely-uncovered/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Though the newish Buick Enclave has received plenty of accolades, it's the right vehicle at the wrong time for GM's smallest brand. The other two vehicles in Buick's lineup - the LaCrosse mid-size sedan and Lucerne large sedan - might better appeal to gas-conscious buyers than a large CUV, but they're far from leaders in their segment. A new LaCrosse, however, will reportedly be arriving as a 2010 model. Car and Driver just published these spy shots of a pre-production model caught with its camouflage pants down, and they reveal its design will borrow heavily from the Invicta Concept that was revealed at this year's Beijing Motor Show. That's not a bad thing, as the Invicta is a fetching sedan that went over well with the Chinese crowds. And while we could be mislead by the grainy quality of these spy shots, we swear there are two rows of portholes on the hood.

The '10 LaCrosse will likely arrive atop GM's Epsilon II platform that also underpins the upcoming Insignia and will next find its way to the '11 Saturn Aura and '12 Chevy Malibu. Engine choices are anyone's guess, but don't expect another V8 Super model. We guess the next-gen LaCrosse will get a smattering of four- and six-cylinder engines, the smaller of which could employ turbocharging and direct injection. Also check out C&D's pics of the new LaCrosse interior, which looks like a smaller version of a Cadillac CTS interior. Since we know have pictorial evidence of preproduction prototypes this far along, it's safe to assume that Buick will debut the 2010 LaCrosse during the upcoming auto show season. Our bet's on January debut at the Detroit Auto Show.

Gallery: Beijing '08: Buick Invicta Concept


[Source: Caranddriver.com via Jalopnik]

Spy Shots: 2010 Buick LaCrosse caught completely uncovered originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Aug 2008 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010BuickLacrossebuickbuick lacrossebuick lacrosse spy picsbuick lacrosse spy s...BuickLacrosseBuickLacrosseSpyPicsBuickLacrosseSpyS...lacrossespy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsFri, 08 Aug 2008 16:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2010 Buick LaCrosse]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/27/spy-shots-2010-buick-lacrosse/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/27/spy-shots-2010-buick-lacrosse/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/27/spy-shots-2010-buick-lacrosse/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above image for more spy shots of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse

Despite a heavy rotation of security guards protecting the identity of this test car, Priddy photographer Chris Doane managed to snap it during one of one its brief public outings in an undisclosed location. It's the 2010 Buick LaCrosse, a car that's extremely important for Buick, which is down to a lineup of just three vehicles (LaCrosse, Lucerne and Enclave). It's also an important car for GM, as the 2010 LaCrosse will be the first vehicle sold in the U.S. on the new Epsilon II platform, a chassis that will eventually underpin the next generation Saturn Aura and Chevy Malibu. But Buick's getting the new platform first, and will no doubt make a splash with this all-new vehicle when it arrives in 2009 and a 2010 model.

Though heavily covered, we can see through the mesh obscuring the front end to see a grille not unlike the one worn by the Enclave CUV. With the Enclave enjoying critical acclaim and sales success, it's no surprise that Buick will be trying to repeat the formula in its mid-size sedan. Also note the roof, which is dominated by an oversized sunroof with two sections.

We're unsure what engine was powering this test vehicle, but dual exhaust pipes hint at something hot. While it could be a V8, we're betting it's the 3.6L V6, most likely with direct injection. In the new Cadillac CTS, this engine puts out over 300 HP. Doane reported the test car was plenty quick, so this scenario seems likely, but expect the 3.6L DI V6 to be detuned a bit for duty in the LaCrosse. Can't have a FWD Buick encroaching on the territory of Cadillac's RWD sport sedan, now can we?

[Source: Chris Doane for Brenda Priddy & Company]

Gallery: 2010 Buick LaCrosse - spy shots

Spy Shots: 2010 Buick LaCrosse originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010BuickLacrossebreakingbuickbuick lacrossebuick lacrosse spy picsbuick lacrosse spy shotsBuickLacrosseBuickLacrosseSpyPicsBuickLacrosseSpyShotslacrosseThu, 27 Sep 2007 12:26:00 EST