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[REPORT: GM considering boosting production of four hot sellers: Camaro, Equinox, Lacrosse and SRX]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/report-gm-considering-boosting-production-of-four-hot-sellers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/report-gm-considering-boosting-production-of-four-hot-sellers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/report-gm-considering-boosting-production-of-four-hot-sellers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2010 Chevy Camaro - Click above for high-res image gallery

Good news has been in short supply for General Motors so far this year, but increased demand for its new products shows that the worst of times may be in the rear view mirror. Automotive News is reporting that GM may increase production of four new vehicles due to heavy demand. The new-for-2010 Chevy Equinox and Camaro, Cadillac SRX and Buick LaCrosse are reportedly under consideration. Equinox sales are so brisk (13,157 sales in August) that GM is considering adding production of the efficient crossover at a second plant. Expanding Equinox production could also happen if GM adds a third shift to its CAMI facility in Ontario.

One reason for the potential production increases stems from this summer's Cash for Clunkers bonanza. Inventory is now so low for many vehicles that a bump in production is inevitable. GM spokesman Tom Wilkinson reportedly told AN that the company knew it would have to eventually bump production and that its new products have done the best job of outstripping demand. GM is likely hoping that these fresh faces are hot enough that a sustained production bump is necessary, which may mean that some laid off employees could be called back to work.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Chevy Camaro


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: GM considering boosting production of four hot sellers: Camaro, Equinox, Lacrosse and SRX originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 camaro2010 equinox2010 lacrosse2010 srx2010Camaro2010Equinox2010Lacrosse2010Srxbuickbuick lacrosseBuickLacrossecadillaccadillac srxCadillacSrxcamarochevychevy camarochevy equinoxChevyCamaroChevyEquinoxequinoxgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmgm salesGmSalessrxThu, 17 Sep 2009 10:00:00 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.

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Susan Docherty, General Manager of Buick and GMC, recently made some time available for a General Motors Fastlane blog webchat to discuss the futures of her brands. Stating plainly that "every new product we launch must be a home run. No second chances," indicates that at least some GM employees realize that the automaker is not going to coast through this latest crisis of consumer confidence. The stakes are make-or-break for the company, and initial feedback from the new LaCrosse has been very positive, but Buick can't survive with a lone great product. Chat participants lobbed questions about what's coming, and the answers reveal a hopeful, and hopefully well-executed, future.

Firstly, as great a car as it is, the Pontiac G8 is not going to slide over to Buick as a Grand National or something else. While Docherty herself cited the GN as one of her favorite Buicks ever, Pontiac is clearly in hospice, clutching a DNR. What will be coming are two new sedans - both junior to the LaCrosse - which will eventually top the sedan line at the Tri-Shield. One of the new sedans will be a compact, likely based on the new Opel Astra, while the other is headed for midsize waters, probably as the Regal.

Perhaps more exciting for those wishing to see a sportier Buick, intimations that a Riviera coupe may show up. "It would be a nice addition" says Docherty, though it's doubtlessly more important for GM to get its bread-and-butter squared away without getting distracted by a spicier coupe and its almost certainly smaller sales projections. Still, a Camaro-underpinned two-door Buick with classically gorgeous styling would certainly generate attention, wouldn't it? Ah, we can dream...

[GM Fastlane blog]

GM's Docherty says 'No' to Pontiac G8-based Buick Grand National, promises two more sedans originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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[Buick planning to carefully control supplies of LaCrosse and other models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/19/buick-planning-to-carefully-control-supplies-of-lacrosse-and-oth/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/19/buick-planning-to-carefully-control-supplies-of-lacrosse-and-oth/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/19/buick-planning-to-carefully-control-supplies-of-lacrosse-and-oth/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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

Now that the new General Motors has been born out of the ashes of what's now Motors Liquidation Corp., management wants to avoid some of its past mistakes. One of those was letting inventory get out of control, requiring huge incentives to move the metal. That necessary evil was needed generate enough revenue to pay the bills every month, something that became impossible to do over the past year. This time around, GM plans to proactively limit production to prevent oversupply.

Traditionally, the goal has been to have a 60-day supply of a car on dealer lots. This level provides a good balance between minimal stock and having enough vehicles to allow customers to find the one they want and make a quick sale. During the launch drive of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse last week, Buick-GMC VP Susan Docherty explained that her plan is to have no more than 75 to 90 days of total supply of any model, and this particular statement has generated some confusion. Bloomberg reports this as 75 to 90 days of dealer inventory, an undesirably high figure.

In fact, after Docherty first stated that number, Motor Trend's Todd Lassa immediately asked her for further clarification. Docherty then explained to a group of journalists, including this blogger, that the 75-to-90-day supply number refers to total supply, including cars on dealer lots plus cars in transit and cars at the factory awaiting shipment. Thus, the actual corresponding dealer inventory number is really 45 to 60 days. Industry publications such as Automotive News typically report only the smaller dealer inventory numbers, not the total supply figure Docherty referred to in her media presentation.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


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

[Sources: Bloomberg, Buick]

Buick planning to carefully control supplies of LaCrosse and other models originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 19 Jul 2009 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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[Autoblog Podcast #133]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/24/autoblog-podcast-133/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/24/autoblog-podcast-133/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/24/autoblog-podcast-133/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!


The dynamic duo of Chris and Sam carry off Episode #133 of the Autoblog Podcast without a hitch. Though down a man, the pair didn't cheap out on topics or duration, it's the same podcast goodness. It kicks off with Hyundai's impressive showing in the recently released Initial Quality Survey results. From there, they hit Chrysler's RWD/FWD dilemma with its Sebring/Avenger replacement, the rumor that Mustangs could have had IRS for $100 per car, and reports of an Ecotec engine for the Buick LaCrosse. Keeping it on the Buick tip, spyshots of a Tri-Shield variant of the new 2010 Astra get mentioned. The nullification of all pre-bankruptcy liability claims against GM and Chrysler is next before talk settles briefly on Hyundai's 2010-on lineup and then turns to your questions. It almost seems like the Chris and Sam show is a juggernaut without that other guy. Thanks for listening, and please, keep your questions and comments rolling in to Podcast at Autoblog dot com.

In our ongoing efforts to promote and direct the Podcast, please fill out our quick survey so we can snag the best sponsors for your favorite listening experience!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #133

Autoblog Podcast #133 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcastautoblog podcast 133AutoblogPodcastAutoblogPodcast133buick astrabuick ecotecbuick lacrosseBuickAstraBuickEcotecBuickLacrossechryslerchrysler 200cchrysler bankruptchrysler bankruptcychrysler bankruptcy approvedchrysler liabilitychrysler sebringChrysler200cChryslerBankruptChryslerBankruptcyChryslerBankruptcyApprovedChryslerLiabilityChryslerSebringfeaturedgm bankruptcygm liabilityGmBankruptcyGmLiabilityhyundaihyundai 2011hyundai iqshyundai lineuphyundai qualityhyundai sonataHyundai2011HyundaiIqsHyundaiLineupHyundaiQualityHyundaiSonatapodcastpodcast 133Podcast133podcastsWed, 24 Jun 2009 13:29:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #133Autoblog64:00autoblog, autoblog podcast, podcast, autoblog podcast 133<![CDATA[Four Play: GM confirms 2010 Buick LaCrosse will be available with 2.4-liter Ecotec I4]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/four-play-gm-confirms-2010-buick-lacrosse-will-be-available-wit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/four-play-gm-confirms-2010-buick-lacrosse-will-be-available-wit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/four-play-gm-confirms-2010-buick-lacrosse-will-be-available-wit/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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

General Motors has announced that its new 2010 Buick LaCrosse will be available with its fuel-sipping 2.4-liter Ecotec four-cylinder. Equipped with the direct injected engine and paired with the sedan's standard six-speed automatic, GM says the combination should deliver 30 mpg on the highway and 20 mpg in town.

It will be interesting to see if the 182 horsepower, 172 pound-foot of torque inline-four will be able to effectively motivate a car of the LaCrosse's size, but either way, plugging the capable engine in the Buick ought to give GM a unique selling point against V6-only competitors like the Lincoln MKZ.

Buick says it expects about 25% of LaCrosse buyers will check the four-cylinder box at purchase time. Check out the official press verbiage after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Buick LaCrosse - LIVE


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Four Play: GM confirms 2010 Buick LaCrosse will be available with 2.4-liter Ecotec I4

Four Play: GM confirms 2010 Buick LaCrosse will be available with 2.4-liter Ecotec I4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BuickBuick LaCrossebuick sedanBuickLacrosseBuickSedanEcotechfour-cylinderGMLacrosseMon, 22 Jun 2009 13:57:00 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.

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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[320-hp, twin-turbo Opel Insignia spied ahead of Geneva debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/28/320hp-twin-turbo-opel-insignia-spied-ahead-of-geneva-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/28/320hp-twin-turbo-opel-insignia-spied-ahead-of-geneva-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/28/320hp-twin-turbo-opel-insignia-spied-ahead-of-geneva-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

General Motors' Opel division has been hard at work on a performance version of its hot new Insignia, the reigning European Car of the Year, and the first spy shot - probably snapped on someone's camera phone - has surfaced online. To be sold as the Vauxhall Insignia VXR in the UK and as the Opel Insignia OPC in Europe, the car is reported to have lapped the vaunted Nürburgring Nordschleife in a hair over eight minutes, which is a blistering fast time for a relatively large hatch.

The hot Insignia evidently wears big 20-inch wheels with concave dark spokes and chrome accents, wrapped in 255/35 R20 rubber and capped by bulging wheel arches. All four contact patches are in use to put down the anticipate 320 horsepower from the twin-turbo V6, while big air vents borrowed from the sharp-lookin' Opel GTC Concept help the drivetrain get the wind it needs. Hatchback, sedan and wagon variants are all expected to be part of the mix. We're hoping to see this bad boy in pre-production preview form this March at the Geneva Motor Show, with the full production version to follow in the Spring at the Frankfurt Auto Show. But more than that, we're quietly hoping to see it Stateside as the successor to the V8-powered Buick LaCrosse Super (known as the Allure in Canada due to a certain unsavory Quebecois slang conflict). We can hope, can't we?

[Source: EVO via AutoExpress]

320-hp, twin-turbo Opel Insignia spied ahead of Geneva debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buick Lacrossebuick lacrosse superBuickLacrosseBuickLacrosseSuperopel insigniaopel insignia opcOpelInsigniaOpelInsigniaOpcvauxhall insigniavauxhall insignia vxrVauxhallInsigniaVauxhallInsigniaVxrWed, 28 Jan 2009 14:29:00 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.

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Click above to watch video after the jump

The current Buick LaCrosse is one of those cars that passes you on the road and you don't even notice it. GM and the Buick design team are looking to remedy that situation with the 2010 LaCrosse. Classy sheet metal, vastly improved interior materials, and an all-new powertrain will help the new LaCrosse compete with the likes of the Lexus ES350 and the Lincoln MKS. A 260 hp, 3.0L direct injected V6 and a 3.6L powerplant that outputs 280 ponies means the new LaCrosse will also be able to compete on performance and efficiency as well.

We had the opportunity to talk with several of the people responsible for the new LaCrosse, and we had cameras rolling so you could get in on the conversation. Hit the jump to view the video for yourself, and if you'd like to read our extensive preview of Buick's newest sedan, click here.

Gallery: 2010 Buick LaCrosse - LIVE

Continue reading VIDEO: 2010 Buick LaCrosse inside and out

VIDEO: 2010 Buick LaCrosse inside and out originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 lacrosse2010Lacrossebuick lacrosseBuickLacrossedetroit 2009Detroit2009direct injectionDirectInjectionhaldex awdHaldexAwdThu, 08 Jan 2009 12:30:00 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.

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Click above for a high-res gallery of 2010 LaCrosse spy shots

Small(er) is the new big as far as Buick's concerned. With the precipitous sales falloff of full-sized cars, Buick's putting its chips on the mid-sized 2010 LaCrosse, which will go on sale in the U.S. and in China. That leaves the full-size Lucerne in terminal orbit; built on GM's G Platform, Buick has no plans to redesign it, and no plans to replace it with the Park Avenue, which goes straight from its Holden assembly line in Australia to a port in China.

The LaCrosse will aim at the U.S. premium mid-size buyers and be the first domestic entrant on GM's new global mid-size platform. While it can fit both four- and six-cylinder engines, the pick of the litter will probably be the all-new 3.0-liter direct-injection V6. To give it a serious chance as an import fighter, the LaCrosse will also receive features like a heads-up display and all-wheel-drive. We'll be bringing you the full story on the car that will be Buick's spearhead from next month's Detroit Auto Show, so stay tuned.

Gallery: 2010 Buick LaCrosse - spy shots II


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Buick to invest in LaCrosse, let Lucerne dodder toward oblivion originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Dec 2008 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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.

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