Buick LaCrosse: A Tale of Two Sedans
The all-new, third-generation 2017 Buick LaCrosse is a near-luxury full-size sedan that features base, Preferred, Essence, and Premium trims.

2017 Buick LaCrosse

2017 Buick LaCrosse
The all-new, third-generation 2017 Buick LaCrosse is both a near-luxury full-size sedan and a super-deluxe road mansion.
Let’s start with features the base, Preferred, Essence, and Premium trims have in common. The entire LaCrosse lineup rides on General Motors’ lightweight P2XX platform (shared with the Chevrolet Impala) and is powered by a 3.6-liter V-6 (shared with the Cadillac XT5 and GMC Acadia).
The prior generation’s eAssist mild hybrid was discontinued, but thanks to fuel-saving measures such as automatic stop/start and a feature that shuts down two cylinders under low demand, the combined fuel rating is up from 22 miles per gallon (mpg) to 25.
The base model also includes a new, eight-speed automatic transmission, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility, sound-deadening measures and acoustic glass, 18-inch wheels, HID headlamps, and LED running lights and taillights.

Specs for the 2017 Buick LaCrosse.
The Preferred trim brings more exterior color options plus satellite radio, power adjustable steering wheel, polished alloy wheels, and a cargo net — for about $4,000. The Essence includes all of the above plus a panoramic sunroof, leather, heated front seats with driver memory, and an optional Driver Confidence package that features blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross traffic detection with audio alerts.
The real excitement begins at the top of the lineup, where the Premium edition comes with all of the above plus heated steering wheel, massage chairs, head-up display, and forward collision alert. Premium buyers can also add magnetic ride control suspension with 20-inch wheels ($1,625); adaptive cruise, auto braking, and automatic park assist ($1,690); and all-wheel drive ($2,200), which drops the combined mpg to 23.
The base LaCrosse competes with the Nissan Maxima and the Toyota Avalon; the completely decked-out Premium puts it firmly in Acura TLX and Lexus ES 350 territory. With its super-quiet ride and a sleek, sophisticated, and somewhat understated design, the LaCrosse holds a competitive edge over the entire group.
Better yet, Buick’s engineers were able to add 2.6 inches between the wheels, most of which can be found in the rear legroom, and bumped the outgoing model’s much derided trunk from 13.3 cubic feet to 15.0.
Fleet buyers who are in the market for a new executive sedan would be wise to include the new LaCrosse on their demo lists. It is in showrooms now, with starting MSRPs ranging from $32,065 to $44,190 for Premium with all-wheel drive.
Originally posted on Work Truck Online
More Vehicle Research

Mid-Atlantic Advanced Transportation Summit to Explore Fleet Fuels, Infrastructure, and Transportation Innovation
Fleet Forward Conference expands collaboration with Clean Cities organizations as part of a broader effort to connect fleet leaders with emerging transportation technologies and strategies.
Read More →
America's 250th Birthday: Vehicles That Kept the Country Moving Over the Years
As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, Automotive Fleet looks back at 11 vehicles that helped shape commercial transportation.
Read More →
Can AI Really Make Fleet Drivers Safer?
Chris Brown and Wheels rep David Glines discuss how AI is reshaping safety for fleet drivers.
Read More →
GMC Previews Redesigned 2027 Sierra 1500 with New V8 Engines, Expanded Technology
The next-generation Sierra arrives later this year with new powertrains, a fully redesigned cabin, and trims aimed at the premium end of the full-size pickup segment.
Read More →
Slate Debuts Colorful, Unique EV Models
A recent media and client event, studded with electric vehicles dressed up on platforms, planted a new position for the manufacturer in the wider EV market. Fleets will find cost-saving advantages.
Read More →
Slate Electric SUV, Pickup Switchable Model Aims For Light-Duty Fleets
Everything about this EV is counterintuitive and understated, making it stand out from the crowd.
Read More →
Polestar Barred from U.S. Market Under Connected Vehicle Rule
The automaker loses its authorization to sell new vehicles in the U.S., starting with the 2027 model year. Polestar owners will retain access to the brand's service network.
Read More →
2027 Nissan Frontier Adds Sport Edition Package, New Features
Sport Edition joins the lineup with PRO-4X-inspired styling and off-road-oriented equipment; Frontier starts at $32,490.
Read More →
Chevrolet Brings Duramax Diesel to Work Truck Trim in Next-Generation 2027 Silverado 1500
The 2027 Silverado 1500 adds Duramax diesel availability to the Work Truck trim, introduces two new V-8 engines, and standardizes a 16.3-inch center display across all trims. Pricing and specifications are pending.
Read More →
Recalls, Recognition, and Ram's Big Return | AF News Recap
This week's fleet headlines highlight a mix of industry leadership and an important safety reminder for fleet professionals.
Read More →