The 2018 Buick LaCrosse is an exercise in understated beauty, with attractive, sculpted lines from every angle. Crisp handling is achieved thanks to a 5-link rear suspension, while an optional "HiPer Strut" front suspension is available, as is an electronically controlled continuously damped active suspension with both Touring and Sport modes. Meanwhile, turn-in is nimble with a new variable-ratio electric power steering system.
LaCrosse models come in four trims: Base, Preferred, Essence and Premium. All are powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder 'light' hybrid engine or the available direct-injection 3.6L V6 with variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation. The new-for-2018 2.5L 'eAssist' 4-cylinder gets 25 mpg city and 35 highway, making 194 HP and 187 pound-feet of torque. It comes paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The V6 unit makes 310 horsepower and 282 pound-feet of torque while both benefit from stop/start technology and a 9-speed transmission to maximize fuel economy. Both Premium and Essence are available with Buick's twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system, which constantly monitors traction and adjusts traction as necessary.
Being the luxury brand that it is, even the base LaCrosse is well-equipped. Standard exterior features include 18-inch alloy wheels, active front lower grille shutters to aid aerodynamics, automatic xenon HID headlights with LED accents and heated power mirrors with LED turn indicators. Inside, the LaCrosse benefits from Buick's QuietTuning, which helps reduce and absorb noise and vibration thanks to advanced acoustic materials. Coupled with active noise cancellation, the LaCrosse is able to provide a very quiet ride. Interior amenities include keyless entry and push-button start, auto up/down windows, automatic dual-zone climate control, leatherette seating with 8-way powered front seats, a 60/40 split-fold rear seat, and Buick IntelliLink, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen control, Apple Car Play and Android Auto smartphone integration, dual USB ports and Bluetooth streaming audio. Cruise control and OnStar with 4G LTE and built-in WiFi hotspot are also standard.
The LaCrosse Preferred adds different 18-inch wheels, power tilt/telescopic steering and SiriusXM satellite radio to the mix. With the LaCrosse Essence, you get leather seating with heated front seats and driver's side memory settings, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and articulating headlights. Finally, the LaCrosse Premium brings a heated steering wheel, 4-way lumbar massaging front seats and head-up display. Advanced safety features bundled in the Driver Confidence Package include a forward collision alert, lane-keep assist with lane departure warning, side blind-spot alert and rear cross-traffic alert.
Standalone options on the Essence and Premium trims include a Bose premium sound system, continuously variable damping, rear power sunshade, navigation and a panoramic moonroof.
Bundled in the Driver Confidence Package #2 is automatic park assist, front pedestrian detection, automatic braking and adaptive cruise control. The Sights and Sounds Package includes Buick's IntelliLink radio with navigation and Bose surround sound, while the Sun and Shade Package adds the moonroof and rear sunshade.
Lovely Exterior Styling
Luxury Interior Appointments
Fuel Efficient Hybrid Technology
Capable Handling
Increased Sound Dampening
The Buick LaCrosse has been given substantial drivetrain updates for 2018. The third-generation LaCrosse now comes standard with a 2.5L 4-cylinder light hybrid engine that Buick calls 'eAssist'. A new 9-speed automatic transmission has been introduced to pair with the optional V6 engine while all-wheel drive is now offered to V6-equipped Premium and Essence models.
Buick has outdone itself with the 2018 LaCrosse. The elegantly proportioned full-size luxury sedan offers a modern, athletic look befitting its modern appeal. The LaCrosse is priced competitively, comes loaded with a strong standard feature set, and has enough power, fuel economy and sporting prowess to appeal to both commuters and enthusiasts.
