2010 Buick LaCrosse

Driving Experience

 The all-new, 2010 LaCrosse backs up its finely detailed, sculpted appearance with a driving experience that balances efficiency and responsiveness in a manner quite unlike any other Buick sedan that has come before it. The three models, CX, CXL and CXS, are tuned specifically, with traits that appeal to a wide cross section of customers – including those who seek a more sporting driving experience.

For the first time, a Buick sedan is offered with all-wheel drive. It’s an on-demand system that not only enhances traction in slippery conditions, but adds a sportier feel on dry surfaces. All models are loaded with technologies that enhance the driving experience and help make it safer.

The 2010 LaCrosse is offered with three engines: a high-output four-cylinder (available in the fourth quarter of 2009) and a pair of V-6s. Each is equipped with efficiency-enhancing direct injection and variable valve timing technology that optimize horsepower, bolster fuel economy and minimize emissions. Six-speed automatic transmissions are paired with all engines.

Direct injection’s more precise fuel delivery at the combustion chamber enables a higher compression ratio to build horsepower, and generates a more complete combustion process. That means more power is made with less fuel and lower emissions. In fact, cold-start emissions are reduced up to 25 percent with direct injection.

Standard on CX and CXL models at the start of production is a 3.0L V-6 rated at 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 217 lb.-ft. of torque (294 Nm). It is matched with a Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control and delivers an estimated 27 mpg on the highway.

The exclusive engine on LaCrosse CXS is GM’s award-winning 3.6L V-6 that delivers 280 horsepower (209 kW) and 259 lb.-ft. of torque (351 Nm). It is a larger-displacement version of the 3.0L V-6 that is matched with the Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed transmission. Highway fuel economy is estimated at 27 mpg.

A 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder replaces the 3.0L engine in the CX model in the fourth quarter. It is the only four-cylinder offered in the midsize luxury segment. It delivers 182 horsepower (136 kW) and 172 lb-ft. of torque (233 Nm), and is paired with a Hydra-Matic 6T40 six-speed, electronically controlled automatic transmission. This unique combination delivers an estimated 30 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most efficient competitors in the segment.

All three powertrain combinations are designed to deliver exceptional quietness and low maintenance requirements with minimal environmental impact. The engines’ spark plugs and accessory drive belt have a 100,000-mile service life. All engines are equipped with GM’s Oil Life system that uses a sophisticated algorithm to determine when it’s time for an oil change. The system calculates the oil life based on a variety of closely monitored variables, such as engine speed, temperature, load and others, allowing fewer oil changes over the life of the vehicle for a significantly reduced amount of used oil that must be recycled.

Refined driving experience

The LaCrosse’s stiff body structure is the foundation for precise suspension tuning, safety and a quiet ride. It is about 20-percent stiffer than the previous LaCrosse, with high-strength steel and ultra high-strength steel used strategically throughout to enhance strength and crash protection.

A MacPherson-strut front suspension features dual-path top mountings that separate the transfer of spring and damper loads to the body structure. A combined steering knuckle/strut carrier and the upper control arms are made of aluminum for reduced unsprung weight. The lower control arms are attached to a rigid sub-frame that is bolted to the body structure with four isolators that reduce the transmission of noise and vibrations to the interior.

At the rear suspension, CX models feature a four-link design that is mounted to the body at four points. CXL and CXS models feature a more sophisticated H-arm design that uses the same attachment points as the four-link system but with the cross member attached via isolated mounts. The lower H-arm replaces the basic trailing link, delivering a greater ride quality and lower noise.

CX models ride on standard 17-inch wheels, with 18-inch wheels standard on CXL and CXS models. CXS models equipped with the optional Touring Package come with 19-inch wheels. The CXS Touring Package also includes Sport Mode Selectivity, which uses four electronically controlled dampers to constantly “read” the road and make adjustments within milliseconds. The system is adjustable, with standard, touring and sport settings.

Vehicle control

A variety of state-of-the-art, electronically controlled systems work harmoniously in the 2010 LaCrosse to enable exceptional vehicle control through the steering system, brakes and more. GM’s StabiliTrak electronic stability control system is standard on all models. Additional highlights include:

• Variable effort power steering that delivers greater assistance at low speeds, such as parking maneuvers, and reduced effort at higher speeds for a greater feeling of control. The steering system has a quick, 15.2:1 ratio, requiring only 2.75 turns lock to lock.
• Four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel ABS , including large, 12.6-inch-wide (321 mm) front discs and 12.4-inch-wide (315 mm) solid rear discs. Lightweight, aluminum-body calipers are used at each corner.
• Electronic Brake force Distribution that ensures optimum braking force is applied simultaneously at both axles, for maximum stability under heavy braking; and a Brake Assist System that senses the severity of a braking situation and applies additional braking pressure when needed.
• Trailer stabilization control is an available feature that works with the StabiliTrak system to counteract the effects of trailer yaw, such as from wind or panic maneuvers, with carefully and precisely regulated braking and, if necessary, reduced engine power.

All-wheel-drive system

LaCrosse CXL models are offered with an active all-wheel-drive (AWD) system that is designed to optimize handling and stability in all driving conditions. It is an advanced system that includes innovative developments in wheel-slip management and the use of an electronically controlled, limited-slip rear differential.

The AWD system was developed by Haldex and is a fully automatic, on-demand design that sends torque to the rear wheels, so the distribution between the front and rear axles is always optimized. While offering sure-footed handling in low-grip conditions, it also adds a sporting dimension to the driving experience in all road conditions. Fine balancing of the drive torque between the axles raises the threshold at which StabiliTrak’s throttle and braking interventions are triggered, enabling closer driver interaction.

Powertrain

 A fuel-efficient, direct injected Ecotec 2.4L four-cylinder engine will be the third engine offered in the 2010 Buick LaCrosse luxury sedan. Backed by a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission, the new powertrain combination is expected to deliver fuel economy of 30 mpg highway and 20 mpg city*– making LaCrosse one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its segment.

“Buick LaCrosse customers will have the fuel-efficient option of the Ecotec 2.4L direct injection engine, a four-cylinder that is not available by key competitors, such as the Lincoln MKZ and Acura TL,” said Susan Docherty, Buick-Pontiac-GMC vice president. “Features such as a rear-seat entertainment system and remote starting are other technologies that are segment exclusives, contributing to LaCrosse’s balanced package of design, performance and intelligent technology.”

The Ecotec 2.4L four-cylinder joins the lineup later this year as the standard engine in the LaCrosse CX. Direct injection technology helps it deliver 182 horsepower (136 kW) and 172 lb-ft. of torque (233 Nm). Buick expects about 25 percent of customers will opt for 2.4L-equipped models.

The 2.4L’s injection of fuel directly into the combustion chamber enables a higher compression ratio to increase efficiency and horsepower. That means more power is made with less fuel and lower emissions. In fact, cold-start emissions are reduced by up to 25 percent with direct injection. Engineers tuned the Ecotec 2.4L engine to deliver greater torque at lower rpm and build it smoothly toward its peak at 4,900 rpm, giving the Buick LaCrosse excellent performance in all driving conditions.

“Direct injection is a key component of GM’s ongoing strategy to use advanced propulsion technology to help us deliver more fuel-efficient cars today and in the future,” said Tom Stephens, vice chairman, Global Product Development. “GM is using multiple technology pathways to achieve increased efficiency and to diversify energy sources – and we’re applying them where they make the most sense for customers when it comes to efficiency, performance and cost.”

Every engine in the LaCrosse lineup is direct injected and matched with a fuel-saving six speed automatic transmission. Along with the Ecotec 2.4L, a new, direct injected 3.0L V-6 is offered and a larger-displacement, more powerful 3.6L V-6 is standard on the LaCrosse CXS model.

Quiet, low-maintenance performance

As with the 3.0L and 3.6L V-6 engines, the Ecotec 2.4L is designed to deliver exceptional quietness with low maintenance requirements and minimal environmental impact – including 100,000-mile service life ratings for the spark plugs and accessory drive belt. It is also equipped with GM’s Oil Life system, which uses a sophisticated algorithm to determine when it’s time for an oil change. The system calculates the oil life based on a variety of closely monitored variables, such as engine speed, temperature, load and others, allowing fewer oil changes over the life of the vehicle for a significantly reduced amount of used oil that must be recycled.

LaCrosse and Buick’s renaissance

The 2010 Buick LaCrosse luxury sedan is the newest example of the globally influenced product renaissance at Buick. It offers all-wheel drive, a suite of advanced intelligent personal technologies and safety features, and great styling that blends heritage cues with modern design.

“The new LaCrosse builds on the success of Enclave as the next step in Buick’s renaissance,” said Docherty. “It will attract a whole new type of buyer to our dealerships, as Buick strengthens its position as one of GM’s core brands.”

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