Car news! Buick LaCrosse Hybrid

Buick LaCrosse Hybrid
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Full 2015 Buick LaCrosse Review

What's New for 2015

All trims except the base LaCrosse get an upgraded OnStar system with 4G LTE and WiFi, while four-way adjustable headrests and a rearview camera are newly standard across the line. Also, the IntelliLink infotainment system can now read your text messages aloud and includes Siri Eyes Free for voice control of Apple devices.

Introduction

As Buick's flagship model, the 2015 Buick LaCrosse has a greater sense of occasion than the typical full-size sedan. Tasked with showcasing the brand's best attributes, the LaCrosse comes with ample standard features. Styling is decidedly upscale, a nod to Buick's premium-brand aspirations. On the road, the LaCrosse whisks you along in near silence, expertly soaking up bumps without feeling floaty. This car is a favorite across the Pacific among chauffeur-driven Chinese dignitaries, and it only takes one drive to understand why.

We've appreciated the latest generation LaCrosse's well-rounded nature since it debuted for 2010, and changes over the years have maintained its luster, including last year's interior overhaul with improved materials and enhanced touchscreen functionality (though it's still slow on the uptake at times). Indeed, the cabin is a real highlight, boasting an unusually sleek dashboard and acres of legroom for rear occupants. The LaCrosse's biggest weakness continues to be its entry-level "mild hybrid" four-cylinder powertrain, which provides sluggish acceleration, forgettable-for-a-hybrid fuel economy and even less luggage capacity than the already space-challenged trunk of six-cylinder models. But with the satisfying V6 engine under the hood, the LaCrosse is a much more compelling package, competing well with a variety of alternatives in this price range.

But the Buick's cosseting interior and world-class ride quality keep it in the running against any of the above, at least with the V6 aboard. If you like the idea of a reasonably priced large sedan with flagship bona fides, keep the 2015 LaCrosse in mind.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2015 Buick LaCrosse is a large luxury sedan available in four trim levels: Base, Leather, Premium 1 and Premium 2.

The base LaCrosse comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming mirror, an eight-way power driver seat (with four-way power lumbar), split-folding rear seatbacks, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control a 110-volt power outlet, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, an 8-inch touchscreen display, a rearview camera and a seven-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, an auxiliary audio jack, a USB port and smartphone app integration.