2014 Buick LaCrosse updated with new styling, tech

Buick might have one of the smallest lineups among major automakers, but by the time the 2014 model rolls around, it will definitely have one of the freshest. Debuting at the New York Auto Show this week, the 2014 Buick LaCrosse receives numerous styling changes inside and out, and it benefits from many of the same new features found on closely related models like the Cadillac XTS and the 2014 Chevrolet Impala.

Exterior changes are relatively minor, but they still help give the car a fresh, new look. The new face of the 2014 LaCrosse fits in with recently new or redesigned Buick models with its oversized waterfall grille, LED-trimmed headlights and the signature hood vents being moved to the side of the hood rather than the top. Similar changes have been made to the rear, like the reshaped LED taillights, the full-width chrome trim and a new fascia design; LaCrosse models equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 will still get the integrated exhaust finishers but they're executed in a more stylish manner than the current model. Finishing off the exterior, new wheel designs are also being introduced, which will include bringing 20-inch wheels to the sedan's option list.

Inside, Buick redesigned almost the entire cabin to create a more luxurious and upscale appearance. The instrument panel is essentially carried over, but pretty much everything else has been redesigned and updated with the biggest change being to the driver's area. Dual eight-inch configurable displays make up the center stack and gauge cluster, while the overall number of buttons have been reduced from 17 down to just seven. The 2014 LaCrosse will also be offered with the next-generation IntelliLink, which receives many of the same enhancements as Chevy's latest version of MyLink adding better customization, improved voice commands and more features including Pandora. Additionally, new door panels, seat and center console complete the LaCrosse's interior redesign.
Buick will offer four interior color combinations, and there is a new Ultra Luxury Interior Package available. Aptly named, this package will bring a high level of luxury to the 2014 LaCrosse with ash wood trim, semi-aniline leather seating and a synthetic suede material used on the headliner and door panels. New safety features will also be offered on the new LaCrosse, like forward collision alert, lane departure warning, land change alert, rear cross traffic alert, adaptive cruise control and, similar to the Cadillac XTS, Safety Seat Alert that vibrates the lower seat cushion "indicating the direction of a potential crash threat." We're not sure if this works identically to the XTS' system, which can warn of oncoming cars from either side while backing up and buzz the seat in conjunction with the lane departure warning system.

Powertrains will continue to come from either the 3.6-liter V6 or the 2.4-liter four-cylinder used on the base eAssist model, and while fuel economy numbers have not been announced yet, all 2014 LaCrosse models will also benefit from improved aerodynamics with active grille shutters. V6 models equipped with the Touring Package will continue to bring real-time suspension damping to the sedan as well as Buick's HiPer front struts.


Courtesy of Auto Blog