What Is the 2015 Buick LaCrosse?
The 2015 Buick LaCrosse is a full-size sedan that seats five. It's offered in five trim levels, including 1SV, Base, Leather, Premium I and Premium II. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available on Leather and Premium I. Competing models include the Chrysler 300 and Toyota Avalon.
What's New on the 2015 Buick LaCrosse?
For 2015, 4G LTE internet connectivity with an in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot is added to the OnStar communication system (subscription required). Additionally, Buick's IntelliLink system now features Apple Siri Eyes Free for iPhones and can read inbound text messages. The LaCrosse also gets a backup camera and front seats with four-way-adjustable head restraints.
How Does the 2015 Buick LaCrosse Compare to Other Full-Size Sedans?
Even against luxury competitors, the Buick LaCrosse is a good value. After a 2014 redesign, it sported comfier seating for the driver and better ergonomics. The LaCrosse has a handful of foibles, such as a mushy brake pedal and poor outward visibility, but it seems to improve with each generation.
What Features in the 2015 Buick LaCrosse Are Most Important?
The 2015 Buick LaCrosse can be powered by a mild-hybrid drivetrain: the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, an electric motor/generator and a lithium-ion battery pack. Altogether, the system generates 182 horsepower. Front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission are standard. Options include a 304-hp, 3.6-liter V-6 engine, all-wheel drive and an adaptive suspension.
Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, LED taillights and active grille shutters that close at highway speeds to improve aerodynamics. Cloth upholstery, IntelliLink with a tablet-style interface, and 8-inch dashboard and instrument-panel screens are also standard. Optional features include 18-, 19- or 20-inch wheels, bi-xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights with LED daytime running lights, a power moonroof, leather upholstery, a Bose premium stereo, a navigation system and a head-up display. An Ultra Luxury Package is also available, adding a simulated-suede headliner, perforated leather upholstery and wood trim.
As is required in all new cars of this model year, the LaCrosse has front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system. Side curtain airbags, side-impact airbags for the front and rear seats, and a backup camera are also standard. Several driver assists are available for the LaCrosse, including lane departure warning, forward collision warning with automatic braking, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control with full-stop capability, and a blind spot warning system with lane change alert – which warns of distant but fast-approaching cars in the next lane. Safety Alert Seat is also available; it works with other safety systems to warn the driver by pulsing the seat cushion.
Should I Buy the 2015 Buick LaCrosse?
In addition to a mushy brake pedal and restricted visibility, the Buick LaCrosse suffers from a small trunk, touch-sensitive climate controls and a lightly colored dash that reflects in the windshield. If none of those traits are bothersome for you, the LaCrosse is a good choice. Good steering response and feedback, a quiet cabin and a smooth optional V-6 are among its strongest qualities.
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