Buick launches LaCrosse Hybrid in China with 4.7L/100km economy
The new Buick LaCrosse Hybrid Electric Vehicle pairs a 1.8-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and launches in China with 35 percent better efficiency than its predecessor.
Buick has introduced the LaCrosse Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) to the Chinese market, unveiling the new model in Shanghai as part of the brand’s strategy to expand its electrified line-up in China. The LaCrosse HEV targets buyers seeking a more efficient alternative in the large saloon segment, with the company confirming a combined fuel consumption figure of 4.7 litres per 100 kilometres (50 mpg) and a 0-100 km/h time of 8.9 seconds.
The LaCrosse Hybrid’s powertrain combines a 1.8-litre SIDI petrol engine, an electric motor, and a variable transmission, with a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery supplying the electric drive. While Buick did not release full performance specifications, the headline figures focus on efficiency improvements over the outgoing LaCrosse eAssist. Buick claims a 35 percent reduction in fuel consumption compared to that earlier mild hybrid model.
Technical features and equipment
Visually, the LaCrosse Hybrid is almost identical to the standard petrol model, but gains a number of technical upgrades to maximise efficiency. These include an active shutter grille that closes at speed to reduce drag, an electronic power steering system, and an electronic climate control compressor. The car also features a thermal energy recycling system that recovers heat from the exhaust, further improving overall efficiency.
- Active shutter grille for reduced drag
- Electronic power steering and climate compressor
- Thermal energy recycling from exhaust
The LaCrosse HEV is part of General Motors’ wider push for electrification in China. According to GM, the company plans to introduce more than ten new energy vehicles in the country within five years, including hybrids, plug-in hybrids and range-extended electric vehicles. All will be identified by blue logos.
China’s hybrid saloon market
China remains Buick’s largest market, and the LaCrosse Hybrid arrives as local buyers show increasing interest in electrified saloons. The model competes with other hybrid and plug-in hybrid offerings from both international and domestic brands, as manufacturers respond to government policy favouring lower-emission vehicles.
For a look at how the LaCrosse Hybrid compares to later models and pricing, see our coverage of the 2018 update, when the hybrid became standard and the entry price dropped:2018 Buick LaCrosse switches to hybrid as standard and drops entry price
