The 2017 Buick Lacrosse represents a pivotal moment in the brand's history, sitting at the intersection of aging platform technology and the introduction of modern luxury features. This specific model year offered buyers a compelling blend of refined comfort, available performance enhancements, and the sophisticated design language that Buick was actively pursuing during the mid-2010s. Understanding the 2017 Buick Lacrosse requires looking at it not just as a standalone vehicle, but as the culmination of a generation that would soon be replaced by a more modern and globally influenced design.
Design and Exterior Refinements
Visually, the 2017 Lacrosse presented a mature and commanding road presence, characterized by Buick's signature waterfall grille and assertive bowtie emblem. The exterior styling was more aggressive than its predecessors, featuring sharper LED headlight assemblies and a more defined lower front fascia that hinted at the performance variant to come. The available eighteen-inch alloy wheels provided a substantial visual foundation, while the redesigned LED taillights added a modern touch to the rear profile that improved visibility significantly in low-light conditions.
Performance and Engine Options
Under the hood, the 2017 model year offered a clear performance hierarchy that addressed different driver priorities. The standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 delivered a competent balance of power and fuel efficiency for daily driving and highway cruising. For those seeking a more engaging experience, the available 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder became a focal point of the model's performance discussion, providing a notable boost in horsepower and torque that transformed the car's responsiveness.
The 2.0L Turbo Engine
The 2.0L turbocharged engine, producing 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, was the performance heart of the 2017 Lacrosse. This powerplant was shared with other GM vehicles of the era and offered a compelling blend of efficiency and vigor. When comparing the 2017 Buick Lacrosse hp output to naturally aspirated competitors, the turbo variant provided a significant advantage in overtaking power and overall driving dynamics without sacrificing too much fuel economy during normal commutes.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Lacrosse continued Buick's commitment to a quiet, comfortable cabin designed for long-distance travel. The available tri-zone climate control allowed front and rear passengers to maintain individual temperature preferences, a feature rarely found in competitors at the time. Premium materials, including available leather seating surfaces and wood grain accents, contributed to an atmosphere that felt more expensive than the vehicle's actual price tag suggested.
The infotainment system was a highlight of the model year, featuring a standard eight-inch diagonal touchscreen with Buick's IntelliLink interface. This system provided intuitive access to navigation, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, and integration with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, although these smartphone projection technologies were becoming available later in the production run. The Bose audio system, available on higher trims, delivered a rich and immersive sound experience that complemented the quiet interior environment.
Safety and Available Features
Safety was a strong point for the 2017 Lacrosse, as it earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features included a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, such as forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These technologies worked together to provide a significant cushion of protection for occupants and added significant value to the ownership experience.
