LaCrosse GS "Not Happening"

[nsap]

Despite rumors and spy shots, LaCrosse will not get the GS treatment.
www.GMInsideNews.com
November 28, 2011
By: Nick Saporito

Over the course of the last year rumors and even spy shots of a speculative high-performance Buick LaCrosse model have surfaced more than a few times. At one point, even GMI was hearing that a GS variant of the LaCrosse was on the table. Unfortunately for enthusiasts, GMI has now been told by multiple sources that a LaCrosse GS is simply "not happening."

The last word GMI had gotten regarding the rumored LaCrosse GS was that it would likely be powered by GM's upcoming twin-turbo V-6 engine. Considering the LaCrosse's platform mate, the Cadillac XTS, is expected to get the same engine, it seemed very plausible. The fact that Buick quickly churned out the Regal GS also left us hopeful that the same formula and logic would be applied to the larger LaCrosse.

Sources have not stated why there won't be a LaCrosse GS or even if such a car was ever given the green-light for production. For the 2012 model year the LaCrosse received the latest version of GM's 3.6-liter V-6 dubbed the LFX. The LFX generates a respectable 303 horsepower in the LaCrosse, all the while returning decent fuel economy numbers. It is possible that GM felt the LaCrosse has enough gusto with the new V-6.

We're told to expect a redesign on the LaCrosse for the 2014 model year, although little is known about the car at this point. One thing is certain, as of now there will not be a GS performance model of the LaCrosse.

[FenwickHockey65]

Sad face.

[CrunkedRL]

I can probably live without seeing a LaX GS making it to production but an MCE prior 2014 is desperately needed for this car IMO.

[calgaryhhr]

Why do so many people feel the need for a high performance variant of every model? I can understand the Regal GS because it is small enough to have fun with but the Lacrosse just doesn't need GS treatment. I would think that a Lacrosse GS might also serve as too much competition for the CTS which probably wouldn't be acceptable.

[Sellers.Buick.GMC]

I can probably live without seeing a LaX GS making it to production but an MCE prior 2014 is desperately needed for this car IMO.

The car will be updated again with some newer features in 2013. However, with a new LaCrosse (And Regal, & Enclave with the 2012 Verano according to our reps) Buick will be all new in 2014 with Verano being the oldest in the lineup.

4 years is pretty respectable for the LaCrosse IMHO. It could have been 6 or 7 years under "old" GM.

[Xtreme08]

Why do so many people feel the need for a high performance variant of every model? I can understand the Regal GS because it is small enough to have fun with but the Lacrosse just doesn't need GS treatment. I would think that a Lacrosse GS might also serve as too much competition for the CTS which probably wouldn't be acceptable.

I agree. Give the LaCrosse the GL treatment with the 303hp 3.6 and call it a day. Leave the GS for the Regal and Verano.

[krusshall]

On topic: I would have liked to see a Lacrosse GS only for the sake of having it but if GM's research said that it would be a poor seller then good decision to allocate resources to something else.

Off topic: Why did this not show up in the news ticker? IIRC the old site had every thread on the front page pinned to the "Headline News" ticker.

[skylark68]

That makes sense. Historically the GS moniker was only give to the sporty smaller offerings in Buick's lineup (outside of the '66 Wildcat). The Regal and Verano make sense, the LaCrosse is the more senior large car.

[LONGHORN]

At least make those beautiful wheels optional.........

[osbornk]

I don't think it fits the target audience for this car. I think it would be a poor seller.

[Eulentier]

The current 3.6L in the LaCrosse has more power than the top engine of the Regal. Is a more powerful engine really needed in this class? Do you really see "enthusiasts" buying a LaCrosse as an "enthusiast" car? No. This move from GM makes sense.

[Cadman]

I always felt a GS version would not have been a good fit for this car. Just like a V version of the XTS would not be a good idea either.

A LaCrosse "Ultra", "Osmium", or something along those lines, would be great for this car (with the GL trim) .

[Sal Collaziano]

In my opinion, a twin turbo V6 for the LaCrosse might cause problems for the twin turbo V6 XTS. If you want the faster car, buy the Caddy.

[EJD1984]

Mistake!!!!!

[spd98]

Well I don't feel the current GS nameplate is really all that anyway. I'm not sure they could transform the Lacross into a really sporty car. I love the Lacross and it's a fantastic vehicle but it doesn't have to be sporty!