Hybrid Buick LaCrosse Expected

2010 Buick LaCrosse

Enlarge Photo

The redesigned 2010 Buick LaCrosse will add a fuel efficient 2.4 liter, 4 cylinder engine to the lineup.  But of even more interest, according to GM execs, a hybrid model is also expected in the near future.

GM's global vehicle line executive James Frederico appears to confirm this but did not disclose exact timing. "We are always working on future applications for our hybrids," he said.  "The exact introduction plans (will) be announced later by Buick marketing."

This revelation of a future hybrid LaCrosse comes just weeks after GM canceled its mild Malibu hybrid starting in the next model year.  It is likely that with the new LaCrosse hybrid will be the introduction of GM's next generation BAS+ mild hybrid system.  The Malibu and LaCrosse share similar chassis components and are built at the same facility.  According to GM, the Malibu hybrid was canceled due to weak sales, hopefully the LaCrosse hybrid will find more willing buyers.

GM has publicly stated it plans to have 14 hybrid models by 2012, with this apparently being one of them.

According to Frederico, "There is a future for alternative propulsion in our midsize vehicles, we're just not at the point to share any details.

Source:  WardsAuto (Login required)