- The Buick LaCrosse GL Concept, which is said to be inspired by "fine cuisine" and "heirloom objects," is set for a debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show.
- The LaCrosse GL Concept may preview a new trim level for the LaCrosse.
- The cosmetic package includes subdued brushed-and-tinted chrome, poufy-looking seat cushions and a suede headliner in the cabin.
LOS ANGELES — The Buick LaCrosse GL Concept, which is said to be inspired by "fine cuisine" and "heirloom objects," is set for a debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show.
The LaCrosse GL Concept may preview a new trim level for the production LaCrosse, with GM saying in a statement that the concept is designed to "serve as inspiration for future Buick models." It also hints that Buick may be ready to move out of so-called "near luxury" territory and onto the turf occupied by Lexus and Jaguar. The cabernet red exterior paint on the Buick concept looks as if it's cribbed from the rich yet subtle palette of Lexus.
The "heirloom objects" in question are not granny's antimacassar or the sometimes disappointing junk seen on PBS's Antiques Roadshow. Buick said the concept takes its cues from such romantic items as "the burnished metal of antique jewelry, ombre patina on vintage guitars — most notably Gibson Les Paul guitars — and the "flocked lining of keepsake boxes."
Details on the concept include brushed-and-tinted chrome accents on the exterior instead of bright chrome. The Buick LaCrosse GL Concept also gets satin-finish 20-inch wheels.
The cabin gets a suede headliner and poufy-looking seat cushions that Buick says "evoke windswept sand dunes."
Again, Buick seems to be repeating the Lexus mantra of understated elegance in crafting the concept.
"Buick customers enjoy the finer things in life, but don't need to flaunt it," said Magdalena Kokoszynska, creative designer on the LaCrosse GL in a statement.
No details were given on the LaCrosse GL's technical specifications.
Inside Line says: The Buick LaCrosse GL Concept flaunts the GM brand's lofty ambitions — but it is still unclear when any of these design elements will see the light of day.
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seansean2 says:
12:16 PM, 12/13/2011
It's unpatriotic to buy any GM product. Any sale of a GM product is a victory for communism and a state-controlled economy and a strike against free market capitalism which made this country great.
mk40 says:
12:12 PM, 11/17/2011
Feels like a nice lounge. Maybe they should offer this interior in China.
tippin4u says:
11:30 PM, 11/13/2011
not bad at all,but its kinda like Class +Flash= Clash......in other words,turn those wheels down some,keep focus on the flowing lines of the car,and use a more toned down wheel that is still classy.Inside is really sharp . Overall good job
litewerk says:
06:03 PM, 11/10/2011
The interior of this Buick Lacrosse really got my attention. Really like it. Very classy. Now, reading "insired by fine cuisine" and looking at the interior, I have a sudden urge for chocolate mixed with butterscotch pudding. Which I am fond of.
And, while I like the style of the wheels, I feel as though they do not fit this vehicle unless it is solely aimed at a far younger than normal demographic. Wheels that are 20-inches are way too big for me on about any vehicle. I'd going with 18-inchers and tires that offer more sidewall. Other than that, a pretty nice concept.
priceless409 says:
01:29 PM, 11/10/2011
Wow!!! I continue to be impressed with the move's buick is making. Though I was a little depressed with the Regal Gs' lack of awd. The GS has always been right on the mark. I think this would be a great move on Buick's part, as long as they don't go overboard with the interior treatment's and color options. I also would like to see a true premium sound system in these cars. As far as the exterior goes, it looks great! I am not to sure on the wheels yet, but I would like to see a tire with a little more sidewall on them to improve the wheel well gap.
nutsaboutcars says:
11:53 AM, 11/10/2011
Now this is a nice looking sedan with a beautiful color red but the steering wheel is just not rite for this car as well as the gauges they both are ugly. Just hope this car is free from harsh engine and or road noise as well as a harsh riding suspension and what gm needs to do is improve the audio system in these type cars if there markeing them as premium and or luxury vehicles
n54user says:
10:44 AM, 11/10/2011
The interior makes me want a Twix candy bar....so much chocolate and caramel....I kid.
I actually applaud GM for re-inventing Buick, the cars look much much better inside and out, no longer are they the brand on your grandparents would love......
davyj0nes says:
09:53 AM, 11/10/2011
what a beautiful interior to spend time in. a work of art. the wheels no so much, not really a fan of these on the GS.
se_riously says:
09:38 AM, 11/10/2011
agnh - I hope you can see past the marketing hype. If not, go and count how many Lexus cars are parked outside "99" the next time you visit.
jhatmaker24 says:
09:26 AM, 11/10/2011
@ avilboy97 - That's b/c they did come off the Regal GS.