SAIC-GM's Buick brand has officially launched the fifth-generation LaCrosse in China, with a limited-time price of 149,900 to 169,900 yuan (about $21,100 to $23,900). The new model, which marks the 20th anniversary of the LaCrosse nameplate, arrives with 50 luxury upgrades and is positioned as a mid-to-high-end sedan that blends traditional comfort with modern technology.
Milestone Launch
The launch comes just ten days after the 1.5 millionth LaCrosse rolled off the line at SAIC-GM's Jinqiao plant on September 29, according to NetEase Auto. That milestone vehicle is the same fifth-generation model now being delivered to customers. Since the first generation debuted in 2006, the LaCrosse has evolved through four iterations, each building on the previous one's strengths in comfort, quietness, and space.
The fifth-generation LaCrosse stretches over 5 meters in length with a 2,905mm wheelbase, maintaining the class-leading proportions established by its predecessor. Its exterior features a new 'Lingkong Zhanyi' front face with a refreshed three-shield emblem, LED headlights, and a star-dust grille, while the rear adopts a wraparound taillight with a dragon-scale effect. A new 'Mozhuqing' (ink bamboo green) paint option signals a departure from traditional black, white, and silver business colors, and a special two-tone silver-green version is also offered.
AI-Powered Cabin and Familiar Powertrain
Inside, the cabin adopts a 'Pingbu Qingyun' (steady ascent) theme with a warm, matte beige-brown color scheme. The centerpiece is a large central touchscreen running the Doubao AI large model, making the LaCrosse one of the first gasoline cars in China to offer such an AI assistant. The system supports multi-turn natural language commands for controlling climate, seats, navigation, and ambient lighting, and can display real-time traffic light status via vehicle-to-infrastructure communication.
The powertrain remains the proven Ecotec 2.0T variable-cylinder turbocharged engine paired with a 9-speed HYDRA-MATIC automatic transmission, delivering 174 kW (233 hp) and 350 Nm of torque. Buick has retained the model's signature comfort features, including active noise cancellation, dual-layer acoustic glass, triple door seals, and PM2.5 filtration, which remain key selling points for its target buyers—middle-aged families and frequent highway drivers.
The new LaCrosse is built to the latest C-NCAP five-star safety standards, with a body structure using 72% high-strength steel and PHS ultra-high-strength steel in the A and B pillars. Standard safety equipment includes Bosch ESP, Auto Hold, and TPMS, while higher trims add eCruise driver assistance with full-speed adaptive cruise and lane centering, plus automatic parking.
Buick has also announced 20th-anniversary loyalty benefits for existing owners, details of which are available at local dealerships. The launch price underscores Buick's aggressive strategy to compete not only with other joint-venture sedans but also with Chinese smart EVs in the same segment. By doubling down on comfort, quietness, and space—areas it has perfected over two decades—the fifth-generation LaCrosse aims to defend its legacy and attract a new wave of buyers.
