2012 Buick LaCrosse to Arrive With 303 HP V6 This Summer

Want a brand new Buick LaCrosse but the frugal eAssist isn’t your thing? Well, GM has added even more power to the 3.6-liter V6 version of the car that will be hitting dealerships this summer. More specifically, the car will be available with a new, more powerful and fuel-efficient version of the direct-injected mill.

“The changes we’ve made to the 3.6L V-6 represent greater refinements to an already well-balanced package,” said Tom Sutter, global V-6 chief engineer. “We are using the latest designs, lighter-weight components and enhancements to improve the engine’s performance, efficiency and durability.”

Thanks to the magic of variable valve timing (VVT), the 3.6-liter now puts out 303 hp on the front-wheel-drive LaCrosse, an increase of 23 hp, and 264 lb.-ft. (358 Nm). GM says all-wheel drive is coming soon, but the SAE figures are not available yet.

The V-6 is more powerful than its predecessor partly because of its new cylinder head design, which has a revised intake port design that enhances airflow to the combustion chambers. New, larger-diameter intake valves have been installed in the heads, while longer-duration intake camshafts help provide the engine’s boost in horsepower.

“Thanks to increased use of lightweight components and other enhancements, the new 3.6L V-6 offers 2012 LaCrosse buyers improved acceleration with no hit to fuel efficiency,” said Doug Osterhoff, LaCrosse product marketing manager. “This new engine is an attractive option on the car that’s been widely hailed as one of the most attractive luxury sedans on the road today.”