2018 Buick LaCrosse eAssist

We’re clearly heading into a future of cars powered by electricity in one form or another. This 2018 Buick LaCrosse eAssist is part of that progression. GM calls it “light electrification”…  a small electric motor, a 24-cell lithium-ion battery pack, and a 194-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gas engine.

eAssist builds on the belt-drive mild hybrid system that was first used in the 2007 Saturn Aura Green Line. Introduced on the LaCrosse in 2012 ... it was among two engine choices until 2017. Now eAssist is back as the standard powertrain paired with a six-speed automatic. 

The electric motor adds 9-percent more torque to the powertrain.… providing an EV boost during acceleration. And helps the auto stop/start system work almost invisibly.

With eAssist, the Lacrosse weighs 100-pounds less than with the V6 option. Both feel noticeably lighter and more agile than before. The five-link rear suspension soaks up rough spots… while the cabin is Buick quiet and ultra- comfortable. 

Yes, the future will be full of electric vehicles… but in reality… a lot of them will probably be mild hybrids like this one. So the 2018 Buick LaCrosse eAssist is right with the times. On sale now, it starts just under $30,000.