The BUICK LACROSSE 3.6L Engine, available in CXS trim, produced around 280 hp at 6,400 rpm and 259 lb‑ft at 5,200 rpm.
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U.S. News also notes the 2010 CXS version with 280 hp and 259 lb‑ft.
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2012–2016 (LFX Engine)
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The LFX is an enhanced version of the LLT engine, developed with Holden and Cadillac. It features a lighter design (−20.5 lbs), updated cylinder heads, integrated exhaust, and composite intake.
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Output: 303 hp @ 6,800 rpm, 264 lb‑ft @ 5,300 rpm, offered on FWD (non-base) and AWD LaCrosse models.
Third-Generation (2017+) – BUICK LACROSSE 3.6L Engine
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The third-generation LaCrosse (2017 onward) introduced the BUICK LACROSSE 3.6L Engine, featuring direct injection, stop‑start, and cylinder deactivation for improved efficiency.
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Power outputs rose to ~310 hp with ~282 lb‑ft of torque.
Specifications Snapshot BUICK LACROSSE 3.6L Engine
| Model Year | Engine Code | Power / Torque | Transmission | Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010–2011 | LLT | ~280 hp / ~259 lb‑ft | 6‑speed automatic | ~17/27 mpg | FWD, CXS trim |
| 2012–2016 | LFX | ~303 hp / ~264 lb‑ft | 6‑speed automatic | ~17/27 mpg | FWD & AWD options |
| 2017+ (3rd Gen) | LGX | ~310 hp / ~282 lb‑ft | 8‑ or 9‑speed auto | Improved with mild hybrid | Stop‑start, cylinder deactivation |
Example (2016 specs):
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Engine displacement: 3.6L (3564 cc), DOHC V6, 24 valves, VVT
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Power: 304 hp @ 6,800 rpm, 264 lb‑ft @ 5,300 rpm
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Compression ratio: 11.5:1, Redline: 7,200 rpm, Fuel system: Direct Injection
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Fuel economy: approx. 18 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (EPA)
Summary: Why the BUICK LACROSSE 3.6L Engine Matters
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The LLT brought solid performance (~280 hp) during the initial redesign phase of the LaCrosse.
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The LFX elevated that performance to ~303 hp with modern engineering improvements and weight savings.
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The LGX in later models embraced advanced features like stop‑start and cylinder deactivation, boosting output to around 310 hp while enhancing efficiency.
Each iteration reflects GM’s continuous effort to refine the LaCrosse’s blend of power and efficiency across its lifecycle.
Enhanced Engineering: The LGX Generation
The BUICK LACROSSE 3.6L Engine is a clean-sheet, fourth-generation High Feature DOHC V6 engine by GM, offering significant improvements over the earlier LFX:
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Structure & Materials: Aluminum deep-skirt block (inherited from LFX), new cylinder heads, forged steel crankshaft, high-strength pistons/rods, and oil-spray piston cooling for durability and performance
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Fuel Efficiency Tech: Combines Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and Auto Stop‑Start for up to 9% better fuel economy versus the LFX
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Valve Timing Innovation: Introduces an intermediate‑park VVT system, allowing better cam phasing especially during cold starts, enhancing efficiency and reducing emissions
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Targeted Cooling System: A patented design that channels coolant in parallel to critical engine areas—improving warm-up and performance while using a smaller coolant pump
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Head & Combustion Design: Larger intake (+6%) and exhaust (+6%) valves, optimized injector angles, smaller centrally-placed spark plug for better mixture and burn, and an integrated exhaust manifold—all boosting airflow and efficiency
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Noise & Refinement: Louder features refined:
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New cam drive system significantly quieter.
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Robust oiling system with structural pan and PCV design reduces noise.
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Polymer-coated pistons, sinter-forged connecting rods, and forged crankshaft smooth operation
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Performance Specs & Applications
In the Buick LaCrosse (2017–2019 models):
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Output: ~310 hp at 6,800 rpm; 282 lb‑ft torque at ~5,200 rpm
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Efficiency: ~18 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
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Compression Ratio: ~11.5:1
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Features direct injection, DOHC, cylinder deactivation, and stop‑start
From the 2017 LaCrosse official release:
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Estimated Output: 305 hp and 268 lb‑ft torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and featuring noise-reducing cam drive and fuel-saving stop‑start and AFM systems
Evolution Across Generations
Here’s a comparative rundown:
| Engine Code | Years / Applications | Power & Torque | Notable Advances |
|---|---|---|---|
| LLT | ~2010–2011 (first gen) | ~280 hp / ~259 lb‑ft | Early direct injection, decent refinement |
| LFX | 2012–2016 LaCrosse (and others) | ~303 hp / ~264 lb‑ft | Lighter, improved head, integrated exhaust manifold |
| LGX | 2016–2020+ (e.g., 2017+ LaCrosse) | ~310 hp / ~282 lb‑ft | Advanced tech—AFM, stop‑start, refined cooling, noise reduction |
Current Status & Outlook
While once a staple in the GM V6 lineup, the BUICK LACROSSE 3.6L Engine and its family are being phased out as GM shifts toward electrification:
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Newer models like the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse and 2025 Buick Enclave are replacing the V6 (e.g., LFY) with turbocharged 2.5 L inline-4s .
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The BUICK LACROSSE 3.6L Enginefuture is uncertain—with some models (like Camaro, Acadia, Blazer, XT5) transitioning to smaller engines or getting canceled, only the Cadillac XT6 may retain it for now .
Final Thoughts
The BUICK LACROSSE 3.6L Engine represents the pinnacle of GM’s naturally aspirated V6 engineering—marrying power (≈310 hp), efficiency improvements (AFM, stop‑start, targeted cooling), and a surprisingly refined driving experience. It marks a high point before the broader automotive shift toward smaller displacement and electrified propulsion.
