The 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be available with a new, more powerful and fuel-efficient version of its direct-injected 3.6L V-6 engine. The new powertrain boasts a SAE-certified 303 horsepower on the front-wheel-drive LaCrosse – an increase of 23 hp and 264 lb.-ft. of torque, from the standard 2.4L four-cylinder engine with eAssist, with no loss in fuel efficiency (17 mpg city / 27 highway).

“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.”

The lighter-weight aluminum alloy 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. Larger-diameter intake valves in the heads and new, longer-duration intake camshafts help provide the engine’s boost in horsepower.

The new V-6 uses several lighter-weight components that help maintain LaCrosse’s fuel efficiency while boosting its horsepower. The new integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design saves about 13 pounds compared to the cylinder heads and manifolds of the previous engine, while the new composite intake manifold saves about 5.5 pounds. Additionally, a light-weight structural front cover and lightweight, high-strength connecting rods bring the total weight savings to 20.5 pounds, improving fuel efficiency and enhancing the feeling of driving balance.

The 2012 Buick LaCrosse arrives in dealerships later this summer.