Teaser videos of the 2017 Buick LaCrosse show the vehicle with GM’s new electronic shifting system. Known as Electronic Precision Shift, the new shifting system was introduced in the all-new 2017 Cadillac XT5, and the unit in the 2017 LaCrosse teaser video looks to be similar if not identical.
A photo of the new gear selector and partial view of the center stack in the 2017 LaCrosse, courtesy of a new teaser video released by Buick.
Electronic Precision Shift essentially digitizes a vehicle’s shifter and improves the driving experience by:
- Reducing noise and vibration
- Delivering smooth, precise and responsive shifting
- Allowing more efficient use of cabin space
Electronic Precision Shift shifter in the 2017 Cadillac XT5. The unit appears to be the same as the one in Buick’s teaser video of the 2017 LaCrosse.
In the new Cadillac XT5, the benefits associated with cabin space result in a new center console design that creates a new floating console with a storage space beneath the shifter. As such, it’s entirely possible that the new LaCrosse will also enjoy the packaging benefits of the new shifter.
Floating center console design in the 2017 Cadillac XT5 enabled by the new Electronic Precision Shift system. It’s possible that the 2017 Buick LaCrosse will feature a similar floating console design thanks to Electronic Precision Shift.
We’ll know more next week when the all-new LaCrosse debuts at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show.
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Comments
Get use to it folks.
Electronic connection to the transmission is the way of the future and will eventually filter down to the lower priced models as well.
We have already seen cables and linkages disappear with the steering system, this is the next step.
The new set up has more positives than negatives including space and weight savings and likely no effect on transmission performance.
The new 5ET50 electric drive unit on thr 2016 Chevy Volt does away with shifting, since it is a “eCVT” ( Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission) and a true shift level is a vestial reminder of the manual transmission days. I see it more as a phallic “grab on” for those who have a short “stick”, so future vehicles will not have it.
Already used on in a Jeep Grand Cherokee. Liked it and looked clean.
I totally said it uses the same shifter as the one on the XT5 and then got a vote down….jeeze
While it’s easy to understand the logic of the design especially if there are no mechanical connections between the shifter and the transmission; but with every change.. there will be those who may not like it especially when you listen to the talking heads about not being able to find controls or the indignity they find in needing to look in the owners manual to learn the location of where all the controls.
Why even have a shiht “lever” why not use a control like the present four wheel drive and clean up the console.
Electronics fail where cables and rods endure. This is an unnecessary expense and liability.
I drove a Chrysler 300 with a strange shift lever. I didn’t like it at all now I believe they are on recall because people are not fully engaging park. I think a simple push button perhaps?
If Buick can make that electronic.. Why dont bring back the COLUMN SHIFTER? (classic or like the MB or Tesla style)
floor shifter is for small cars or manual transmission. Not for large cars/SUV or Pickups…
Gosh i wish to see back column shifters on large buicks models.. Please!!! (Include Impala or Caddy)
our 2017 buick lacrosse on occasion will not shift out of low gear. your have to completely stop and start all over. is this a problem with the electronic shifting??? Is anyone else having this problem?