Technology is allowing automakers to produce vehicles that are fuel efficient while at the same time providing impressive performance. In past years, performance and fuel economy weren't generally found in the same vehicles. One of the latest vehicles to embrace hybrid technology to deliver improved fuel economy and performance is the Buick LaCrosse with eAssist, which we have previously covered on DailyTech.

The 2012 LaCrosse with eAssist uses a new generation BAS hybrid system that was first covered in November of last year. Buick has now confirmed the price on the LaCrosse with eAssist for the 2012 model year with eAssist. The vehicle will start at $29,960 before a destination charge of $860. The eAssist tech allows the car to deliver 25% better highway fuel economy than the current LaCrosse model.

For comparison, the base 2011 LaCrosse without eAssist started at $27,130.

“LaCrosse with eAssist is the smart choice for those who want great fuel economy without sacrificing the driving dynamics and passenger comfort that have made Buick the fastest-growing major automotive brand in the United States,” said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick Marketing.

The eAssist tech allows the LaCrosse with eAssist to achieve 37 mpg on the highway, which is better than the Lexus HS 250h Hybrid and the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. Its city fuel economy of 25 mpg, however, falls well below that of those two competitors. The 2012 LaCrosse vehicle uses a new lithium-ion battery system and an electric motor-generator that allows for regenerative braking. The light electrification system inside the LaCrosse will also be offered on the 2012 Buick Regal later in the year.

The eAssist tech is paired with an 180hp 2.4-liter inline-4 engine that uses direct injection. An AWD version of the vehicle will also be offered, but the power numbers are not rated at this time.

“LaCrosse with eAssist is the most advanced LaCrosse to date,” DiSalle said. “The winning combination of advanced technology, no-compromise driving performance and luxurious style and passenger comfort stand to make LaCrosse with eAssist a must-have sedan.”