The first-generation Buick LaCrosse was built on General Motors' front-wheel-drive W-body architecture (third generation). Introduced strictly as a four-door sedan, it aimed to modernize Buick's traditional customer base by succeeding both the aging Century and Regal lines. In the North American market, the powertrain lineup included the legendary naturally aspirated 3.8-liter 3800 Series III V6, the advanced 3.6-liter DOHC High Feature V6 with variable valve timing, and the high-performance 5.3-liter Small-Block LS4 V8 fitted to the LaCrosse Super trim. All engines were paired with GM's 4T65-E four-speed automatic transmission. For the 2008 model year, the car received a significant mid-cycle refresh featuring Buick's signature waterfall grille and upgraded interior materials. In addition to the Oshawa assembly plant in Canada, the first-generation model was adapted and produced in Shanghai, China, by the SAIC-GM joint venture with market-specific styling and 2.4-liter and 3.0-liter engines.