1997 BUICK LESABRE
OVERVIEW
FLINT, Mich. -- Buick's 1997 LeSabre has a freshened exterior design and improvements in safety and comfort.
The new models of LeSabre -- the best-selling full-size sedan in the United States for four years -- came on the market in January of 1996 and immediately continued the sedan's tradition of popularity.
The six-passenger LeSabre features a number of exterior styling changes. To enhance LeSabre's quality appearance, the grille surround has been integrated with the hood and the halogen headlamp assemblies use fixed lenses for a tighter fit with surrounding surfaces. The taillamps and rear fascia have a diagonal cut line to provide easier access to the trunk. A handy trunk pull-down surface has been incorporated into the license-plate surround.
Improvements were made to the safety and security offered by Buick's popular full-sized family sedan. LeSabre meets the federal government's dynamic side-impact standard. Safety belt release buttons have been relocated to the end of the buckle for easier access.
The front seats fitted to the Custom model have been reconfigured to improve comfort. Woodgrain trim on the instrument panel and doors has a new walnut design for an upscale appearance. Front door trim has been redesigned to better accommodate the speakers used with the optional Concert Sound II entertainment system. New 15-inch aluminum wheels are optional.
LeSabre again is equipped with the 205-horsepower 3800 Series II V-6 engine, now combined with the improved 4T65E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. New electronic controls modulate the energy during shift events for a smoother gear transition. Projected fuel economy ratings are an excellent 19 miles per gallon city and 30 mpg highway, the same as the previous model.
Dual air bags, anti-lock brakes, air conditioning, power windows, rear-window defogger and PASS-Key II anti-theft system are all standard.
LeSabre is equipped with such long-life features as a new engine coolant with a recommended change interval of five years or 100,000 miles, platinum-tipped spark plugs with first recommended service at 100,000 miles and transmission fluid that requires no change under normal operating conditions.
For 1997, Personal Choice continues as a popular option for the well-equipped Custom model and as standard equipment for the Limited. Activated by the remote keyless entry fob, Personal Choice allows each of two drivers, using separate programmable fobs, to easily activate these pre-set features: memory door locks, delayed locking, security feedback and perimeter lighting. Additions to the Convenience Plus roster of features include passive anti-theft deterrent and daytime running lights.
Other Convenience Plus features for the highly-contented LeSabre include gradual "theater dimming" interior lighting, battery rundown protection, reminder tones for lights-on, key-in-ignition, and parking-brake-on events, lock-out protection and delayed locking. Delayed locking allows the owner to open any door for up to five seconds after the power door lock switch has been activated and all doors shut. The doors lock after the five-second delay.
LeSabre has one of the most loyal followings of any car sold in the United States, according to Buick General Manager Edward H. Mertz.
"These buyers appreciate carefully crafted American-made automobiles with adequate space for six passengers, unsurpassed comfort and a touch of luxury," Mertz said. "They also admire the LeSabre from an economic point of view -- the attractive value it represents at time of purchase combined with low operating costs."
