in the large four-door car class; only the Buick Lucerne fared worse. Models China Shanghai GM introduced the Buick LaCrosse in February 2006, as a more upscale companion to its Buick Regal sedan. Designed by Shanghai GM's Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC), the Chinese LaCrosse is based on the same architecture as the North American model, but possesses different exterior and interior designs, and a different engine lineup. The car is also built in Taiwan by a joint Yulon-GM venture. Eco-Hybrid In 2008, Shanghai GM introduced a mild hybrid system on the LaCrosse. Using the Belt Alternator Starter system, it is the first hybrid vehicle in the Chinese market as well as the first hybrid in its segment. Second generation (2010) Launched at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, the second-generation Buick LaCrosse was redesigned from the ground-up and moved the nameplate upmarket, becoming Buick's flagship sedan. On each side, the exterior features vestigial VentiPorts and a falling swage line, recalling Buick's Sweepspear, recalled in various forms since Buick first used them in 1949. The interior has few 90-degree joints, instead featuring rounded and curved elements. According to The New York Times, the new LaCrosse combined design elements from classic Americans cars of the 1930s and 1950s with traditional Chinese aesthetic elements: Mechanically, the second-generation LaCrosse employed a long-wheelbase (LWB) variant of the Epsilon II platform, shared with the Opel Insignia and the 2010 Saab 9-5. The design was based on 2008 Buick Invicta concept, and replaces both the Chinese and North American models. The final design work was carried out at the GM design center in Warren, Michigan. Engines The 2.4 L Ecotec four-cylinder replaced the 3.0 V6 as the standard engine on the CX model in the first quarter of 2010. The 3.6 L V6 continues to be an option on the CX and front-wheel drive CXL and standard on the CXS and all-wheel drive CXL. All V6 models are equipped with the Hydra-Matic 6T70 6-speed automatic transmission. Reception The receptions by car critics was generally positive, recognizing the LaCrosse as competitive to the Lexus ES, Hyundai Azera, and Toyota Avalon. By automotive journalists, comparisons to the Lexus ES 350 generally found both cars to be roughly comparable. According to The New York Times, the new LaCrosse combined design elements from classic American cars of the 1930s and 1950s with traditional Chinese aesthetic