The LaSalle logo resembles a badge of quality, signifying the brand’s premium status. The elements highlight the innovations incorporated into this prestigious car. The car made a successful debut in the General Motors lineup by combining high quality with more compact dimensions.
In 1927, General Motors (GM) introduced LaSalle, envisioned as a subsidiary brand of Cadillac. The aim was to bridge the price gap between high-end Cadillac models and more affordable options in GM’s lineup. Drawing inspiration from history, LaSalle was named after the French explorer René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, echoing Cadillac’s namesake, Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac.
Upon its debut, the brand introduced the 1927 LaSalle Series 303 and 304 models. In its early days, the car resembled a Cadillac, sharing engine components and several body elements. As the 1930s unfolded, LaSalle carved out its niche as a compact, economical version of Cadillac. A notable contribution from this period was the 1935 LaSalle 50 Series.
Committed to innovation, LaSalle was among the first to incorporate hydraulic brakes and elegant Art Deco design into its cars. The brand reached its zenith in 1929, with production nearing 24,000 vehicles. However, the following decade brought challenges. The Great Depression in the late 1930s dampened the allure of luxury vehicles and reduced LaSalle sales. Eventually, the 1940 LaSalle Series 52 became its swan song. By 1940, after producing about 218,000 vehicles over 14 years, GM ended LaSalle production and reconfigured Cadillac’s product line.
Meaning and History
What is LaSalle?
In 1927, Alfred P. Sloan, General Motors’ Chairman of the Board, introduced LaSalle as an upscale car brand to add sophistication to the company’s portfolio. For 13 years, LaSalle delivered a luxurious driving experience until production ended in 1940. LaSalle set itself apart as a high-end luxury brand, differentiating itself from other GM brands, such as Cadillac, through its distinct marketing strategies and production methods.
1927 – 1946
The brand’s emblem is a red circle. The shape and color emphasize the brand’s excellence and its second place in General Motors’ lineup. The car looked elegant anywhere, a concept used in advertising.
The figure features a metallic border symbolizing quality and reliability, and a thin black inner outline highlighting the model’s prestige.
The company named its best products elegantly and meaningfully to appeal to intelligent, discerning high-society buyers. Cadillac’s sibling was named after Sieur de La Salle, a French explorer who explored North America.
The emblem uses only the first letters, La S., which emphasizes novelty. With LaSalle cars, you can explore any corner of the planet.


