2010 Buick LaCrosse Review
2010 Buick LaCrosse Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Elegant interior styling, smooth and quiet ride, admirable driving dynamics, decent performance from V6 models, available all-wheel drive.
Cons
- Underpowered four-cylinder engine, lack of rear visibility, limited luggage space, middling performance.
What’s new
The Buick LaCrosse has been redesigned inside and out for 2010. Highlights include new styling, sharper handling, available all-wheel drive and a revised engine lineup that now includes a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine.
Edmunds says
The redesigned 2010 Buick LaCrosse takes a giant step forward with fresh styling, new features and an impressive chassis. It has finally become a competitive upscale midsize sedan.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2010 Buick LaCrosse CX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$183/mo for LaCrosse CX
LaCrosse CX
vs
$219/mo
Avg. Large Car
Vehicle overview
The 2010 Buick LaCrosse has been reinvented, reshaped and reinvigorated. Gone are the previous generation's ovoid styling cues and bulbous body. The new LaCrosse looks sharper and edgier, and it now sports a truly attractive and modern cabin. Compared to its predecessor, the new LaCrosse is just about the same size aside from a couple extra inches of height, but the vast expanses of new sheet metal give it a much more substantial appearance. It even drives nicely by segment standards. Given the lack of official fanfare accompanying its debut, the 2010 LaCrosse is one of the most pleasantly surprising GM products in recent memory.
Besides the fresh exterior, the new LaCrosse has shed many other demons that plagued its predecessor. Handling is much sharper now -- this LaCrosse is almost engaging and fun. The new midlevel 3.0-liter V6 is far more pleasant than the old LaCrosse's ancient pushrod 3.8-liter V6, and there's also a base four-cylinder (which is frankly a little overmatched considering the LaCrosse's size) and an uplevel 3.6-liter V6. The front seats are comfortable, roomy and supportive, and the rear seats now have an abundance of legroom. Finally, the interior is not just better this time around, it's downright elegant, with materials that look and feel top-notch.
Naturally, it's not all wine and roses for the 2010 LaCrosse. For one thing, the new model's thick roof pillars and unusually tall rear deck lid restrict rear visibility. Note to buyers: You'd be well-advised to spring for the rear parking assist option. Additionally, the previous LaCrosse's available six-passenger seating and V8 engine option are no more, though the capable 3.6-liter V6 does its best to fill the V8's shoes. We're also not impressed by this big Buick's meager 13-cubic-foot trunk, which is more like what you'd expect from a compact sedan.
Overall, though, we've come away impressed by Buick's newest sedan. Previously, the best we could say about the LaCrosse was that golden-agers would likely find comfort in the Buick nameplate and quiet ride. Now, however, the LaCrosse is a fully viable choice for an upscale midsize or large sedan, especially if you're smitten with the car's design. Naturally, you'll still want to check out established models like the Acura TL and Lexus ES 350, as well as new entrants like the Ford Taurus and the Hyundai Genesis. We're not completely convinced that the 2010 Buick LaCrosse can stand out from such stiff competition, but it can certainly run confidently with the pack.
Performance & mpg
Initially, the 2010 Buick LaCrosse CX model will come standard with a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 255 horsepower and 217 pound-feet of torque. Later in the model year, a 182-hp 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder will take over as the standard engine on the front-wheel-drive CX trim level. CXL models will feature the 3.0-liter V6 as the standard engine and will be available in either front- or all-wheel drive -- a plus for those in snowy climates. The CXS is only available in front-wheel drive with a 3.6-liter V6 that churns out 280 hp and 259 lb-ft of torque. All LaCrosse models feature a six-speed automatic transmission.
In our instrumented testing, a LaCrosse with the 3.0-liter engine accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds -- more than a second slower than the competition, but adequate for most drivers nonetheless. At the time of this writing, official EPA fuel economy figures had not been published for the four-cylinder and 3.6-liter V6 power plants, but Buick estimates 20 mpg city/30 mpg highway for the four and 17 mpg city/27 mpg highway for the big V6. As for the 3.0-liter V6, the EPA rates it at 17 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined, with AWD cutting 1 mpg from each number.
Safety
The 2010 Buick LaCrosse features standard front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, OnStar communications, stability and traction control, and antilock disc brakes. Rear-seat side airbags are also available as an option.
Driving
From the driver seat, the 2010 Buick LaCrosse exhibits an enjoyable blend of luxury and engagement. The cabin remains blissfully quiet without becoming a sensory deprivation chamber, as there's just enough wind and road noise to remind you that you're not sitting on your couch. Considering all the marshmallowy Buicks of the past, the LaCrosse's handling ability is a surprise -- the car responds confidently to inputs and is certainly more engaging to drive than the Lexus ES 350.
As for power, the base 3.0-liter engine is adequate, but the 3.6 is the more competitive choice. We'd steer clear of the four-cylinder engine -- it does theoretically deliver eco-friendly fuel economy, but real-world gas mileage will likely suffer since the engine must work considerably harder than the V6s to keep up with traffic.
One aspect of the new LaCrosse that we're not fond of is its compromised rear visibility. The short rear window is mounted high on an already tall rear deck lid and flanked on both sides by thick roof pillars. Without the optional back-up camera (which you can only get with the navigation system), drivers will likely feel a twinge of anxiety when backing into a parking spot, even with the audible rear parking sensors (which aren't available on the base CX).
Interior
One of the most striking features of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse is its elegant and contemporary interior, designed in GM's Chinese design studio. The front seats are enveloped by a graceful dashboard arc that stretches from door to door, and the tastefully integrated simulated wood accents contribute to the decidedly upscale feel. At night, passengers are bathed in a soothing blue glow from the ambient lighting with gauge lighting to match. The center stack controls look a bit busy, but operation of the audio, climate control and navigation systems is for the most part simple and intuitive.
Notable among the LaCrosse's many new features is the optional head-up display, which projects pertinent information onto the windshield, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road. Despite the more substantial body styling, however, trunk space drops to 13 cubic feet, significantly smaller than the trunks of competing sedans. The trunk is fairly deep, but the lack of height and width may be problematic for bulky items.
2010 Buick LaCrosse models
The 2010 Buick LaCrosse is a midsize sedan that is offered in three trim levels: CX, CXL and CXS. The base CX includes 17-inch steel wheels, a power driver seat, a tilt-telescoping steering wheel with audio controls, full power accessories, OnStar and a seven-speaker audio system with a CD/MP3 player, an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. Options for the CX include 17-inch alloy wheels and a Comfort and Convenience package that adds dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming mirror, Bluetooth, driver power lumbar support, a power front passenger seat and remote vehicle start.
Stepping up to the CXL nets all of the standard and optional CX equipment plus 18-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, heated front seats and leather upholstery. Additional options for the CXL models include another Comfort and Convenience package that includes rear parking sensors, driver memory settings and auto-dimming side mirrors. The optional Luxury package includes a heated leather and wood-grain steering wheel, ventilated front seats, a power rear sunshade and keyless ignition. A premium 11-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with a USB port is also available for CX and CXL models.
The range-topping CXS trim level includes all standard and optional features listed above plus 19-inch alloy wheels. A Touring package is optional for the CXS and includes different 19-inch wheels and adjustable shock absorbers. Other optional CXS extras can also be had on CXL models and include a hard-drive-based navigation system with a rearview camera and a rear-seat entertainment system with dual headrest displays. Also available is a Driver Confidence package that includes blind-spot alerts, adaptive xenon headlights and a head-up display.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Above Average
#15 out of 28 among Midsize Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Buick LaCrosse from 2008-2022.$447/yr
vs. $415/yr
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).0.81x/yr
vs. 0.87x/yr
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).12.7%
vs. 10.2%
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2010 Buick LaCrosse.
5 star(73%)
4 star(11%)
3 star(13%)
2 star(2%)
1 star(1%)
125 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.13 out of 5 stars
Unresolved Noise on Startup
lph6402, 05/07/2012
2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6A)
Bought a new, fully loaded 2010 AWD in June, 2011. It always gets 'compliments' on the exterior styling.
Unfortunately, I have an unresolved clanging or banging sound at startup.
The annoyance has been diagnosed from the beginning and the symptoms at startup last for 30~75 seconds.
It's loud, embarrasing and some type of manufacuring or assembly non-conformance. The local dealer has … tried a few things with guidance from Buick service and engineers.
Going on 9~10 months and Buick Customer Service basically told me to quick calling because they are not going to fix the non-conformance.
3 out of 5 stars
2010 lacrosse history
Robert Carroll, 09/26/2015
2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS 4dr Sedan (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
Own The car since 2010 had 400 miles, warranty work done so far is tires replaced (they were out of round), steering corrected after multiple complaints about noise when turning, body work due to paint mismatch on front and rear bumpers, rotors turned multiple times due to warping, @ 51000 I replaced rotors after warranty expired no problems since, @ 80000 water pump replaced, @ 89000 … ac compresser and condenser replaced because descident bag opened expensive fix, @ 92000 power steering started leaking car currently in shop to diagnose. Leaking Powering Steering hose and since its on the back side of the engine very expensive to replace ($1800), 98000 miles, DIC Says service suspension system but leaves no code according to shop has to happen when they can see it. Passenger side seat heater function not working ( Has not been looked at yet).
3 out of 5 stars
Loved it until...
Mark from Franklin, 01/22/2016
2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6A)
Overall the style, ride and comfort is awesome. Then came the repairs! It started with an issue regarding the sun roof. Out of no where it would not fully close. I noticed it on the highway at greater speeds than on city streets. No leaks but whistling. Brought it to the dealer and they "reset" the computer stating it was misreading alignment in sensors. Problem solved...sort of. … 3 times this happened along with them reseating the entire sun roof unit. It happened again after the reseating and then they stated the next try possibly costing me $$ because they needed to bring in a GM consultant at a cost. After MANY back-and-forths we agreed to let him at least look at it before deciding on a course of action. He said that they didn't follow the service bulletin properly and pointed out the instructions state to remove glass from frame BEFORE reseating sensors, aligning the frame then reinsert glass. OOPS! Can't make this up. All is fine.
The above was not the "car's" fault but the stooges working on it. The straw that broke the camel's back? At 59K miles (still under warranty thankfully) it required a Catalytic Converter on Bank 1. Here I am at 96K miles and I need the same Cat replaced and it is NOT under warranty! $1K!
Also - Rear Hub & Bearing at 70K miles!, Front hub & Bearing at 80K miles, and the brakes seem to need replacement a whole lot more often than my Lincoln. Going back to Lincoln...thanks for nothing Buick!
5 out of 5 stars
Best of the best
andrew_s1, 09/12/2012
2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6A)
I am in my mid-20's and find this to be one great looking car!
I have driven BMW's & Cadillacs before and the Lacrosse is way ahead of the competition.
The Styling is great inside and out and very comfortable.
2010 LaCrosse Highlights
CX
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $26,245 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 23 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $183/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 13.3 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the LaCrosse include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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