Buick LaCrosse Review

2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS Sedan Shown

Buick has been undergoing a reinvention of sorts, launching new models designed to reinvigorate its image and broaden its fan base. The Buick LaCrosse is one example of this strategy. Its name relates to the exciting sport of lacrosse, which is a hockey-like game played on a grass field. In French Canada, the word is rather naughty, so the LaCrosse is known as the Allure to our northern neighbors. Though the latest LaCrosse is notably more dynamic than its predecessor, it still holds firm to the Buick qualities of a relatively cushy interior and a smooth, quiet ride.

Overall, any Buick LaCrosse offers a driving experience that will suit older, more traditional Buick drivers just fine, while the current LaCrosse may offer enough style and athleticism to appeal to somewhat younger ones as well. Shoppers interested in this type of car will also want to check out established front-wheel-drive rivals like the Acura TL, Lexus ES and Toyota Avalon, as well as the rear-wheel-drive Hyundai Genesis, before settling on the Buick. But we wouldn't hesitate to recommend the current LaCrosse to anyone in search of a comfortable yet capable large sedan.

Current Buick LaCrosse

Redesigned for 2010, the Buick LaCrosse is a large front- or all-wheel-drive sedan that rides on an enhanced version of the Chevrolet Malibu's platform. The LaCrosse blends modern styling and surprisingly accomplished handling with traditional Buick traits like light steering and a cushy ride. There are three trim levels: CX, CXL and CXS. Engine options consist of a base 2.4-liter four-cylinder (182 horsepower), a 3.0-liter V6 (255 hp) and a 3.6-liter V6 (280 hp), all paired with six-speed automatics. The LaCrosse is front-wheel-drive except for the CXL, which can be had with all-wheel drive.

Base LaCrosse models come standard with a power driver seat, full power accessories and a seven-speaker CD/MP3 audio system. Higher trims net such niceties as alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, heated power leather seats, rear parking sensors, a heated steering wheel and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with a USB port. There are a number of appealing options as well, including adjustable shock absorbers, xenon headlamps, a head-up display, a hard-drive-based navigation system with a rearview camera and a rear-seat entertainment system with dual headrest displays.

In reviews, we've been surprised at the current LaCrosse's ability to combine the expected Buick ride quality with unprecedented (for Buick) athleticism. Those who buy the LaCrosse simply to cushion impacts around town and on the highway will not be disappointed, but those who venture onto twisting two-lanes will be amazed at how nimble and sure-footed this 2-ton sedan feels. It's not exactly a sport sedan, but it's leaps and bounds ahead of the Lexus ES 350 while giving up nothing in terms of ride comfort. Engine performance, however, is somewhat lacking relative to the competition unless you ante up for the 3.6-liter V6.

The LaCrosse also impresses in non-dynamic respects. The backseat is roomy and comfortable, and the front seats offer firm support that calls to mind German sedans more than American land yachts. The dashboard design is sleek and sophisticated, and materials quality is good save for some rough plastic edges and superfluous chrome here and there. One of our few complaints involves the 13-cubic-foot trunk -- unusually small for this segment. In sum, if you're in the market for this type of car, the LaCrosse belongs on your to-drive list.

Used Buick LaCrosse Models

The first-generation Buick LaCrosse debuted in 2005. Its basic platform was similar to that of a few other General Motors products, including the Pontiac Grand Prix. Its highlights were available six-passenger seating (with a front bench seat), a large trunk and a soft, isolated and quiet ride.

There were three trim levels for most of the original LaCrosse's run: CX, CXL and CXS. The Super model joined the lineup in 2008. The CX and CXL were powered by GM's venerable 3.8-liter, 200-horsepower V6, while the CXS got a 3.6-liter V6 good for 240 hp, and the Super was motivated by a 5.3-liter small-block V8 providing 300 hp. All engines routed their power to the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission.

The CX came with basics like air-conditioning and full power accessories, while the CXL stepped up to leather upholstery, automatic climate control and more upscale exterior trim. The CXS added the peppier V6, 17-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, a quicker steering ratio and a split-folding rear seat. The top-of-the-line Super featured a broad-shouldered V8, a sport suspension, unique front and rear styling and dual chrome exhaust outlets.

In reviews, our editors found the first-generation Buick LaCrosse to be a mixed bag. On the plus side, the car offered Buick's traditional soft, quiet ride, and acceleration was fine, particularly with the Super's V8, a rarity in a front-drive luxury car. The gauges were easily read, and storage space was ample thanks to the roomy 16-cubic-foot trunk.

However, we thought the soft seats unsupportive on longer drives, and found the car's faux wood trim and standard "mouse fur" upholstery a bit hokey. Furthermore, there was an abundance of cheap plastics on the center console, and the backseat offered rather tight accommodations for a car this size. As you might expect, the LaCrosse was "LaConfused" when driven through corners with any gusto, displaying significant body roll and lazy steering response. The four-speed automatic was another liability, as competing cars typically offered more efficient five- and six-speed units.

Notable changes during the original Buick LaCrosse's run began in 2006, when head-protecting side curtain airbags and antilock brakes became standard on all models. The Super joined the lineup for 2008, while Bluetooth was added (and the CXS model dropped) for 2009, the last year of production.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.