Buick LaCrosse Review

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-generation 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
The Buick LaCrosse is a large sedan that 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 include either a base 2.4-liter four-cylinder (182 horsepower) or a 3.6-liter V6 (280 hp), both paired with six-speed automatics. Most LaCrosses are front-wheel drive, though the CXL 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. Highlights of higher trims include dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, heated power leather seats, rear parking sensors, a heated steering wheel and an 11-speaker audio system with a USB port. Option highlights include 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 impressed by the LaCrosse's appealing dual nature. Those looking for a traditional, plush Buick ride will be pleased. However, so will most anyone who enjoys driving, as 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 is leaps and bounds ahead of the Lexus ES 350, while giving up nothing in terms of ride comfort. We would strongly suggest opting for the 3.6-liter V6, as the 2.4-liter four is overburdened by this large sedan.

The LaCrosse also impresses in non-dynamic respects. The backseat is roomy and comfortable, and the front seats offer firm support that's more German sedan than American land yacht. The dashboard design is sleek and sophisticated, and materials quality is good except 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 second-generation LaCrosse debuted for 2010. Not much has changed since, though Buick offered a 255-hp, 3.0-liter V6 (in addition to the four-cylinder and larger 3.6-liter V6) for the first year only.

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.