Buick LaCrosse Review

2009 Buick LaCrosse CXL 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 sport 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 sedan is a bit more dynamic than its predecessors, it still holds firm to the Buick qualities of a relatively cushy interior and a smooth, quiet ride. Overall, the LaCrosse is an agreeable sedan, but it has little to offer when compared to other competing midsize or large sedans. Shoppers interested in this type of car will want to check out other vehicles in its class before settling on the Buick.

Current Buick LaCrosse

The current Buick LaCrosse is a midsize sedan that debuted in 2005. It's front-wheel drive and V6-powered, and can seat up to six passengers. The LaCrosse's underlying body structure is similar to a few other General Motors products, including the Pontiac Grand Prix.

Buick's sedan comes in four trim levels: CX, CXL, CXS and Super. CX buyers get goodies like a six-speaker CD player and OnStar. CXL buyers are treated to a somewhat plusher driving experience, thanks to the addition of features like leather upholstery, automatic climate control and more luxury-themed exterior trim.

The CXS sweetens the pot with a more muscular V6, larger alloy wheels and a suspension that emphasizes sporting performance. The performance-oriented Super features a V8, a sport suspension (with larger tires and brakes), unique front and rear styling and dual chrome exhaust outlets.

CX and CXL models are powered by a 200-horsepower, 3.8-liter V6 engine. The CXS gets more zoom thanks to a 3.6-liter DOHC V6 that rustles up 240 horses. The Super features a 5.3-liter V8 that pumps out a potent 300 hp. All models offer a standard four-speed automatic transmission.

In reviews, our editors have found the Buick LaCrosse's interior to be a mixed bag. On the plus side, the car offers easily read gauges, ample storage space and a roomy 16-cubic-foot trunk. However, we found the seats unaccommodating on longer drives. Additionally, the car's faux wood trim pales somewhat, relative to what's found in competing vehicles, as does the "mouse fur" standard upholstery. Equally unimpressive are the abundance of lightweight plastics found on the car's center console, and the tight accommodations that await those traveling in the backseat.

This Buick's cabin does, however, get the thumbs-up for being as silent as a college library reading room on the eve of final exams, thanks to the car's Quiet Tuning technology. Quiet Tuning reduces noise by using a laminated windshield and side windows, and by utilizing special resonators and mufflers to deaden exhaust rumble.

Buicks are traditionally known for offering a comfortable ride, and the LaCrosse doesn't disappoint. The car floats like an airborne feather on the highway, never troubling passengers with bumps and other road irregularities. However, we've found the car to be slow on the uptake when driven through corners. Body roll was evident in turns and steering was less than responsive. Overall, the Buick LaCrosse offers a driving experience that will likely suit older drivers just fine, but if Buick hopes to grow its audience beyond this demographic (and it does), it will need to up its game when it comes to handling and performance.

Past Buick LaCrosse Models

The LaCrosse made its debut in 2005 as a replacement for the previous Regal and Century. Mediocre handling and stodgy styling prevented both of those vehicles from being critical favorites, but they might be worth investigating in the used-vehicle market as less expensive alternatives to more widely sought-after competitors.

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