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 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 Buick LaCrosse offers a driving experience that will likely suit older, more traditional Buick drivers just fine. But if the company 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 dynamics. 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 Buick LaCrosse is a mainstream, front-drive midsize family sedan that blends modern exterior styling with traditional Buick traits. The latter include a soft, isolated and quiet ride, up to six-passenger capacity (with the old-school front bench seat) and a large trunk.

There are three trim levels: CX, CXL and Super. The CX and CXL are powered by Buick's venerable 3.8-liter, 200-horsepower V6 while the Super is motivated by a 5.3-liter V8 that provides 300 hp. All engines route their power to the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. The CX comes with the basics like air-conditioning and full power features, while the CXL provides a plusher driving experience with leather upholstery, automatic climate control and more upscale exterior trim. The performance-oriented Super features the aforementioned V8, a sport suspension (with larger tires and brakes), unique front and rear styling and dual chrome exhaust outlets.

In reviews, our editors have found the Buick LaCrosse 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 soft seats unsupportive on longer drives and the car's faux wood trim and standard "mouse fur" upholstery a bit hokey. Furthermore, there's an abundance of lightweight plastics on the center console and the backseat offers rather tight accommodations for a car this size.

Buicks are traditionally known for offering a quiet, comfortable ride, and the LaCrosse doesn't disappoint, isolating passengers from bumps and other road irregularities. The cabin is as silent as a college library on the eve of final exams. However, even the sportier versions of the LaCrosse are slow on the uptake when driven through corners with any gusto, with evident body roll and lazy steering response. The four-speed automatic is another liability, as competing cars now typically offer more efficient five- and six-speed units.

Used Buick LaCrosse Models

The Buick LaCrosse is a midsize sedan that debuted in 2005. Its basic platform is similar to a few other General Motors products, including the now-retired Pontiac Grand Prix. Until 2009, the LaCrosse came in an additional CXS trim level. The CXS sported a 3.6-liter V6 that rustled up 240 horses. The Super and its 5.3-liter V8 did not come online until 2008.

SELECT A SPECIFIC BUICK LACROSSE MODEL YEAR*

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