Introduction
Replacing the Regal and soon-to-exit Century, the front-drive LaCrosse is Buick's new, younger-thinking midsize mainstay. Although it borrows heavily from GM's aging W-body platform that also underpinned the Regal/Century, the LaCrosse gains 1.5 inches of wheelbase--to 110.5 inches--plus multiple improvements that enhance both its structural integrity and overall sophistication.
The lineup includes CX, CXL, and CXS models. Traditional Buick character is more evident in the latter pair, but the CXL trades leather upholstery for cloth, adds a Driver Information Center, and nets dual-zone auto climate control in place of manual A/C. The top-line CXS moves beyond with a more powerful engine and Gran Touring sport suspension, plus numerous other amenities.
Exterior
Vertical bars in an oval grille are all that really speak to Buick lineage on the soft-lined exterior. Otherwise, styling reflects a pleasantly modern potpourri of domestic and international cues set off by subtle chrome accenting. Overall finish is impressive and body panel gaps consistent, reflecting the Lexus engineering target for this breakthrough Buick. The CXS also comes with 17-inch aluminum wheels and 225/55TR17 tires in place of the 16-inch rims--steel on CX, alloy on CXL--that wear S-rated 225/60 rubber.
Interior
Tasteful understatement with an emphasis on serenity is the order of the day inside. Marginally convincing faux walnut trim notwithstanding, there's a look and feel of quality. Main controls are logically positioned, although legibility of the instruments--light grey-on-charcoal rather than true white-on-black--suffers in low-ambient-light conditions and brightwork on the dash can cause annoying sun flare.... Read full article