2010 Buick LaCrosse

Cars

2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS. X10BU_LC025 (United States)

By Bill Visnic, Motor Matters

Last update: October 15, 2009 - 3:16 PM

The all-new 2010 Buick LaCrosse is probably one of the most progressive models Buick has offered in at least 20 years, which should go a long way toward helping Buick shrug off its reputation for making old-folks cars.

Conveniently for Buick, the Enclave crossover, which went on sale last year, was an unanticipated success. The Enclave's slick styling, rich details and hauling versatility made it a hit with a clientele much younger than Buick's average customers. For 50 percent of buyers, the Enclave was their first Buick.

The Enclave proved engaging design and new-age features and functionality could convince younger shoppers to consider Buick.

The next step is to try again with the five-passenger, front-wheel-drive, midsize LaCrosse. I'll cut to the bottom line and say it's not a bridge too far. Buick's got a convincing quasi-luxury sedan in the new LaCrosse.

The LaCrosse is a formidable competitor for the likes of the Lexus ES 350 (which Buick assertively targeted; and the LaCrosse even has some Lexus exterior design similarities), Ford's Taurus and probably even Lincoln's MKS.

That covers a pretty broad range of vehicles and prices, but so does the LaCrosse. The entry-level CX starts at just more than $28,000 and the lineup runs through the CXL beginning at $30,395 and tops out with the CXS at $33,765. Four versions of the LaCrosse are available: the CX, CXL, CXS and an all-wheel-drive CXL.

The 2010 LaCrosse has a sculpted and handsome shape that's entirely contemporary, if inconspicuous in that way many aerodynamics-optimized sedans now end up. There's a solidity and substantial heft to the LaCrosse styling that's not entirely cosmetic: the front-drive CXL is a portly two tons that's evidenced in heavy rear quarters and thick windshield pillars.

The base CX and mid-level CXL use General Motors' new and creamy 3.0-liter V-6 with torque and efficiency boosting direct fuel injection.

With the CXL model there's also the availability of all-wheel drive ($2,175), an appealing companion in foul-weather regions that creates an aggressively priced alternative to an Audi. Don't get the impression the LaCrosse is a barge, though: the well-considered independent front and rear suspension designs mean it tracks true and holds on tighter than any Buick you've ever met.

There's a twin-cockpit layout that's reinforced by the high, upswept center console that's brilliantly executed. The CXL trim brings standard leather seating with heat for the fronts and eight-way power adjustment for the driver.

EPA fuel economy:

City: 17, Highway: 27

Base Price Range:

$28,000 to $34,000 (estimated)

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