The redesigned Buick LaCrosse marks a new direction for Buick and is a strong contender in the large sedan class.
The LaCrosse is much improved over the last version. The ride is firm and much more composed. The steering has good road feel, and even though it feels light at low speeds, it firms up as speeds build. In everyday driving, the LaCrosse corners well, with restrained body lean and good road feel. In fact, it drives better than any other Buick in memory.
The 280-hp, 3.6-liter direct-injection V6 engine in our $37,555 LaCrosse CXS delivers lively performance. Fuel economy is 20 mpg overall--about average for a big sedan. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts very smoothly.
The LaCrosse's interior has a luxurious feel, with high-quality materials and many soft-touch panels. The cabin stays quiet, apart for some tire hiss from the optional low-profile 19-inch tires and the refined engine hum.
However, the car falls short on some practical matters. We found the driving position is somewhat narrow, and the high belt line and thick roof pillars add up to difficult outward visibility. The button-strewn dashboard makes it tough to pick the right control at a glance.
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LaCrosse road test and ratings.
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