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What is it? The redesigned LaCrosse is a mid-sized four-door sedan, with either front or all-wheel drive. It will be the smaller of Buick's two sedans (the other is the Lucerne) and the redesign part of a wave of GM products.
The LaCrosse comes in three trim lines, CX, CXL, and CXS. The lower two trims will get a new 3.0-liter V6 rated at 255-hp, replacing the larger but weaker 200-hp 3.8-liter. The top-trim CXS gets a 3.6-liter good for 280-hp, and both engines are teamed with a modern six-speed automatic transmission. The exterior sheet metal is highlighted by prominent creases and Buick's signature portholes and "waterfall" grille. Inside, the instrument-panel displays and controls and even door panels are illuminated with blue LEDs. Standard safety gear includes side-curtain air bags and stability control. The OnStar cellular communication system with a year's free subscription is also standard.
What's new and notable? Both V6s are over-head cam designs that use direct-injection technology for improved fuel economy. Among the options is a rear-entertainment system with two flat-screen displays built into the front seatbacks. Also available is a rear-view camera and a blind-zone alert system that detects the presence of adjacent vehicles behind and to the sides.
CR's take: This new Lacrosse looks to be light years from the old, dated Lacrosse. Based on the next generation of the Malibu platform and powered by contemporary powertrains, there is a lot potential here. The dated 3.8-liter/four-speed automatic are happily gone as is the ancient W-body platform. Like other new GM products, the interior is a big advance forward in looks and feel. The sloping rear roofline doesnt help access, but rear seat room is a lot better than the old cramped car.
When will it be available? Mid-summer 2009
Consumer Reports New cars: A to Z
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