GM keeps Buick (LaCrosse CXS)

GM has dropped some brands (Hummer, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Saturn,
Saab) and retained others, namely: Chevrolet, Buick Cadillac and GMC.
Basically, drop the duds and fly (motor) with the brands that indeed have
the best prospects!

Buick has earned a reputation for building some of the best rated cars
that GM has offered. Additionally, Buick’s styling has shown well
thought out design and execution. As a reference point, this new
2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS is aimed squarely at the front-wheel drive
Lexus ES 350. Its basic profile is similar to the Lexus, however, it is
5.8 inches longer, 1.4 inches wider, and 2.1 inches taller. Furthermore,
the larger dimensions show up in some extra back seat room.

The CXS was actually designed in China as Buicks have held appeal there
for some time with the upper class. The exterior of this new car is expressive
with its crisp shoulder lines and concave lower door panels accented with
a clean looking chrome strip.

If the exterior of the CXS is inviting, the interior closes the deal. Some
of the highlights include double seam stitching and faux wood that has a
soothing effect – especially at night when the dash provides ambient blue
lighting. With the doors closed and the front acoustic glass plus the extra
thick (5mm rear) windows up, the interior has dome like silence providing
meditation like tranquility.

In a direct comparison to Lexus, Buick offers three DOHC direct-injected
engine choices all of which are connected to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The base CXS has a 2.4-liter 182 hp 4-cylinder engine rated at 20 mpg city and
30 mpg on the highway. Next, is a 3.0-liter V6 making 252 hp and available in
front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Additionally, a 3.6-liter 280 hp V6 is available
with front-wheel drive only.

Buick’s all-wheel drive system is a Lexus trumping feature. It has a Haldex
system with limited slip rear differential and the capacity to shift torque front
to back and left to right. Other options include remote starting, Blind Zone
Alert (coming soon), electronic Dampening control, and a touring package
including 19-inch wheels.