The 2010 Buick LaCrosse is the first non-specialty car I've driven that makes me believe General Motors really can still build world-class cars.
The 2010 LaCrosse is an awfully nice entry-level luxury sedan. It drives great, rides great and offers plenty of comfort and luxury features, all for a modest price.
I tested a gorgeous metallic red ($325 extra for cool paint, just like other luxury cars) CXS, the top-level model. Price started at $33,015 and was well equipped. The base CX model starts at $27,085. There also are CXL and CXL all-wheel-drive models, starting at $29,645 and $31,820, respectively.
Power comes from a strong 3.6-liter V6 with variable valve timing. The quiet V6 generates a hefty 280 horsepower and puts it to the pavement with a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration is good, bringing the solid (roughly 4,000-pound) sedan up to highway speeds quickly and easily. Pulling away from a stoplight with authority is easy thanks to 259 foot-pounds of torque.
The base LaCrosse's engine is a 182-horse 2.4-liter I-4, which may seem a bit meek. The CXL moves up to a 255-horse, 3.0-liter V6, that creates just a touch less in AWD form.
Handling is good with moderately heavy steering feel to the front-drive car, but quick turn-in as you slip the sedan through tight turns and there's no body roll to speak of either. LaCrosse is on par with the likes of a Lexus ES350 or Toyota Avalon for feel. It's also on par or slightly better than the Ford Taurus I recently drove and its cousin, the Lincoln MKS.
The Buick ride, long its primary selling point, is exceptional. The LaCrosse handled our rough roads and streets with as much comfort as any car I've driven, some at twice the price. The independent suspension at all four corners, plus MacPherson struts up front create a well controlled ride, not the old soft, floaty ride of the past.
Braking is excellent with four-wheel discs, anti-locks and stability and traction control. I had this in some sloppy weather and didn't spin the 18-inch tires.
Inside, the Buick delivers one of the best GM interiors to date. Fit and finish is up there with the imports, both in form and function.
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