Buick LaCrosse Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.38/5 Average
536 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

During the course of two generations, the Buick LaCrosse has been a large, five-passenger sedan. That's really where the similarities end, though, as they are radically different cars indicative of much different eras for the Buick brand.

The first LaCrosse was the epitome of old Buick, in more ways than one. Bland to look at, blander to drive and with a cabin filled with subpar materials, it was a decade behind the times. Its large size and simple controls at least made it popular among senior car shoppers. The current-generation LaCrosse, however, is a far more modern, stylish and overall impressive automobile that is not only one of the better full-size sedans you can buy, but even gives certain luxury-branded large sedans a run for their money. Regardless of your age, it's definitely worth consideration.

Current Buick LaCrosse
The Buick LaCrosse is a large sedan that blends modern styling and surprisingly accomplished handling with traditional Buick traits like light-effort steering and a cushy ride. The base engine consists of a mild-hybrid setup dubbed "eAssist" that pairs a 2.4-liter 182-horsepower four-cylinder engine with an 11-kilowatt electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack. Fuel mileage estimates for this roomy sedan are impressive, at almost 30 mpg combined. A 3.6-liter V6 with 303 hp is also available. A six-speed automatic is the lone transmission choice either way. Front-wheel drive is standard, though V6 buyers can also opt for all-wheel drive.

There are four trim levels: base, Leather, Premium 1 and Premium 2. Even the base is well equipped, with 17-inch alloy wheels, a power driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, OnStar, Bluetooth, a USB/iPod interface and smartphone integration. Moving up through the trims provides an ever-growing standard features list -- a rearview camera, heated and ventilated front seats and xenon headlights among them -- culminating in the Premium 2, which counts 20-inch wheels and a navigation system among its standard niceties. Packages are available that add options that include blind-spot, lane-departure and forward-collision warning systems.

In reviews, we've been impressed by the LaCrosse's appealing dual nature. Those looking for a traditional, plush Buick ride will be pleased. At the same time, so will those looking for a more engaging full-size sedan, as the LaCrosse is surprisingly nimble and sure-footed given its size. It's not a sport sedan, but it is on par with the Lexus ES 350, and gives up nothing in ride comfort. Spirited acceleration makes the 3.6-liter V6 the obvious choice for those who demand some old-fashioned grunt from their big sedan, though the high fuel efficiency of the eAssist powertrain makes its sluggish acceleration a lot easier to tolerate.

The LaCrosse also impresses in non-dynamic respects. The backseat is roomy and comfortable, and the front seats offer firm support that's more German sedan than American land yacht. The dashboard design is sleek and sophisticated, and materials quality is good except for some rough plastic edges and superfluous chrome here and there. Buick's Intellilink electronics control is dominated by a large touchscreen that does a fairly good job of controlling infotainment tasks both simple (changing a radio station) and complicated (entering a navigation destination). One of our few complaints involves the 13-cubic-foot trunk, which is unusually small for this segment. The hybrid's trunk shrinks even more -- down to 10.8 cubic feet -- to accommodate the battery pack.

Used Buick LaCrosse Models
The second-generation LaCrosse debuted for 2010 and was offered in base CX, midlevel CXL and top-of-the-line CXS trim levels. Initially, there were two V6 engines offered: a 255-hp, 3.0-liter V6 and a 280-hp, 3.6-liter V6. Later that model year, a 182-hp, 2.4-liter inline-4 became the base engine, but it's quite underpowered and we'd avoid it. The smaller V6 was dropped the following year and the four-cylinder version gained a new electric power steering system. The eAssist hybrid replaced the base four-cylinder for '12.

These LaCrosse models sold prior to 2014 had slightly different exterior styling and Buick's previous-generation interior electronics controls that featured a great many buttons and could be confusing to use. Intellilink's smartphone integration features as well as electronic safety features like lane change alerts and rear cross traffic alerts were also unavailable prior to '14.

The first-generation Buick LaCrosse was produced for the 2005-'09 model years. Its basic platform was similar to that of a few other General Motors products, including the Pontiac Grand Prix. Its highlights were available six-passenger seating (with a front bench seat), a large trunk and a soft, isolated and quiet ride.

There were three trim levels for most of the original LaCrosse's run: CX, CXL and CXS. The Super model joined the lineup in 2008. The CX and CXL were powered by GM's venerable 3.8-liter, 200-horsepower V6, while the CXS got a 3.6-liter V6 good for 240 hp, and the Super was motivated by a 5.3-liter small-block V8 providing 300 hp. All engines routed their power to the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission.

The CX came with basics like air-conditioning and full power accessories, while the CXL stepped up to leather upholstery, automatic climate control and more upscale exterior trim. The CXS added the peppier V6, 17-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, a quicker steering ratio and a split-folding rear seat. The top-of-the-line Super featured a broad-shouldered V8, a sport suspension, unique front and rear styling and dual chrome exhaust outlets.

In reviews, our editors found the first-generation Buick LaCrosse to be a mixed bag. On the plus side, the car offered Buick's traditional soft, quiet ride, and acceleration was fine, particularly with the Super's V8, a rarity in a front-drive luxury car. The gauges were easily read, and storage space was ample thanks to the roomy 16-cubic-foot trunk.

However, we thought the soft seats unsupportive on longer drives, and found the car's faux wood trim and standard "mouse fur" upholstery a bit hokey. Furthermore, there was an abundance of cheap plastics on the center console, and the backseat offered rather tight accommodations for a car this size. As you might expect, the LaCrosse was "LaConfused" when driven through corners with any gusto, displaying significant body roll and lazy steering response. The four-speed automatic was another liability, as competing cars typically offered more efficient five- and six-speed units.

Notable changes during the original Buick LaCrosse's run began in 2006, when head-protecting side curtain airbags and antilock brakes became standard on all models. The Super joined the lineup for 2008, while Bluetooth was added (and the CXS model dropped) for 2009, the last year of production.

User Reviews:

Showing 221 through 230 of 536.00
  • The whole package at a great price - 2010 Buick LaCrosse
    By -

    Just took delivery of my carbon black CXS with chrome plated wheels and I love it. Im a former Infiniti and BMW owner and I can tell you that the handling and suspension are very solid, even better than I anticipated. The 3.6L engine has plenty of pep and I have found the shifting to be smooth. The seats are very comfortable and the quality of the leather is excellent. If you are into high tech, you will love the entertainment and nav system, blue- tooth entry, remote start, back up camera, and hands-free calling. I also ordered the heads up display, which is one of my favorite features and is completely adjustable in location, intensity, and screen features.

  • Not loyal anymore. - 2017 Buick LaCrosse
    By -

    I was sad to learn that I would have to spend $40k just to get leather seats. Also if I want the nice "Bose" stereo I would have to buy a "package" that would include Navigation and a bunch of other useless "safety" features you really dont need if your paying attention. They dont put michelin tires on their premium sedans anymore. Really? Im done with GM. I currently drive a 2015 lacrosse. I really think they took the wrong direction and that new gear shifter. Its the same one that they put in the Cruze I think.? I am now looking at the new Continental. They have little "package" games too. If you compare a loaded Lacrosse which is $50k to other competitors I think the decision becomes much clearer. If I am going to spend $50k on car it isnt going to be a Buick. Sorry GM.

  • 2009 Buick LaCrosse - 2009 Buick LaCrosse
    By -

    My first Buick was back in the 50s not sure how many I have had since then. My purchase of the 09 LaCrosse was to replace my 01 Buick Park Ave, Ultra. At the time of purchase I tried both the Lucerne and the LaCrosse. I should have purchased the LuCernne. why? 1. Leather, very hard 2. Gas and heat gauge should be reversed 3.Heater and AC Controls( buttons) very poorly designed. 4. Headlight beam selector on the turn signal is a joke, more like an off and on switch. Also, turn signal indicator is much to loud. 5. Center Council is another poor design, unable to rest right elbow on it because it does not extend far enough forward. 6. Door pockets to shallow.

  • Love It - 2010 Buick LaCrosse
    By -

    We have had our Buick CXS for about a month and I just was to drive even if I have no where to go. We looked at the car for about a month and end up buying the red jewel tint with the brown leather interior w/sunroof, Nav & touring package...love the 19 inch wheels. The ride is very smooth and the red is an eye catcher. Never been stop by some many people and they say its a Buick...yes. Caviar taste w/a good price $35,580. My wife had people pulling her over on the road asking about it. The car is very responsive and to me its fast when needed, I dont need to dragster, just get up and go when its necessary.

  • Happy with LaCrosse - 2006 Buick LaCrosse
    By -

    I just bought my 2006 LaCrosse about two weeks ago and am very satisfied with it. Its quiet, comfortable, smooth riding and obviously of good quality. The AM/FM/CD player has a nice tone with plenty of space for CD storage. The door locking key-fob is easy to use. Seats are attractive and cloth-covered and very comfortable on long drives.+

  • goodbye lexus hello buick - 2010 Buick LaCrosse
    By -

    first of all , people should not listen to reviews from people that went for a test drive , these reviews are for owners who driven these cars for weeks for a true evaluation . as far for people complainig about transmission shifts are to slow , its done for fuel savings , but if you shift trans to sport mode its a complete different animal , my everyday car is my buick , my weekend car is a maserati and i will tell you i love them both and the buick is much quietier on the highway . this is as perfect as a car you can get .

  • fabric on seats - 2009 Buick LaCrosse
    By -

    my 2001 buick centry was a dream inside and out, the 2009 is a great looking car but I hate the fabric on the seats. It collects every piece of lint and dirt.The dealership advised me to spray it with an antistatic spray, which I did that doesnt really work. Wishing I had my old interior again.

  • Buick Junk - 2006 Buick LaCrosse
    By -

    My Buick Lacrosse has been a mechanical nightmare. I have had defective parts replaced consistently since I purchased it Thank heavens it was still under warranty. However, now all the seals in the rack and pinion steering need replaced at a cost to me of $900.00 This car is 3 years old!!!! I drove a ford Taurus for 175,000 miles with major repairs coming after 100,000 miles. I am fed up with this car, plan to replace it anything but a Buick. Oh, I also have water sloshing from one side to the other in my engine. I have a repeat complaint about this, to no avail. I am really a dissatisfied customer.

  • buick lacrosse not what it once was. - 2009 Buick LaCrosse
    By -

    front drivers seat makes aloud metal to metal noise when cars goes over bump or seat moves.i was told by hennessy that they had two other 2009 lacrosse with same problem, they replaced seat and new one did same thing.so i would have to live with it.my 2009 lacrosse makes a lot of moise. be carefull about,what buick calls the 6 passenger which cost a extra $250.you couldnot sat asmall dog there.

  • Last of the great 3800 engines !!! - 2009 Buick LaCrosse
    By -

    Purchased this 2009 Buick Lacrosse in April 2009, after selling my great 2006 LaCrosse to a relative. This new vehicle proved to be as good as my older one. Only reason I bought in 2009 is to get the last of the 3800 engine. Newer engines might have more HP but are no more reliable than this last of a great breed. The vehicle is quite, responsive and very comfortable. My only concern is the fact the battery ran completely down while sitting for 3 days. Dealer found no problem and it has not happened again. Still, there is the concern it might happen when I am a long way from home. The antiquated 4-speed transmission is smooth, responsive and gives as good a mileage as 6-speeds.

Buick LaCrosse Reviews By Year:
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