Overview & Reviews

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:

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  Lacrosse V6 is a Good Buy - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By vazoom - July 28 - 7:27 am

  Now on my 1st month of ownership of the Lacrosse CX V-6. Pros: recently took a 1K mile trip to S. Virginia--mileage (22-23 mpg) as predicted on the open road with cruise control very comfortable ride great handling in country road turns along with unexpected braking for slow-moving traffic/animals crossing path. Very responsive acceleration with the V-6. Driving controls and info displays are very readable "blue" lighting is a definite plus in night driving. Excellent craftmanship in interior construction. Cons: greatly reduced trunk space compared to older Buick Century rear visibility (for parking) is just adequate even with beeping sensor. Overall: excellent buy vs Lexus

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  This is Dads Buick - 2012 Buick LaCrosse
  By rodmunch1 - July 20 - 4:29 pm

  purchased a 2012 lacrosse touring edition a couple of weeks ago. i just passed 1500 miles and Im getting 20.8 miles/gal.(not from the info menu but, for you guys who went to public schools, it was 1500 miles divided by 72.11 gallons of gasoline) ill take that. car is quiet and handles pretty good cornering. braking is good also. harman cardon stereo good along with the navigation system. HID front and LED rear lighting superb. tour. ed. comes w/ navigation, rear camera, blind side alert, heads up display, 19" wheels and much much more. New this year is a 300 HP V-6 with twin chrome exhaust tips. i traded 2008 lax.Super(my review SU--PER 3/08)and this is a totally different car.

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  Changed my opinion of American cars - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By ar15 - June 24 - 6:05 pm

  I am in love with my 2011 Buick LaCrosse CX. The car exudes the kind of quality i have expected from more expensive cars and the models made in Japan.

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  2011 Buick LaCrosse Electrical Problem - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By gvan2 - June 5 - 8:31 pm

  I used to love this NEW car but it stopped while driving. The entire electrical system shut down. I was able to pull over but dont feel comfortable driving car now. Cant imagine turning in front of a vehicle and IT DECIDES to stop!

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  Cadillac What? - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By zheigs - May 21 - 1:21 pm

  I have been in the automotive business for 17 years and I have an overall love for the automobile. Ive had many, from my 79 Ford Granada to my 2000 Chrysler 300 and Cadillac Deville to my 2008 Honda Accord. I have a special love for luxury cars. I fell in love with my Deville for its refinement, its quiet, smooth and comfortable cabin. Until my 2011 LaCrosse CXL-V6, I thought my Caddy was the gold standard. This car is everything Cadillacs are without the price tag and the interior actually looks so much better. It speaks high-tech luxury that is unmatched by Cadillac, Lexus or Infinity (for the price). If yourre looking for a nice family car with plenty of options, look no further.

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  Great car. Great value - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By normanrubin - May 16 - 6:54 pm

  I just purchased the 2011 Buick Lacrosse. The two other cars that I test drove were the Lexus ES 350 and the Lincoln MKS with ecoboast. The Lacrosse was by far the best value. The Lexus was bland and much more expensive than the Lacrosse. Aside from price and styling, I believe the cars were comparable. The MKS was 10K more than the Lacrosse and in my opinion, was unattractive.

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  Another quality GM product - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By forsythe - April 3 - 6:38 pm

  We leased a new lacrosse cxl last sat and ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT! It rides great. As comfortable as a cadillac. Steering is good, features are awesome for the money. Quiet fantastic stereo.Love the fact I can control my car with my phone through onstar. Ive read the negative comments and funny thing. Most of them all end with the same sentence" Should have gotten another toyota". Someone is coming on here and lying. Mentions of hitting your head while getting in and out and not liking where buttons are placed and cup holders... You would have noticed these things on a test drive.Toyotas are boring death traps. ASk the families that died what they think. thank you GM for another great car:)

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  I love my Buick - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By mountainhiker - March 3 - 9:29 pm

  Got tired of such bland products coming from Lexus (and scared Toyotas major slip in quality ive heard from several owners) I have put on near 20,000 miles already! No problems to report, just a great driving car. interior is very well crafted and looks great, i love the ambient lighting! Exterior styling always draws compliments. The AWD has been a blessing this winter. I`m very happy with this car!

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  GM finally has a winner - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By scuff - February 7 - 1:55 pm

  I have driven LEXUS 460 since 1989. I chose this car because the new LEXUS was Ho Hum without the technology of this great car. Sure, it isnt a LEXUS, but for $35K to $40K less it is a fantastic value. I have close to 2,000 miles and havent found a flaw. Sure, it isnt perfect but it comes close. This car turns heads and gets positive comments from everyone.

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  My Best GM Product Yet - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By dave1140 - February 1 - 12:47 pm

  I have owned GM products for over 60 years. Our 2011 LaCrosse CXS is the best one yet. I have read all of the negative comments and so be it. The car has just over 600 miles and it just hums. The acceleration is great from a standing start or pulling on to an Interstate. The power is firm and reassuring. I receive absolutely no lean or sway while going around clover leafs at 50+mph. I do wish that there was an interior trunk release that leads me to a larger trunk. Overall I love the car.