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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  Overall great car - 2010 Buick LaCrosse
  By Joe A - August 19 - 2:12 pm

  I traded my Mercedes C240 4matic in for this car. I have to admit I was reluctant to buy this car because Buick was always a car driven by older people (my father always owned a Buick). Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I love it. It has a lot more interior space. It also has a more plush feel but not too plush. I have read in the reviews that people have been complaining about the limited arm rest and that it is too far back. By accident, I found that the top of the armrest actually moves forward a few inches. In order to do so you must push it forward and it snaps into place. Overall, I am extremely happy with the purchase.

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  Very Pretty Car - 2010 Buick LaCrosse
  By John - August 10 - 1:45 pm

  A very pretty car=but should not have bought it. Have 3000 miles. It has a very nice, quiet ride. Gas mileage is about as advertised. But significant design issues. Driver position is cramped, the center console storage and cup holder area is too far rearward. There is no real area to store coins, toll passes etc. Dangerous lack of space for gas pedal- right up against the console carpet- sometimes catch foot on brake pedal when letting off the gas. Worse yet, and I have no excuse since I knew it, the trunk is horrendously small. Thought the fully foldable back seat would counter-but it is an extreme irritant. Have to pull driver out of golf bag to store. (Continued below since ran out of room

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  Awesome! - 2010 Buick LaCrosse
  By kcrnmale - August 7 - 10:54 am

  I use Edmunds as one of my primary tools for buying a car. I therefore, take this review seriously. The car is gorgeous inside and out. Many people have complimented my car and I think many also like the fact that its an American vehicle too. When reviewing, take in consideration the model and also the wheels. The CXS has the bigger V6 and the Touring package comes with 19" tires which will give a more sportier AKA rougher ride. The 18 wheels are chrome and dont look small at all. I did NOT want the Touring package because I prefer the softer, quieter ride. All upcoming cars will have bad blind spots because the new Fed rollover laws will mandate thick roof pillars.

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  Never thought I would Drive a Buick - 2010 Buick LaCrosse
  By JTKC - July 31 - 5:16 pm

  I have purchased a Carbon Black with Tan perforated leather interior--I love the look. The car has sufficient pickup, though no sports car, it is perfect for my use driving significant highway miles. I have read some do not like some ergonomic aspects, however I have found the car to be very intuitive to use all functions from the cruise, menus, climate control, bluetooth--all very easy to use. I did upgrade to the perforated leather that is heated and cooled--GREAT feature. I also have the back window shade, again a great feature during these warm summer days. interior room for passengers is exceptional as there is ample legroom front and back with ease of entry and exit.

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  3 Month Owner - 2010 Buick LaCrosse
  By DC3KEN - July 29 - 8:00 pm

  In California and have had the CXL w/AWD for 3 months. What a good looking, comfortable car. Purchased with all the bells and whistles. Bought this over the Lexus because it was $15,000 less, but just as stylish and luxurious. Everyone who sees it thinks its hot and are impressed that GM is finally doing something right! I really enjoy driving it. It has enough muscle with the 3.0 (but not tons). Trunk space isnt overly large and I cant get more than 2 suitcases in there. The gas mileage is terrible, but friends with comparable Infinity and Lexus models say they get about the same. The colors are also bad, boring and limited. They need to get a better color palette!

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  For the long haul - 2010 Buick LaCrosse
  By Jom - July 29 - 4:09 am

  A traveling salesman, I traded in a 6 year old V6 Camry with 300,000 miles. I consume a car and never thought to drive something this nice. After 3 weeks and 3,000 miles, I cant wait for another day in this car. All cars have some issues, but this car is the best GM product I have ever driven. I bought the low end CXL, but it has everything I needed. Comfort and ride are exceptional, quietness is a joy. Reliability is still unknown, but highway miles are usually good for a car. I find the bluetooth actually works, the smaller stereo is just fine, and the interior lighting very relaxing. I can see where backup assistance could be valuable. It costs one more tank of gas a month than the Camry.

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  Unpretentious Luxury - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By Phieus - July 27 - 8:47 pm

  I wanted to buy another Avalon but not this time. So, I test drove the Lacrosse, fell in love and ordered one on the spot. I had to wait a while for it to be delivered but so far I am very happy with my CXS. Check that, I am in love with myn Lacrosse. The perforated leather is soft and supple, the seats are extremely comfortable, it handles well but the 19-inch tires are not as quiet as would I have liked. The fit and finish is excellent although not quite as refined as my Avalon. Overall, a great car and the only complaint I have so far is that I canot get the memory seat to work. I read on Edmunds that this is a design flaw and GM has not found a fix for it.

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  Stuck in the Middle - 2007 Buick LaCrosse
  By Bumpy - July 27 - 8:32 am

  I neither love or hate this car. Exterior looks great with chrome package, except rear end is too bland. Interior is typical with fake wood from Buick. More road noise than I expected. Handles well with a firm ride, not plush, you feel the road. This is not an old mans car. The 3800 series 3 is an outstanding motor despite its unrefined feel. Most of the reviews are, as usual, from newbies and problem cars. For those of you with steering/pulling issues please consider replacing the intermediate shaft. There some bad tires out there but tires are frequently a symptom of another problem. Note the difference in alignment with a loaded vehicle if there is a persistent alignment issue.

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  Not as roomy as Id expect - 2009 Buick LaCrosse
  By Michael - July 26 - 3:50 pm

  I have owned this Buick for a year now, and am overall quite pleased with it. My only complaint is that I hit my head getting in and out of the car and I am only 59". I have difficulty reaching the door to close it after i get in my head hits the door frame constantly.

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  Mixed bag but looks great - 2010 Buick LaCrosse
  By lacrosse owner - July 23 - 2:15 pm

  Back to US cars after issue with Toyota. Shopped around, this was a great value for features. Replaces Avalon. Visibility rear and side view is poor, which almost makes me wish I hadnt purchased car. It does have a little kick when it shifts automatic, but nothing horrible. Beautiful finishes and details. Middle Console not large and not user friendly. Too short, and if you extend, you cant use both cup holders. Its like no one at GM test drove for conveniences. Reliability to be determined. Only 2000 miles. Gas use (mostly city and heavy highway only 19.9 mpg). Its a very comfortable car, including large rear seat. You need rear park assist or camera for sure. GM almost has it right!