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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  I love IT!!!!!!! - 2012 Buick LaCrosse
  By wendyjo13 - March 1 - 12:19 pm

  I recently bought my Lacrosse after having Expeditions for the last 12 years. I wasnt sure how I would feel driving a car after having a SUV for so long. All I can say is I LOVE MY CAR!!! It drives so smooth and has enough room for my husband and two sons that are all 510" or larger, AND, our daughter. My kids love it too because it is sporty and fun. The control panel is easy to access and the options are such a luxury. The only problem I have found and, it is really isnt a problem, just a matter of adjusting, is there is a blind spot between the windshield and doors on both sides. There isnt one perfect car, but this one is close. The more I drive it, the more I fall in love with it.

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  Attention to detail lacking.... - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By iceman721 - February 18 - 8:41 am

  I had this car as a long term rental and put several thousand miles on it. I am a previous Lexus & Cadillac owner. This car drives as well as the car it copied (Lexus LS 350). It is surprisingly quiet for an American car (on par with Lexus). The ride is also quite good over smooth pavement and acceptable on the rough stuff. The little things get annoying very quickly (see improvements). I wouldnt buy one of these new but I would consider one with low miles and a great price on the used market. The reliability ratings for the Buick brand have been above average which may inspire confidence. Set the bar higher Buick pay attention to the details.

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  Not Your Fathers Buick - 2012 Buick LaCrosse
  By mike652 - February 15 - 8:23 am

  Having been longtime Pontiac owners we always thought Buicks styling and road manners skewed old. This is not the case with the LaCrosse. The looks are outstanding but it comes at a price. It is hard to judge the front and rear of the car and the blind spots when changing lanes are hard to see. It takes some getting used to but consider getting back up assist and blind spot alert. It has a sporty road feel without a punishing ride. The seats are very comfortable. The layout of the instrument panel is such that the tilt wheel is always obstructing something. The digital speedometer is a big help. The trunk is only adequate for luggage for two. Thats the price you pay for the large back seat

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  Lacrosse Review - 2012 Buick LaCrosse
  By mkrich1 - February 1 - 12:04 pm

  This car is a great value. I have owned similarly equipped pricier luxury cars such as Lexus. The car rivals those models. I recently purchased a Cadillac SRX for my wife. The Lacrosse is quieter and has a much better ride. The Lacrosse has the same features and equipment.

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  A better value - 2012 Buick LaCrosse
  By thadp - January 14 - 2:20 pm

  Buick has a winner with the 2012 Lacrosse. BMW, Audi watch out. The Lacrosse with GM incentives is a much better value than most other comparable sedans. The 303 HP V-6 can compete well with other comparable sedans. Responsive, smooth and quiet engine with reasonable fuel economy. Ride is comfortable, quite and smooth. Cornering is flat at high speeds and vehicle tracking is excellent with good steering response. A fun car to drive. On the negative side, first gear is much too low, a ratio, better suited for a four cylinder. Side visibility hindered by door post. High head rests hinders backing visibility. The front bucket seats are too narrow except for a small butt person.

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  Upscale Luxury Sedan - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By bwia - January 6 - 6:30 am

  Great car in all respects except for MGP that is well below expectations.

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  All show no go - 2012 Buick LaCrosse
  By vakmere - December 23 - 4:46 pm

  Had this Lacrosse for 4 months and Im not impressed any more. Clumsy and noisy is how I would describe it. Heres the list, 1. Car rides fine until you go over a series of bumps. Hold on to your coffee if its open. 2. Knee and head protection may be needed if you want to enter or exit this car quickly. Very cumbersome. Turning in or out of your driveway may cause wiplash due to the stiff suspension. 3. A distinct and fairly audible metalic ticking noise from the engine. Dealership says its normal, I say theres a problem. Engine shakes noticeably at idle (in drive). Accelleration and crusing is no problem. 4. Trunk space is way too small, tight fit for 2 sets of golf clubs.

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  The Air Out of my Balloon - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By kat803 - December 20 - 5:48 am

  When I first bought my 2011 Certified Pre-Own Buick I was on cloud 9. I was torn between purchasing a Benz and the Buick. I decided to go American Made to support my country. I am begining to think I made a huge mistake. The Buick refused to move forward while I was driving last Saturday night. Turns out the Transmission is Gone. The car has 38,000 miles on it. Sometimes we can put too much technology on things which can mess up the reliability and integrity of a product. My New Digital Fridge at home has gone out on me 3x whereas my simple plain fridge never did. All my friends who were gonna buy a Buick are watching how my situation pans out. I have a lot of folks watching BUICK!

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  This car vibrates - 2011 Buick LaCrosse
  By 6600madison - December 7 - 9:01 am

  I have the V6 with 18 inch wheels and have accrued 4500 miles on this car. Although beautiful, it has a constant vibration through the seats and causes the legs of my pants to visibly move. It has been back to the dealer twice. Once for a balancing which did nothing and once for a force balancing with one of the tires being replaced.The ride is worse than before. The vibration is so noticeable that I cannot enjoy anything about this care. I drive the same roads in a Toyota Solara and Hyundai Sonata which both have far superior rides. I have never been so disappointed with a car and will never return to GM. A huge mistake to leave Toyota. I wish I had paid the extra money to buy the Avalon.

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  Not made for Tall People - 2012 Buick LaCrosse
  By mejp - December 4 - 7:40 am

  The curvature of the doors make it impossible to get in or out without hitting my head unless I fold like a rag doll. Not to mention creating quite a blind spot when looking over the shoulder for traffic. The lumbar support in the drivers seat is too large even when reset to zero, thus making my back hurt even after a short drive. This car is so low to the ground that even curbs become a hazard! Dealerships driver ran into a curb and caused extensive damage. Between seat console is awkward, pinches fingers when extending the arm-rest and storage is limited. The steering column is clumsy to adjust, why isnt it electric? Cant open trunk from inside????