Overview & Reviews

When it comes to longevity, few models could touch the Buick LeSabre. The car was born in 1959 and, depending on the year, was offered as a coupe, convertible, sedan and wagon. But by the early 1990s, the LeSabre's lineup had been trimmed to include just a full-size sedan. This strategy was a successful one. In the years preceding its retirement in 2005, the LeSabre frequently took top honors as the most popular full-size sedan on the market.

The latter-day Buick LeSabre owed much of its success to a demographic frequently overlooked by automakers: senior citizens. The sedan was a natural fit for these buyers with its roomy, comfortable cabin, serene ride and large trunk that easily accommodated road trip luggage as well as a walker or a mobility scooter. And everyone could appreciate the LeSabre's stellar crash test scores and the outstanding fuel-efficiency of its V6.

There were a few shortcomings, such as an old-fashioned cabin fitted with some cheap plastics, and performance that could become sluggish while carrying a full load. But these negatives were likely non-issues for the older buyers who had made the LeSabre a consistent hit. If you're looking for a used car that places ride comfort and spaciousness above all else, a late-model Buick LeSabre should prove satisfactory.

Most Recent Buick LeSabre
The eighth-generation Buick LeSabre existed from model year 2000 until the sedan's demise in 2005. Though this Buick's sheet metal looked a lot like that of the previous-generation LeSabre, it was, in fact, quite different under the skin. Built at General Motors' Detroit/Hamtramck facility in Hamtramck, Michigan, it rode on a new platform. Its cabin was revised to improve ergonomics and overall aesthetics. Ride quality and steering feel saw noticeable improvement, and side airbags were added to the standard features list.

Two trims were offered. The base Custom offered standard features like keyless entry, full power features and cruise control. The Limited trim added amenities like a power-adjustable driver seat, dual-zone climate control, alloy wheels and an electrochromatic rearview mirror. Options included a CD player, heated front seats, leather upholstery and OnStar. Both trims were powered by a 3.8-liter V6 that sent its power to the front wheels through a standard four-speed automatic transmission. With 205 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque, the V6 provided adequate performance and reasonable fuel-efficiency.

Over the years, this generation of the Buick LeSabre benefited from a few tweaks. In 2001, dual-stage airbags were added, and OnStar became a standard feature on Limited models; a head-up display also became available with the Limited trim. The following year, all LeSabres got new audio systems and manual trunk release latches; the LATCH system for keeping child safety seats in place was also added. In 2003, satellite radio was added to the options list on Limited models, and side-impact airbags -- which had been standard on all LeSabres since model year 2000 -- became optional on Custom models. LeSabre Limited models were also given a new trim option to celebrate the LeSabre's 10-year run as the best-selling full-size sedan in the nation. Dubbed the Celebration Edition, these Buicks featured a new monochrome emblem, a blacked-out grille and signal mirrors. Rain-sensing wipers were added to the options list in 2004.

In reviews, our editors gave the Buick LeSabre high marks when it came to comfort and versatility. Positive qualities included cushy seats, an abundance of useful storage nooks and crannies and a mammoth 18-cubic-foot trunk. However, we were disappointed with its cabin's unattractive styling cues. If you are considering a Buick LeSabre from this generation, our suggestion is to choose one offered in model year 2002 or later, to take advantage of the upgraded audio systems (and LATCH system, if you're traveling with children) that became available that year.

Past Buick LeSabre Models
Produced from 1992-'99, the seventh-generation Buick LeSabre offered a powerful engine and a smooth ride, much like the models that followed it. Sadly, it also offered an interior that left much to be desired. Cabin design was uninspired and ergonomics were poor. Many controls were unintuitive, and seat comfort was mediocre at best. Still, the car offered notable improvements over the previous-generation model. A driver-side airbag had been added to the standard features list, and the car's 3.8-liter V6 had been given an upgrade in power to 170 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque (up from 165 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque) relative to previous models. The coupe version of the LeSabre was killed off with this generation; from 1992 onward, the car was available only as a sedan. This LeSabre was preceded by the sixth generation, which was built from 1986-'91.

User Reviews:

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  American Disappointment - 2003 Buick LeSabre
  By Ramius - July 3 - 2:00 am

  Though the LeSabre has some appealing features, Im disappointed to find it continues to have many long-time shortcomings. Specifically: the A/C doesnt provide cold air, and had trouble cooling the car in an 85-degree day. The legroom for this 64" person is pathetic for a big car. There is no height adjustment on the seatbelts, making them ride too close to my wifes neck causing discomfort(this is downright embarrassing, Buick). I still have to slam the trunk for it to close just like in my fathers Buick of 25 years ago(which I hated even then when I was too young to drive). The sound from the stereo was muddy at best.

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  2000 and 2003 LeSabre Limited Comparison - 2003 Buick LeSabre
  By Chicocat - July 2 - 2:00 am

  I previously drove a 2000 LeSabre Limited until purchasing the 2003 LeSabre Celebration Edition with all of the options. I have been happy with both vehicles, but there are some aspects of each I would rate differently. The 2000 Limited model had a more attractive interior & more comfortable & softer leather seats. The 2003 model has somewhat better handling and more features, such as side mirror turn signals & chrome plated wheels. The audio components on the 2003 model are much better, especially the XM radio & RDS options.

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  Almost-not Quite - 2001 Buick LeSabre
  By Arseel - June 8 - 2:00 am

  I am very pleased with this Buick. This is my third one. Very comfortable ride. Am considering buying another Buick if they change certain things.(see below)

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  Problem car - 2001 Buick LeSabre
  By J Roberts - May 19 - 2:00 am

  September 2002 - the front right coil spring snapped (cost $300). May 2003 - the thrust bearing in the transmission failed causing several other transmission problems(cost $2,200). Total miles on the car 48,000. I dont think I can afford to own a car that has this many problems with this little milage. The dealership did help with the cost but Buick said "tough Luck", we cant help you.

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  Its Difficult to Part with it - 1990 Buick LeSabre
  By NM Sunshine - March 30 - 2:00 am

  Although, the exterior style is boxy, it has been a very comfortable, reliable car. Its good on gas for a car this size. Great for a long drive. Lots of space in the trunk. It still looks like a new vehicle and drives like one too!

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  Work Horse - 1994 Buick LeSabre
  By Markdoggiedog - March 26 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car because Ive never had a problem with the 3.8 V6 on other Buicks that I owned. I drive about 3000 to 4000 miles a month with this car and never had a problem!

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  Great family car !!! - 1994 Buick LeSabre
  By Brandon. - March 24 - 2:00 am

  The car handles VERY well in the snow and rain. I average 25 to 26 miles to the gallon. The 3.8 V6 is very peppy and has great pick up, with good fuel economy. Its very roomy inside and has a large trunk space. Handles very nice and feels like you floating on air. I highly recommend this car for any one who wants a smooth quiet ride in a car that has power AND good fuel economy.

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  Solid Buick - 1999 Buick LeSabre
  By MJM571 - March 9 - 2:00 am

  The LeSabre continues to be a solid made vehicle. I expect this 99 LeSabre to yield 200,000 miles without serious problems as have my previous LeSabres. Seating is somewhat uncomfortable. For long drives a lumbar support would be beneficial.

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  I would buy another - 1991 Buick LeSabre
  By Uwillloveit - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I have had my car since 1996 and could probably count 6 times that I have had to have anything done to it, besides general maintenance. The most extensive repair has been an alternator! This is the second Buick I have owned and I only traded because I was driving a Century T-type and needed more room. Everyone knows it as the "granny-mobile", I dont mind it though, I will drive it until it decides to quit for good. It has just turned over to 176,400 miles.

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  LeSabre - 2000 Buick LeSabre
  By tryg - February 26 - 2:00 am

  Great car...much underrated and reported by reviewers. Excellent economy, and a real performer at all speeds with the tried 3.8 V6