2011 Buick LaCrosse Lancaster

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For 2011 the Buick drops its 3.0-liter V-6 engine and keeps the 3.6-liter V-6 and its more efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder. Besides this the Lacrosse carries over, as it was totally redesigned last year. There are three trim levels are distinguished more by equipment than cosmetic aspects. The CX has 17-inch wheels. The CXL has 18-inch wheels and adds fog lights and turn-signal indicators on the side mirrors. The CXS has chrome 18-inch wheels, but 19-inch wheels are optional. Although the Lacrosse for 2011 is a stronger statement than the previous generation, Buick hasn't redefined itself to an extent that will turn off traditional buyers. Driving the Lacrosse is very enjoyable, the cabin remains blissfully quiet without becoming a sensory deprivation chamber, as there's just enough wind and road noise to remind you that you're driving. Considering all the nautical Buicks of the past, the LaCrosse's handling ability is a surprise. The car responds confidently to inputs and is certainly more engaging to drive than the many of its competitors. Overall, the new Buick LaCrosse is an attractive, advanced sedan with all those qualities, and those who take the time to shop Buick LaCrosse will be quite pleasantly surprised. All models benefit from Buick's QuietTuning sound control initiatives. These include use of acoustic glass, triple door seals, acoustic mats and extensive use of sound-deadening materials. Engine and suspension noise and vibrations have been isolated through use of hydraulic bushings, covers and tuned air flow systems.

Powering the new Buick LaCrosse

The 2011 LaCrosse is powered by a 182-horsepower, Ecotec 2.4-liter inline-four-cylinder in the CX and CXL FWD, and a 280-hp, 3.6-liter V-6 in the CXL AWD and CXS. Both are direct-injection designs, a relatively new development in gasoline engines that portends good gas mileage for the engines' size and power. Both engines drive the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. The middle trim level is eligible for all-wheel drive. Steering is surprisingly neutral, especially considering the front-wheel-drive layout, and pleasingly quick and precise. There are only 2.75 turns, lock-to-lock, and yet the car never feels twitchy on the road. The electronically controlled steering system has variable assist programming, so it offers a firm, controlled feeling at speed and very light effort when parking. There has been a focused effort at noise control in the new LaCrosse, with mostly excellent results. The car runs quietly to begin with, given the gentle nature of the V6 engines and tall overall gearing that permits low-rpm operation. But these sound control efforts are worth while, as the LaCrosse now has a sound level measured at a quiet 35.5 decibels at 70 mph.

Design of the 2011 LaCrosse

The 2011 LaCrosse is technically a mid-sized sedan, but it is larger and heavier than many in its class. The grille of the Lacrosse is large and bold, and there's a distinctive accent line that runs along the side from headlight to taillight. The Buick LaCrosse has ushered in a new era for Buick, one that emphasizes modernity and efficiency. This midsize sedan's handsome styling perfectly balances traditional Buick cues like the vertical bars of the grille and the swooping character line of the body with thoroughly contemporary detailing. And the car's elegant appearance is accompanied by surprisingly adept driving dynamics. It's enough to make you forget all about the luxo-barges in Buick's storied history. On the 2011 Lacrosse, there is a notably high belt line, and the wheels are snugly enclosed at the outer ends of the body. Viewed from the side, the profile is not unlike that of a sport-compact coupe, but the LaCrosse is a roomy car, and bigger than it looks. A coefficient of drag (Cd) of 0.33 adds to the sleek effect and helps improve mileage and control wind noise.

'11 Buick LaCrosse Interior

The interior of the 2011 LaCrosse offers a modern layout with features such as ambient LED lighting and analog and digital stereo inputs. There are wood accents, high-quality materials and contrasting-color stitching. The backseat is roomy for a vehicle in this class, and three adults can easily fit back there. The cabin of the 2011 Buick LaCrosse offers an elegant and contemporary feel. The front seats are enveloped by a graceful dashboard arc that stretches from door to door, and the tastefully integrated simulated wood accents contribute to the decidedly upscale feel. The center stack controls are certainly more complicated than the simple controls found in past Buicks, but operation of the audio, climate control and navigation systems should be easy enough to decipher for those used to more modern cars and electronics.

New Buick LaCrosse Lineup

The base CX includes 17-inch steel wheels, a power driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with audio controls, full power accessories, OnStar and a seven-speaker audio system with a CD/MP3 player, an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. Options for the CX include 17-inch alloy wheels and a Comfort and Convenience package that includes dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming mirror, Bluetooth, power lumbar adjustment for the driver seat, a power front passenger seat and remote engine start. A premium 11-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with an iPod/USB interface is also available.

Stepping up to the CXL nets all of the standard and optional CX equipment plus 18-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, heated mirrors, heated front seats and leather upholstery. Available on the CXL is another Comfort and Convenience package that includes rear parking sensors, driver memory settings and auto-dimming sideview mirrors. A Driver Confidence package includes adaptive xenon headlights, a blind-spot warning system and a head-up display. There's also the optional Luxury package that includes a heated leather/wood-grain steering wheel, ventilated front seats, a power rear sunshade and keyless ignition/entry.

The CXS trim level includes 19-inch alloy wheels and everything above except the navigation system, power sunroof, Driver Confidence package and rear entertainment system, which all remain optional. A Touring package is optional for the CXS and includes different 19-inch wheels and adaptive shock absorbers.

Conclusions

The LaCrosse has front- and side-impact airbags for the front seats and curtain airbags that cover all the side windows. Antilock brakes and an electronic stability system with traction control are also standard, as is OnStar communication system with a year's free subscription. Individual option highlights include a sunroof, chrome wheels, a navigation system (with rearview camera and digital music storage), a rear seat entertainment system (with dual display screens) and the Harman Kardon audio system. For further research on this vehicle, visit the official Buick Lacrosse website.