Buick LaCrosse Overview

The LaCrosse is available in three front-wheel drive trim levels - CX, CXL and CXS - as well as one all-wheel drive CXL trim. The CX and CXL front-wheel drive models are powered by a 182-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, while the CXL all-wheel drive and CXS are equipped with a 280-hp 3.6-liter V6. Both engines feature direct fuel injection, and are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift Control manual shift mode. The CX trim is outfitted with 17-inch wheels, automatic climate control, satellite radio, MP3 capability and a power driver's seat; CXL trims add 18-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, heated front seats, leather upholstery and Bluetooth wireless connectivity. The CXS boasts exclusive features that include distinctive 18-inch chrome wheels, ventilated front seats with memory, E-Z Key passive entry, upgraded harman/kardon audio with USB port, a heated steering wheel and a power rear window sunshade. A hard drive-based navigation system is available on all but the CX trim, featuring 10 gigabytes of dedicated media storage, DVD video capability and a rear back-up camera. Standard safety features on every LaCrosse include 4-wheel anti-lock brakes with brake assist, StabiliTrak electronic stability control, traction control, and front, side-impact and overhead curtain airbags; CXS trims add rear parking assist (optional on the CXL), and a Side Blind Zone Alert system is available.

Following a complete redesign last year, the Buick LaCrosse carries over with minimal changes for 2011. The CX and front-wheel drive CXL trims are both now powered by an efficient four-cylinder engine, replacing the previous model year?s 3.0-liter V6 (now optional); an electric power-assist steering system and rear lip spoiler are also new on these two trims. Additionally, the all-wheel drive CXL is now outfitted with the more powerful 3.6-liter engine, and all models get new steering wheel-mounted paddle shift controls.