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I've looked for flaws. After two weeks and almost 1,000 miles behind the wheel, I'm still futilely searching for reasons not to buy the 2005 Buick LaCrosse. Every time I find something that might stretch into a negative, I am reminded that LaCrosse is not positioned as the ultimate halo luxury car but as a midsize Regal and Century replacement. When I first listened to former Wyandotte County native and current President of GM North America, Gary Cowger, introduce the new 2005 Buick LaCrosse at the Chicago Auto Show my enthusiasm was subdued. Other cars like the new generation Corvette made our hearts race and tongues wag. LaCrosse, residing squarely in the mainstream sedan segment simply was destined to be a nice rental and transportation for middle age salesmen everywhere. It had to be all things for all people and by definition inspire little passion among enthusiasts. Replacing the two models that account for almost half of Buick car sales is risky enough, tinkering with a traditional design was unthinkable. Without flaws, Buick has a solid winner in this car. The 2005 Buick LaCrosse CX has a starting MSRP of only $23,495, and the upscale CXL begins at $25,995. My fully loaded sporty LaCrosse CXS topped out at $33,650, over $10,000 above the base model. Both the CX and the CXL versions call on the third generation 3.8 Liter V-6 producing 200 horsepower and 230 lb.-ft. of torque for power. The performance oriented CXS introduces a new 240 horsepower aluminum 3.6 liter engine. This dual overhead cam, four valve per cylinder engine uses variable valve timing to achieve outstanding performance across its entire power band. The 2005 Buick LaCrosse CXS that I drove had a sport suspension, large 17" wheels, fat stabilizer bars and even GM's exclusive StabiliTrak stability enhancement system giving this unassuming four door sedan surprising driving performance. Each day that I spent with the vehicle I grew more attached and impressed. The exterior look is modern and attractive but does not stray from traditional Buick designs. A finely sculptured hood flows into the trademark wide mouth elliptical Buick grill. The Buick LaCrosse is not revolutionary styling but an evolutionary interpretation of the Buick midsize four door sedan. Lately, I have been critical of some General Motors interiors, but this I applaud. The interior in the 2005 Buick LaCrosse is one of the very best interior environments available at any price from any manufacturer. Clean, modern and very attractive this is an inviting space for those long commutes. Everything is in its place surrounded by wood grain and attractive accents. Heated leather seats, as comfortable as any home sofa, make this an outstanding environment. My favorite feature that GM offers on the 2005 Buick LaCrosse has to be the remote start. On cold winter mornings, a simple push of the remote from the warmth of your house starts the engine, bringing the automatic climate control to life. Still securely locked the vehicle interior is brought to comfort until you arrive. As a mid size offering, the 2005 Buick LaCrosse has an amazing level of features and options. Individuals can customize this car as a basic economical four-door sedan or equip it as a sport sedan bathed in comfort, luxury and performance. Regardless of equipment levels all Buick LaCrosse models share best in class quietness achieved by "Quiet Tuning" approach to reduce noise, vibration and harshness. Including laminated steel and glass, the sound absorbing qualities of this vehicle is outstanding. The 2004 Buick LaCrosse may not be a halo car that aspirational dreams are made of. But this little angel of a car can be depended on each and every day to make your life and your driving a better experience.
2005 Buick LaCrosse CXS
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©2003 - Stan Risener