The 2011 Buick LaCrosse is shot across the bow from GM to longtime luxury leaders like Lexus.The LaCrosse is upscale enough to challenge entry-level luxury cars, but priced like the higher trim levels of some affordable cars. If you're willing to spend more, make your comparisons in the luxury car classes. If you're looking to save a few bucks, compare the LaCrosse to affordable midsize cars.
Like the LaCrosse, it has a zen-quiet cabin. While the ES does cost more than the LaCrosse, the Lexus brand may have more cachet with luxury shoppers.
Also, the four-cylinder model gets a new electric-assist power steering system.
The 2011 Buick LaCrosse has pared down its engine choices this year, as the 255-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 has been discontinued while the 182-hp 2.4-liter inline-4 and the 280-hp 3.6-liter V6 go forward. Overall, we're impressed by the 2011 Buick LaCrosse. The 2011 Buick LaCrosse is offered in three trim levels: CX, CXL and CXS.
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. 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.
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.
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. For CX and CXL trims, a 2.4-liter inline-4 with 182 hp and 172 pound-feet of torque is the standard engine. The CXL is available in either front- or all-wheel drive -- a plus for those in snowy climates. All LaCrosse models feature a six-speed automatic transmission.
The AWD version rates 16/26/20.
Safety
The 2011 Buick LaCrosse features standard front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, OnStar communications, stability and traction control, and antilock disc brakes with brake assist. Rear-seat side airbags are also available as an option. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, the Buick scored "Good" ratings (the highest possible) in that agency's frontal-offset and side-impact tests.
The 2011 Buick LaCrosse boasts an elegant and contemporary interior.
Driving Impressions
From the driver seat, the 2011 Buick LaCrosse exhibits an enjoyable blend of luxury and engagement. Rear visibility, however, is compromised by the car's high rear deck and thick roof pillars.
The 3.6-liter V6 engine will remain.
Vehicle Specifications
Fuel economy: four-cylinder model should get 19 mpg city/30 mpg highway
Engine: 2.4-liter, 182 horsepower inline four-cylinder; 3.6-liter, 280 hp V6
Acceleration: information on the acceleration of the four-cylinder engine is unavailable; the 3.6-liter V6 has plenty of power
Car safety features: car safety features should include side curtain airbags, front side airbags, stability and traction control, OnStar, and antilock brakes. Warranty: four-year/50,000 mile basic warranty; five-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty; six-year/100,000 mile corrosion warranty; five years or 100,000 miles of roadside assistance
Exterior Features
The Buick Lacrosse had its exterior redesigned for the 2010 model year, and the 2011 Buick LaCrosse is not likely to make any changes. The interior of the 2011 Buick LaCrosse shouldn’t change much from the previous year. If you like the Buick LaCrosse, you might like these vehicles as well:
