2009 Buick LaCrosse 2.4L 6AT (197 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Buick introduced the second generation of the LaCrosse in 2009 for the 2010 model year, and it was a completely new approach to a market that shrunk under the pressure of the world financial crisis.

GM tried to attract younger customers to the Buick brand, and the LaCrosse was an essential part of its strategy. The vehicle was based on the same platform as the European Opel/Vauxhall Insignia. As a result, besides the front-wheel drive versions, it was also available with an all-wheel drive system, a first for Buick’s sedans. Moreover, the car’s styling and interior technology package were dedicated to those who used to listen to their music streamed from phones via Bluetooth, not just from an XM Satellite radio.

At the front, the waterfall grille with vertical slats was impressive and lost the oval shape of the previous generation of the LaCrosse. Its chromed finishes made it look upscale, while the new projector beam headlights resembled other premium cars made by Lexus, Infiniti, or Acura. Furthermore, the lower part of the bumper sported a center air intake flanked by a pair of side scoops that housed the fog lamps.

From its profile, the car’s ascending belt line and the greenhouse’s low-slung look gave the 2010 LaCrosse a sportier appearance. Furthermore, the sculptured door panels resembled the famous Y-Job concept car from the ’30s, the Riviera, and the Roadmaster. Depending on the trim level, the large premium sedan sat on standard 17-, 18-, or 19-inch alloy wheels. The back of the car showed wide corner-mounted taillights that cut a big chunk from the trunk’s lid, while under the bumper, the vehicle boasted a dual exhaust system. Like its predecessor, the second generation of the LaCrosse came in three grades: CX, CXL, and CXS.

Inside, customers found a luxurious cabin with available velour upholstery or suede. Fronting the driver was a more complex instrument cluster that boasted up to six dials. Besides the classic speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and coolant temperature, Buick also added gauges for the oil temperature and battery status. In addition, an LCD for the advanced safety systems was in the middle of the speedometer dial. The bolstered front bucket seats provided good side support for high-speed cornering maneuvers, while in the back, the automaker installed a split-folding bench seat for up to three passengers.

Under the hood, the LaCrosse came with a choice of three engines. A 2.4-liter inline-four powered the base version, while two V6 powerplants were also available. All versions were paired with six-speed automatic transmissions with manual override. The all-wheel independent suspension with adaptive dampers was a novelty for the American luxurious sedan, and that ensured its younger customers that the car would do well on a winding road.