Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The full-size Buick Lucerne sedan is available in three trim levels: CX, CXL and CXS. The CX comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, power windows and mirrors, a six-way power driver seat, a CD player and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. The CXL adds 17-inch wheels, heated outside mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, leather upholstery, a power passenger seat, dual-zone automatic climate control and an MP3-capable stereo with an auxiliary audio jack. This trim also provides access to additional optional equipment like heated and cooled seats and heated windshield washer fluid. The top-line CXS has all the CXL luxuries along with driver-seat memory, a 280-watt Harman Kardon audio system, satellite radio, 18-inch wheels and a Magnetic Ride Control suspension. Options on all Lucernes include an in-dash CD changer, a remote vehicle-start feature and rear park assist. A navigation system will be available midyear.
Powertrains and Performance:
Two engines are available for the Lucerne. The CX trim comes with a 3.8-liter V6 that provides 197 horsepower and 227 lb-ft of torque. Available on the CXL and standard on the CXS is a 4.6-liter V8. It's rated at 275 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque. Both engines send their power to the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission.
Safety:
Standard safety equipment includes OnStar, antilock four-wheel disc brakes, traction control, front side-impact airbags and head-protecting side curtain airbags for all outboard passengers. The Lucerne also features a front-passenger airbag that deploys at two different depths depending on the occupant. Stability control and BrakeAssist are standard on the CXS and optional for V8-equipped CXL models. Lucernes with the front bench seat have a two-point belt for the center position.
Interior Design and Special Features:
The Lucerne's interior is cleanly styled, and the control layout is simple and organized. Front seating is typically for two but a 40/20/40-split bench seat can be ordered for the CX and CXL. So done, the Lucerne can seat six. The trunk holds up to 17 cubic feet of cargo, which is a big but there is a ski pass-through.
Driving Impressions:
Although a plush, serene ride is the top priority for the Lucerne, those expecting the soggy suspension response typical of older Buicks will be pleasantly surprised by the nimble handling of this large sedan. Softer-tuned CX and CXL models still exhibit a fair amount of body roll around corners, but they feel predictable overall. The CXS is most impressive as its Magnetic Ride Control suspension greatly improves its balance through the turns without detracting from ride quality. The steering is a bit wobbly on-center in CX and V6-equipped CXL models, but the variable-assist Magnasteer setup on the CXL V8 and CXS provides a nice, firm feel at speed. Acceleration is fully adequate with the V6, while the V8 provides brisk response, though we'd like to see Buick upgrade to a five-speed automatic.