Vehicle Overview Buick’s LaCrosse midsize sedan gets new front-end styling for 2008 and a new Super trim level that features a V-8 engine with fuel-saving cylinder deactivation technology. Also available in CX, CXL and CXS form with V-6 power, the sedan hits dealerships in summer 2007.
Exterior A larger grille distinguishes the 2008 LaCrosse from its predecessor. No longer elliptical, the new grille is more triangular and features bright-colored vertical slats. Other updates to the front of the car include a new hood and bumper.
Apart from the portholes on each front fender, dual exhaust tips and a small rear spoiler, the LaCrosse Super looks much like the other trims. It does wear larger 18-inch wheels; the other models have either 16-inch (CX) or 17-inch (CXL and CXS) wheels. The Super also has a sport suspension.
Interior With a front bench seat — an uncommon offering in this class — the LaCrosse can seat up to six. (A five-seat model with front bucket seats is also available.) Standard features include XM Satellite Radio, dual-zone automatic air conditioning and remote start. The top-of-the-line Super gets a silver-colored center stack and unique gauges. The sedan’s trunk is a competitive 16 cubic feet.
Under the Hood The 200-horsepower, 3.8-liter V-6 engine is standard on CX and CXL trim levels, while the CXS gets a 240-hp, 3.6-liter V-6 that has variable valve timing. The Super’s 5.3-liter V-8 makes 300 hp and 323 pounds-feet of torque and can switch instantly from eight to four cylinders to save gas when full power is not needed. Buick says the Super can go from zero to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. All engines team with a four-speed automatic transmission.
Safety Antilock brakes and side curtain airbags are standard.
