Acceleration

CXL w/6-passenger seating	CXS	Class Average
5	6	5.3

The 3.8 V6 provides brisk takeoffs, but lacks strong passing power in the 35-55-mph range. Expect about 8.5 sec 0-60 mph. CXS's 3.6 V6 has more available muscle at all speeds; clocked 7.1 sec 0-60 mph in our tests. Transmission provides smooth shifts but requires deep stab of throttle to downshift for passing punch.

Fuel Economy

CXL w/6-passenger seating	CXS	Class Average
5	5	5.2

In a mix of city/highway driving, test CXL with 3.8 V6 averaged 21.1 mpg; test CXS averaged 18.3 in mixed driving, 24.3 mpg in mostly highway driving. Buick recommends regular-grade fuel for both engines.

Ride Quality

CXL w/6-passenger seating	CXS	Class Average
6	6	6.1

Base suspension absorbs bumps well, but tends to bound and wallow over ruts and humps at highway speed. Steady-riding CXS sport-tuned suspension eliminates these faults, but allows sharp bumps and potholes to register more prominently.

Steering/Handling/Braking

CXL w/6-passenger seating	CXS	Class Average
5	6	6.1

Steering overassisted in CX, CXL, but otherwise direct, fairly responsive. Those models also exhibit notable body lean in turns, and tend to noseplow in aggressive cornering. CXS is much more composed through turns, though tar strips can upset traction. CXS also has variable-ratio steering that some testers feel is more responsive, others say is too artificial.

Quietness

CXL w/6-passenger seating	CXS	Class Average
7	7	6

Wind rush apparent at 65 mph. Notable body drumming over coarse pavement. The 3.8 V6 less gruff here than in other GM cars, but still not as refined as 3.6 V6, which approaches top import rivals for smoothness.

Controls

CXL w/6-passenger seating	CXS	Class Average
8	8	6.6

Gauges easy to see, read in any light. Most controls grouped in a simple center stack that's easy to reach, though some testers complained that climate system's buttons are too small and mounted too low. Well-assembled, soft-touch interior materials have quality feel, look.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

CXL w/6-passenger seating	CXS	Class Average
7	7	6.3

Plenty of leg space, but taller riders may want more head room, especially with sunroof. Available tilt/telescope steering wheel makes it easy to find a comfortable driving position. No opportunity to sample cloth-upholstered seats. Leather seats comfortable, have enough side bolstering to provide good lateral support. "Flip-and-fold" seat for third front passenger large enough only for a small child--and no child should sit up front.

Room/Comfort (rear)

CXL w/6-passenger seating	CXS	Class Average
5	5	4.7

Ample leg room and fine toe clearance beneath front seats. But seat cushion not long enough for adequate long-distance thigh support.

Cargo Room

CXL w/6-passenger seating	CXS	Class Average
5	5	4.5

Trunk has low liftover, nonintrusive lid hinges, but opening too small to load larger boxes. The available 60/40 split folding rear seatbacks lay fairly flat, but a structural beam behind the seats limits the height of items that can pass through. Good interior small-items storage.

Value within Class

CXL w/6-passenger seating	CXS	Class Average
6	6	5.7

LaCrosse generates more division among our testers than most cars. All agree that no model matches Honda Accord or Toyota Camry for overall value. Some testers say the CX and CXL models suffer from poor road manners and steep prices, and that the CXS falls short of its sporty promise. Conversely, other testers like the CX and CXL for their traditional Buick room and comfort, and the CXS for its engine and handling.

Total Score

CXL w/6-passenger seating	CXS	Class Average
59	61	56.5

Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score		45
Average Score		56
High Score		71