2005 Buick Park Avenue: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Buick's flagship sedan gets revisions to grille and taillamps for 2005, and the base Park Avenue model gains the front-fender "portholes" previously reserved for the top-line Park Avenue Ultra. Both models have a 3.8-liter V6 and 4-speed automatic transmission. The base model has 205 hp, the Ultra is supercharged for 240 hp. ABS, self-leveling rear suspension, and leather upholstery are standard. So is a front bench seat for 6-passenger capacity; Ultra offers optional front buckets. Ultra has 17-inch wheels, the base model 16s. Standard for Ultra and optional for the base model are a firmer Gran Touring suspension, OnStar assistance, traction/antiskid control, and a tire-pressure monitor. Optional rear obstacle detection and a head-up instrument display are also available. Buick says 2005 is the final model year for Park Avenue's current design, which dates to 1997. It says the final 3000 Park Avenues will be Special Edition models with identifying logos, chrome alloy wheels, and available black-and-platinum exterior.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Large Cars are top-of-the-line sedans in size and luxury. Many are manufacturer flagships and/or showcases for the newest automotive technology. Some have 6-figure price tags.

Our Best Buys include the Audi A8 and Lexus LS 430. Our Recommended picks include the Buick Park Avenue, Cadillac DeVille, and Volkswagen Phaeton.