2006 Buick Lucerne: Road Test
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2006 Buick Lucerne ▼
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- MSRP: $25,265 -$34,265
- Invoice: $23,875 -$32,380
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Our road test for the 2006 Buick Lucerne includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Buick Lucerne from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Buick Lucerne, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Buick Lucerne help you decide if a 2006 Buick Lucerne is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| CXL V6 | CXL V8 | CXS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
Both engines provide adequate around-town power, work well with smooth-shifting transmission. V6 trails refined V8 for merging and highway passing power, and neither engine matches Chrysler 300C powertrain for outright muscle.
FUEL ECONOMY
| CXL V6 | CXL V8 | CXS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.5 |
No opportunity to measure V6. Test CXL V8 averaged 18.1 mpg in even mix of city/highway driving, test CXS models averaged 15.4 in mostly city driving, 22.4 mpg with more highway use. V6 uses regular-grade fuel. Buick recommends premium for the V8.
RIDE QUALITY
| CXL V6 | CXL V8 | CXS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 6.7 |
CXL models compliant over bumps, but unwanted body motions abound, including float at higher speeds and bobbing over broken surfaces around town. CXS very nearly as compliant, better composed thanks to Magnetic Ride Control, but still suffers more unwanted motion than necessary. No opportunity to test CX, which Buick says has more comfort-oriented suspension tuning than other models.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| CXL V6 | CXL V8 | CXS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 6 | 5.9 |
CXL versions suffer copious body lean in turns. CXS also leans in turns, but handles better overall. With V6, steering vague, overboosted on the highway. V8 models get variable-assist steering that feels more precise. All Lucernes have a wide turning circle for poor close-quarters maneuverability. All stop with confidence, have reassuring brake pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| CXL V6 | CXL V8 | CXS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 6.8 |
Models tested impressively quiet. CXL's 17-inch tires generate less rumble than CXS's 18s, but neither is intrusive. Engines muted in all but full-throttle situations.
CONTROLS
| CXL V6 | CXL V8 | CXS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.5 |
Gauges clearly marked, controls well-placed, refreshingly easy to operate. Cabin materials mostly of high quality, but a few lightweight plastic panels seem out of place.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| CXL V6 | CXL V8 | CXS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.8 |
Ample head, leg room. Seats comfortable, supportive; available heating and cooling work well. Visibility to corners compromised by large roof pillars. No opportunity to evaluate with bench seat.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| CXL V6 | CXL V8 | CXS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
Only taller riders might wish for more head clearance. Leg room good, but toe space tight. Some testers say seat too low for best support. Three-across travel compromised by uneven floor, cushion shape. Large door openings make entry/exit a breeze.
CARGO ROOM
| CXL V6 | CXL V8 | CXS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.8 |
Large trunk opening, but lid hinges intrude on cargo area. Small rear-seat pass-through a poor substitute for folding seatbacks. Despite two-tier center console, smallish map pockets and glovebox mean only adequate interior storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| CXL V6 | CXL V8 | CXS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 7.1 |
A step up in roominess and features from the Buick LeSabre and Park Avenue sedans it replaces, Lucerne occupies a middle ground between the flamboyant Chrysler 300 and the conservative Toyota Avalon. The well-appointed CXL V6 may be the most Lucerne for the money. However, the costlier but still reasonably priced CXS is tempting just for its better ride control, with V8 power an added bonus.
Total Score
| CXL V6 | CXL V8 | CXS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61 | 62 | 64 | 63.8 |
Total Score: 62
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