Acceleration

CXL V6	CXL V8	CXS	Class Average
5	7	7	6.1

Both engines provide adequate around-town power, work well with smooth-shifting transmission. Test CXS did 7.2 sec 0-60 mph. V6 trails refined V8 for merging and highway passing power, and neither engine matches Chrysler 300 V6 and V8 powertrains for outright muscle.

Fuel Economy

CXL V6	CXL V8	CXS	Class Average
5	4	4	4.5

No opportunity to measure with V6. Test CXL V8 averaged 18.1 mpg. Test CXS models averaged 15.4 mpg in mostly city driving, 22.4 with more highway use, and just 14.5 in test that included gas-eating performance runs. V6 uses regular-grade fuel. Buick recommends premium for the V8.

Ride Quality

CXL V6	CXL V8	CXS	Class Average
7	7	8	6.8

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
5	5	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' variable-assist steering only slightly more precise. All Lucernes have a wide turning circle for poor close-quarters maneuverability. All stop with confidence, but some testers complain of dull brake pedal feel.

Quietness

CXL V6	CXL V8	CXS	Class Average
8	8	7	6.9

Models tested were 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. No opportunity to test with navigation system.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

CXL V6	CXL V8	CXS	Class Average
8	8	8	7.9

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

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	5.5

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
7	6	6	7.2

Lucerne occupies a middle ground between the flamboyant Chrysler 300 and the conservative Toyota Avalon. The well-appointed CXL V6 is the most Lucerne for the money. However, the costlier but still reasonably priced CXS is tempting for its better ride control and the added bonus of V8 power.

Total Score

CXL V6	CXL V8	CXS	Class Average
64	64	65	64.3

Scores for all Large Cars

Low Score		56
Average Score		64
High Score		71