Vehicle History Report
Get a CARFAX Vehicle History... the first step to protecting yourself from costly hidden problems.
- • New Cars
2008 Buick LaCrosse Full Review
Date Published: 4/09/08
Also in the 2008 Buick LaCrosse Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Buick LaCrosse Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2008 Buick LaCrosse Review
The 2008 Buick LaCrosse gets interior and exterior upgrades as well as an available V8 engine. Four models of this midsize sedan are offered. CX and CXL versions have a 200-hp 3.8-liter V6. The sporty CXS has a 240-hp 3.6-liter V6. New for 2008 is the high-performance LaCrosse Super with a 300-hp 5.3-liter V8, sport suspension, and unique trim. All 2008 Buick LaCrosse models have front-wheel drive and a 4-speed automatic transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, an antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. Satellite radio and OnStar assistance are standard. An available front-bench seat for CX and CXL models raises passenger capacity from five to six. Also available are leather seating and rear-obstacle detection.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family oriented sedans and wagons.
Our Best Buys include Honda Accord and Kia Rondo. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 5, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Saturn Aura, and Toyota Camry.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Honda Accord, and Mazda 5.
Our Best Buys include Honda Accord and Kia Rondo. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 5, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Saturn Aura, and Toyota Camry.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Honda Accord, and Mazda 5.
News
A V8 LaCrosse Super is due by mid-2007 as an early-'08 entry. It uses GM's 5.3-liter engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Buick says the Super should do 0-60 mph in under six seconds and will have a firmer suspension, but is not intended as a "driver's car." A late prototype, shown to Consumer Guide last summer, wore a "wide stripe" vertical-bar grille, unique front-end sheetmetal, and a dressier cabin with front bucket seats.
LaCrosse is built on the GM W-body platform that dates from the early 1990s. That architecture will finally be retired with an expected 2010 redesign on the global "Epsilon 2" front-drive architecture engineered by GM Europe.
LaCrosse is built on the GM W-body platform that dates from the early 1990s. That architecture will finally be retired with an expected 2010 redesign on the global "Epsilon 2" front-drive architecture engineered by GM Europe.
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Buick LaCrosse Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Ride (CX, CXL) | Handling (CX, CXL) |
| Ride/handling (CXS) | Rear-seat comfort |
| Instruments/controls | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
LaCrosse models with V6 engines are the only ones made available for us to test so far. The 3.8-liter engine provides brisk takeoffs but lacks passing power. CXS's 3.6-liter V6 has more available muscle at all speeds; it did 0-60 mph in 7.1 seconds in Consumer Guide testing. The transmission is generally smooth but requires a deep stab of the throttle to downshift for passing punch.
| CXL | CXS | Class Average |
| 5 | 6 | 5.6 |
LaCrosse models with V6 engines are the only ones made available for us to test so far. The 3.8-liter engine provides brisk takeoffs but lacks passing power. CXS's 3.6-liter V6 has more available muscle at all speeds; it did 0-60 mph in 7.1 seconds in Consumer Guide testing. The transmission is generally smooth but requires a deep stab of the throttle to downshift for passing punch.
Fuel Economy
Our test CXL averaged 21.1 mpg, and a test CXS averaged 18.3. V6 LaCrosses use regular-grade gas, and GM recommends premium for the Super's V8.
| CXL | CXS | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 5.5 |
Our test CXL averaged 21.1 mpg, and a test CXS averaged 18.3. V6 LaCrosses use regular-grade gas, and GM recommends premium for the Super's V8.
Ride Quality
LaCrosse's base suspension absorbs bumps well but tends to bound and wallow over ruts and humps at highway speed. A steady-riding sport-tuned suspension on CXS eliminates these faults, but allows sharp bumps and potholes to register more prominently.
| CXL | CXS | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 |
LaCrosse's base suspension absorbs bumps well but tends to bound and wallow over ruts and humps at highway speed. A steady-riding sport-tuned suspension on CXS eliminates these faults, but allows sharp bumps and potholes to register more prominently.
Steering/Handling/Braking
The steering feels overassisted in CX and CXL but is otherwise direct and 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.
| CXL | CXS | Class Average |
| 5 | 6 | 6 |
The steering feels overassisted in CX and CXL but is otherwise direct and 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
Wind rush is apparent at 65 mph with notable body drumming over coarse pavement. The 3.8 V6 is not as refined as CXS's 3.6 V6, which rivals top import competitors for smoothness.
| CXL | CXS | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 6 |
Wind rush is apparent at 65 mph with notable body drumming over coarse pavement. The 3.8 V6 is not as refined as CXS's 3.6 V6, which rivals top import competitors for smoothness.
Controls
The gauges are easy to see and read. Most controls are grouped in a simple center stack that's easy to reach, though some testers complained the climate system's buttons are too small and mounted too low.
| CXL | CXS | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
The gauges are easy to see and read. Most controls are grouped in a simple center stack that's easy to reach, though some testers complained the climate system's buttons are too small and mounted too low.
Details
Well-assembled, soft-touch interior materials have a quality look and feel.
| CXL | CXS | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
Well-assembled, soft-touch interior materials have a quality look and feel.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Plenty of legroom, but taller riders may want more headroom, especially with the sunroof. A standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel makes it easy to find a comfortable driving position. The leather seats are comfortable and have enough side bolstering to provide good lateral support. The available flip-and-fold 3rd seat for a front-center passenger is a token gesture, suitable only for a small child, but no children should ever sit up front.
| CXL | CXS | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
Plenty of legroom, but taller riders may want more headroom, especially with the sunroof. A standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel makes it easy to find a comfortable driving position. The leather seats are comfortable and have enough side bolstering to provide good lateral support. The available flip-and-fold 3rd seat for a front-center passenger is a token gesture, suitable only for a small child, but no children should ever sit up front.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Ample legroom and fine toe clearance beneath front seats, but the seat cushion isn't long enough for comfortable long-distance thigh support.
| CXL | CXS | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5.2 |
Ample legroom and fine toe clearance beneath front seats, but the seat cushion isn't long enough for comfortable long-distance thigh support.
Cargo Room
The trunk has low liftover and nonintrusive lid hinges. Its opening, however, is 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-item storage.
| CXL | CXS | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4.1 |
The trunk has low liftover and nonintrusive lid hinges. Its opening, however, is 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-item storage.
Value within Class
LaCrosse generates more division among our testers than most cars. All agree that no LaCrosse model matches any import-brand midsize sedan for overall value. Some testers say the CX and CXL versions suffer poor road manners and have 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.
| CXL | CXS | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
LaCrosse generates more division among our testers than most cars. All agree that no LaCrosse model matches any import-brand midsize sedan for overall value. Some testers say the CX and CXL versions suffer poor road manners and have 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 | CXS | Class Average |
| 65 | 66 | 63.2 |
Scores for all Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 48 | |
| Average Score | 63 | |
| High Score | 74 |
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Buick LaCrosse Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/03/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| CX 4-door sedan | $23,940 | $22,623 | $750 |
|
|
|||
| CXL 4-door sedan | $25,970 | $24,542 | $750 |
|
|
|||
| CXS 4-door sedan | $28,005 | $26,465 | $750 |
|
|
|||
| Super 4-door sedan | $32,070 | $30,306 | $750 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
CX
Powertrain
3.8-liter V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, OnStar assistance system w/one year service, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, 6-way power driver seat, center console, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, remote engine start, AM/FM/CD player, satellite radio, tachometer, intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 225/60R16 tires, wheel covers.
CXL adds to CX:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, heated front seats, driver-seat lumbar adjustment.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Alloy wheels.
CXS adds to CXL:
Powertrain
3.6-liter V6 engine, traction control.
Safety
Antiskid system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Split folding rear seat.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights, sport suspension, 225/55R17 tires.
Super adds to CXS:
Powertrain
5.3-liter V8 engine.
Safety
Rear-obstacle-detection system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
6-way power passenger seat, heated power mirrors, upgraded sound system, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage door opener.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear spoiler, performance suspension, 235/50R18 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Comfort and Convenience Pkg.
|
||
|
CX
|
$495
|
$411
|
|
Heated front seats, driver-seat lumbar adjustment, split folding rear seat.
|
||
|
Driver's Confidence Pkg.
|
||
|
CXL, CXS
|
$950
|
$789
|
|
Rear-obstacle-detection system, heated power mirrors, 6-way power passenger seat, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage door opener, rear map lights.
|
||
|
|
||
Safety |
||
|
Antiskid system
|
||
|
CXL
|
$495
|
$411
|
|
|
||
Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Power sunroof
|
||
|
CX, CXL, CXS, Super
|
$900
|
$747
|
|
AM/FM/CD/MP3 player
|
||
|
CXL, CXS
|
$545
|
$452
|
|
Includes upgraded sound system.
|
||
|
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
|
||
|
CX, CXL, CXS
|
$695
|
$577
|
|
Super
|
$150
|
$125
|
|
Includes upgraded sound system.
|
||
|
6-passenger seating
|
||
|
CX, CXL
|
$250
|
$208
|
|
Heated front seats
|
||
|
CX
|
$295
|
$245
|
|
Split folding rear seat
|
||
|
CXL
|
$275
|
$228
|
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Special paint
|
||
|
CX, CXL, CXS, Super
|
$295
|
$245
|
|
Engine-block heater
|
||
|
CX, CXL, CXS, Super
|
$75
|
$62
|
|
Alloy wheels
|
||
|
CX
|
$350
|
$291
|
|
Chrome alloy wheels
|
||
|
CX, CXL
|
$650
|
$540
|
|
CXS, Super
|
$750
|
$623
|
|
CXL includes 225/55R17 tires.
|
||
|
|
||
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Buick LaCrosse Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Buick LaCrosse 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 110.5 |
| Overall Length, in. | 198.1 |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.0 |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.4 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3495 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 16.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 6 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.4 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.2 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.6 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| ohv V6 | dohc V6 | ohv V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.8 /231 | 3.6 /217 | 5.3 /325 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 200 @ 5200 | 240 @ 6000 | 300 @ 5600 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 230 @ 4000 | 225 @ 2000 | 323 @ 4000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|||
| 4-speed automatic | 17/28 | 17/25 | 16/24 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Buick LaCrosse 4-door sedan |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 3 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 5/100,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 5/100,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Canada
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2008 Buick LaCrosse Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Buick LaCrosse Full Review
7.
8.
9.
Car Buying Resources
Vehicle History Report
Locate a Dealer
Sell Your Car
Powered by:
-
MAKE -
CATEGORY
Subcompact Car
Compact Car
Midsize Car
Large Car
Premium Midsize Car
Premium Large Car
Sporty/performance Car
Premium Sporty/performance Car
Minivan
Full-size Van
Compact Sport-utility Vehicle
Midsize Sport-utility Vehicle
Large Sport-utility Vehicle
Compact Pickup Truck
Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicle
Premium Compact Sport-utility Vehicle
Large Pickup Truck
Premium Compact Car
Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicle
Exotic Car