2009 Buick Lucerne: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Buick Lucerne gets a new V6 engine and more standard features. Buick's largest sedan shares some of its basic front-wheel-drive design with the Cadillac DTS. Base CX, uplevel CXL, and sport-themed Super models are offered. CX and CXL have a new 227-hp 3.9-liter V6 engine, which replaces a 197-hp 3.8 V6. The new V6 is capable of running on ethanol-blended E85 fuel. Supers have a 292-hp 4.6-liter V8 along with revised steering and GM's Magnetic Ride Control suspension, which uses sensors to automatically adjust the suspension based on road conditions. All Lucernes use a 4-speed automatic transmission. CX and CXL can seat up to six; Supers seat five. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Lane-departure warning and blind-spot alert systems are optional. Heated front seats with memory programming and a heated steering wheel are newly standard on the CXL. A wireless cell-phone link is standard on all models.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Cars comprise the biggest passenger sedans and wagons. Large inside and out, they offer lots of metal for the money and are dominated by domestic brands.

Our Best Buys include the Pontiac G8 and Toyota Avalon. Our Recommended picks are the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Ford Taurus, and Mercury Sable.