2010 Buick LaCrosse: Road Test
2010 Buick LaCrosse ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $27,085 - $33,015
- Invoice: $25,866 - $31,529
Reviews & Ratings
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Buick LaCrosse
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2010 Buick LaCrosse includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Buick LaCrosse, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Buick LaCrosse help you decide if a 2010 Buick LaCrosse is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| CX V6 | CXL V6 | AWD CXL | CXS w/Touring Pkg, navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 6 | 4.6 |
We've not yet had the opportunity to evaluate a LaCrosse with the 4-cylinder engine. The 3.0-liter V6 available for CX and CXL models has adequate power, but lacks snap from a stop and feels strained when passing or merging, particularly with AWD. The CXS's 3.6-liter V6 is substantially more robust, with plenty of reserve power. The transmission is silky smooth with either engine, but is sometimes hesitant to downshift when more power is needed.
FUEL ECONOMY
| CX V6 | CXL V6 | AWD CXL | CXS w/Touring Pkg, navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3.3 |
In Consume Guide testing, a CXS averaged 26.4 mpg, a very good result even in a test consisting of mostly highway travel. Another CXS averaged 21.6 mpg with a more even mix of city and highway driving. LaCrosse uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| CX V6 | CXL V6 | AWD CXL | CXS w/Touring Pkg, navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4.9 |
Perhaps LaCrosse's most impressive quality. CX models ride on the smallest wheel and tire combination and filter out road imperfections commendably. CXL and CXS models are nearly as refined feeling, with slightly more broken-surface patter felt in the cabin. Available only on the CXS, the Touring Package includes larger wheels and tires with a driver-selectable "sport mode" that when engaged tweaks the steering, transmission, and suspension for more-spirited driving. Ride quality suffers in sport mode, with larger road irregularities registering with pronounced thuds.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| CX V6 | CXL V6 | AWD CXL | CXS w/Touring Pkg, navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 4.2 |
No LaCrosse feels sporty, but all handle well with predictable competence. Some drivers may find the steering overboosted on all but CXS with the Performance Package. CXS with Touring Package leans less in corners, but the incremental agility gain is a poor trade-off given the package's detrimental impact on ride quality.
QUIETNESS
| CX V6 | CXL V6 | AWD CXL | CXS w/Touring Pkg, navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5.1 |
LaCrosse is impressively hushed. All models are nearly free from wind noise, while CXL and CXS models are subject to only slightly more road noise than the CX. The Touring Package's tires are the loudest of the bunch. Both V6 engines sound refined during acceleration, and fade into silence while cruising.
CONTROLS
| CX V6 | CXL V6 | AWD CXL | CXS w/Touring Pkg, navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4.8 |
Large gauges and dials are well marked and easy to read at a glance. Controls are mostly large and clearly marked, though some less-frequently used buttons suffer from look-a-like syndrome and can be difficult to decipher at a glance. The available navigation system absorbs audio functions. Its large, clear graphics are helpful, but some functions are not as intuitive as they should be.
DETAILS
| CX V6 | CXL V6 | AWD CXL | CXS w/Touring Pkg, navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 4.7 |
LaCrosse's handsome cabin is finished in rich, well-textured materials with apparently careful assembly. Unfortunately, CX's fuzzy cloth upholstery looks cut-rate, and feels out of place in what is otherwise a premium environment.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| CX V6 | CXL V6 | AWD CXL | CXS w/Touring Pkg, navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 5.7 |
Plenty of space for most folks, though headroom is tight for those much over six-foot tall. Seats lack side bolstering, though given LaCrosse's lack of sporting pretense, that may not be much of an issue. Visibility is generally good in all directions.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| CX V6 | CXL V6 | AWD CXL | CXS w/Touring Pkg, navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.8 |
There's adequate legroom for most adults, though knee space is limited behind taller front-seat occupants. Headroom is marginal for six-footers, and low cut door openings mean taller passengers have to duck deeply to enter or exit the rear compartment.
CARGO ROOM
| CX V6 | CXL V6 | AWD CXL | CXS w/Touring Pkg, navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 |
A small trunk opening and high liftover restrict access to an otherwise deep and spacious storage area. The rear seats are split 60/40 and include a center pass-through for skis. A reasonably large console and glove box provide decent small-item storage, as do good-size door pockets.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| CX V6 | CXL V6 | AWD CXL | CXS w/Touring Pkg, navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4.9 |
Buick claims to target both the Acura TL and Lexus ES 350 with LaCrosse, but in reality it is only the Lexus that has been successfully challenged. Though lacking the TL's sporty nature, LaCrosse matches the more sedate ES in cabin and drivetrain refinement, and surpasses it in available passenger space. For shoppers who prioritize ride and comfort above all else, LaCrosse is a must see. Our pick is a modestly equipped CXL with available all-wheel drive.
Total Score
| CX V6 | CXL V6 | AWD CXL | CXS w/Touring Pkg, navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 70 | 73 | 72 | 69 | 50 |
Total Score: 71
Scores for all Large Cars
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
