Buick: LaCrosse News
02-04-2004, 06:10 PM
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Buick: LaCrosse News
2004 Chicago Auto Show
Buick rolls out Lexus fighter
Brand will challenge Toyota's luxury marque
By Ed Garsten / The Detroit News
LaCrosse emphasizes quiet interior, quality materials
CHICAGO -- Front and center at Chicago in General Motors Corp.'s product offensive was the Buick LaCrosse.
Replacement for the Century and Regal sedans, the LaCrosse is critical to Buick's revitalization because it accounts for about half the brand's sales volume, said GM North American president, Gary Cowger. "It's no secret we delayed production of the LaCrosse for a few months, to make a good car even better," said Cowger.
The LaCrosse has an interior that meets the promise of the exterior design, added Bob Lutz, chairman, GM North America, with very tight panel fits and top quality materials such as nuance leather. A special focus on sound dampening in the body structure will make the LaCrosse one of the most quiet cars in its class, said Lutz.
The car will offer an improved, 200hp version of GM's 3800 V6 overhead valve engine that is among the first V6s to meet the “SULEV“ low emission standards. The LaCrosse will also feature the first transverse use of GM's 3.6-liter V-6 “high feature“ VVT engine, with 240hp.
"This car will help move the needle of Buick's public persona to where it once was," noted Lutz.
In 15 short years, Lexus has become one of the most aspirational brands on the car market. Now General Motors Corp. wants one of its oldest brands to offer Lexus appeal at a lower price.
It’s not GM’s high-end Cadillac, but the reliable, if stylistically unremarkable Buick brand that is challenging Toyota Motor Co.p’s luxury marque.
GM product czar Bob Lutz wants Buick to become the “American Lexus,” and today’s unveiling of the 2005 Buick LaCrosse at the Chicago Auto Show is considered a major step in that direction.
“Buick will once again be the hallmark of quiet, refined American luxury,” Lutz said last month at a briefing for securities analysts.
The 2005 LaCrosse will replace the venerable Century and Regal next fall. The Century name has been used on and off since 1936 and Regal has been a mainstay of the Buick lineup since 1973.
With prices expected to range from the low $20,000 to about $32,000, the LaCrosse will be aimed at current owners or those considering the popular Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, said Mark Hines, Buick marketing director.
What might take it into Lexus territory, he hopes, is attracting customers who aspire to own Lexus’ creature comforts, but can’t or won’t pay the price for them.
“Buick is going for more luxury but we’re not playing in the Lexus price range,” Hines said.
It may not be playing in the Lexus price range, but industry analysts are not sure Buick, with its reputation as attracting mainly older buyers, is playing in the same ballgame.
“Near term, it’s going to be tough,” said Mike Wall, an analyst with CSM Worldwide, a production forecasting company. “They’re looking to compete in territory foreign to them. They compete on price, that’s something Lexus does not do.”
Hines hopes GM won’t instantly lower LaCrosse’s elan by plunking down thousands of dollars of incentives on its hood right away.
Even steep incentives haven’t kept Buick sales from free-falling. Sales at the division fell 22 percent in 2003 from 2002, with Century down 42.4 percent and Regal off 42 percent, according to Autodata Corp.
And on Tuesday, GM reported Buick’s January sales were down 30.4 percent from a year earlier.
Shortly after Lutz arrived at GM in 2001 to shake up the automaker’s vehicle development efforts and wake up its design staff, he took a look at the original design of what was then still a Regal. He hated it.
Lutz ordered an overhaul of the car’s front end and an upgrade of its interior, said LaCrosse chief designer Dennis Burke.
Rather than feeling frustrated by Lutz’s rejection, the car’s design team was thrilled by the chance to try some ideas.
The result is a break from Buick’s trademark wall-to-wall red taillight in favor of two “jewel-like” taillights.
The front end’s Jaguar-like slope is aimed at giving the LaCrosse a more luxurious appearance and comparisons to the British brand’s look are appreciated, Burke said.
“One of the objectives was to create a car that was refined and elegant,” Burke said.
The interior is punctuated by chrome and woodgrain accents on all three grades of LaCrosse, headliners made of woven fabric and, in the high-end CXL and CXS models, soft leather seats stitched with French seams, said vehicle line director Judy Brennan.
To further ooze elegance, the car is “quiet tuned” with an assortment of acoustic improvements to reduce road noise, and 80 percent of its suspension is new.
Powering the LaCrosse are two six-cylinder engines — GM’s longtime 200 horsepower 3800 3.8 liter V-6 in the CX and CXL models and the all-new, all-aluminum 240 horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 VVT (variable valve timing) in the CXS.
The Buick Rendezvous crossover vehicle has proven to be a popular addition to the Buick lineup and the upcoming Terraza crossover sport van is expected to attract some younger buyers.
You can reach Ed Garsten at (313) 223-3217 or egarsten@detnews.com.
Buick rolls out Lexus fighter
Brand will challenge Toyota's luxury marque
By Ed Garsten / The Detroit News
LaCrosse emphasizes quiet interior, quality materials
CHICAGO -- Front and center at Chicago in General Motors Corp.'s product offensive was the Buick LaCrosse.
Replacement for the Century and Regal sedans, the LaCrosse is critical to Buick's revitalization because it accounts for about half the brand's sales volume, said GM North American president, Gary Cowger. "It's no secret we delayed production of the LaCrosse for a few months, to make a good car even better," said Cowger.
The LaCrosse has an interior that meets the promise of the exterior design, added Bob Lutz, chairman, GM North America, with very tight panel fits and top quality materials such as nuance leather. A special focus on sound dampening in the body structure will make the LaCrosse one of the most quiet cars in its class, said Lutz.
The car will offer an improved, 200hp version of GM's 3800 V6 overhead valve engine that is among the first V6s to meet the “SULEV“ low emission standards. The LaCrosse will also feature the first transverse use of GM's 3.6-liter V-6 “high feature“ VVT engine, with 240hp.
"This car will help move the needle of Buick's public persona to where it once was," noted Lutz.
In 15 short years, Lexus has become one of the most aspirational brands on the car market. Now General Motors Corp. wants one of its oldest brands to offer Lexus appeal at a lower price.
It’s not GM’s high-end Cadillac, but the reliable, if stylistically unremarkable Buick brand that is challenging Toyota Motor Co.p’s luxury marque.
GM product czar Bob Lutz wants Buick to become the “American Lexus,” and today’s unveiling of the 2005 Buick LaCrosse at the Chicago Auto Show is considered a major step in that direction.
“Buick will once again be the hallmark of quiet, refined American luxury,” Lutz said last month at a briefing for securities analysts.
The 2005 LaCrosse will replace the venerable Century and Regal next fall. The Century name has been used on and off since 1936 and Regal has been a mainstay of the Buick lineup since 1973.
With prices expected to range from the low $20,000 to about $32,000, the LaCrosse will be aimed at current owners or those considering the popular Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, said Mark Hines, Buick marketing director.
What might take it into Lexus territory, he hopes, is attracting customers who aspire to own Lexus’ creature comforts, but can’t or won’t pay the price for them.
“Buick is going for more luxury but we’re not playing in the Lexus price range,” Hines said.
It may not be playing in the Lexus price range, but industry analysts are not sure Buick, with its reputation as attracting mainly older buyers, is playing in the same ballgame.
“Near term, it’s going to be tough,” said Mike Wall, an analyst with CSM Worldwide, a production forecasting company. “They’re looking to compete in territory foreign to them. They compete on price, that’s something Lexus does not do.”
Hines hopes GM won’t instantly lower LaCrosse’s elan by plunking down thousands of dollars of incentives on its hood right away.
Even steep incentives haven’t kept Buick sales from free-falling. Sales at the division fell 22 percent in 2003 from 2002, with Century down 42.4 percent and Regal off 42 percent, according to Autodata Corp.
And on Tuesday, GM reported Buick’s January sales were down 30.4 percent from a year earlier.
Shortly after Lutz arrived at GM in 2001 to shake up the automaker’s vehicle development efforts and wake up its design staff, he took a look at the original design of what was then still a Regal. He hated it.
Lutz ordered an overhaul of the car’s front end and an upgrade of its interior, said LaCrosse chief designer Dennis Burke.
Rather than feeling frustrated by Lutz’s rejection, the car’s design team was thrilled by the chance to try some ideas.
The result is a break from Buick’s trademark wall-to-wall red taillight in favor of two “jewel-like” taillights.
The front end’s Jaguar-like slope is aimed at giving the LaCrosse a more luxurious appearance and comparisons to the British brand’s look are appreciated, Burke said.
“One of the objectives was to create a car that was refined and elegant,” Burke said.
The interior is punctuated by chrome and woodgrain accents on all three grades of LaCrosse, headliners made of woven fabric and, in the high-end CXL and CXS models, soft leather seats stitched with French seams, said vehicle line director Judy Brennan.
To further ooze elegance, the car is “quiet tuned” with an assortment of acoustic improvements to reduce road noise, and 80 percent of its suspension is new.
Powering the LaCrosse are two six-cylinder engines — GM’s longtime 200 horsepower 3800 3.8 liter V-6 in the CX and CXL models and the all-new, all-aluminum 240 horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 VVT (variable valve timing) in the CXS.
The Buick Rendezvous crossover vehicle has proven to be a popular addition to the Buick lineup and the upcoming Terraza crossover sport van is expected to attract some younger buyers.
You can reach Ed Garsten at (313) 223-3217 or egarsten@detnews.com.
02-04-2004, 08:41 PM
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still good old gm quality. who the hell are they kidding. prob 99% of the us knows buick is old mans depreciation king. wtf would someone our age buy one???
gm blows freakin 3$ peice of trash
gm blows freakin 3$ peice of trash
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02-04-2004, 09:27 PM
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INFORMATION SUPPLIED BY GENERAL MOTORS
BUICK RESHAPES ITS MIDSIZE LINEUP WITH 2005 LaCROSSE
Buick is reshaping its midsize passenger car lineup with a new premium sedan - the 2005 LaCrosse - with a totally new look, a powerful new engine and notably improved ride and handling.
Mark D. Hines, marketing director for Buick's midsize cars, said the new model is so changed compared with Regal and Century, the sedans it replaces, that a new name is appropriate. The name LaCrosse has been associated with Buick since it appeared on a concept model in 2000.
The 2005 LaCrosse, introduced at the 2004 Chicago Auto Show, will go on sale in dealer showrooms in the fall of 2004.
LaCrosse, featuring an all-new exterior and interior design, marks a renewed emphasis on Buick passenger cars after the division focused its attention on creating a new market presence in trucks.
"At Buick, we decided to dramatically widen our customer base into trucks and so we brought out the Rendezvous crossover for 2002, the Rainier SUV for 2004 and the Terraza crossover sport van for 2005," said Hines. "In each case, we have offered refined vehicles that reflect Buick's traditional strengths.
"But Buick has been successful for 100 years primarily because it has produced great passenger cars - and LaCrosse is the first of a new lineup of cars that will demonstrate how we are going to build on our strengths as we move into our second century," he said.
"Our cars will be more powerful than ever. They will be quieter than our competition. They will be beautiful and elegant. And they will feature ride and handling that is smooth and at the same time agile and responsive."
Buick's officials have said the future lineup - forecast to be split evenly between cars and truck-based models - could include a new full-size sedan, a rear-wheel-drive flagship sedan and an elegant convertible. Details on future models will be announced later.
LaCrosse is assembled at GM's assembly plant in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, which has been recognized in a major independent study as being at the very top in quality.
"LaCrosse is a very important model for Buick," said Hines. "Not only does it set the stage for renewal of our entire car line, but it replaces two models - Regal and Century - that account for almost half of Buick car sales. LaCrosse represents four key attributes that Buick will continue to emphasize: smooth power, elegant design, expertly crafted interiors and a comfortable yet responsive ride."
Here are some of LaCrosse's key attributes, starting with power:
New V-6 engine delivers 240 horsepower
LaCrosse debuts in three versions - the well-equipped CX, elegantly appointed CXL and performance-oriented CXS - with two engine choices.
Standard in the CXS is a new aluminum engine, the 3.6L V-6 VVT (variable valve timing), that delivers an estimated 240 horsepower and 230 lb.-ft. of torque and estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. One of a new generation of "high feature" General Motors powerplants, this premium engine has dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder. Its fully variable intake and exhaust valve timing achieves outstanding flexibility, delivering 90 percent of the engine's peak torque where it is most useful, between 1600 rpm and 6000 rpm.
The result is an engine that "delivers impressive power across a wide range of driving conditions, while being extremely smooth and quiet," said Tim Cyrus, global V-6 chief engineer for GM Powertrain. This is the first North American application of the sophisticated global V-6 in a front-drive sedan.
The other LaCrosse versions, CX and CXL, are powered by one of the most renowned engines in GM's lineup, the 3.8L 3800 V-6, now in Series III form. The award-winning 3800, generating an estimated 200 horsepower and 225 lb.-ft. of torque, has long been a favorite of Buick owners in the flagship Park Avenue, full-size LeSabre and midsize Regal. Among its upgrades is an electronic throttle control, which improves engine response and fuel efficiency while reducing complexity, as well as structural upgrades for quieter operation. Estimated fuel economy is 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.
More agile ride and handling
Extensive refinements have been engineered into LaCrosse's architecture to enhance overall ride and handling. The suspension tuning is 80 percent new, compared with Regal. Other improvements include rebound damper bumpers that are four times longer for improved cushioning; retuned power steering systems for improved response and more precise on-center feel at higher speeds; and a new aluminum engine cradle and mounting system for quieter and smoother powertrain performance. LaCrosse also has a new four-wheel-disc braking system that is larger and more durable. The result is an agile car with confident road-holding ability that is equally as comfortable on challenging mountain roads as it is on a desert freeway.
Wheel sizes are increased by an inch to 16 inches on CX and CXL, compared with Regal, and to 17 inches on the performance-oriented CXS. LaCrosse has higher performance, lower aspect ratio tires with a specially formulated tread pattern and three levels of traction control including GM's StabiliTrak stability enhancement system - a first for a midsize Buick.
The standard suspension's springs are about 20 percent stiffer than before, and there are higher rate front and rear stabilizers for improved roll resistance and a quieter, smoother ride. A Gran Touring suspension, standard on CXS, has even larger stabilizer bars and more controlled handling characteristics.
'QuietTuning' for new levels of quietness
Significant emphasis was placed on Buick's goal of providing best-in-class quietness. This initiative, called "QuietTuning,"' is an all-encompassing approach to reduce unwanted noise and vibration levels even further throughout the entire body structure.
Specific examples include the use of:
· Acoustical laminate on windshield and front side glass.
· Quiet Steel laminate on the front-of-dash body area.
· Expanded baffles in the roof pillars to block noise paths.
· Extensive use of melt-on sound deadener throughout the entire lower body structure.
· A sound-absorbing interior carpet backing and additional headliner pad coverage.
· Specifically designed acoustical engine covers and revised exhaust tuning to reduce high-frequency noise.
· A hood insulator pad.
· A sound-absorbing layer under the instrument panel top pad and rear parcel shelf.
· Minimized body panel gaps, additional foam inserts and redesigned seals and gaskets to further reduce wind noise.
Exterior design: sleek and elegant
LaCrosse's designers, creating a totally new exterior, sculpted a sleek shape that gives the new model a strong front appearance and an elegant and dramatic presence from any angle. Notable features include a larger, more modern rendition of Buick's elliptical, vertical-bar grille framed by four headlamps and sculpted forms in the hood directly above the headlamps that sweep back toward the windshield.
Precision body panel fits and a tight fender-to-tire relationship underscore LaCrosse's high quality engineering and its agile appearance. Chrome accents and the jewel-like design of the headlamps and taillamps reinforce LaCrosse's premium positioning.
Interior design: highly crafted comfort and six-passenger convenience
Buick's focus on creating a highly crafted, attention-to-detail appearance is reflected in LaCrosse's interior. Its clean, ergonomic design makes use of high-quality soft-touch materials, as well as tasteful chrome and woodgrain accents. The overall effect is an environment that is elegant and comfortable. LaCrosse also has more rear legroom than previous midsize Buicks, thanks to a 1.5-inch increase in wheelbase. Front and rear hip room is also increased.
LaCrosse is available in either a five- or six-passenger configuration. Five-passenger models are equipped with a wide center armrest with deep storage area and console-mounted gearshift lever. Six-passenger models feature a "flip and fold" seatback cushion that can be converted into a spacious center console/armrest with large storage bin. The shift lever in six-passenger models is mounted on the steering column.
"For those who need the extra passenger space, LaCrosse's six-passenger configuration is another significant competitive advantage over the import competition," said Hines.
While LaCrosse CX has cloth seats, the CXL and CXS have premium leather seat surfaces sewn in a "gathered stitch" French seam pattern for durability and an elegant appearance.
New safety and security features
In addition to the all-new four-wheel-disc brake system, key safety and security features that are standard on LaCrosse include:
· A new front dual-stage air bag system for enhanced out-of-position passenger protection.
· A stronger "safety cage" structure including the new full-perimeter aluminum engine cradle designed to direct impact forces away from passengers.
· GM's OnStar driver assistance and navigation system, including a one-year subscription to its "Safe & Sound" plan.
· PASSLock III theft deterrent system with engine immobilizer.
New optional safety/security features include:
· Side curtain air bags that deploy from the roof rail down to the vehicle's beltline.
· GM's StabiliTrak electronic stability control system.
· Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist that detects objects behind the vehicle and sounds a warning when the vehicle is being backed up.
· Factory-installed remote starting system - a first for any Buick car -- with a range of up to 500 feet and an automatic ventilation control feature.
Premium features throughout
Other standard features in keeping with LaCrosse's position as a premium sedan include remote keyless entry, a power driver's seat, automatic programmable power door locks with lockout protection, power windows with express-down driver's window, six-speaker stereo radio with CD player and full interior illumination with delayed entry/exit lighting and theater-style dimming.
Among options are a power sliding sunroof, heated seats, steering-wheel-mounted audio and climate controls and stereo system upgrades including in-dash six-disc CD changer, MP3 player, Concert Sound III and XM Satellite Radio (continental U.S. only).
Note: While LaCrosse replaces both Regal and Century for 2005, there is a short-run 2005 model of Century, built between March and October of 2004.
Buick used the Century name in these model years: 1936-42, 1954-58 and 1973-2005. Regal was used in the 1973-2004 model years.
Source: Autoweek
BUICK RESHAPES ITS MIDSIZE LINEUP WITH 2005 LaCROSSE
Buick is reshaping its midsize passenger car lineup with a new premium sedan - the 2005 LaCrosse - with a totally new look, a powerful new engine and notably improved ride and handling.
Mark D. Hines, marketing director for Buick's midsize cars, said the new model is so changed compared with Regal and Century, the sedans it replaces, that a new name is appropriate. The name LaCrosse has been associated with Buick since it appeared on a concept model in 2000.
The 2005 LaCrosse, introduced at the 2004 Chicago Auto Show, will go on sale in dealer showrooms in the fall of 2004.
LaCrosse, featuring an all-new exterior and interior design, marks a renewed emphasis on Buick passenger cars after the division focused its attention on creating a new market presence in trucks.
"At Buick, we decided to dramatically widen our customer base into trucks and so we brought out the Rendezvous crossover for 2002, the Rainier SUV for 2004 and the Terraza crossover sport van for 2005," said Hines. "In each case, we have offered refined vehicles that reflect Buick's traditional strengths.
"But Buick has been successful for 100 years primarily because it has produced great passenger cars - and LaCrosse is the first of a new lineup of cars that will demonstrate how we are going to build on our strengths as we move into our second century," he said.
"Our cars will be more powerful than ever. They will be quieter than our competition. They will be beautiful and elegant. And they will feature ride and handling that is smooth and at the same time agile and responsive."
Buick's officials have said the future lineup - forecast to be split evenly between cars and truck-based models - could include a new full-size sedan, a rear-wheel-drive flagship sedan and an elegant convertible. Details on future models will be announced later.
LaCrosse is assembled at GM's assembly plant in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, which has been recognized in a major independent study as being at the very top in quality.
"LaCrosse is a very important model for Buick," said Hines. "Not only does it set the stage for renewal of our entire car line, but it replaces two models - Regal and Century - that account for almost half of Buick car sales. LaCrosse represents four key attributes that Buick will continue to emphasize: smooth power, elegant design, expertly crafted interiors and a comfortable yet responsive ride."
Here are some of LaCrosse's key attributes, starting with power:
New V-6 engine delivers 240 horsepower
LaCrosse debuts in three versions - the well-equipped CX, elegantly appointed CXL and performance-oriented CXS - with two engine choices.
Standard in the CXS is a new aluminum engine, the 3.6L V-6 VVT (variable valve timing), that delivers an estimated 240 horsepower and 230 lb.-ft. of torque and estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. One of a new generation of "high feature" General Motors powerplants, this premium engine has dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder. Its fully variable intake and exhaust valve timing achieves outstanding flexibility, delivering 90 percent of the engine's peak torque where it is most useful, between 1600 rpm and 6000 rpm.
The result is an engine that "delivers impressive power across a wide range of driving conditions, while being extremely smooth and quiet," said Tim Cyrus, global V-6 chief engineer for GM Powertrain. This is the first North American application of the sophisticated global V-6 in a front-drive sedan.
The other LaCrosse versions, CX and CXL, are powered by one of the most renowned engines in GM's lineup, the 3.8L 3800 V-6, now in Series III form. The award-winning 3800, generating an estimated 200 horsepower and 225 lb.-ft. of torque, has long been a favorite of Buick owners in the flagship Park Avenue, full-size LeSabre and midsize Regal. Among its upgrades is an electronic throttle control, which improves engine response and fuel efficiency while reducing complexity, as well as structural upgrades for quieter operation. Estimated fuel economy is 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.
More agile ride and handling
Extensive refinements have been engineered into LaCrosse's architecture to enhance overall ride and handling. The suspension tuning is 80 percent new, compared with Regal. Other improvements include rebound damper bumpers that are four times longer for improved cushioning; retuned power steering systems for improved response and more precise on-center feel at higher speeds; and a new aluminum engine cradle and mounting system for quieter and smoother powertrain performance. LaCrosse also has a new four-wheel-disc braking system that is larger and more durable. The result is an agile car with confident road-holding ability that is equally as comfortable on challenging mountain roads as it is on a desert freeway.
Wheel sizes are increased by an inch to 16 inches on CX and CXL, compared with Regal, and to 17 inches on the performance-oriented CXS. LaCrosse has higher performance, lower aspect ratio tires with a specially formulated tread pattern and three levels of traction control including GM's StabiliTrak stability enhancement system - a first for a midsize Buick.
The standard suspension's springs are about 20 percent stiffer than before, and there are higher rate front and rear stabilizers for improved roll resistance and a quieter, smoother ride. A Gran Touring suspension, standard on CXS, has even larger stabilizer bars and more controlled handling characteristics.
'QuietTuning' for new levels of quietness
Significant emphasis was placed on Buick's goal of providing best-in-class quietness. This initiative, called "QuietTuning,"' is an all-encompassing approach to reduce unwanted noise and vibration levels even further throughout the entire body structure.
Specific examples include the use of:
· Acoustical laminate on windshield and front side glass.
· Quiet Steel laminate on the front-of-dash body area.
· Expanded baffles in the roof pillars to block noise paths.
· Extensive use of melt-on sound deadener throughout the entire lower body structure.
· A sound-absorbing interior carpet backing and additional headliner pad coverage.
· Specifically designed acoustical engine covers and revised exhaust tuning to reduce high-frequency noise.
· A hood insulator pad.
· A sound-absorbing layer under the instrument panel top pad and rear parcel shelf.
· Minimized body panel gaps, additional foam inserts and redesigned seals and gaskets to further reduce wind noise.
Exterior design: sleek and elegant
LaCrosse's designers, creating a totally new exterior, sculpted a sleek shape that gives the new model a strong front appearance and an elegant and dramatic presence from any angle. Notable features include a larger, more modern rendition of Buick's elliptical, vertical-bar grille framed by four headlamps and sculpted forms in the hood directly above the headlamps that sweep back toward the windshield.
Precision body panel fits and a tight fender-to-tire relationship underscore LaCrosse's high quality engineering and its agile appearance. Chrome accents and the jewel-like design of the headlamps and taillamps reinforce LaCrosse's premium positioning.
Interior design: highly crafted comfort and six-passenger convenience
Buick's focus on creating a highly crafted, attention-to-detail appearance is reflected in LaCrosse's interior. Its clean, ergonomic design makes use of high-quality soft-touch materials, as well as tasteful chrome and woodgrain accents. The overall effect is an environment that is elegant and comfortable. LaCrosse also has more rear legroom than previous midsize Buicks, thanks to a 1.5-inch increase in wheelbase. Front and rear hip room is also increased.
LaCrosse is available in either a five- or six-passenger configuration. Five-passenger models are equipped with a wide center armrest with deep storage area and console-mounted gearshift lever. Six-passenger models feature a "flip and fold" seatback cushion that can be converted into a spacious center console/armrest with large storage bin. The shift lever in six-passenger models is mounted on the steering column.
"For those who need the extra passenger space, LaCrosse's six-passenger configuration is another significant competitive advantage over the import competition," said Hines.
While LaCrosse CX has cloth seats, the CXL and CXS have premium leather seat surfaces sewn in a "gathered stitch" French seam pattern for durability and an elegant appearance.
New safety and security features
In addition to the all-new four-wheel-disc brake system, key safety and security features that are standard on LaCrosse include:
· A new front dual-stage air bag system for enhanced out-of-position passenger protection.
· A stronger "safety cage" structure including the new full-perimeter aluminum engine cradle designed to direct impact forces away from passengers.
· GM's OnStar driver assistance and navigation system, including a one-year subscription to its "Safe & Sound" plan.
· PASSLock III theft deterrent system with engine immobilizer.
New optional safety/security features include:
· Side curtain air bags that deploy from the roof rail down to the vehicle's beltline.
· GM's StabiliTrak electronic stability control system.
· Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist that detects objects behind the vehicle and sounds a warning when the vehicle is being backed up.
· Factory-installed remote starting system - a first for any Buick car -- with a range of up to 500 feet and an automatic ventilation control feature.
Premium features throughout
Other standard features in keeping with LaCrosse's position as a premium sedan include remote keyless entry, a power driver's seat, automatic programmable power door locks with lockout protection, power windows with express-down driver's window, six-speaker stereo radio with CD player and full interior illumination with delayed entry/exit lighting and theater-style dimming.
Among options are a power sliding sunroof, heated seats, steering-wheel-mounted audio and climate controls and stereo system upgrades including in-dash six-disc CD changer, MP3 player, Concert Sound III and XM Satellite Radio (continental U.S. only).
Note: While LaCrosse replaces both Regal and Century for 2005, there is a short-run 2005 model of Century, built between March and October of 2004.
Buick used the Century name in these model years: 1936-42, 1954-58 and 1973-2005. Regal was used in the 1973-2004 model years.
Source: Autoweek
02-05-2004, 09:06 AM
#15
Fahrvergnügen'd
For someone looking at an American car, that's not a bad choice ... interior is pretty decent, though the vast expanse of black plastic in the center console area around the HVAC/Radio is a mistake.
02-10-2004, 02:16 PM
#24
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I can see only senior citizen who 'stuck' with Buick and keep replacing it with newer models would be interested since its the best Buick ever build in terms of exterior and interior. As far as my opinion I would never recommend even to my 65 y.o dad to buy one. Rent hell yeah no purchase, however :P. I'd rather see him running on 04 Maxima and have some fun 
the console looks like its from the early 90's
09-16-2004, 07:43 PM
#31
TQ > MPG
It looks like a car with no character. I see some 96-99 Taurus, some 1st gen Aurora, & some Intrigue in the bodystyle. The interior is definitely a step up from the Regal/Century, but its no nicer than the Ford 500 or Chysler 300 which whom it will compete. What vehicle would that steal sales from in the Lexus lineup? Maybe a 1995 LS400? 
09-17-2004, 01:12 PM
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WTF. This is not the way to save a brand OR compete withe Lexus. Buick could have had this car compete with the ES, and work it's way up; but this is a major fuckup. The rear view shot is the only shot that doesn't make me wanna write hate mail to Buick. The chromed rings for the instrument panel are nice.
09-17-2004, 01:22 PM
#34
Three Wheelin'
Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: Minnesota
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Originally Posted by gavriil
General Motors Corp. has registered the name:
ALLURE for Canada only.
Apparently this is supposed to be the Canadian version of Lacrosse sedan.
ALLURE for Canada only.
Apparently this is supposed to be the Canadian version of Lacrosse sedan.
...I could be wrong though.
09-17-2004, 01:35 PM
#35
Photography Nerd
Originally Posted by titan
Shit. They should use the Allure name here too. It's better an Lacrosse, though this car isn't that alluring.
09-22-2004, 04:03 PM
#37
The sizzle in the Steak
GM's interior designers should be given pink slips...GM interiors are Horrible! Get some new designers GM.
09-27-2004, 02:20 PM
#39
Join Date: Jan 2001
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Not bad inside and out. Except it looks like some rejected 2nd gen GS design from 1995. It is an improvement over GMs sedans of any year. Close to a Caddy in the interior. Fake wood, I just can't stand. Sprinkle maybe but not all that fake wood.
09-27-2004, 04:11 PM
#40
Safety Car
Join Date: Mar 2004
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Originally Posted by 1SICKLEX
Not bad inside and out. Except it looks like some rejected 2nd gen GS design from 1995. It is an improvement over GMs sedans of any year. Close to a Caddy in the interior. Fake wood, I just can't stand. Sprinkle maybe but not all that fake wood.