Used 2008 Buick LaCrosse

If you’re looking for signs that GM truly has turned over a new leaf look no further than the 2008 Buick LaCrosse. Roundly criticized as being too middle-of-the-road upon its introduction, the LaCrosse’s 2008 metamorphosis displays a stylish new look and offers more standard and optional features. The new LaCrosse also boasts the option of a powerful V8 engine, an enticing feature not offered by the segment’s leaders. And while it may not be ready to overtake the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry in sales, in the ever-competitive mid-size car game the LaCrosse is ready to move from benchwarmer to first-string. For Buick, it’s exactly the direction its products need to be headed.

The 2008 LaCrosse benefits greatly from a stiffer chassis and a driver-friendly suspension setup. The 3.8-liter V6 in the CX and CXL is a strong performer, but under hard acceleration sounds awfully rowdy. The 3.6-liter is a much better fit. It has terrific low-end power reserves, is smooth, quiet and responsive and is altogether an example of what a modern engine should be. The LaCrosse feels confident at all speeds and, though it won’t appeal to driving enthusiasts, most people will find the car’s precise steering and well-controlled suspension quite satisfying. From the driver’s seat, you’ll find the gauges and audio controls to be intelligently arranged and well marked for both day and night driving.

The 2008 Buick LaCrosse’s interior shows a clear change of direction for Buick, with an emphasis on quality, design and comfort. The dash and instrument cluster are leaps and bounds above the hard, bland plastics found in previous Buick sedans, and the control knobs show an attention to detail worthy of the Buick name. Firm foam seats are covered in tasteful cloth or optional leather. The LaCrosse is available in six- or five-passenger versions – the former has a column shifter, the latter a console-mounted shifter. It’s a shame Buick limits the interior color choices to beige, black and gray; this is one sedan that could really shine with a few bold interior color schemes.

The 2008 Buick LaCrosse’s clean, streamlined sheetmetal will offend few. The new front styling is a vast improvement over last year’s fascia and little touches such as chrome mirrors and door pulls impart a more luxurious appearance. Thin front and rear roof pillars keep blind spots to a minimum, but spotting the sloping hood’s leading edge can be difficult. The LaCrosse’s large trunk is easily accessible thanks to the low lift-over height, with the trunk’s opening being even with the rear bumper. Anyone who’s had to lift a set of golf clubs up and over a high-walled trunk will appreciate the LaCrosse’s back-friendly design.

Remote Starter
The standard factory-installed remote starter lets you start the car from as far away as 195 feet.

Heated Seats
Optional heated seats are a welcome feature for those who live in colder climates.

The 2008 Buick LaCrosse CX trim includes four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), OnStar, side-curtain airbags, factory remote start, XM Satellite Radio, tire pressure monitoring system, Driver Information Center, AM/FM stereo with CD, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, six-way power driver’s seat, telescoping steering wheel with built-in audio controls and full wheel covers. The CXL adds power driver’s lumbar support, leather seats and alloy wheels. The CXS has a 240-horsepower 3.6-liter engine, 17-inch alloy wheels and a stiffer suspension. The Super model adds a 300-horsepower V8 engine, 18-inch wheels, leather seats with embossed inserts, a rear spoiler, Bilstein shocks and StabiliTrak.

Options vary by trim and include a power sunroof six-way power passenger seat, heated front seats, MP3 audio, rear spoiler and StabiliTrak stability control (CXS).

As the 2008 Buick LaCrosse is not intended to be a sports car, most drivers will find the base engine more than adequate for daily commutes. The 240-horsepower V6 in the CXS delivers more power, smoother operation and superior performance with only a minimal penalty in fuel economy, but costs quite a bit more. The Super option, though pricey, delivers 300 horsepower via a 5.3-liter V8 engine equipped with GM’s Active Fuel Management System (AFM), which cuts fuel to four of the eight cylinders when less power is required, thus resulting in less fuel consumption. When more power is needed the system returns fuel to all cylinders in a seamless transition undetectable to the driver.

3.8-liter V6
200 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
230 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/28

3.6-liter V6
240 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
225 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/25

5.3-liter V8
300 horsepower @ 5600 rpm
323 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/24