2009 Buick LaCrosse Super

The performance-oriented 2009 Buick LaCrosse Super hits 0-60 in 5.7 seconds, thanks to its 5.3-liter, 300-hp V8 engine. Paired with a 4-speed automatic with overdrive, the powertrain delivers 323 ft-lbs of torque at 4,000 RPM. The consequence is a lower fuel economy of 16/24 mpg. Riding on a Macpherson strut front and multilink rear suspension, the Super gets Magnasteer power rack-and-pinion steering and larger 18-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires.

Moving up to the 2009 LaCrosse Super adds standard stability control and rear parking sensors to the safety features, which already include traction control, 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for both rows of this front-wheel-drive sedan. An auto-dimming rearview mirror and foglights join the automatic halogen lamps. OnStar and a tire monitor are also standard. The midsize sedan seats five, with 60/40 split-folding rear seats that open onto a 16-cubic-foot trunk. Legroom is spacious, at 42 inches up front and 37.6 in the back.

Significant equipment upgrades in the Super include a 6-way power passenger seat (joining the similar driver's seat), upgraded leather upholstery, heated front seats, a 9-speaker sound system, and a garage remote. On the outside, a rear spoiler and chrome exhaust tips signal the sporty pretensions. Already standard are power windows, locks, and mirrors, programmable keyless entry, a universal remote, a trip computer, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, and a CD/MP3 player with satellite radio. More convenience-oriented features include tilt and telescopic steering, a front power outlet, a cargo net, intermittent wipers, front and rear climate control, a tachometer, a compass, and three cupholders. The few options left add a sunroof, a CD changer, and Bluetooth.