2009 Buick Lucerne CXL

You get more than leather upholstery by moving up to the 2009 Buick Lucerne CXL. Joining its list of standard features are 8-way power driver's and passenger seats, a garage remote, dual-zone climate control, and wood trim (along with the existing leather trim). The front-wheel-drive full-size sedan gets a choice of a standard 197-hp, 3.8-liter V6 with 227 ft-lbs of torque or a new flex-fuel 227-hp 3.9-liter V6 with 237 ft-lbs of torque. Both are paired with a 4-speed automatic with electronic throttle control.

This luxury sedan does not skimp on standard features. In addition to the upgrades noted above, you get power windows, locks, and heated mirrors, programmable remote entry, a Human Machine Interface (trip computer), a CD/MP3 player with XM radio and new XM NavTraffic, Bluetooth, and wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls. Four cupholders and a front power outlet are passenger-friendly. The sedan seats four or five people, with an armrest that doubles as a pass-through to the 17-cubic-foot trunk. A cargo net comes standard. An optional front-row bench allows for six-passenger seating. Other convenience features include intermittent front wipers, tilt and telescopic steering, a security system, a temperature readout and compass, and a tachometer. Sitting on the options list are heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, remote start, a sunroof, and a 6-CD changer.

On the safety side, the 2009 Lucerne CXL is equally abundant. 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes feature electronic brakeforce distribution. The dual-stage dual front-side and side curtain airbags for both rows have front passenger sensors. Traction and stability control improve handling. A tire monitor measures pressure in the 17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires. Halogen lamps, automatic headlights, auto-dimming mirrors, and OnStar are also standard. Parking sensors and rain-sensing wipers cost extra.