2010 Buick Lucerne CXL2 Special Edition

The 2010 Buick Lucerne CXL2 Special Edition offers 17-inch chrome wheels and perforated suede seats, indicating the high level of luxury Buick hopes you’ll assume when they tack “Special Edition” onto the end of one of their trim names. It’s still powered by the same 3.9-liter Flex-fuel engine with a four-speed automatic transmission, unfortunately. The heated front buckets have 8-way power and lumbar adjustment, as well as a memory system that governs both the driver’s seat and the heated power mirrors, which also include integrated turn signals. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard, with separate HVAC ducts for the rear. Look for a center console, tachometer, illuminated visor mirrors, and floormats for additional standard features.

A leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel houses controls for the cruise and the AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, which comes with satellite radio, a digital media connection, and Bluetooth. Additional power features include windows and door locks, along with remote keyless entry and ignition and a garage door opener. Variable-intermittent rain-sensing front wipers and a rear defogger keep the glass clean and clear, and a load-leveling suspension keeps the ride compliant and comfortable. Halogen front headlamps are automatic and cornering and have integrated daytime running lights.

Safety features include dual front, front-side, and curtain-side airbags, antilock four-wheel disc brakes with brake assist, a tire pressure monitor, a theft-deterrent system, traction control, Stabilitrack, a rear-obstacle detection system, and one year of OnStar.

By Michael Perkins