Looking to refresh its lineup in a quest for younger buyers, Buick scrapped its popular Century and Regal mid-size sedans and introduced the 2005 Buick LaCrosse. With a wheelbase that's two inches longer, the LaCrosse features more interior legroom. Though it sits on the same Buick W platform used for years, Buick claims that 80% of its body parts are new and more heavy duty (thus more durable), and that the suspension has been retuned for better overall handling. The 2005 LaCrosse comes in base CX, luxury CXL, and sporty CXS trims. The focus is on quality build, comfort, and subdued elegance, rather than blow-your-mind performance. To that end, the CX and CXL use the old 3.8-liter, 200-hp V6 that has been hanging around since 1979. The much sportier CXS features a 3.6-liter, DOHC V6 at 240-hp, plus a stiffer suspension and Magnasteer electronic steering. All trims come with a 4-speed automatic. Buick is touting its QuietTuning system in the LaCrosse, where they have added extra sound absorption, insulation, and thicker seals to reduce road noise for a quieter ride.
The mid-size sedan seats five, though if you add an optional front bench seat, you could fit six. Base CX comes well loaded with power features and cruise control, and as you move up the line, you get ABS brakes, traction, leather seats, and split-fold rear seats. Favorite options are remote start, heated seats, and a sunroof. The redesigned 2005 LaCrosse seems to have won fans. Many owners say the handling is precise and cornering tight. The new 3.6 V6 engine is powerful, with good acceleration, yet smooth and quiet. There is plenty of front legroom to make long rides comfortable, and the overall look of the car is very high-end. Biggest complaints were the poor gas mileage and the lack of a handle on the trunk.