History/Description: Buick’s volume-selling luxury model was called the Allure in Canada when it replaced the Regal and Century for the 2005 model year. Elsewhere, it was known as the LaCrosse—a word which many French Canadians know as an unfavourable slang with various meanings.
Whatever it was called, the Allure offered up value-priced luxury in typical Buick fashion. This was no Mercedes or BMW, but for not a whole lot of money, the Allure offered drivers plenty of space, comfort and relaxation.
Look for this sedan with several engine options and trim levels to match a variety of needs. CX and CXL were low- and mid-range models, respectively, and powered by GM’s staple 3.8-litre V6 engine. Top-line CXS models got a newer 3.6 litre, 240-horsepower mill. This was canned for 2008, and a 5.3-litre, 300-horsepower V8 became available on the high-performance Allure Super.
Four-speed automatics and front-wheel drive were standard on all models. Look for features like automatic headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, OnStar, premium audio, remote keyless entry with remote starter, heated leather, a sunroof and plenty more.
What Owners Like: Typically, Allure owners say decent levels of performance, relatively good fuel economy, comfort and styling drew them in for a test drive, while a decent price and overall value helped seal the deal. Other owners note a safe and sturdy feel to the Allure’s highway drive.
What Owners Dislike: Some owners wish for a softer suspension, noting that the Allure doesn’t ‘ride on a cloud’ and transmits a fair bit of road feel back into the car. Ditto road noise. Other owners complain of tight rear-seat quarters, and wish for the enhanced performance and fuel economy that could have been provided by a six-speed automatic.
Common Issues: Hitting the road for a test drive? Certain Allure models were affected by an issue with the intermediate shaft—a part related to the steering system. Buick mechanics should be familiar with the issue if the model you’re driving ‘pulls’ to either side or makes any unwelcomed clunking or popping noises. A full check of the front end and brakes for premature part wear is also advised.
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| 2005 Buick Allure/Lacrosse (Photo: General Motors) |
Whatever it was called, the Allure offered up value-priced luxury in typical Buick fashion. This was no Mercedes or BMW, but for not a whole lot of money, the Allure offered drivers plenty of space, comfort and relaxation.
Look for this sedan with several engine options and trim levels to match a variety of needs. CX and CXL were low- and mid-range models, respectively, and powered by GM’s staple 3.8-litre V6 engine. Top-line CXS models got a newer 3.6 litre, 240-horsepower mill. This was canned for 2008, and a 5.3-litre, 300-horsepower V8 became available on the high-performance Allure Super.
Four-speed automatics and front-wheel drive were standard on all models. Look for features like automatic headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, OnStar, premium audio, remote keyless entry with remote starter, heated leather, a sunroof and plenty more.
What Owners Like: Typically, Allure owners say decent levels of performance, relatively good fuel economy, comfort and styling drew them in for a test drive, while a decent price and overall value helped seal the deal. Other owners note a safe and sturdy feel to the Allure’s highway drive.
What Owners Dislike: Some owners wish for a softer suspension, noting that the Allure doesn’t ‘ride on a cloud’ and transmits a fair bit of road feel back into the car. Ditto road noise. Other owners complain of tight rear-seat quarters, and wish for the enhanced performance and fuel economy that could have been provided by a six-speed automatic.
Common Issues: Hitting the road for a test drive? Certain Allure models were affected by an issue with the intermediate shaft—a part related to the steering system. Buick mechanics should be familiar with the issue if the model you’re driving ‘pulls’ to either side or makes any unwelcomed clunking or popping noises. A full check of the front end and brakes for premature part wear is also advised.
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| 2006 Buick Allure/Lacrosse (Photo: General Motors) |