2005 Buick Allure CXS Road Test

Allure's exterior dimensions translate into a "better than adequate" cargo hauling capacity of 453 litres (16 cubic feet),

The Allure's interior is remarkably spacious-feeling, due in part to its incredibly clean, almost spartan layout. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

beating the Honda Accord for trunk space, while being just a tad smaller than the Toyota Camry. But big is not just found under the Allure's trunk lid.

The car's interior is remarkably spacious-feeling, due in part to its incredibly clean, uncluttered - almost spartan - layout. The General deserves an "atta'boy" for dumping the diamond-tufted velour that once covered everything in a Buick, and coming up with a restrained cabin design that isn't attempting to "wow" us with extra cushioning and glitter.

Not only does the living area look the part, it is well assembled with a high level of fit and finish. I did, however, find joints in the plastic shrouding around the door

The interior of the Allure is comfortable, with room to stretch out. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

pillars that could have been better installed by butting up to, rather than layering over, the adjoining fabric-coated trim piece.

One other foible that caught my attention, or should I say caught my shoe, was the foot- operated parking brake. In the released position, it doesn't hide far enough out of the way to prevent my left shoe from snagging it as I exited the car in my usual haste.

Although annoying, the smack repeatedly reminded me to engage the parking brake, something I am more apt to do when the fail-safe device is a console-mounted hand lever. These quibbles aside, Buick has made remarkable cabin progress.