No matter what any of us think of the new names, whether in Canada or the U.S., the car itself is extremely well done. I've spent a great deal of time comparing it to the Camry, only because the midsize Toyota is considered the benchmark for the class, or at least the segment's strongest seller. There are many other worthy contenders in this class too, such as the Honda Accord, Mazda6, Mitsubishi Galant, Ford Five Hundred and Chrysler 300. If you want to see a full list, look at the specs at the end of the review.
This list poses what will be obvious to Buick, the challenge that lies ahead of its new Allure if it hopes to conquest buyers away from the imports, or even its domestic rivals. It's not like the new Buick isn't up to the job, rather it's one of the best in its class. The tough sell will be getting people to go down to a Buick store and test it out at all, before heading to their local Toyota or Honda dealer to trade in their old Camry or Accord. Those that do will be pleasantly surprised.
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP): $25,200 - $39,475
- Body Type: 4-door sedan
- Layout: front engine, FWD
- Base Engine: 200 hp, 225 lb-ft of torque, 3.8-L, 12-valve, OHV V6
- Optional Engine: 240 hp, 230 lb-ft of torque, 3.6-L, 24-valve, DOCH V6
- Transmission: 4-spd auto
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc (opt ABS)
- Curb Weight: 1,585 - 1,619 kg (3,494 - 3,569 lbs)
- Seating Capacity: 5 (optional 6)
- Cargo Cap (min/max): 453 L (16.0 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 11.9 / 7.3 L/100 km (3.8-L base engine)
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Chevrolet Malibu / Impala, Chrysler Sebring / 300, Ford Taurus / Five Hundred, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata / XG 350, Kia Magentis / Amanti, Mazda6, Mitsubishi Galant, Nissan Altima / Maxima, Toyota Camry / Avalon, Volkswagen Passat
- Web Site: www.gmcanada.com
Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.
