2005 Buick Allure Road Test

Looking at the features, Buick is one step ahead of Toyota by offering dual-zone automatic climate control instead of single-zone,

Buick is one step ahead of Toyota by offering dual-zone automatic climate control instead of single-zone, plus leather trim is optional in the top-line Camry XLE. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

plus leather trim is optional in the top-line Camry XLE (standard with the sporty SE V6 mind you). That means that heated seats are also standard on the Allure CSX, standard with leather on the Camry XLE. The top-tier Camry offers a standard glass sunroof, however, while it's optional on the Allure. After talking with Buick's product planning staff on this one the company's decision seams to make sense, however, as some extremely tall drivers need the extra room a non-sunroof equipped car offers.

From a safety standpoint the Buick comes with standard traction control, optional with the Camry. Actually, Buick offers three levels of traction control with the Allure, including GM's StabiliTrak stability enhancement

Buick offers three levels of traction control with the Allure, including GM's StabiliTrak stability enhancement system. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

system, the first time this top-tier system has been used on a midsize Buick. The Camry boasts standard side airbags, unavailable on the Allure and standard side-curtain airbags, optional on the Allure.

The new Buick also gets GM's OnStar driver assistance and navigation system, plus a one-year subscription to its "Safe & Sound" plan included. A PASSLock III theft deterrent system with engine immobilizer is also available, as is a factory-installed remote starting system, the first time any Buick has offered such, with a 500-foot range and automatic ventilation control. Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist is also available.