So while the Lucerne isn't exactly sporty, it should prove reliable. Buick has done well in J. D. Power and
Associate's annual initial quality (IQS) and dependability (VDS) studies, as has Cadillac, the latter brand which should effect the Lucerne CXS's results more-so than any recent Buick due to its DTS-derived chassis and drivetrain.
In the end I like the Lucerne CXS, but I wouldn't take it over the Avalon or Azera. I don't necessarily believe that the two Asian models will be any more reliable and it's too early to tell which car will win when it comes to resale/residual values, plus I have to admit to liking the exterior styling of the Lucerne more than either the Toyota or Hyundai. With me, it comes
down to the interior, which I find a bit uninviting and somewhat substandard, much better than any previous Buick, but not good enough to compete head-on in an entry-level luxury market segment that is starting to rival premium brands for interior materials quality, style, plus fit and finish. I have this same problem with the Chrysler 300C, by the way, although its wickedly sinful 340-horsepower V8, rear-drive layout and over-the-top styling almost make it possible to look over some of the harder plastics and its ultra-cheap shift-gate.
Some will care about such things, and others will not. So, if you're not as uptight as I am about interior details, don't have a body shaped like my five-foot, eight-inch 160-pound frame, and aren't necessarily looking for a sport sedan, the Lucerne may suit you well. It certainly looks good, and that may be reason enough for decent sales numbers. For Buick's sake, I hope the latter comes true.
Specifications (CXS):
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| The Lucerne reminds me of the Malibu I learned to drive on when I lived in this house, even the colour. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
In the end I like the Lucerne CXS, but I wouldn't take it over the Avalon or Azera. I don't necessarily believe that the two Asian models will be any more reliable and it's too early to tell which car will win when it comes to resale/residual values, plus I have to admit to liking the exterior styling of the Lucerne more than either the Toyota or Hyundai. With me, it comes
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| Lots of room, but details like the cheap moulded plastic cupholders keep the Lucerne CXS from measuring up to its rivals. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Some will care about such things, and others will not. So, if you're not as uptight as I am about interior details, don't have a body shaped like my five-foot, eight-inch 160-pound frame, and aren't necessarily looking for a sport sedan, the Lucerne may suit you well. It certainly looks good, and that may be reason enough for decent sales numbers. For Buick's sake, I hope the latter comes true.
Specifications (CXS):
- Price Range (MSRP): $42,685 - $47,655
- Body Type: 4-door sedan
- Layout: front engine, FWD
- Optional Engine: 275-hp, 295 lb-ft of torque, 4.6L, 32-valve, DOHC V8
- Transmission: 4-spd auto
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
- Curb Weight: 1,820 kg (4,013 lbs)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Volume (trunk): 481 L (17.0 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 13.8 / 8.7 L/100 km
- Fuel Economy (actual combined city/hwy): 16.6 L/100 km
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Chrysler 300C, Ford Five Hundred, Hyundai Azera, Kia Amanti, Nissan Maxima, Toyota Avalon, Volkswagen Passat
- Web Site: www.gmcanada.com
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