* Click HERE to see a video on the Buick Allure *

Not the Buick your grandfather would have bought


General Motors has been hard at work in the last few years devising plans to re-invigorate each of its divisions. Cadillac is the one that received the most attention recently because the nameplate was slowly sinking into oblivion. The wave of change made its way to Buick where certain models had not been reviewed in the last six or seven years. Some still remain unchanged whereas others, like the long-running Buick Regal, have finally been updated. According to Buick, this W-body chassis has received many improvements. Although it carries over some mechanical aspects from the past, it also inherits some modern bits from the GM parts bin. In the US, the new car is called the LaCrosse, referring to the game. Here in Quebec, the term can be associated with something very different, therefore the new Buick was re-baptised the Allure for Canada.

The Allure's price range begins at a competitive $25,290 for a base CX model. The price will climb to over $38,500 for a fully loaded CXS model. Our tester was a CXS with the Platinum package and sunroof that retailed for $38,100.

Exterior styling

The Allure is a complete departure from the Buicks that most people have come to know in the last twenty years, save for the oval-shaped grille. Its lines flow without interruption from front to back. The hood is where most of the fashionable design elements take place. The cut-outs for the headlights and the creases give the Allure its character. The tail-end is also distinctive: the crease in the trunk lid reaches and matches with the reverse lights creating a division between the lower and upper portion of the car. Our CXS had the Platinum Package which included tasteful chrome accents on the doors, bumpers and window frames. Also included with the group were handsome chrome 7-spoke alloy wheels.

Some may say that it reminds them of a Mercedes because of the separate circular headlight treatment, but the comparison ends there. There are also hints of a few Lexus model's features in the way the whole front-end comes together. Regardless of the source of GM's inspiration, the Allure is clearly a good looking automobile.

Interior styling

The front seats are very large and have a generous lower seat cushion. Unfortunately, lateral support is non-existent, however the overall comfort is still quite good. The front headrests are too far back to actually rest your head comfortably on. The rear bench is also cozy enough and can easily sit three adults for a short period of time. Interior volume is generous for all passengers.