2006 Buick Lucerne CXS Road Test
24 avril 2006
par
Trevor Hofmann
, Canadian Auto Press
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So while the Lucerne isn't exactly sporty, it should prove reliable. Buick has done well in J. D. Power and | 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) |
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 | 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) |
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): - 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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