Buick LaCrosse
Why it's a best pick:
Over the past several decades, Buick has sold one unforgettable midsize sedan after another one. More recent editions of the Regal and Century gave way to the LaCrosse beginning in 2005, the latter offering some improvements over earlier models while not going far enough to remake the brand.
Beginning with the 2010 model year, the LaCrosse has finally been redesigned to where it competes nicely in the near luxury sedan market, offering customers a very good alternative to the Toyota Avalon, Hyundai Azera, Lincoln MKZ, Acura TSX and if I dare say, the Lexus IS series. Indeed, the LaCrosse's styling is closer to what you'd expect to find with a Lexus than you would with, well, an aged Buick.
A standard 3.0L V6 offers 255 horsepower while the optional 3.6L V6 which is found in the Enclave produces 280 hp. Later this year an I4 engine will be rolled out, the base engine for the remarkable Chevrolet Malibu. That engine will get 30 mpg; all LaCrosse engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Manufacturer Description: Starting MSRP: $27,835 Body style(s): 4-door sedan Layout: FWD / AWD Platform: GM Epsilon II platform Engine(s): 2.4 L Ecotec I4 3.0 L HFV6 V6 3.6 L HFV6 V6 Transmission(s): 6-speed automatic Wheelbase: 111.7 in (2,837 mm) Length: 197.0 in (5,004 mm) Width: 73.1 in (1,857 mm) Height: ...read full description
