2002 Buick LeSabre Custom

How often does a product meet or exceed all of our expectations? For those seeking a large, roomy, comfortable, quiet, conservative American sedan, the 2002 Buick LeSabre Custom fills the bill. That must be why it has been the country's best-selling full-size car for nine straight years.

Last redesigned in 2000, LeSabre gets new, slopier sheetmetal to give it greater familial resemblance.

Even if they've never driven or sat in one, nearly everyone old enough to drive knows what to expect from a big Buick: quiet, comfy room for five or six adults, soft, secure ride, good performance, outstanding safety, durability and reliability. They also know what not to expect: flamboyant, look-at-me-styling, sports-car handling or a youthful image.


Buick is approaching its 100th anniversary in 2003—a highly significant milestone achieved by only a select few car companies. It has survived and (most years) prospered largely because it knows what its loyal customers want. The 2002 LeSabre epitomizes that formula.


LeSabre was last redesigned for the 2000 model year. Despite all-new sheetmetal, its looks did not change much—a little more slope in the fenders, a more oval shape to the grille and more family resemblance to its one-size-smaller sibling Regal. Subjectively, I liked the previous LeSabre's look a little better. Buick hopes you prefer this updated version.

Buick V-6s have been beloved by driving enthusiasts since the sixties. The 3800 Series II carries on that tradition, generating 205 pushrod-produced horsepower.

Mechanically, LeSabre delivers more of the same solid attributes for which it's been known since its reputation was cemented in the '60s. The 3800 Series II V-6 engine pumps out 205 hp and 230 lb.-ft. of torque, enough to accelerate this nearly 3,600-pound sedan from zero to 60 mph in a respectable 9.5 seconds.