2006 Buick Lucerne

The mid-range CXL adds automatic climate control, a Comfort and Convenience Package (electrochromatic inside mirror, heated outside mirrors, Universal Home Remote, illuminated vanity visor mirrors and rain sensing wipers), leather-covered seats and steering wheel, power front passenger seat, 17-inch wheels and tires and up-level audio system with MP3. The fully-loaded top-level CXS at $39,180 boasts the Northstar V-8 (optional on CXL), 9-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound with XM satellite radio, premium perforated leather sport steering wheel and heated/cooled 8-way adjustable power front seats with 2-person memory presets, 18-inch wheels and tires, magnetic variable power steering and sport-tuned Magnetic Ride Control with Stabilitrak stability control. Notable options include a Driver Confidence Package (Stabilitrak, remote start, content theft alarm and ultrasonic rear park assist), 6-passenger seating (with a 40/20/40 split front seat), power sunroof and even (a great idea) heated washer fluid. One great reason to own any vehicle that offers it, GM's remote start lets you start the engine and warm or cool the cabin with the car securely locked well in advance of departing. Once you've tried it, you won't want to live without it.

Amenities

Lucerne's ride/handling balance is biased toward smooth in the base CX, sport-sedan crisp and responsive in the top-of-the-line CXS (with Magnetic Ride Control), and appropriately in-between in the mid-range CXL. We spent quality time around town, on freeways and on challenging two-lanes in both base V-6 and top-line V-8 CXS Lucernes and found much to like and little to criticize. Even the standard car allows relatively spirited driving (more than its owners will likely attempt) with more than adequate power, good control and solid braking. Only its ultra-light power steering disappointed, although it might please typical buyers.


The V-8-powered Magnetic-Ride CXS would be our choice for its full feature load and outstanding ride/handling balance, though its (magnetic) power steering also seemed a bit light and devoid of feel. Using magnetically charged particles suspended in synthetic fluid to continually adjust the fluid's viscosity to varying road surfaces and driving conditions, this remarkable system responds far faster than conventional valve damping to provide the rare combination of exceptional twisty-road handling and control with a silky smooth ride. The added bonus of StabiliTrak offers potentially life-saving electronic stability control, while Brake Assist gives full braking power when it senses emergency stopping.


Targeting the Lexus ES for interior quietness, GM engineers have done an outstanding job of applying Buick-exclusive "QuietTuning" measures, including quiet laminated steel and laminated windshield and side glass, to eliminate or filter out virtually all unwanted noise from Lucerne's spacious, high-quality cabin. Shatterproof laminated glass also provides an extra measure of protection.


We think this cleanly sculpted 4-door looks good enough to attract buyers younger than did the previous Park Avenue, yet it's still no GenX-mobile. If you're a current or former large-sedan lover and would like a good reason for another, Lucerne is easily the best full-size Buick ever. Given its high content and solid quality (Buick has ranked among the industry's quality leaders in recent years), it competes very well with similar sedans near its price range. (www.buick.com)