2010 Buick LaCrosse

Here she is, the much awaited 2010 LaCrosse. She first promised to show up at the Los Angeles show, but then thought better of it and decided Detroit would be a better debut. We had already seen much of the LaCrosse already, but it is always nice to get some beauty shots. Previously, I regarded the Enclave as the best styled Buick and while it is certainly a sharp piece, the new LaCrosse does offer serious competition.

The LaCrosse has been stuffed with a lot of features missing from the current generation, such as in-dash navigation, adaptive headlights, Bluetooth and a slick dual screen DVD system. From the animated video, I do find the ambient lighting to be a bit strong, but perhaps my mind will change when I see it in person. Overall the interior is a massive improvement.

When I compare the previous LaCrosse (the silver car above) to the new generation, it's a much needed makeover and one that Buick hopes will resound with customers. Perusing blog comments, the initial reaction from folks is quite favorable. However, it will be a leap for Buick to convert admiring glances to purchase contracts.

There are no driving impressions yet, so we'll all have to cool our heels for now in terms of how this baby handles.

The LaCrosse will be offered in the following model configurations:

CX – equipped with a new 3.0L direct injection V-6, premium cloth seats and 17-inch wheels. The 3.0L engine generates an estimated 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 211 lb.-ft. of torque (286 Nm) and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

CXL – also equipped with the new 3.0L direct injection V-6, adds leather-appointed heated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, fog lamps, outside rearview mirror with LED turn indicators and puddle lamps, and 18-inch wheels. Intelligent AWD is available.

CXS – equipped with a 3.6L direct injection V-6; real-time active-dampening suspension; perforated, leather-appointed, heated and cooled seats, and chrome-plated 18-inch wheels (19-inch optional). The 3.6L engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, generates an estimated 280 horsepower (209 kW) and 261 lb.-ft. of torque (354 Nm).