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By Autotropolis Editors
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Strengths: |
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Spacious interior for up to six; quiet interior; smooth ride; available V8. |
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Changes: |
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A new Super, with a 300-horsepower V8 and distinctive interior and exterior themes, joins the mid-size Buick LaCrosse line for 2008.
All LaCrosse models now get expanded standard equipment. The additional features include more chrome on the outside, a factory remote start system, XM satellite radio, a telescopic steering wheel with audio controls, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
Four new exterior colors join the line for 2008: Scarlet Red, Gold Mist Metallic, Dark Mocha Metallic, and Dark Slate Metallic. |
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The 2008 Buick LaCrosse ranks as one of the most comfortable mid-size sedans, with seating for up to six adults, a very quiet interior, and smooth, responsive engines. The new Super model, with its V8 engine, brings a new sporty edge to the model that should appeal to buyers who wouldn't have otherwise considered a Buick. |
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Overview: |
Two different interior configurations are offered for the LaCrosse; six-passenger models have a front bench seat with a flip-down center armrest, large storage bin, and column-mounted shifter, while five-passenger models have two bucket seats in front with a deep center-console storage area and console-mounted shifter.
The LaCrosse's interior has a crafted appearance, with chrome and woodgrain trim and soft-touch materials. Special attention was paid to keeping the interior quiet; for instance, the windshield and front glass use a special acoustical laminate, while steel laminate is used in front of the dashboard.
Additional roof-pillar baffles, lower-body sound deadeners, a specially tuned exhaust system, and engine-compartment sound insulation help make the LaCrosse one of the quietest sedans inside.
The base CX and more luxurious CXL get a 200-horsepower, 3.8L iron-block V6 engine. Sportier CXS models step up to a 240-horsepower, 3.6L DOHC V6 with variable valve timing; and on the top Super, a 300-horsepower, 5.3L V8 engine is standard.
All three engines are matched with a four-speed automatic transmission.
The V8 employs active fuel management, which cuts of the fuel supply to half of the cylinders during coasting or cruising to save fuel; the base V6 also posts 28 mpg on the highway, according to EPA estimates.
The CXS gets a sport-tuned suspension and larger stabilizer bars for responsive handling. And to handle the added power, V8 models come with a specially tuned suspension with Bilstein monotube struts, larger front and rear brake rotors, and high-precision steering gear.
StabiliTrak stability control, which can apply brake force to individual wheels to restore stability, is standard on the LaCrosse, along with anti-lock brakes.
Standout features available on the LaCrosse include ultrasonic rear parking assist, rear passenger reading lamps, heated power outside mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, and remote start with a range of up to 195 feet. |
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