C. Speck Motors

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Walk Around

There is a definite international look to the new 2010 Buick LaCrosse, in part because it's intended to look at home in Asian markets and overseas settings. It's distinctly original, and yet, the car remains recognizable as a Buick.

There is a notably high belt line, and the wheels are snugly enclosed at the outer ends of the body. Viewed from the side, the profile is not unlike that of a sport-compact coupe, but the LaCrosse is a roomy car, and bigger than it looks. A coefficient of drag (Cd) of 0.33 adds to the sleek effect and helps improve mileage and control wind noise.

Teams on three continents participated in the design. The chassis team, based in Germany, adapted a version of the FWD/AWD platform developed for the Opel Insignia, and the interior was designed in China. The exterior design team, based in North America, took on the responsibility for creating a fresh, new Buick sheetmetal treatment.

Interior

2010 Buick LaCrosse

The LaCrosse interior uses thoughtfully considered materials, based on a highly detailed design concept. The front space is framed by a low-and-away instrument panel, opening up the area for front seat occupants and creating a light, airy atmosphere. Flat, low-relief controls are clustered in an orderly, symmetrical center stack, leaving generous portions of the dash surround free and clean. The overall effect is to create a graceful, uncluttered cockpit. Styled air vents on either side of the navigation screen, which mimic the design of vintage Buicks, have a quality feel and ample range of adjustment. At dusk, ice-blue ambient lighting becomes apparent on CXS models, with LED sources located around the audio controls, along the instrument panel and in the footwells. Two overhead spotlights softly highlight the seating areas. It's a visually sophisticated way of lighting the cabin, quite unexpected and inviting.

The interior design team was based in China, where Buick cars are often purchased by owners who do not drive themselves, leading to special emphasis on interior detail and back seat accommodations. Rear legroom is generous, even with the front seats adjusted for taller drivers. The rear seat offers its own climate control system, and a seat-back-mounted DVD system is optional. A power rear sunshade is standard on the CXS.

All models benefit from Buick's QuietTuning sound control initiatives. These include use of acoustic glass, triple door seals, acoustic mats and extensive use of sound-deadening materials. Engine and suspension noise and vibrations have been isolated through use of hydraulic bushings, covers and tuned air flow systems.

LaCrosse CX and CXL models are complemented with dark poplar wood appliques, while the CXS has more technical titanium-type square trim details. Interior color choices include contrasting two-tone combinations: Cocoa/Light Cashmere and Dark Titanium/Light Titanium as well as Jet Black.

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