2013 Buick LaCrosse Expert Review
Reviewed by Staff Writer
Though a substantial update is coming soon, the 2013 Buick LaCrosse remains a competitive and affordable entry-lux full-size sedan. Buick offers two power and two drivetrain options for the 2013 LaCrosse . The base engine is found under the hood of the LaCrosse eAssist. A mild-hybrid (meaning the electric motor isn't capable of powering the car on its own), the front-wheel drive LaCrosse eAssist is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, a combo good for 182 hp and an EPA-rated 25/36 mpg city/highway -- impressive for a full-size luxury car. The LaCrosse's optional engine is a 3.6-liter V-6 that makes 303 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque. The V-6 is available in front- (17/27 mpg) or all-wheel drive (17/25 mpg). Both engines are fitted with a six-speed automatic.
We recently pitted the Buick LaCrosse against the Hyundai Azera and Lexus ES350 to see which big front-wheel drive sedan was the best. In our comparison, the LaCrosse earned the silver. Though we dinged it for having poor visibility and a relatively small trunk, we were impressed by its surprisingly good driving manners.
For 2013 the LaCrosse gets Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system added to its standard equipment list. Buick has also fitted front-drive V-6 models with electric power steering (eAssist models already had electric steering), and repositioned the rearview mirror for better visibility.
New for 2013
The 2013 Buick LaCrosse gets the IntelliLink infotainment system as standard equipment this year. Other changes are pretty minor; the rearview mirror has been re-positioned for better outward visibility, and front-drive V-6 models get electric power steering.
Key Competitors
- Chrysler 300
- Hyundai Azera
- Kia Cadenza
- Lexus ES
- Lincoln MKS
Sum Up
Still creeping in on Lexus' turf.
