While Buick has traditionally appealed to older buyers, this future of this GM division walks a fine line between progressing the brand to attract new customers, while not alienating their existing clientele. The 2005 LaCrosse replaced the Regal, and for 2006 a new entry-level luxury sedan will replace the old LeSabre. Sleek and athletic, the Lucerne will also be the first Buick car in more than a decade to be available with a V-8. Three trim levels will be offered: CX, CXL, and CXS. Standard power will be the familiar 3.8-liter/195-horsepower V-6. Optional on the CXL and standard on the topline CXS will be a 4.6-liter/275-horse V-8. Four-speed automatics drive the front wheels and should have a combined city/highway economy of 23 to 25 miles per gallon. Lucerne will be the first Buick to offer GM's Magnetic Ride Control paired with StabiliTrack, both of which were originally Cadillac features. Inside and out, Buick promises the Lucerne will have fit and finish on par with high-end luxury vehicles. Inside, the Lucerne will offer both five- and six-passenger seating configurations. Passenger room is said to be among the best in this competitive set, which includes the Toyota Avalon XLS and Lexus ES 330. Upscale touches include wood and chrome finishes, and French seams and stitching. Six airbags are standard. The 2006 Buick Lucerne is expected to be on sale this fall, with exact pricing yet to be announced. Click here to view a full photo gallery.
