A better Buick  by Thom Blackett

Prepare to look at Buick differently. At least that’s what company execs are hoping for with the release of the all-new 2006 Lucerne, the marque’s latest full-size sedan slated to replace the silver-haired and wrinkled LeSabre and Park Avenue models. Looking much like an overgrown Volkswagen Passat, the Lucerne offers premium car buyers style, comfort, and thanks to an available V8 engine, performance. Plus, there’s a technologically-advanced suspension system borrowed from Cadillac that removes much of the buoyancy that has characterized Buicks for so many decades. However, for those shoppers who prefer a ride somewhere between a La-Z-Boy and a Serta pillowtop, lower-level Lucernes without Magnetic Ride Control promise to deliver the floaty ride you so desire.

The 2006 Buick Lucerne bears little resemblance to its foregoers, aside from the familiar tri-shield badge and the reintroduction of portholes to the fenders. When a V6 is fitted under the hood, three chrome-trimmed holes are featured on each front fender; V8 models get four holes. But get past those bits of trim and the Lucerne looks like anything but a domestic sedan for geriatrics.

Buyers of the 2006 Buick Lucerne may choose from three models: CX, CXL, and CXS. The CX is equipped with a V6 engine and starts at $26,990. CXL versions can be powered by either a V6 or a V8 and are priced at $28,990 and $30,990, respectively. At the top of the lineup is the 2006 Buick Lucerne CXS, available only with the V8 engine and carrying a sticker price of $35,990. All prices include a $725 destination charge.

Those familiar with GM models may assume that a three-year/36,000-mile powertrain warranty is standard fare on every branch of the family tree. However, there are a few exceptions, and the 2006 Buick Lucerne is one of them. Like all 2006 Buicks, the Lucerne is backed by four-year/50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranties and six years or 100,000 miles of corrosion protection.

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