Overview

What Changed for 2009:

• Heated outside rearview mirrors standard on all models
• Split-folding rear seat added to Driver Confidence package
• Bluetooth hands-free phone interface available
• 16-inch painted aluminum wheels standard on CX
• 17-inch chrome-clad wheels optional on CX
• One new color

Overview
The LaCrosse joined the Buick lineup in 2005, replacing both the Regal and Century to become the brand's sole midsize car offering. The LaCrosse lineup was refreshed in 2008, along with the addition of a LaCrosse Super model, featuring a 300-hp, 5.3-liter V-8 engine and unique exterior styling, including stylized portholes at the rear edges of the front fenders.For 2009, LaCrosse models have more safety and convenience features, including standard heated outside rearview mirrors, Bluetooth hands-free phone interface, new wheel offerings, and one new exterior color, Quicksilver Metallic.

Model Lineup
Along with the top-of-the-line Super model, the 2009 Buick LaCrosse is sold in entry-level CX and uplevel CXL trims. CX and CXL are available in either 5- or 6-passenger seating configurations, while LaCrosse Super comes in 5-passenger seating only. The LaCrosse CX's standard equipment list for 2009 includes heated outside rearview mirrors; a split-folding rear seat added to the Driver Confidence package; standard 16-inch painted aluminum wheels (replacing 16-inch steel cover wheels); power windows, locks and mirrors; keyless entry with remote vehicle-start feature; dual-zone climate control; OnStar; XM satellite radio; traction control; and a CD player. Options include 17-inch chrome-clad wheels. The LaCrosse CXL adds leather-trimmed seats (heated in front), a split/fold rear seat, and alloy wheels. The LaCrosse Super adds a V-8 engine; unique seats and interior trim; rear park assist; trunk spoiler; and electronic stability control.

Powertrain
LaCrosse CX and CXL models for 2009 are powered by Buick's recently upgraded 3.8-liter V-6 engine with electronic throttle control, which produces 200 hp at 5200 rpm and 230 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm. LaCrosse Super features GM's LS4 5.3-liter V-8 engine that delivers 300 hp at 5600 rpm and 323 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm. Buick says this engine propels the LaCrosse Super to 60 mph from a dead stop in 5.9 seconds. The engine also uses GM's Active Fuel Management engine technology that switches between 4 and 8 cylinders seamlessly to save fuel. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 17 mpg city/28 mpg highway for models equipped with the 3.8-liter engine and 16 mpg city/24 mpg highway for the V-8-equipped LaCrosse Super. Premium fuel is recommended (but not required) for the LaCrosse Super. Both engines drive the front wheels through a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and torque converter. Brakes are 4-wheel disc with power assist.

Safety
All 2009 Buick LaCrosse models come with anti-lock brakes; dual-stage frontal air bags; side curtain air bags; traction control; theft-deterrent system with engine immobilizer; OnStar service that includes hands-free voice recognition; and a tire-pressure-monitoring system. Ultrasonic rear parking assist is also available. Electronic stability control is optional on the LaCrosse CX and CXL, and standard on the LaCrosse Super.

In National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash tests, the 2009 Buick LaCrosse received a perfect 5-star rating in the frontal crash test for driver and front passenger. Ratings for side-impact protection were 3 stars for front-seat occupants and 4 stars for rear-seat occupants. In the rollover test, the LaCrosse received a 4-star rating.

Technology
The 2009 Buick LaCrosse Super's 5.3-liter V-8 engine features GM's Active Fuel Management system, which deactivates four of the engine's eight cylinders under light loads (such as low-speed cruising) to conserve fuel. Buick also tuned the Super's suspension and braking systems to take advantage of the V-8 engine's power while maintaining the LaCrosse's smooth ride. The LaCrosse Super additionally features special Bilstein monotube struts, a high-precision steering gear and larger brake rotors. Bluetooth for Phone hands-free phone interface (with integrated steering-wheel controls) is available on all 2009 LaCrosse models. It uses the OnStar 7.2 system's voice recognition to interpret voice commands to dial phone numbers and name tags, while conversations play through the car's audio system.