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Buick unveils the 2012 LaCrosse wîth eAssist,™ a new fuel-saving technology that increases fuel economy by 25 percent compared to the four-cylinder/six-speed powertrain in the 2011 LaCrosse. The eAssist technology provides class-leading highway fuel economy of 37 mpg, while maintaining the luxury, performance and value expected from Buick’s flagship sedan. The eAssist system becomes the standard powertrain on LaCrosse starting next summer. The system uses a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery system and electric motor-generator to enable regenerative braking capability to improve LaCrosse fuel economy by an estimated 25 percent.

‘The LaCrosse wîth eAssist technology is the latest example of how this successful car – wîth sales up more than 200 percent for the year – is shaking up the §egmènt and helping to reinvent Buick,’ said John Schwegman, vice president of Buick marketing. ‘It is the smart choice for those who want great fuel economy and performance in a luxury vehicle, wîth excellent value – the LaCrosse wîth eAssist will cost thousands less than competitors wîth similar technologies.’ Mated to a 2.4L Ecotec direct injection four-cylinder engine and next-generation six-speed automatic transmission, the eAssist system uses power stored in the battery to provide needed electrical boost in various driving scenarios, optimizing engine and transmission operation.

Buick LaCrosse wîth eAssist technology also features improved underbody aerodynamics and tires optimized for performance and fuel economy, as well as active control of front-end airflow that improves aerodynamics and engine warm-up. Electronically controlled shutters in the lower grille close at higher speeds to push more air over the vehicle, which increases aerodynamic efficiency to enhance fuel economy. All of these technologies increase the eAssist system’s regenerative braking capability, while also improving the vehicle’s efficiency while driving.

LaCrosse was the first in its §egmènt wîth a four-cylinder/six-speed powertrain, the first wîth HiPer Strut and is now is leading the way wîth the new standard eAssist technology, LaCrosse wîth eAssist is the standard powertrain for four-cylinder-equipped models and there isn’t a cost premium. LaCrosse wîth eAssist includes an ECO gauge on the instrument panel that continuously responds to driving behavior, enabling the driver to drive wîth maximum efficiency. It also features a hill-assist system that captures brake pressure to help the driver more comfortably accelerate from a stop on a moderate or steep grade. It does this by greatly reducing the tendency of the vehicle to roll backward wîth the engine in shut-down mode.

Price: $26,495 – 33,265
Invoice: $25,435 – 31,934

While the eAssist system shares the same basic belt-alternator-starter configuration of previous BAS designs, it delivers more than three times the power and is much more capable than the previous-generation BAS system. The eAssist system is more than just the next-generation BAS system. The ability to integrate regenerative braking wîth the latest lithium-ion battery technology creates a system that delivers significant fuel-efficiency gains that customers will enjoy,’ said Steve Poulos, global chief engineer of the eAssist system. ‘Being able to provide electric boost to the powertrain system during heavy acceleration and grade driving enables the LaCrosse transmission to operate more efficiently, while the added functionality of engine start-stop and fuel shut-off during deceleration provides added fuel savings.

The eAssist system’s 115V air-cooled lithium-ion battery bolsters the 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder engine wîth approximately 11 kW (15 horsepower) of electric power assist during heavy acceleration and 15 kW of regenerative braking power. That compares wîth only 2 kW of power assist and 5 kW of regenerative power on the previous BAS system. The greater power capability enables greater energy capture during regenerative braking for improved fuel economy.

The system also enables the Ecotec engine to shut down fuel delivery in certain deceleration conditions, which saves additional fuel. (concept carz) While in fuel shut-off mode, the motor-generator unit continues spinning along wîth the engine to provide immediate and smooth take-off power when the driver presses on the accelerator. Then, as the vehicle comes to a stop, the motor-generator unit spins the engine, bringing it to a smooth stop – properly positioned for a smooth restart. The battery system is designed to provide power assistance to the internal combustion engine, rather than storing energy for all-electric propulsion,’ said Poulos. ‘It’s really an extension of the conventional internal combustion engine, not a replacement for it.

The eAssist power pack contains the lithium-ion battery pack, the integrated power inverter and 12V power supply. It is located in a compartment between the rear seat and trunk; and it is surprisingly compact and lightweight, weighing only about 65 pounds (29 kg). It still allows rear access to the trunk via the split-folding rear seat – an attribute not shared wîth other hybrid competitors. Trunk space is slightly reduced when compared wîth 2011 models wîth the four-cylinder/six-speed powertrain, but still offers 10.9 cubic feet (307 liters) of storage. An electric fan cools the power pack, drawing air from a vent located in the package tray, behind the rear seat. The fans are designed to be quiet from the cabin. The eAssist system’s electric motor-generator is mounted to the engine in place of the alternator to provide both motor assist and electric-generating functions through a new engine belt-drive system. The motor-generator is a high-performance, compact induction motor that is liquid-cooled for increased performance and efficiency.

The eAssist system works wîth LaCrosse’s direct injected 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder and next-generation six-speed automatic powertrain combination. In the LaCrosse wîth eAssist, the engine is rated at approximately 180 horsepower (134 kW) and the next-generation Hydra-Matic 6T40 takes transmission technology to the next level wîth features designed to enhance powertrain efficiency.

Significant internal transmission changes to clutch controls and hardware provide reduced spin losses while improving shift response and time. The added electric power provided by the eAssist system allows for higher gearing to improve steady state efficiency without impacting acceleration performance or driveability. The system’s capability of providing some electric assistance at cruising speeds allows the driver to accelerate lightly or ascend mild grades without the transmission downshifting.

An auxiliary, electric-driven transmission oil pump is added to the 6T40, which keeps the transmission primed and the fluid flowing when the engine shuts down at a stop. That keeps the transmission ready to perform when the driver accelerates, for a seamless, uncompromised driving experience.

‘It’s a very integrated powertrain system, wîth no compromises in driving performance, shift quality or ride and handling,’ said Daryl Wilson, LaCrosse lead development engineer. ‘We believe this combination points to the future of vehicles powered primarily by an internal combustion engine.’

The all-new 2012 Buick Verano compact luxury sedan, the brand’s third new model in the past two years and first in the compact luxury segment, will be revealed at the North American International Auto Show. Verano goes on sale in the fourth quarter of 2011, the latest model in a product renaissance that began with the Enclave and continued with the LaCrosse and Regal. Like them, Verano is distinguished by luxury and technology, including 10 standard air bags, an available heated steering wheel and a next-generation radio system with OnStar-powered connectivity that enables seamless communication between the Verano and the driver’s smart phone.

An Ecotec 2.4L and six-speed automatic powertrain combination is standard and delivers an estimated 177 horsepower (132 kW) and 170 lb.-ft. torque (230 Nm), 0-60 mph performance of 8.0 seconds and an estimated 31 mpg on the highway. A 2.0L turbo engine will be offered in the future. ‘Verano expands our lineup, continues Buick’s momentum and gives us a great opportunity to attract a new generation of customers with a product that delivers on their expectations for design, performance and technology,’ said John Schwegman, vice president of Buick marketing. ‘It is a smart choice that delivers unexpected luxury in a compact sedan – and it will compete head-to-head with competitors from Audi and Lexus.’

Price: $21,000 – $26,000.

Five elements infused in Verano that define its character:

Sculpted design – Refined styling with a sporty profile, blending Buick’s signature cues – including a black chrome waterfall grille, blue translucent projector beam headlamps, portholes and chrome accents
Luxurious interior – Premium seat comfort and support redefined for a compact sedan and matched with upscale, soft-touch materials and premium leather – all complemented by leading-edge infotainment and ambient lighting
Quiet tuning – The quietest compact sedan on the road – quieter than many midsize and full-size cars – Verano’s quietness is supported by acoustical laminated glass, triple door seals, refined chassis dynamics and specially manufactured 17-inch standard forged alloy multi-spoke wheels, which minimize road noise
Refined and responsive performance – Powerful and efficient Ecotec 2.4L/six-speed automatic powertrain matched with a refined, responsive suspension system, including a sophisticated Watts Z-link rear suspension and four-wheel disc brakes with standard anti-lock brakes, full-function traction control and StabiliTrak electronic stability control
Purposeful technology – Convenience and safety features that enhance the driving experience and are rare for the segment, including 10 standard air bags, a next-generation radio, touch screen navigation and advanced connectivity technologies powered by OnStar.
Sculpted designVerano carries the modern Buick design cues introduced on the Enclave and interpreted for the LaCrosse and Regal. They include a bold, detailed black chrome waterfall grille, prominent blue translucent projector beam headlamps, portholes, chrome accents, premium wheels and a tailored body-to-wheel relationship. An arching roofline connects a steeply raked windshield and fast-sloping rear pillars to give the car a sporty profile that’s complemented by large, 17-inch standard multi-spoke forged alloy sterling silver-finish wheels. Two premium 18-inch wheel designs are available.

‘Verano translates Buick’s sculptural design language in a new size, with all the refinement and attention to detail pioneered by the Enclave and LaCrosse,’ said Dave Lyon, design director. ‘Beyond all that, it’s simply a great-looking car. It has great proportions and sophisticated details that will look great for years to come.’ Unique to Verano are translucent blue projector-beam headlamps, which give the car a distinctive, upscale appearance. A palette of rich colors enhances the premium look, including Claret Red Tintcoat and White Diamond Tricoat. Other exterior color choices include Black, Olympic White, Switchblade Silver Metallic, Cyber Gray Metallic and Mocha Bronze Metallic.

Interior

Complementing Verano’s precisely crafted, premium-accented exterior is an interior marked by exceptional seat comfort and support, as well as premium soft-touch materials, including ambient lighting inspired by the LaCrosse. Metallic and wood trims and warm ambient lighting make the cabin an inviting environment.

Neutral and medium titanium colors are offered on interiors with leatherette/fabric seating surfaces, while ebony, cashmere and a unique Choccachino color are offered on the available leather-trimmed interiors. Verano uses the same premium leather material for the seats that is used on the LaCrosse.

The instrument panel blends with an integrated center stack that houses the infotainment display, climate controls and radio controls. Flush-mounted components within the center stack have a gap tolerance of less than 1 mm, while the instrument panel-to-door panel gaps are less than 5 mm. Those tolerances are among the best in class.

Verano’s headliner cover is made of a knit material that is one of five layers of an acoustically designed headliner to help quiet the passenger compartment. The interior pillar and other moldings are color- and grain-matched to the headliner.

Additional interior standard and available features include:

• Push-button engine start

• Dual-zone climate control with standard air conditioning (automatic climate control available)

• Heated steering wheel

• Heated leather-appointed seating

• Electronic parking brake

• Console armrest that slides and locks

• Power windows with express up/down in the front and express down in the rear

• Steering wheel radio controls

• Uplevel front and rear reading lamps.

Verano’s heated steering wheel and heated seats are linked with the remote start feature. In temperatures lower than 45 F (7 C), the steering wheel heater and seat heaters automatically activate.

Performance

A power-dense Ecotec 2.4L four-cylinder, with dual-overhead camshafts, variable valve timing and E85 capability, is the standard engine in the Verano. It produces an estimated 177 horsepower (132 kW) and 170 lb.-ft. of torque (230 Nm). Direct injection technology helps it produce more power with less fuel and lower emissions – including up to 25-percent reduced hydrocarbon emissions when compared with a multi-point fuel injection engine. The engine is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission that helps the Verano deliver an estimated 31 mpg on the highway. Electric power steering and a more efficient transmission design help optimize fuel economy.

The front suspension uses decoupled MacPherson struts for better isolation, providing greater separation of extreme road conditions – large potholes, for example – from everyday driving conditions. At the rear, a technically advanced Watts Z-link design helps center the rear axle during cornering, which helps keep the Verano’s handling responses symmetrical on both left-hand and right-hand turns. The linkage’s capability to center the axle during cornering delivers a more-balanced driving experience because the rear suspension better follows the lead of the front suspension. The Z-link design is also lighter and requires less space than a typical fully independent rear suspension. The lower weight contributes to Verano’s fuel economy, while the compact design enables more trunk space.

Steering inputs are executed by an electric power steering system, featuring a dual-pinion rack. Electric powering steering helps save fuel because it removes the conventional power steering pump from the engine’s driven accessories. Engineers tuned the speed-sensitive system to provide quick, direct reaction to steering actions and a strong on-center feel. The system has a ratio of 15.5:1 and requires only slightly more than two turns, lock to lock. Stopping power is handled by a four-wheel disc brake system with standard anti-lock and electronic brake force distribution, as well as StabiliTrak electronic stability control with traction control.

Quiet Tuning

Verano delivers the library-quiet driving experience for which Buicks have become known. Quiet-tuning systems, processes and components are built into every facet of the vehicle’s architecture. All are designed to block or absorb sound and dampen or eliminate vibrations. Hydraulic ride bushings, for example, and an isolated engine cradle reduce or eliminate vibration pathways that could be transmitted to the passenger compartment. Similarly, a number of noise-reducing and noise-cancelling technologies are employed throughout the body structure, including:

• The steel front-of-dash panel is sandwiched between two damping mats

• Nylon baffles are used in various hollow portions of the body structure and filled with sound-absorbing foam that expands when the body enters the paint oven

• The headliner comprises five layers of thermal fiber acoustic material, including a premium woven fabric on the visible outer layer

• Patches of sound-damping material are applied strategically throughout the body structure and melt into place when the body passes through the paint oven, allowing the patches to follow the contours of the sheet metal below

• Sound insulation material between rear-body structural components that is made from recycled denim

• Triple-sealed doors that feature fiberglass ‘blankets’ serve as water, airflow and noise barriers. The doors are also beta-braced, meaning they close with a solid, precise sound and no resonance

• Optimized windshield and side glass for quietness, with 5.4-mm-thick laminated windshield and 4.85-mm laminated side glass

• The engine’s intake and exhaust systems are tuned for quiet performance

• Isolated brake and fuel lines prevent vibrations.

Even the wheels and tires contribute to Verano’s quietness. The standard 17-inch aluminum wheels are manufactured in a unique way to enhance quietness, while the tires minimize road noise.

The 2011 Buick Lucerne is offered in CX, CXL, EXL and Super models. All include a comprehensive list of standard equipment, with CX models offering six-way power passenger seat; heated power outside rearview mirrors; an extended-range key fob and 17-inch aluminum wheels. CX models are available with cloth seating in five-passenger configurations. Six-passenger seating is available.

Powering Lucerne CX, CXL and EXL models is a responsive, FlexFuel-capable 3.9L V-6 engine. It delivers an SAE-certified 227 horsepower (169 kW) and 237 lb.-ft. of torque (321 Nm). Lucerne Super is powered by a 4.6L Northstar V-8 engine that is rated at 292 horsepower (218 kW)* and 288 lb.-ft. of torque (390 Nm)*.

The 4.6L V-8 is paired with GM’s electronically controlled Hydra-Matic 4T80 four-speed automatic transaxle, while the 3.9L V-6 is mated to the 4T65 four-speed automatic transaxle. All Lucerne engines feature electronic throttle control to seamlessly match driver input with engine response while maximizing overall fuel efficiency.

Every Lucerne model, from the well-equipped base CX to the Super, receives Buick’s unique, all-encompassing engineering initiative called QuietTuning. It is designed to significantly reduce, block and absorb unwanted road, wind and powertrain noise with the goal of providing leading levels of interior cabin quietness.

It starts with a stiff body structure, extremely tight body gap tolerances and an extensive wind-sealing system. Buick then adds notable QuietTuning features, including laminated side glass in all four moving passenger door windows; noise-reducing outside rearview mirrors; lower profile ‘structureless’ windshield wipers with a flexible airfoil surface; a ‘double-isolated’ powertrain mounting system; laminated steel and composite nylon baffles in the roof pillars, rocker panels and cross-car structures; composite wheel housing liners, and more.

Engines receive QuietTuning attention, too. For example, the 4.6L V-8 features an acoustically tuned engine cover, special cam chain tensioner, camshaft cover isolator mounts and pistons coated with a Grafal polymer. All contribute to quiet operation.

Lucerne’s body structure is engineered to provide maximum occupant protection under a wide range of impact conditions. Active safety and handling features offered on Lucerne include a four-channel anti-lock braking system and traction control; an auto-leveling rear suspension that automatically adjusts the vehicle height for heavy loads; and four-channel StabiliTrak electronic stability control with brake assist, which senses emergency braking situations and boosts the power as needed.

All Lucerne models have six standard air bags: a dual-stage driver front air bag, side-impact thorax air bags, roof-rail curtain air bags and the segment’s only dual depth front passenger air bag. The dual depth air bag can deploy in two different shapes and pressures – depending upon crash impact, seat belt usage and seat position. Working with other front passenger safety features, such as a weight-based occupant detection system, the dual depth air bag deploys in one of two different sizes from behind the instrument panel within milliseconds to provide optimal restraint for the front passenger.

OnStar is standard and includes a six-month Directions and Connections plan, which includes Automatic Crash Response, Emergency Services, Crisis Assist, Stolen Vehicles Assistance featuring Stolen Vehicle Slowdown, as well as Turn-by-Turn Navigation with Destination Download and OnStar eNav (where available).

Price:-

MSRP: $29,735-44,465
Invoice: $28,545-42,685.

The Enclave crossover SUV has been changing consumer perception about the Buick brand and about luxury crossovers since it was introduced. Blending style and grace with precision, Enclave delivers comfort for up to eight, plenty of space for cargo and at 24 mpg highway (2WD), better fuel economy than any eight-passenger SUV.

The Enclave also offers a starting price that beats luxury brands by thousands, even though it offers a host of standard equipment and the industry’s best warranty coverage. Its appeal as a premium family vehicle gives it the lowest average age of any Buick model, at 59. Customers also agree that the smart money is on Enclave, because more than half of all owners are college graduates with a median yearly income of more than $100,000.

‘Enclave proves you don’t have to spend a lot to get the royal treatment of a luxurious crossover SUV,’ said Roger McCormack, director of marketing for Buick. Model year-to-date, Enclave sales are up more than 30 percent over the same period a year earlier, and are up 33 percent for the first quarter of 2010 over 2009.

The 3.6L direct injection engine is designed to operate with regular unleaded gasoline – which saves money compared to luxury brands that require premium fuel – and produces power similar to many V-8 engines. With direct injection, fuel is sprayed directly to the combustion chamber to create a more complete burn of the fuel/air mixture.

As a result, less fuel is required to produce the equivalent horsepower of a conventional port-injection combustion system, especially at normal cruising speeds. Ninety percent of the Enclave engine’s peak torque is available from approximately 2,500 rpm to more than 6,000 rpm. Also, using unique pistons with the direct injection system helps reduce cold-start emissions by 25 percent.

The 3.6L engine is mated to the Hydra-Matic 6T75 electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission. Its wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio helps the transmission deliver both performance and fuel economy, enabling up to a 7-percent improvement in performance and up to a 4-percent improvement in fuel economy when compared to front-wheel-drive four-speed automatics. The transmission has been designed so that the Enclave can be flat-towed in FWD and AWD configurations. The Enclave can tow up to 4,500 pounds (2,045 kg) when properly equipped.

Enclave delivers an impressive level of roominess and functionality. With three rows of seats, Enclave comfortably accommodates seven or eight occupants, and still provides 24.1 cu. ft. (682 L) of cargo space behind the third-row seat when the cargo management is removed. That’s the trunk capacity of some large sedans and room that many crossovers cannot match. Enclave also offers 115.9 cubic feet (3,282 L) of cargo room behind the first row when all rear seats are folded – that’s more maximum cargo volume than the Lexus RX350 (80.3 cu. ft.), Volvo XC90 (85.1 cu. ft.), Audi Q7 (72.5 cu. ft.) and Acura MDX (83.5 cu. ft.).

Buick Enclave has a comprehensive safety system designed to protect passengers before, during and after a crash. The 2010 Enclave achieved the top federal frontal crash rating of five stars for driver and front-seat passenger, and the top federal side-impact crash test score of five stars for rear occupants.

Safety-enhancing features include four-wheel anti-lock brakes, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation technology and GM’s tire pressure monitoring system are standard. Traction control also is standard on all models.

Enclave is equipped with six standard air bags: two dual-stage frontal air bags, two seat-mounted side-impact air bags in the first row and two roof rail air bags that cover all three seating rows. Complementing the air bags is GM’s rollover sensing system, which activates the roof rail air bags if sensors determine an impending rollover. Because rollover crashes typically last longer than non-rollover crashes, the roof rail air bags stay inflated longer to provide increased occupant protection and containment. Additionally, first-row positions feature safety belt pretensioners, which activate at the moment of a crash to take up any slack in the safety belt and hold the passengers in place.

The LaCrosse offers a great design, all-wheel drive, a suite of advanced personal technologies and safety features, and a choice of two fuel-saving powertrains. A fuel-efficient, direct injected Ecotec 2.4L four-cylinder engine is the standard engine in CX and CXL FWD models (it was added to the lineup in mid-2010 on CX).

Backed by a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission, the Ecotec 2.4L powertrain delivers an EPA-rated 30 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg in the city – making LaCrosse one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its segment. Buick expects about 25 percent of LaCrosse customers will opt for the engine.

Direct injection technology helps the Ecotec 2.4L deliver 182 horsepower (136 kW) and 172 lb-ft. of torque (233 Nm). The injection of fuel directly into the combustion chamber enables a higher compression ratio to increase efficiency and horsepower. That means more power is made with less fuel and lower emissions. In fact, cold-start emissions are reduced by up to 25 percent with direct injection. Engineers tuned the engine to deliver greater torque at lower rpm and build it smoothly toward its peak at 4,900 rpm, giving the LaCrosse excellent performance in all driving conditions.

The Ecotec 2.4L diversifies the LaCrosse’s powertrain lineup, which also includes a 3.6L V-6 with variable valve timing and direct injection; it is rated at 280 horsepower (209 kW) and 259 lb.-ft. of torque (351 Nm). AWD is available on 3.6L-equipped models.

Inside, the interior is defined by a flowing, uninterrupted design theme that wraps around the instrument and door panels. Attention to detail is evident throughout the interior, including the analog instrument cluster, chrome offset by dark woodgrain accents, and contrasting stitching on the instrument panel.

Buick’s signature QuietTuning – an engineering process to reduce, block and absorb interior noise – provides a distraction-free passenger environment. An unexpected, inviting touch is the ice blue ambient lighting throughout the cabin from the center console, instrument panel and door handle pockets.

The contemporary atmosphere of the cabin is accented with available digital connectivity and personal technologies that include in-dash navigation with a 40-gig hard drive (10 gigs reserved for music), Bluetooth, an auxiliary audio input and a USB port. Rear-seat passengers can enjoy an available power rear-window sunshade and a DVD entertainment system with two display screens integrated into the seatbacks.

LaCrosse’s intelligent technologies also work to deliver a 360-degree field of vision behind the steering wheel, for a greater feeling of comfort, security and safety. It starts with the available head-up display in the windshield, allowing the driver to monitor speed while keeping his or her eyes on the road. At night, available adaptive lighting can direct the high-intensity discharge headlight beams up to 15 degrees for enhanced illumination of the road and its curves.

The technologies available on LaCrosse enhance a suite of standard safety features, including front-, side- and roof-mounted head-curtain air bags, and GM’s StabiliTrak stability- and traction-control system. The safety and security of OnStar is also included for the first year of ownership.

LaCrosse offers Side Blind Zone Alert technology that notifies the driver if a vehicle in adjacent lanes is traveling in the driver’s blind spot. The available rearview camera features a display integrated into the navigation system screen.

At the rear suspension, the CX, CXL and base CXS models feature a four-link design that is mounted to the body at four points. CXS with optional 19-inch wheels and Touring Package feature a more sophisticated H-arm design that uses the same attachment points as the four-link system but with the cross member attached via isolated mounts. The lower H-arm replaces the basic trailing link, delivering a greater ride quality and lower noise.

The Touring Package also includes real-time damping and Sport Mode Selectivity, which uses four electronically controlled dampers to constantly ‘read’ the road and make adjustments within milliseconds.

The 2011 Buick Regal marks the return of a midsize sedan to this General Motors division’s lineup. Last sold in the United States in 2004, the 2011 version shares elements of its basic design with the European-market Opel Insignia. Initial Regals will come in a single CXL trim level, with more versions due in the 2012 model year.

The standard engine is a 182-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder. Due later in the 2011 model year is an optional 220-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. A 6-speed automatic transmission will be standard with both engines at first; a 6-speed manual for turbocharged models is slated to arrive later in the model year.

Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front- and rear-side airbags. Standard on all models are 18-inch wheels, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and an 8-way power driver seat. An adjustable suspension is available on models equipped with the turbocharged engine. A navigation system with hard drive for storing digital-music files is optional. We have not yet tested the 2011 Buick Regal.

The 2009 Buick Lucerne gets a new V6 engine and more standard features. Buick’s largest sedan shares some of its basic front-wheel-drive design with the Cadillac DTS. Base CX, uplevel CXL, and sport-themed Super models are offered. CX and CXL have a new 227-hp 3.9-liter V6 engine, which replaces a 197-hp 3.8 V6.

The new V6 is capable of running on ethanol-blended E85 fuel. Supers have a 292-hp 4.6-liter V8 along with revised steering and GM’s Magnetic Ride Control suspension, which uses sensors to automatically adjust the suspension based on road conditions. All Lucernes use a 4-speed automatic transmission. CX and CXL can seat up to six; Supers seat five.

Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Lane-departure warning and blind-spot alert systems are optional. Heated front seats with memory programming and a heated steering wheel are newly standard on the CXL. A wireless cell-phone link is standard on all models.