During a 200-mile trip, the Buick LaCrosse was quiet. So whatever is going around outside the car, it’s not making its way into the car. Buick engineers crafted the quiet car by taking a comprehensive approach to address noise and vibrations throughout the body, powertrain, and suspension. In addition, the windshield and side windows have noise-quelling lamination. The interior is also lacking in visual loudness. It’s a simple, uncluttered look. LaCrosse is a nifty midsize sedan for everything that’s not onboard as well as for what is onboard. All three models of the LaCrosse have V6 power, but the CXS version has a 240 horsepower engine with variable valve timing. A four-speed automatic transmission is also standard.

LaCrosse is the first Buick to offer an optional factory-installed remote starting system that’s activated via a key fob button. Pre-plan for a remote start, and the car can be air-conditioned cool, or brimming with warmth on a cold morning. Other optional items include Stabilitrak, 17-inch wheels, rear park assist, and a six-way power passenger seat. Probably the lone gripe about the LaCrosse: the seats. A stationary position for a couple of hours led to a sore bottom, which may (or may not) have been related to the tested car’s weakened support on the left front portion of the driver’s seat. Overall, the car is splendid in its looks, power, ride and handling. Mile per gallon fuel estimates are 19 city/27 highway. MSRP for Lacrosse CXS is $28,335.