The LaCrosse  comes with a base 255hp 3.0L V6 in the CX and CXL. The CXL-AWD drops a bit to 252bhp from the 3.0L V6 with variable valve timing (VVT) and direct injection. It also features the Intelligent All Wheel Drive system with electronically controlled rear limited slip differential. The CXS, which we had, gets the 280 hp 3.6L also with VVT and direct injection.

All LaCrosses come with a 6-speed automatic with overdrive. Keeping the bumpers from dragging on the ground is independent front struts and H-arm rear suspension. Add variable assist rack and pinion steering with some decent stopping power and you have a very capable, very well priced and very good looking…Buick.

I actually was looking forward to driving the LaCrosse, to see if any of the old Wildcat was still there. I understand that the target buyers for the LaCrosse aren’t going to be diving off the highway at insane speeds; they are more interested in a comfortable ride.

Buick has the ride part sorted out in the LaCrosse, it is very comfortable even on rough city streets. And for those of you that care, it will dive off the highway with the best of them. Yes, it is a little soft, but very competent, and offers a good feeling of security back to the driver.

I think its important to point out that our fully loaded LaCrosse came in at just over 47k and that is brilliant when you consider what you get for that money. Now, the base can be had for considerably less.

What you need to know about the 2010 Buick LaCrosse is this; you need to put out of your mind your previous Buick impressions (especially if they were like mine). You need to think of it as a new brand. A new exciting brand that offers value, great looks, a luxurious interior and solid performance that is on par with its competitors.

If I’m telling the truth, I was impressed with the LaCrosse overall, and I think if you are in the market for a mid-size sedan, even a mid-size sport sedan, the LaCrosse should be on your radar screen as a possible choice.

I’m glad I had the chance to drive the LaCrosse, and if Buick is going to build cars like this, I’m not waiting 30 years for my next chance to drive one.