2013 Buick LaCrosse Total Car Score Analysis

The 2013 Buick LaCrosse earns an above average Total Car Score for the Large Sedans & Wagons segment. 
 
Four years into its second generation, the LaCrosse moves into 2013 with just some minor equipment changes--the timing and lack of activity seeming to signal that a third refresh of the big sedan is imminent.  
 
All 2013 LaCrosse models get Buick’s IntelliLink infotainment system, which includes an eight-inch touchscreen to control the audio system and Bluetooth connectivity. The exterior rearview mirrors have been repositioned to improve visibility, electric power steering replaces the conventional hydraulic power steering on front-wheel-drive V6 models, and there are new Mocha Bronze Metallic, Champagne Silver Metallic and Atlantis Blue Metallic exterior paint colors available.  
 
Buick, it seems, doesn’t want to mess with a good thing. At least, not yet. Reviews of the LaCrosse are uniformly positive, with critics praising its ride, styling (inside and out), comfort and amenities.  
 
Driving enthusiasts will want to explore the Touring trim level and its optional electronically controlled dampers and Sport Mode Selectivity, which improves handling responsiveness without affecting the LaCrosse’s ride quality.  
 
Those looking for fuel efficiency can order the LaCrosse Hybrid, a mild hybrid version of the LaCrosse (reviewed separately) that’s rated at up to 36 mpg on the highway.

2013 Buick LaCrosse Model Line-Up

The 2013 Buick LaCrosse is a four-door five-passenger fullsize sedan that’s offered in five trim levels. (A gas/electric LaCrosse Hybrid is also available and is reviewed separately.)  
 
The conventionally powered LaCrosse is outfitted with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 303 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission sends motive power to the front wheels in standard trim, or all four if the AWD option is ordered.  
 
The base LaCrosse model (in which the V6 engine is an option) is equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, dual-zone climate control, a tilt/telescope steering column, and a seven-speaker audio system with an eight-inch touchscreen, Buick’s IntelliLink infotainment system and Bluetooth connectivity.  
 
The Leather Group adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, rear parking assist and a backup camera.  
 
There are two trim levels called Premium. The Premium I group includes the V6 as standard equipment plus 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry with push-button start, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel and a rear sunshade. Premium II adds to that chrome-plated wheels and a Harmon Kardon premium sound system.  
 
The top Touring trim level includes 19-inch wheels, articulating HID headlamps, a navigation system, a head-up display and side blind-zone alert.  
 
According to the EPA, the 2013 Buick LaCrosse returns 17 mpg city, 27 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined in FWD trim, 17/25/20 with the AWD powertrain.

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