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Re: The Lucerne is no Buick
I rented a Buick Lucerne CXL for a week recently, I agree with polarzak on the ammenities. The Lucerne features are extremely limited compared to the LeSabre Limited model that I own.
My LeSabre driver information center gives me real time digital read outs for temperature, oil pressure, battery voltage, etc. The Lucerne driver information center provides none of that information.
The trunk release button is located in the stupid glove box on the Lucerne and there is no key access to the trunk, so your only option, even when seated in the driver's seat is the remote, the driver can't reach the glove box release button.
The Lucerne cup holders are worthless junk.
The steering wheel controls are clumsy compared to the simple and affective lesabre wheel layout.
The Lucerne door panel storage areas are worthless.
That said, I disagree with polarzak on the ride and handling. I've done a lot of work to stiffen (most people would say improve) the LeSabre ride. Unfortunately if you are a spirited driver, the stock LeSabre offers absolutely no satisfaction. The Lucerne, on the other hand, performs admirably in high speed curves and quick lane changes. Body roll in the Lucerne is drastically reduced. Brake balance is even better than the LeSabre, heavy braking in the Lucerne produces significantly less nose dive. The gearing of the 4t65e used in the lucerne is slightly different from that which was used on most of the LeSabre limited models (at least those with Y56 option). You'll notice the 3800 in the Lucerne revving much higher to produce slightly more peak power, but you sacrifice a lot of low-end torque and fuel economy. The interior panels on the Lucerne are worlds better, fit in finish is extraordinary compared to LeSabre. My dash in the LeSabre rattles over every little bump it sounds like the panels are about to fall off. Highway wind noise is drastically reduced in the Lucerne and the engine noise is managed well.
I think the Lucerne has potential, I would like to see the ammenities improved, the the Super model due in 08 should add to the features.
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