A Better-Looking Buick

Designed mostly in China, where Buick enjoys strong sales, the LaCrosse is an exercise in well-proportioned grace. The front juts out enough that it should give the car an ungainly, pancaked appearance, but GM still gets away with it. I can't quite explain how, except to say the car's face hides the overhang in a way the outgoing LaCrosse's bulbous nose could not. I'm no aesthete; I just know when a car looks right, and the new LaCrosse does. You might disagree, but 10 bucks says that most of you won't. (Actually, I make a journalist's salary. Let's make that five bucks.)

All versions of the LaCrosse get chrome accents on the door handles, trunk and grille. Unfortunately, they also get Buick's signature portholes, moved to an awkward perch atop the hood. Most onlookers agreed — these faux engine vents hurt an otherwise sharp design.

    See also:

    Checking Things Underthe Hood
    CAUTION: Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a fire. These include liquids like fuel, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. Yo ...

    Shocks and Struts
    Shocks and struts help aid in control for a smoother ride. • Signs of wear may include steering wheel vibration, bounce/sway while braking, longer stopping distance, or uneven tire wear. â ...

    Touch Screen Buttons
    Touch screen buttons are on the screen and highlighted when a feature is available. Some toggle screen buttons highlight when active and gray out when inactive. ...