2007 Buick Terraza Review

The 2007 Buick Terraza is available in three models: CX ($27,425), CX Plus ($28,765), and the CXL ($31,545). Each Terraza is equipped with a 3.9-liter V6 engine producing 240 hp and outfitted with a four-speed automatic transmission. The FWD models can tow 2,000 lbs.; 3,500 with the trailering package. You'll get 136.5 cubic feet maximum for cargo with seating for seven.

Both the driver and passenger are covered by two stage airbags. All rows are covered by side bags. With OnStar standard and the LATCH system incorproated for child seats, the Terraza emphasizes safety at all levels. Keyless access and ignition via the remote compliment a deterrent alarm system that includes a mechanism to kill the engine to thwart a thief. As an added caveat, the CXL can be outfitted with a Mobility Prep Package that prepares the vehicle for handicapped use by bringing the floor down, removing its coverings, and taking out the second row.

Crank up your tunes on the 2007 Buick Terraza's eight-speaker combo audio system with MP3 capability and enjoy volume control tied to vehicle speed. Real audiophiles can opt for a six-disc changer in the dash or one with an integrated navigation system that is touchscreen based. Both the CX Plus and CXL can carry a DVD system to the rear and include equipment for XM Satellite radio.

2007 Buick Rendezvous Review

When you need seating for up to seven and excellent power at the same time, the 2007 Buick Rendezvous SUV fits the bill with two available models, the CX (from $25,925) and the CXL (from$29,500.) Behind the third row you get 18.1 cubic feet of volume. Put that seat down and you bump up to 54.5. The 3.5 liter V6 drives the whole show with 195 hp and features a four-speed automatic with overdrive.

The driver and passenger have full protection from a comprensive system of airbags including a side unit and a sensor system. Car seats are secured in place with the standard LATCH system and rear door have child locks. Overall vehicle security is entrusted to the PASS-Key III system.

Front occupants enjoy manual controls for lumbar and recline adjustments in the standard bucket seats. The base upholstery package is cloth with leather appointments in the CXL with suede optional. Flip and fold seats occupy the second and third row positions. On the list of accessory options you'll find a liner for the cargo area and an adjustable system of dividers.

Look for a standard audio unit with RDS and volume compensated for vehicle speed in the 2007 Buick Rendezvous. TheftLock is in place and you get an equalizer you can program and six speakers throughout the vehicle. Upgrades will get you a box with touchscreen navigation as well as DVD entertainment in the back and XM Satellite Radio.

2007 Buick Rainier Review

You can pick up one of two five-passenger 2007 Buick Ranier SUVs in 2007, an RWD from $32,285 and an AWD from $34,305. In both you're getting rear volume of 43.7 cubic feet behind the back seat with a turning distance of 36.4 feet from one curb to the other. Buick puts a Vortec 4200 V6 under the hood producing 291 hp and including an oil cooler for the transmission. If that's not enough power for you, opt for the Vortec 5300 and you'll pick up 302 hp in a 5.3 liter unit plus active management technology for fuel consumption. The transmission configuration on both engines is an electronically controlled four-speed with overdrive.

Inside you're ready for all circumstances, with three power outlets, climate control over two zones and individual settings for the driver and front passenger. The lighting system includes theater-like dimming and for the backseat navigator a map light is present. Full air bag protection shields the driver and passenger with first and second row outside positions covered by side bags. All are regulated by sensor controlled deployment systems.

Incuded audio in the 2007 Buick Ranier is a combo unit plus a cassette player and XM Satellite Radio can be added. Volume varies according to vehicle speed and the TheftLock system is present. Upgrades will gain a changer in the dash to handle six CDs and MP3 capability. Backseat passengers have their own audio controls and jacks for headphones plus the option for a DVD system.

2008 Buick LaCrosse Review

An entry-level luxury mid-size sedan, the Buick LaCrosse received cosmetic and functional upgrades for 2008. With all models sporting front-wheel-drive and a 4-speed automatic transmission, the LaCrosse will be available in four trim levels, the CX, CXL, CXS, and the Super. Powertrains for the Buick LaCrosse will be a 3.8L V-6 delivering 200hp, 3.6L V-6 with variable valve timing offering 240hp, and a 300-hp 5.3-liter V8 available on the LaCrosse Super.

Interior styling received a makeover for 2008, and the LaCrosse deserves its place in the entry luxury segment. Sporting a new cowhide-wrapped wheel, intrusion proofing, cosmetics mirrors, XM Satellite radio, and air conditioning, the cabin of the LaCrosse is the place to be. The driver's envelope is well placed, to easily scan the instrument cluster, and to track only a short distance laterally to find radio and environmental controls.

Whether you opt for the CX, CXL, CXS, or the Super, the 2008 Buick LaCrosse tops the segment with standard safety features. Curtain side airbags, front driver and passenger airbags, anti-lock brakes, and a traction stability system buffer your passengers against injury. Safety accounted for, the LaCrosse responds gingerly to a tap on the accelerator, hugs the corners, and breezes to a safe stop using the best suspension and steering assemblies available.

In years past, Buick has originated some of the most inspiring designs ever to grace an automobile. No different now, the LaCrosse sports an esthetically pleasing waterfall grille and bright chrome trim. The whole package, from tail lights to front bumper, inside and out, the 2008 Buick LaCrosse projects a proud heritage of quality engineering and segment leading style.

2008 Buick Enclave Review

Replacing the Rendezvous this year, the new 2008 Buick Enclave is a large luxury crossover CUV that arrives on showroom floors in two trims, the CX, and the CXL. The Enclave is powered by a 3.6L 6-cylinder engine that develops 275 hp @6600 rpm, and 251 ft-lb torque @3200 rpm running through a 6-speed automatic transaxle. Both the CX and the CXL come with AWD or FWD and, with its mold-shattering good looks, may represent a turning point in the briskly spiraling downturn Buick has been experiencing.

The interior of the new Enclave is roomy, stylish, and comfortable, with leather and wood trim, and shiny aluminum accents. The three zone climate system keeps the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers content in their own bubble of comfort. The CX comes with richly woven cloth seats while the CXL offers leather upholstery. Plenty of technology goes into the 2008 Enclave which sports AM/FM stereo with CD, plus MP3 input and an auxiliary input jack to play any external source through the 6 speaker system. Both models offer a cowhide-wrapped, wood trimmed steering wheel studded with buttons for the sound system and cruise control.

Being able to haul the entire family in style and safety is easy with the effort that Buick has put into the engineering of the Enclave. The obligatory roll-call of airbags begins with new two-step front collision airbags for driver and front passenger, and side omental airbags for back row passengers. Enclave also includes child-proof locks, theft protection, and a 3-channel garage door remote.

The new oversize grille on the 2008 Buick Enclave makes a powerful statement, as does its seductively curved lines. Outfitted with all of the necessary features for running around town or around the campsite, the Enclave sports daytime pedestrian lights, sodium fog lights, a remotely operated rear hatch, overhead accessory rails, and turn signals embedded in the side mirrors. The handling and performance of the Enclave are impressively good, while the quiet ride is really worth writing home about. As a whole, the stance and feel of the Enclave is that of a dynamic and assertive luxury vehicle. Fuel economy numbers for the new Buick Enclave hover at 16 mpg city, 22-24 mpg highway.

2008 Buick Lucerne Review

The Lucerne, the most prestigious sedan in the Buick fleet, gets a minor redesign for 2008 and comes in the following trim levels: CX, CXL, CXS, and Super. A 4-door sedan that can seat up to six, the Lucerne is powered either by a 3.8-liter V6 or a 4.6L 292hp (218 kW) Northstar V8. Buick in recent years has not garnered enthusiasm from younger buyers who look for more dynamic styling in a luxury automobile.

Options on the 2008 Buick Lucerne include cowhide-wrapped steering wheel and cowhide upholstered seats, and premium painted 17 inch aluminum wheels. Unique instrumentation treatment and fine detailing add style to the clean interior. Driver visibility is unimpaired and seating is comfortable and ergonomically configured.

Attention to the exterior of the new 2008 Buick Lucerne Super is first drawn to the assertive statement that the distinctive cascading chrome grille makes. Complimented by the clean headlight clusters, the front of the vehicle is fresh and expressive. The trademark four ports on the front quarter panel are redundant, while the clean character line that runs the length of the car is a unifying feature. The tail lights are plain and simple with an attractive chrome accent defining the lower trunk lid.

For 2008, Buick has relaunched the "Super" branding label, which represents an intended uptick in performance, quality, refinement, and status. The Lucerne Super has the big NorthStar V8 with more horsepower and lots more styling. It remains to be seen if the improvements in styling and performance will make much of an impression on folks who have grown to expect such amenities from Cadillac.