New Buick LaCrosse

LaCrosse’s dynamic character from Buick soft to Euro is lithe. Standard and up-level CXL models share Buick’s best-ever base suspension, and the sportier CXS with Grand Touring

suspension, quicker steering, bigger wheels and tires and GM’s terrific 240-hp 3.6L DOHC 24-valve VVT V-6 engine can hold its own on with the planet’s best premium sedans. It debuts in three versions: standard but well-equipped CX, ‘elegantly appointed’ CXL and performance-oriented CXS. CX and CXL are powered by GM’s 200-hp 3800 V-6, a likeable veteran in Buick’s

Park Avenue, LeSabre and Regal and a host of other GM cars. Among its series III upgrades are structural improvements for quieter operation and electronic throttle control to improve response and efficiency while reducing complexity. LaCrosse sits on an updated version of GM’s ‘W’ architecture with much-improved structure and suspension. Its 4-wheel-disc brakes are larger and more durable, its power steering re-tuned for precise response and on-centre feel. Its wheels base increased to 16 inches on CX and CXL and 17 inches on CXS with higher performance, lower aspect ratio tires with a specially formulated tread pattern. The standard springs are 20 per cent stiffer, higher-rate stabilizers give improved roll resistances and rebound bumpers are four times longer for improved cushioning. Three available levels of traction control include GM’s StabiliTrak stability enhancement system, a first for a midsize Buick.

Dodge Magnum

Dodge is full of surprises this year. First, the new Magnum has rear-wheel drive instead of the front-drive layout that’s gone on all Chrysler/Dodge passenger cars for the past 15 years. Secondly, it’s available with Daimler Chrysler’s hearty Hemi V-8, as well as a pair of V-6 engines. Most shocking of all, this replacement for the full-size Dodge Intrepid sedan isn’t a sedan at all. Of all things, it’s a wagon. Unlike conventional wagon liftgates, the Magnum’s extends forward into the roof. Dodge says this lets you raise the liftgate straight up, rather than pulling it outward. So, it can open more easily in limited spaces. True enough, though, one wonders about rain and snow sneaking in along the sides. Style and performance are the Magnum’s main attractions, in any case. With its long, slim tapered quarter windows, the Magnum looks far more shapely than a conventional wagon. Magnum comes in three distinct varieties, with three different power trains. The SE wagon uses a 2.7-liter V-6 engine, with a four-speed automatic transmission. A 250-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 goes into the midrange SXT edition. At the top of the heap, the Magnum RT contains Dodge’s 340-hp Hemi V-8 engine, which unleashes 390 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission in the RT incorporates Auto-Stick, which permits manually selected gear changes. Side-curtain airbags are optional. Chrysler offers a closely related 300-series sedan, but Dodge has announced no plans for a Magnum sedan. Solidity, performance and confident handling are the Magnum’s prime qualities.