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The mid-size LaCrosse sedan was added to Buick's lineup last year and replaces both the former Regal and Century. It rides on the same platform as Pontiac Grand Prix, though it carries distinctive styling inside and out. The car comes powered in its CX and CXL versions by General Motors' familiar 200-horsepower 3.8-liter V-6 engine, while the top CXS model offers a 3.6-liter aluminum V-6 that employs variable valve timing to generate 240 horses. A four-speed automatic transmission is the only available gearbox. The suspension and steering systems are engineered to afford a smooth ride with good handling; the CXS benefits further in this regard with its lower-profile 17-inch tires and larger stabilizer bars. Buick's "QuietTuning" design reduces noise and vibration levels. The car's interior is accommodating and fairly plush, with a long list of standard features including a CD stereo, cruise control, keyless entry, and the OnStar communications/safety system. StabiliTrak stability control, rear parking assist, a remote engine-starting system, and XM satellite radio are optional. For 2006, side airbags and anti-lock brakes become standard across the line, In addition, Buick increased its bumper-to-bumper warranty coverage to four years or 50,000 miles on all 2006 models.

Supplanting the now discontinued LeSabre and Park Avenue, the new-for-2006 Lucerne is the first Buick sedan in a decade to offer a V-8 engine. In its base CX form, the front-drive sedan comes with the same 197-horsepower 3.8-liter V-6 engine that powered its predecessors, with a version of Cadillac's 4.6-liter 275-horsepower dual overhead-cam Northstar V-8 standard on the top CXS version and optional on the mid-range CXL. Both are mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. The Lucerne's exterior sports Buick's trademark chrome "ventiports" at the rear of the front fenders; V-6 models will sport three on a side, while V-8 powered versions will be distinguished by four to a fender. The car's interior is tastefully trimmed, with wide, comfortable seats, large dials and switchgear, and rich-looking materials. Six airbags come standard, including the industry's first dual-depth front-passenger airbag. Four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes and all-speed traction control are included across the line and the CXS adds StabiliTrak stability control, Magnetic Ride Control, and brake assist. Standard features include rain-sensing windshield wipers and the OnStar communications/safety system, while the options list offers heated windshield washers, heated and cooled leather seats, rear parking assist warnings, satellite navigation system, and a remote starting function. Buick increased its bumper-to-bumper warranty coverage to four years or 50,000 miles on all 2006 models.