2012 Buick LaCrosse Premium I

Buick divides LaCrosse into six equipment groups (classes). Premium I is near the middle range of the group, but differs somewhat from the highest Touring class. Yet many features can be added as options to the Premium I class.

LaCrosse brings together the best in advanced performance, entertainment, and technology.

Mechanically LaCrosse is sound, featuring the Ecotec 2.4L four-cylinder DOHC engine that generates 182 hp with 6,700 rpm and 172 lb-ft of torque with 4,900 rpm. All tied together with the Gen II Hydra-Matic 6-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift control. Alternatively, there is also a 3.6L V6 engine, producing 303 hp.

The 2.4L engine features eAssist technology offering 36 highway mpg, making it the most fuel-efficient sedan in its class.

Remarkably, eAssist integrates a compact electric motor, an advanced lithium-ion battery, and the efficient direct injected Ecotec engine. As you brake, eAssist captures energy in the battery. You get the mileage and gas savings, but not at the expense of diminished performance.

LaCrosse has the power to excel on the onramp, and the intelligence not to waste fuel while seemingly stranded at a red light. According to the US Energy Department, 17.2 percent of a vehicle’s fuel is wasted when the engine idles.

The beautiful exterior showcases LED tail lamps, Halogen fog lamps with Projector Technology, and power-heated outside mirrors.

Ice-blue ambient lighting welcomes you on the inside, and the instrument panel rests low and away, designed to give the cabin a sense of openness.

Once inside, just sit back in the French seam-stitched, comfortable ventilated and heated seats, admiring the chrome accents and dark poplar wood-grained door paneling.

Navigation, XM Satellite radio, AM/FM/XM stereo, and the CD/mp3 player auto tone control with 7-speakers bring you the warmth and coziness of sound that lends good listening to good feeling.

The cabin is submarine quiet. Big 17-inch alloy wheels command the road sending a rhythmic hum through the engine, as your toes nibble a bit more at the accelerator when asking for a thimble more speed. The experience is perfect.

Outside, the landscape changes. But inside the quiet allows me to listen to myself and daydream. Then I realize just how boring I am.

Finally, I turn on the XM radio, whistling to a familiar tune. Yes, all is well! “All is well with my soul.”

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or dcaussey@sbcglobal.net.