What one thinks of the 2006 Buick Lucerne depends largely on which model is driven. Hop into the CX or CXL with the V6 and drivers may check their rearview mirrors for the Enterprise-Rent-A-Car sign. From the ride to the engine noise, a six-cylinder Lucerne screams generic rental sedan. But toss a 275-horsepower Northstar V8 into the mix, and suddenly you’ll be scratching your head thinking, “Buick? Fun? Together, in the same sentence?”

Well, almost. Tying fun and a sedan together would require a BMW M5 and the Autobahn, but the Lucerne definitely has the power to surprise. Twist the key and the V8 fires up with a nice rumble, albeit appropriately subdued for application in a Buick. Power delivery is linear and plentiful, providing for easy highway passes, and the four-speed automatic tranny is always on top of its game, seldom needing to hunt for the correct gear. Drivers will be pleasantly surprised by the lack of torque steer, despite the Lucerne’s front-wheel-drive platform. However, that powertrain is only part of this Buick’s allure. Buyers who consider themselves enthusiasts, even just a little bit, need focus their attention only on the CXS model. All V8-equipped Lucernes benefit from the Magnasteer system, but Magnetic Ride Control is reserved for the CXS, and that’s what adds excitement to the Lucerne. During spirited runs in the corners and along gradual high-speed sweepers, the instantaneous response of this suspension system helped keep the ride relatively firm and controlled, giving the driver a greater sense of confidence. By no means does this technology transform the Lucerne into a Mitsubishi Evolution or a Chevy Corvette, though the result is a more athletic Buick than drivers are used to. At the press drive, Buick offered the Toyota Avalon XLS and Lexus ES 330 for comparison, and sure enough, the Lucerne proved to be the most nimble and entertaining chariot of the trio.

Again, that’s with the V8 and a smattering of magnetic gizmos. With the V6 and traditional steering and suspension systems, the 2006 Buick Lucerne provides adequate power for everyday driving situations, though the engine gets a bit frantic when it’s worked hard. The ride is soft and body-roll is fairly well controlled, though the steering is vague and too light. All Lucerne models provide capable brakes with a progressive pedal feel and modulation.

Also drawing praise is the focus on visibility and interior noise. With ample side mirrors and large rear windows, drivers are afforded plenty of opportunity to see what’s going around them. The only point of contention may be wide A-pillars that can interfere with a clear line of sight. The second point is noise, an issue that Buick engineers are quite boastful about. A variety of materials have been used throughout the Lucerne in an effort to keep things quiet, from laminated double-pane windows to a laminated firewall to the addition of acoustic absorption pads and sound deadening materials. Even the exterior mirrors and windshield wipers were redesigned to limit wind noise. And the results are real – engineers point to their own tests that prove the Lucerne to be quieter than the acclaimed Lexus ES 330. If you’re skeptical, take a Lucerne for a test drive see for yourself.