Prepare to look at Buick differently. At least that’s what company execs are hoping for with the release of the all-new 2006 Lucerne, the marque’s latest full-size sedan slated to replace the silver-haired and wrinkled LeSabre and Park Avenue models. Looking much like an overgrown Volkswagen Passat, the Lucerne offers premium car buyers style, comfort, and thanks to an available V8 engine, performance. Plus, there’s a technologically-advanced suspension system borrowed from Cadillac that removes much of the buoyancy that has characterized Buicks for so many decades. However, for those shoppers who prefer a ride somewhere between a La-Z-Boy and a Serta pillowtop, lower-level Lucernes without Magnetic Ride Control promise to deliver the floaty ride you so desire.

The 2006 Buick Lucerne bears little resemblance to its foregoers, aside from the familiar tri-shield badge and the reintroduction of portholes to the fenders. When a V6 is fitted under the hood, three chrome-trimmed holes are featured on each front fender; V8 models get four holes. But get past those bits of trim and the Lucerne looks like anything but a domestic sedan for geriatrics.