The Good
The 2007 Buick Lucerne offers exceptional ride comfort and a remarkably quiet cabin, thanks to Buick's "QuietTuning". Its spacious interior appeals to practical families, while the available V8 engine provides ample, smooth power for emotional drivers. It presents strong value as a used car, offering luxury features without the premium price tag. The design is understated yet elegant, projecting a sense of mature sophistication and reliability.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2007 Buick Lucerne include its somewhat bland base V6 performance, which can feel underpowered for its size, and the lack of a folding rear seat in some trims. Fuel economy, especially with the V8, isn't stellar. Some owners report issues with electrical components and steering system noises over time.
2007 Buick Lucerne: Quick Overview
The 2007 Buick Lucerne offered a range of specifications depending on the trim level:
- Engine Options:
- Standard 3.8L V6 (available on CX and CXL trims)
- Optional 3.8L Supercharged V6 (specific to some markets/later models, but not primarily for 2007 base trims)
- Optional 4.6L Northstar V8 (available on CXL and standard on CXS trims)
- Horsepower:
- 3.8L V6: 197 hp @ 5200 rpm
- 4.6L Northstar V8: 275 hp @ 6000 rpm (CXL), 292 hp @ 6300 rpm (CXS with performance tuning)
- Fuel Economy (EPA estimates):
- 3.8L V6: Approximately 17 MPG city / 26 MPG highway
- 4.6L Northstar V8: Approximately 16 MPG city / 23 MPG highway
- 0-60 MPH Times:
- 3.8L V6: Around 8.0-8.5 seconds
- 4.6L Northstar V8 (CXS): Around 6.5-7.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- Generally not recommended for significant towing; estimated maximum around 1,000 lbs, but not officially rated or commonly advertised for towing. It's primarily a passenger sedan.
- Trim-Level Features:
- CX: The base model, still well-equipped with amenities like cloth seating, power driver's seat, dual-zone manual climate control, a six-speaker audio system with CD player, power windows/locks/mirrors, and remote keyless entry. Stabilitrak electronic stability control was standard.
- CXL: Adds leather seating, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, universal home remote, a premium sound system, and upgraded interior trim. The V8 engine was an option here.
- CXS: The top-tier performance model, standard with the 292 hp Northstar V8, Magnetic Ride Control, larger wheels and tires, sport-tuned suspension, heated and cooled front seats, and a premium audio system. It truly aimed for a more dynamic driving experience while retaining Buick's luxury feel.
2007 Buick Lucerne Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2007 |
| Make | Buick |
| Model | Lucerne |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | ORION |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LD8 |
| Engine Size | 3.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | transmission |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2007 Buick Lucerne Have?
Electrical issues are also not uncommon. These can range from malfunctioning window regulators and door lock actuators to more complex problems with the HVAC blend door actuators or instrument cluster lights. The digital display on the climate control or radio can sometimes fail. For models equipped with the Northstar V8, head gasket failures have historically been a concern, though by 2007, design improvements had mitigated this somewhat, it can still occur, particularly with inadequate maintenance. Oil leaks from the Northstar engine are also reported.
Recalls for the 2007 model year include a significant recall for a potential issue where the shift lever could be moved out of the "Park" position without the brake pedal being depressed or the key in the ignition, increasing the risk of unintended vehicle movement. Another recall concerned the possibility of the seat frame separating from the manual height adjuster bracket, posing a safety risk. While these recalls addressed specific safety defects, general long-term reliability often hinges on consistent maintenance and addressing the common wear items and potential electrical glitches that tend to surface around the 100,000-mile mark. Buyers should always check if recall repairs have been completed.
How long will the 2007 Buick Lucerne last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were more basic compared to modern vehicles but included standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control with traction control, which was a significant safety aid. The top-tier CXS trim featured Buick's Magnetic Ride Control, an advanced suspension system that continuously adjusts damping for optimal ride and handling, providing both comfort and improved stability. Parking assist sensors (rear parking assist) were an available option on higher trims, aiding in maneuverability.
Safety was a key focus, with standard features across all trims including dual-stage front airbags, seat-mounted side-impact airbags for front occupants, and side curtain airbags for both front and rear outboard passengers. Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS) were also standard. The Lucerne also came with a tire pressure monitoring system.
In terms of crash-test ratings, the 2007 Buick Lucerne generally performed well. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it five out of five stars for frontal impact protection for both driver and passenger, and five stars for front and rear side-impact protection. The rollover rating was four stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Lucerne a "Good" rating (the highest possible) in its moderate overlap front crash test. It received an "Acceptable" rating for side-impact protection, which was also quite good for its time.
What Colors Options are Available?
2007 Buick Lucerne Prices and Market Value
2007 Buick Lucerne Cost of Ownership
2007 Buick Lucerne Fuel Efficiency
2007 Buick Lucerne Safety Rating
NHTSA
2007 Buick Lucerne Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2007 Buick Lucerne Compare to Other Sedan?
In terms of performance, the Lucerne's base 3.8L V6 was adequate but less refined than the Toyota Avalon's standard 3.5L V6, which offered significantly more power (268 hp vs. 197 hp) and better fuel economy. The Lucerne CXS's 292 hp Northstar V8 was competitive with the Chrysler 300C's Hemi V8 (340 hp) for straight-line speed, but the 300 generally offered a sportier, more engaging drive. The Crown Vic/Grand Marquis were less powerful and less modern in handling.
For features, the Lucerne excelled in ride comfort and interior quietness, often surpassing rivals due to its "QuietTuning". Its available Magnetic Ride Control was a premium feature usually found in higher-end luxury cars, giving it an edge in ride sophistication over all but perhaps some Lexus models. Interior materials were good for its class, though not quite as upscale as a Lexus ES. The Chrysler 300 offered more distinctive styling.
Reliability is where the Lucerne sometimes faced challenges. While basic V6 models were fairly robust, the Northstar V8, despite improvements, had a reputation for potential oil leaks and head gasket issues. Toyota Avalon typically boasted superior long-term reliability and lower repair costs. The Ford Crown Victoria and Mercury Grand Marquis were legendary for their police-proven durability. Lucerne owners also reported more common issues with power steering and suspension components compared to Japanese rivals.
Regarding price, the Lucerne was competitively priced new. On the used market, it offers strong value, often undercutting similarly equipped Avalons and ES models, while being comparable to the Chrysler 300 and slightly more expensive than a Crown Victoria.
Similar Alternatives: For supreme reliability and slightly better fuel economy, the Toyota Avalon is a direct and often superior alternative. For a bolder style and more potent V8 options (without the Northstar's quirks), the Chrysler 300 is compelling. If traditional American luxury and extreme durability are key, an older Mercury Grand Marquis or Ford Crown Victoria is an economical choice.
Final Verdict: Is the 2007 Buick Lucerne a Good Sedan?
It is generally worth buying on the used market, particularly for its current low prices. The best value is often found in CXL trims with the standard V6 engine, as they offer a good balance of features, acceptable performance, and generally fewer potential long-term issues than the V8 Northstar. Opt for a well-maintained example with a clear service history to mitigate risks. Avoid models with significant known mechanical problems unless you're prepared for potential repair costs. Overall, it's a solid choice for a comfortable and affordable large sedan, but meticulous pre-purchase inspection is advised.