Using some clever marketing, Buick has suggested that the 2005 LaCrosse is the answer to your automotive dreams – it’s utopia on four wheels. Well, we’ve driven the LaCrosse, and…prepare yourself…utopia ain’t all that it’s cracked up to be.

While the 2005 Buick LaCrosse doesn’t exactly spark fantasies, it isn’t a bad vehicle. With two decent six-cylinder engines, a roomy cabin and a comfortable ride, the LaCrosse offers the masses a perfectly acceptable choice in transportation. Tack on the reasonable starting price and inoffensive styling, and this midsize domestic makes a plausible case for purchase, especially for those who prefer their vehicles be raised on North American soil.

But, there are a number of competitors, both foreign and domestic, that offer more features, better warranties, superior powertrains, and distinguished styling. Collectively, they work to push the competent 2005 Buick LaCrosse deeper into this competitive pack, and under shoppers’ radar.