Buick LaCrosse

2005 models

results also apply to: 2004-08 Pontiac Grand Prix

SIDE IMPACT TEST WITH OPTIONAL SIDE AIRBAGS

OVERALL EVALUATION: Marginal

  Injury measures Head protection Structure/safety cage
Head/neck Torso Pelvis/leg
Driver Good Poor Marginal Good Acceptable
Rear passenger Good Good Good Good

Important: Side impact crash test ratings can be compared across vehicle type and weight categories.

Good Good Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Marginal Poor Poor

Test details:

The Buick LaCrosse was introduced in the 2005 model year as a replacement for both the Buick Century and Regal. Side airbags became standard beginning with 2006 models (optional in 2005 models). The Pontiac Grand Prix was redesigned for the 2004 model year.

NOTE: Side airbags are optional in all Grand Prix models, and therefore these ratings apply only to Grand Prix models (and 2005 LaCrosse models) equipped with the side airbag option.

Injury measures:

Driver — Measures taken from the dummy indicate that rib fractures and/or internal organ injuries would be likely in a crash of this severity. A fracture of the pelvis would also be possible, and loading to the shoulder was excessive.

Rear passenger — Measures taken from the dummy indicate a low risk of any significant injuries in a crash of this severity.

Head protection:

Driver — The dummy's head was protected from being hit by any hard structures, including the intruding barrier, by a side curtain airbag that deployed from the roof.

Rear passenger — The dummy's head was protected from being hit by any hard structures, including the intruding barrier, by a side curtain airbag that deployed from the roof.

Left to right:

  • View of the vehicle and barrier just after the crash test.
  • View of the vehicle after the crash with doors removed, showing the side airbag and damage to the occupant compartment.
  • Action shot taken during the side impact crash test showing the driver dummy's head was protected from being hit by hard structures by the side curtain airbag.
  • Smeared greasepaint shows where the rear passenger dummy’s head was protected by the side airbag.

Additional features:

  • Side airbags: front and rear head curtain airbags (beginning with 2006 LaCrosse models)
  • Side airbags: front and rear head curtain airbags (optional in all Grand Prix and 2005 LaCrosse models)
  • Electronic stability control (optional)
  • Antilock brakes (optional, except standard beginning with 2006 LaCrosse models)
  • Daytime running lights

Tested vehicle specifications:

  • 2006 Buick LaCrosse CX 4-door
  • Class: Large family car
  • Weight: 3,505 lbs.
  • Side airbags: standard front and rear side curtain airbags
  • Wheelbase: 110 in.
  • Length: 198 in.
  • Width: 73 in.
  • Engine: 3.8 L V6
  • EPA ratings: 20 mpg city | 30 mpg highway

See all test results for Buick LaCrosse | Pontiac Grand Prix

Last updated: April 23, 2008

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