LaCrosse launches with 200-hp 3.8L V6 in CX/CXL and a 240-hp 3.6L DOHC V6 in the sport-oriented CXS.
Platforms / GM W-Body / W3 / Buick LaCrosse
2005–2009 · W3
Buick LaCrosse
The first-generation LaCrosse replaced both Century and Regal, but Master Customs focuses on the enthusiast-relevant CXS and especially the 2008–2009 Super: a 300-hp LS4 V8 sleeper wrapped in conservative Buick sheetmetal.
Model years2005–2009
Body4-door sedan
Enthusiast trimsCXS · Super
Top engineLS4 5.3 V8
Top output300 hp
MODEL-YEAR CHRONOLOGY
How the enthusiast story developed
The CXS remains the enthusiast-adjacent choice with the 240-hp DOHC V6, sportier suspension and larger wheels.
Major enthusiast milestone: LaCrosse Super debuts with the 300-hp LS4 5.3L V8, performance suspension, 18-inch wheels and unique trim.
Final W-body LaCrosse year. The Super returns while the CXS disappears, leaving the V8 car as the clear enthusiast flagship.
POWERTRAIN GUIDE
Engines that matter to enthusiasts
| Trim / era | Engine | Factory output | Enthusiast role | Transmission family |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CX / CXL | 3.8L 3800 Series III | 200 hp / 230 lb-ft | Platform context and durable daily-driver baseline | 4-speed automatic |
| CXS | 3.6L DOHC V6 | 240 hp / 225 lb-ft | Higher-revving sport-oriented alternative | 4-speed automatic |
| Super | 5.3L LS4 V8 | 300 hp / 323 lb-ft | Sleeper halo model | 4T65-E HD family |
OWNERSHIP & BUILD FOCUS
What matters now
CXS deserves context
The CXS is not a halo car like the Super, but its 240-hp DOHC V6 and firmer chassis make it the most technically interesting non-V8 LaCrosse.
The Super is the reason we cover it
LS4 power, restrained styling and genuine chassis changes make the Super one of the most overlooked factory W-body performance cars.
Inspect the whole platform
Cooling, transmission behavior, suspension bushings, hubs and age-related electrical issues can matter more than cosmetic condition on a potential project.
Open LaCrosse Super deep dive →
REFERENCE STANDARD
Master Customs prioritizes factory-era documentation and period road tests, then uses established enthusiast references for service and ownership context. Equipment changed by model year and RPO; verify a specific car by VIN/RPO and factory service information before ordering parts.