The 2013 Buick LaCrosse was introduced in 2005, and it reinvigorated the languishing brand with its high-end styling and comfortable ride. Three years ago, the midsize sedan was revamped, and the shine has still not dulled. The model returns this year with minimal changes.

The vehicle is offered with several different “equipment groups” instead of trims: Base, Leather, Premium I, Premium II or Touring. The LaCrosse comes equipped with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine making 182 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque coupled with eAssist, a small battery and motor that add hybrid-like performance and mileage to the regular combustible; EPA estimates give this engine a solid 25 mpg city/36 highway. The powerplant is attached to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The car is reported to have a pleasant, if not incredibly powerful, drive.

Optional for the LaCrosse, available for the Leather and standard for other equipment groups is a 3.6-liter V6 making 303 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque. That’s quite a difference you can obviously feel underfoot. The 6-speed automatic and front-wheel drive are standard, but all-wheel drive (AWD) is an option. Good news is that the IntelliLink smartphone integration system is now standard for all.

Inside is where the LaCrosse shines, especially in the top-tier versions. Spacious and comfortable, the car easily seats 5 adults. With ambient lighting, faux stitching and, in the Limited and above, leather and heated seats, you will certainly feel important, even if (or perhaps especially if) you're in the back seat.

Also optional is a futuristic Heads-Up Display (HUD) using the latest technology to project gauges at eye level for the driver—pretty cool. All these features and gadgets, however, do come at a price: The fully-loaded Platinum is going to cost you some greenbacks.

Safety-wise the car receives stellar ratings: The 2013 was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, as it received a Good (its highest level) in all areas. In addition to the standard safety items such as antilock brakes and stability control, available blind-spot monitoring controls, adaptive headlamps and rear side thorax bags are usually reserved for pricier European rivals.

The car is also being well-received by critics and buyers, who praise the performance and mileage of the Base, as well as the added power of the V6. The Buick LaCrosse continues to roar, catching rivals the Lincoln MKZ and the Lexus ES 350 in its headlights.