REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Know The Client

In good years and bad, Buick ’ s Le Sabre provides owner satisfaction. It may handle more like a boat than an automobile, and have little design interest inside or out, but the Le Sabre remains Buick ’ s best-selling car. As a reward, the Le Sabre was given a complete rehaul just last year.Careful not to alienate its loyal clientele, the new Le Sabre has retained a classic look which, at first glance, doesn ’ t seem to offer much improvement on its last incarnation. But look closer. It is more aerodynamic, to reduce annoying wind noise. The redesigned dashboard is as discreet as ever, but the instrumentation is more complete and easily legible, and the most important controls are located close to the driver ’ s side. The front seats are relatively comfortable, but could benefit from a little more lateral support. In back, all is well. There ’ s sufficient leg, shoulder and elbow room for three people to sit side by each. As for the trunk, let ’ s call a spade a spade: it ’ s a cavern.The Le Sabre is built on the well-developed (it ’ s the fourth generation) platform borrowed from the old Oldsmobile Aurora. The stiffer frame ensures an impressive road performance for the new Le Sabre. It rolls less while taking the corners, and doesn ’ t pitch forward when braking hard. The steering is ably assisted and no longer gives the impression of a boat without a rudder.

Under the hood, you ’ ll find an old friend, the very suitable, perennial 3,8-litre V6 engine. It produces moderate gas mileage, along with a respectable acceleration ability.

At risk of drawing the wrath of its long-time fans, I must state for the record that the new Le Sabre is a giant improvement on the previous generation. It ’ s more solid, more confident, and, I hope, still as reliable.

PROS
Increased chassis rigidity
More confident road handling
Comfortable interior

CONS
Dated upholstery
Low mileage (city driving)
Assembly of uneven quality

CRASH TEST (five stars indicate the best protection)
Driver: * * * *
Passenger: * * * *