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I agree. Lexus isn't targeting young buyers, and is successful.
What Buick really needs is to drop any and all "Value" technology if it wants to compete with Lexus. 4-speeds and old engines, that is.
High performance is not required, but cutting edge tech is. All "value" V6 engines should be replaced by the 3.6L CTS engine, and without charging extra for "Ultra" trim. All 4 speed trannies should be replaced with at least 5-speed automatics --- the competition demands it.
The Lacrosse and Terazza should be the only two with "value" V6 engine options (the 3800 and the 3500). And the Terazza should only offer the 3500 engine in a base model, the up trim should be the 3.6L -- if it fits in the Rendezvous, it will fit in a Terazza.
GM needs to wake up and realize that even with excellent interiors they are coming out with, sound proofing and looks alone aren't going to fool today's saavy buyers. If you want people to pay a PREMIUM price, you have to offer premium parts, not rehashed "value" parts from 1992 disguised in a pretty skin.
Parts bin sharing is fine. Just use the right parts. Buick should be the first division to borrow parts from Cadillac, and Pontiac second. The Rendezvous Ultra is a step in the right direction, but the wrong strategy. Lexus doesn't require "Ultra" trim for a recently designed engine, and neither should Buick.
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