2009 Buick Lucerne: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026

The most important change for the 2009 Buick Lucerne is a stronger 3.9-liter V6 in the CX and CXL, replacing the previous 3.8-liter engine. This is a meaningful trim and equipment update, not a redesign.
About the 2009 Buick Lucerne
1st generation (2006-2011), fourth model year; meaningful V6 and equipment update year, not a redesign.
Buick positions the Lucerne as a traditional full-size luxury sedan built around quietness, space, and an easygoing ride. The core appeal is a hushed cabin, simple controls, generous rear-seat room, and classic Buick comfort rather than sporty handling. In 2009, that identity still defines the model: it is aimed at shoppers who want a roomy American sedan for relaxed highway travel, with the upper trims adding more power or a richer interior while keeping the Lucerne’s comfort-first character.
The 2009 Lucerne lineup spans the comfort-focused CX, the more upscale CXL, the appearance-focused CXL Special Edition, and the V8-powered Super. The CXL stands out for heated leather-trimmed seats, driver memory, and a heated steering wheel, while the Special Edition adds chrome details and contrast stitching. The Super pairs a 4.6-liter V8 with heated and cooled front seats and model-specific steering and ride tuning.
What changed, by category
2009 Buick Lucerne specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.9 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 3.9 Liter | V6, 3.9 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 3.9 Liter | V8, 4.6 Liter | V6, 3.9 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 3.9 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas | Gas / Flexible Fuel |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 15 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 22 mpg | 26 mpg |
| Horsepower | 219–227 hp | 219–227 hp | 292 hp | 219–227 hp |
| Torque | 234–237 lb-ft | 234–237 lb-ft | 288 lb-ft | 234–237 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 17 cu-ft | 17 cu-ft | 17 cu-ft | 17 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 41.4 in | 41.4 in | 41 in | 41 in |
| Seats | 6 | 6 | 5 | 6 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||||
| Stability Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Cooled Seats | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | ||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 Buick Lucerne?
The biggest change is the stronger 3.9-liter V6 used in the CX and CXL. It replaces the previous 3.8-liter V6 and is the headline update for 2009.
Is the 2009 Buick Lucerne a redesigned model?
No, the 2009 Lucerne is not a redesign. It remains part of the first generation and receives powertrain, equipment, and trim updates.
How does the 2009 Buick Lucerne differ from the 2008 model?
The 2009 Lucerne adds a stronger 3.9-liter V6 for the CX and CXL, standard Bluetooth throughout the lineup, a more informative XM radio display, and extra standard comfort equipment on the V6 trims.
Does every 2009 Buick Lucerne have Bluetooth?
Yes, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity is standard on every 2009 Lucerne trim.
Which 2009 Buick Lucerne has a V8?
The 2009 Lucerne Super has the 4.6-liter Northstar V8. It also has model-specific steering and ride tuning, heated and cooled front seats, and unique exterior details.