GM's crisis-mode product plan

Buick is down to just three models. But GM executives say that's all it really needs. There's the popular full-size Enclave crossover SUV, the full-size Buick Lucerne sedan - less popular but a strong entry in its class - and the small LaCrosse.

Planning for the current version of the LaCrosse started before GM's current product development chief Bob Lutz took over and it shows. The car's blob-of-dough shape and numb road feel make it the weakest of the three. This is isn't what Buick wants to be.

The new LaCrosse, sharper looking and probably sharper to drive, is expected late next year. The actual car hasn't been revealed yet, but it will look much like this GM sketch. This car is still on schedule, unless things go badly awry before then. At most, it could be delayed a few months, GM says.

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