The Underrated Executive: A Review of the Buick Regal
The Buick Regal nameplate holds a long and storied history, but its most recent generations, particularly the fifth and sixth, represent a crucial turning point for the brand. Designed to appeal to a younger, more global audience, the Regal shed its traditional American-luxury image in favor of a European-inspired sport sedan character. Built on the same platform as the Opel Insignia and Holden Commodore, this version of the Regal aimed to compete with established players like the Acura TSX and the Volkswagen CC. It was a bold move that resulted in a car that was stylish, sophisticated, and surprisingly engaging to drive. This review dives into what made the modern Buick Regal a compelling and often overlooked alternative in the mid-size luxury segment.
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| The Underrated Executive: A Review of the Buick Regal |
A Global Design: Style and Sophistication
From the moment it arrived, the modern Buick Regal looked and felt different. Its design was a departure from the soft, rounded lines of older Buicks. The fifth-generation Regal (2011-2017) was sharp and athletic, with a low-slung stance and a sleek, coupe-like roofline. It had a clean, uncluttered profile that exuded a sense of European sportiness. The sixth-generation Regal, introduced in 2018, took this design philosophy even further. It was offered in both a sleek sedan (the Regal Sportback) and a practical wagon (the Regal TourX), both of which were visually stunning. The Sportback, in particular, with its fastback design and hidden liftgate, was a masterclass in combining style with practicality.
Inside, the Regal's cabin was a testament to Buick's commitment to "premium." The materials were of high quality, with soft-touch plastics, real metal accents, and available leather upholstery. The design was driver-focused, with a logical and intuitive layout. Just like its smaller sibling, the Verano, the Regal benefited from Buick's "QuietTuning" philosophy, which resulted in a remarkably quiet and serene cabin. Road and wind noise were minimal, creating a peaceful environment that made long drives a pleasure.
Performance with Purpose: The Regal GS
While the standard Regal offered a comfortable and composed ride, the real excitement came from the high-performance Regal GS model. This variant was designed to be a true sport sedan, a genuine competitor to vehicles like the Acura TLX and Audi A4. The GS was more than just an engine upgrade; it was a comprehensive performance package.
The fifth-generation Regal GS was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produced 270 horsepower and an impressive 295 lb-ft of torque. This was a significant power boost over the standard model and, combined with a manual transmission option and an advanced all-wheel-drive system, transformed the car's character. The sixth-generation GS took things up a notch, with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivered 310 horsepower and a more sophisticated FlexRide adaptive suspension system.
The GS models also featured a more aggressive exterior with sport-tuned suspension, larger Brembo brakes, and unique styling cues. On the road, the Regal GS was a revelation. It offered a firm yet compliant ride, sharp steering, and excellent grip, especially with the all-wheel-drive system. It was a car that genuinely enjoyed being driven, proving that a Buick could indeed be a fun-to-drive sport sedan.
Technology and Features: A Modern Offering
The Regal was well-equipped with technology for its time. Early models featured Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system, which was intuitive and responsive. Later generations received a significant technology boost, with larger touchscreens, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a full suite of driver-assistance features. These included Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and Forward Collision Alert, all of which contributed to a safer and more convenient driving experience.
The Regal's greatest strength, however, was its blend of luxury and value. It offered a level of refinement and a list of features that were typically found in more expensive European sedans, but at a more accessible price point. It was a smart choice for buyers who wanted a premium experience without the premium price tag.
The Final Verdict: An Overlooked Competitor
The Buick Regal's run in North America officially ended in 2020, a casualty of the market's overwhelming shift to SUVs. Its departure was a shame, as it was a truly excellent car that never quite found the large audience it deserved.
Today, the Regal remains a compelling choice on the used car market. It offers a unique combination of European design, a whisper-quiet cabin, and a surprisingly engaging driving experience, especially in the GS trim. It stands as a testament to Buick's successful effort to reinvent itself as a modern and globally competitive brand. The Regal may be gone, but its legacy as an underrated executive sedan and a true "driver's Buick" will not be forgotten.
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