If you still think of Buick as a brand for octogenarians with a taste for whitewall tires and vinyl roof treatments, it's time for a reboot. The Regal is a thoroughly developed and satisfying midsized sports sedan. That European feel is no coincidence, since the Regal is based on a German design from GM’s Opel division.
Buyers of all ages will appreciate the high quality interior and quiet cabin, as well as the Regal's combination of agile handling and supple, controlled ride. Less appealing, however, is the snug rear seat.
With its 2014 freshening, the Regal got a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that boosts both performance and fuel economy. Other changes include improved controls, an upgraded infotainment system, and more standard features. Overall, the refinements add up to a highly capable, yet understated car.
That said, some V6-powered family sedans, even those without the Regal's sporty intentions, are both quicker and more fuel-efficient. But for someone who enjoys driving and appreciates a Euro-centric ambiance, the Regal offers an interesting alternative at a reasonable price point.
All Regals come well equipped, with a leather interior, power driver's seat, backup camera, and automatic climate control. Premium I trim adds a power passenger's seat, heated steering wheel, and the availability of a hybrid powertrain. To get contemporary electronic safety systems like blind spot monitoring, cross-traffic alert, and forward-collision warning, you need to pony up for the Premium II trim, and even then they are options. We wish these features were available on less expensive trim lines.
Enthusiasts may prefer the GS version, with its slightly more aggressive styling, bigger wheels and tires, and sport seats. This relatively low-production model seems to be something of a secret, known only to driving enthusiasts (you can even get one with a manual transmission). But it isn't a car you buy for its test numbers. The GS is a bit more enjoyable to drive than the standard Regal, but the base car is so good the GS represents only a slight improvement.