The Buick Regal is America’s very own Opel Insignia with different badges. It’s currently in its fifth generation, as is its European model, if we were to count the Vectra iterations.
Its future, however, is very uncertain, after GM sold Opel to PSA. But until having to consider its successor, Buick wants to impress new car buyers with the latest one.
Well, ‘impress’ may not be the best word used to describe it. Nevertheless, it’s quite the looker, has a practical boot with a tailgate that allows users to haul large cargo, and it’s packed with the latest technology.
Smartphone integration is part of the offering, along with the 8-inch infotainment system. There are lots of physical buttons laying around, so this makes it easier to access different functions while driving.
The seats are supportive and comfortable, there’s sufficient legroom and headroom on the rear bench and the overall build quality of the car feels solid, Consumer Reports says.
The new Buick Regal is quite confident in corners too while it has a balanced steering and suspension that absorbs most bumps, along with a quiet cabin.
As expected, though, it’s not flawless, because it does have some visibility problems and it’s not too exciting to drive with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, rated at 250hp. Luckily, the automaker offers a V6 unit, too, but get ready to spend more to enjoy its 310hp.
There’s an estate version of the Buick Regal, too. Called TourX, it starts from $29,070, or over $4,000 more than the base Sportback.
Playing around with the online configurator reveals that the 2018 Buick Regal Sportback GS, with AWD, can cost in excess of $46,000, which puts it in BMW 3-Series territory as 330i starts from $40,250 and the 340i from $48,950.