Overview & Reviews

Although the Buick Regal nameplate has been around since the mid-1970s, the most common examples for automotive shoppers will be either the new, European-influenced model or the previous generation that debuted back in 1997. Between the two generations there was a six-year hiatus, and although these cars have the same name, they couldn't be any more different. The current Regal offers sophisticated styling and road manners, while the previous generation is much more in the traditional Buick mold, meaning squishy seats, an isolated driving experience and a roomy but old-fashioned cabin accented by some cheap plastic trim.

The older generation makes for an inexpensive family car, as there are plenty available, and there's even a supercharged version for those who'd like a midsize sedan with some kick. The current Regal's exterior styling combines traditional Buick elements (such as a chrome waterfall grille) with neatly tailored European lines, no mere coincidence considering the Regal is based on GM's European Opel Insignia. The cabin is likewise attractive, with splashes of metallic trim to brighten things up a bit. The latest Regal provides an entertaining drive along with the strengths that Buick has long been known for: a smooth ride and very quiet cabin. As such, this well-rounded midsize sport sedan should appeal to driving enthusiasts who never thought they'd consider a Buick.

Current Buick Regal
The Regal's base engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder rated at 259 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available as an option. A six-speed automatic transmission is the only choice unless you spring for the GS, which offers an optional six-speed manual with front-drive (the GS AWD is automatic-only). A 2.4-liter four-cylinder with mild hybrid technology called "eAssist" is offered as an option on the Premium I trim. It's good for 182 hp and 172 pound-feet of torque, with shifting duties handled by a six-speed automatic. EPA combined fuel economy with the mild hybrid rates in the high 20s.

The Buick Regal comes in four trim levels: base, Premium I, Premium II and GS. The base Regal's standard highlights include 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power driver seat, Bluetooth, OnStar and a seven-speaker sound system. The Premium 1 trim adds keyless ignition and entry, rear parking sensors and a power passenger seat, while the Premium 2 trim adds amenities like adds automatic xenon headlights, a navigation system, an upgraded sound system and rear passenger side airbags. The Regal GS comes with all of the above along with Brembo brakes, a sport-tuned suspension, front sport seats and unique exterior and interior accents. A sunroof is optional on all Regals, while a touchscreen navigation system and lane-departure, blind-spot and forward-collision warning systems are available in optional packages on certain trims.

In reviews, we've praised the Regal's upscale-looking cabin. The standard front seats provide plenty of support for spirited driving and comfort for long-haul trips, though they may be a bit snug for wider folks. Those riding in back, however, may find the rear seatbacks a bit flat and uncomfortable, and tall adults will likely bemoan the lack of headroom. The Intellilink infotainment system is easier to use than the previous button-heavy interface, and looks better to boot. An abundance of infotainment media options should please technophiles.

On the move, the turbocharged base model is spunky and quick, though there's a slight delay after the gas pedal is floored before the car really hits its stride. However, we'd recommend skipping the 2.4 "eAssist" version. Though it gets decent fuel economy, its acceleration is sluggish for a car in this price range. On a curvy road the Regal displays impressive athleticism, especially in the GS version. Some drivers may find the precise steering too light (except on the GS) and disconnected for their tastes, but for most buyers this won't be an issue. The Regal's ride is hard to fault, as the suspension flattens out bumps and ruts and the cabin remains hushed at highway speeds. The GS also gets adaptive dampers that can firm up the ride or make it comfier at the press of a button.

Used Buick Regal Models
The latest fifth-generation Regal was brought back for the 2011 model year. For that debut model year, trim levels consisted only of the CXL and the CXL Turbo, and there were just two engines offered -- the base 184-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder (without the hybrid system) and the base turbocharged 2.0-liter good for 220 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Standard equipment on these Regals essentially mirrors the current car. The first-year Regal, however, had a rather frustrating interface for the optional navigation system (it looked like a touchscreen but instead used fussy knobs and buttons), which was replaced by a touchscreen for 2012. That year also saw the introduction of the mild hybrid eAssist model and the high-performance Regal GS. While the eAssist is the same powertrain as the current version, the original GS boasted a more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder than today's, with 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

For 2014, the Buick Regal received a host of changes. A 259-hp turbocharged four-cylinder replaced both the Turbo and GS trim levels' engines, while all-wheel drive became newly optional on all turbo Regals. Other changes included exterior design tweaks, an updated equipment roster (including new electronic safety features) and a redesigned dashboard with a standard 8-inch touchscreen in place of the many buttons that cluttered the dashboards of previous Regals.

The previous, fourth-generation Regal (which was available only as a sedan) was produced from 1997 through 2004. It offered a roomy interior along with peppy, yet fuel-efficient powertrains. This Regal was available with a muscular supercharged V6, affording buyers the chance to get a sedan that was both sensible and capable of giving a little thrill, at least in a straight line.

There were two trims available: LS and GS. Base LS models included keyless entry, full power accessories and a CD player, while GS Supercharged models added a more powerful engine, a trip computer and leather upholstery. A third trim, the luxury-themed LSE, was offered only in 2000. Options included heated seats, OnStar and a power sunroof.

Throughout this generation, LS models had a 3.8-liter V6, while GS Supercharged models packed a supercharged version of the V6. The standard V6 initially offered 195 hp, while supercharged models upped the ante with 240 hp. For 1999, the standard V6 saw a power boost to 200 hp. Both engines were mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.

But this Regal's shine was dulled by a couple of shortcomings such as a rather archaic cabin that was dressed in cheap-looking fake wood and lacked some of the amenities provided by the competition. Additionally, the Regal's seats weren't that comfortable – a notable failing for a family sedan. Though this Buick stood as a fair choice in the midsize segment, it was surpassed in many respects by the Japanese competition. Still, low resale values and a good reliability history make this Regal a decent choice for midsize sedan buyers on a tight budget. If possible, we'd suggest narrowing your focus to a GS Supercharged version built in 2000 or after to enjoy a model with appealing performance and the best available feature content.

The third-generation Regal was built from 1988-'96. It held the distinction of being the first front-wheel-drive version of the car, and was offered as both a coupe and sedan. Regals of this era came in a host of trims. For example, in 1996 sedans could be had in base Custom, Olympic Gold, Limited and top-of-the-line Gran Sport trims; coupe buyers had less to choose from, with just Custom and Limited trims. Custom Regals built in the mid-'90s offered a 3.1-liter V6 good for 160 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque, while Limited, Olympic Gold and Gran Sport models were motivated by a 3.8-liter V6 that offered 205 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque. A supercharged engine wasn't offered.

Previous to the '88 redesign, the Regal was, for the most part, a rear-wheel-drive luxury coupe (though a sedan was offered sporadically). Performance enthusiasts will note that the mid-1980s were the high point, as the Grand National, a blacked-out Regal sporting a turbocharged V6, made its mark by being quicker than most muscle cars of the '60s and '70s. There was also the GNX, a limited-edition, even more powerful version of the Grand National.

The Buick Regal started out in 1973 as a lower-priced luxury coupe based on the midsize Century. A sedan debuted the following year and this generation ran until 1978, when the Regal was substantially downsized. A redesign took place for 1981 and that generation lasted through '87.

User Reviews:

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  Love my new Regal! - 2011 Buick Regal
  By maragyrl - December 19 - 9:48 am

  I have been driving Hondas since I was 16. I am now 34 and this is the first time I have bought any American car let alone a Buick. I first saw the new Regal on the road and in advertisements. The sporty exterior really appealed to me. I then did some research and saw how many great features came standard with the car. I got an RL3 for $27K MSRP (less with dealer incentives). The car is stylish, fuel efficient, has a beautiful leather interior (with power adjustable front seats and seat warmers), rear parking assist, dual climate control (with vents in the back seat area too), integrated blue tooth, XM, and iPOD docking station. The On-Star is pretty cool too. I now enjoy my commute!

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  Disappointed - 2011 Buick Regal
  By disappointed - November 28 - 2:00 am

  After 300 Miles my new Regal left me stranded in the middle of a busy intersection and was carted back to the dealer for a new fuel pump. A hundred miles later itÂ’s developed an annoying sheet metal vibration, back to the dealer again.

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  Just Leased - 2011 Buick Regal
  By cataclysmo - November 26 - 2:00 am

  Never in my life would I have thought it possible but I just leased a CXL after turning in my 02 325i and am really blown away by what you get for the money. It reminds me a lot of my BMW but it is cheaper and a lot better equipped, even for the base model. Im really surprised I hadnt heard more about this car. Be sure your dealer throws in the cap reduction cash for owners of different makes. Will check in with a later review when it has more miles, but Buick is clearly not your father Buick anymore.

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  03 REGAL LS ABBOUD - 2003 Buick Regal
  By joba244 - November 22 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car because we already had a 1996 gran sport that is a dream to drive especially for long trips, so i was kinda curious as to the new version. It is just right for power and comfort but there has been lots of added or improved features by the competition so it is feeling its age. Joseph Abboud spec has a sports set up I think, and it does not come close to the gran sport for ride comfort.Albeit a great family hauler.

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  EURO IMPORTS BEWARE - 2011 Buick Regal
  By DAMJUMPER61 - November 18 - 2:00 am

  I have been the owner of a Volvo S40, a VW Passat, and a Toyota Camry. All I have to say is LOOK OUT. The new Regal that I now have rides, handles and is quieter than all of them. The engine is a little underpowered but cruises down the highway @ 75-80 mph with no problem. The transmittion shifts are smooth and quick. The seating is very supportive and comfortable. Controls for the radio and cruise control are easy to use. The most impressive feature of the vehicle is the ride and how quiet it is on the road. I believe these to be as good as any high line vehicle out there.

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  Stylish,but.................. - 2011 Buick Regal
  By DT - November 14 - 2:00 am

  I have driven this car for 3 months and almost 3,000 miles. Interior and exterior quality is outstanding as is the performance. However, I have found the new Regal to ride harshly on most streets, the gas mileage averages around 22 mpg overall and has not hit 30mpg on the highway. It rides smoothly on the interstate.

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  American At Last! - 2011 Buick Regal
  By JD from MA - November 11 - 2:00 am

  Like many other drivers in their late 30s looking for a new car, the search began on the other sides of the Atlantic and Pacific. Except for the newer Cadillac CTS and maybe the new Lincoln MKZ, nothing state-side remotely sparked an interest. I thought I had cornered the group of cars from which I would make my selection - - the usual suspects: Audi, Saab, Volvo, Acura and always in the mix, BMW. Price was certainly a consideration house, wife, two kids - you get the picture. It was then that I noticed an online ad for a new Buick Regal. Buick? - I had one in High School. I always thought to myself - why doesnt the U.S ever build cars like ...? Maybe they just did. Check it out.

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  My First Love - 1995 Buick Regal
  By reginarider86 - November 9 - 2:00 am

  I got her in the summer of 05 with 130K+ and she ran like a beauty. Out lasted a lot of my friends much younger cars. Had a lot of brake pad changes and rear left caliper siezed up on me but it was a good first car. When she died she had over 200K on her. I got my monies worth.

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  Great Car - 2011 Buick Regal
  By metrosp - November 6 - 2:00 am

  Crossed shopped, VW (JETTA, CC, PASSAT) , Acura, Honda Accord, Chevy Malibu, Hynday Sonata but none could compare with the feature per price. Stopped into Buick to look at Lacrosse but after driving both, the Regal sporty ride won me over. The looks are very distinctive and interior is excellent and roomy for 5.Love the handling and took a 5 hour drive to New Hampshire without stopping once for gas and still had more than a quarter tank left. If I could have waited a few more months I would have tried to turbo, but the 2.4s performance is more than adequate and it is so quite that I am often cruising at 80 without knowing.

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  No portholdes - 2011 Buick Regal
  By Richard - November 3 - 2:00 am

  Never liked portholes on cars - the Regal meets my criteria. Began looking for Japanese import but after driving the Regal, my search was over. Fit and finish are exceptional with upscale styling inside and out. Fun to drive and of course handles well. Warranty better than comparable imports. Plenty of power for me and Id guess for most drivers. Foreign imports in this price range have something to be concerned about.