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:

• 

  Hope you like the great outdoors - 2001 Buick Regal
  By Keep Looking - May 20 - 8:15 pm

  I have had to replace all 4 window motors in the past 1 1/2 years for a grand total of over $1800. Was told by Buick mechanic in another state that theyve had nothing but problems with the window motors in all Buick models. But according to Buick, they have no problems. Its normal wear and tear on a car that is 5 years old and has 68,000 miles. My mothers Chevy was stolen and wrecked and the drivers side door was smashed in, but amazingly the window still works! My car on the other hand sits in the parking lot and the unused window motor dies and the window falls down.

• 

  Let me tell you a little secret... - 1997 Buick Regal
  By Eric - May 12 - 9:22 pm

  After exhausting research for a third round vehicle (~100K, well maintained, clean), I decided to go with the Buick GS. For $4300, I stole this car. (Which, by the way was the private party value). Fully loaded and fast as heck, I couldnt be happier. Read these reviews, they are true. For a 1997 that has the same styling as a 2004, I have what others think is a newer car, 36mpg at 55mph, 240HP on tap, incredibly comfortable seating, and a record of superior reliability and safety. I turned down Camrys, Accords, Volvos, and countless others. I pay $298/year for 250/500 insurance in NY (no collision), and found this to be the most cost effective, fun to drive foreign or domestic vehicle

• 

  GM Quality Problems - 2001 Buick Regal
  By Jim Lester - May 1 - 2:02 pm

  Well let me see(in November,2005) at 98000 miles I had to shell out $2000 for a new transmission. This is on a car that I have not driven hard, mostly highway miles. January 2006 I had to waste another $1000 to get the car inspected. Now, May 1st, my piece of ship buick is in the auto shop once again because it wont run. The real sad thing is I was trying to support the american car industry when I bought this car. I was looking at a Nissan Altima at the same time. I wont make that mistake again.

• 

  Regal LS - 1999 Buick Regal
  By BuickBoy - April 20 - 12:09 pm

  Ive always like this car. Then, I read the reviews and I was convinced. My only regret is that I didnt get a GS. Rising fuel prices scared me as 93 octane is recommended, but probably would have been worth it. I was able to find a "GS looking" Regal LS with 16 inch wheels, leather, and gran touring package. Purchased with 38K miles and have put on about 10K. Only oil changes were needed thus far. Car feels tight and engine is strong. True, as others have stated, the gas mileage around town could be better. I would highly recommend this car.

• 

  Nothing beats a Buick! - 1996 Buick Regal
  By Silver - April 16 - 7:31 am

  This car is great.. it handles and drives quite nicely. Performance is adequate and styling is nice. I have owned mine for 4 years and it now has 95K miles on it and have had no major problems other then routine maintenance. The car has ice cold air and is fantastic on gas with the 3.1 engine. You can get some real good deals on these so if you are on a tight budget, look around as you can find a good deal on one of these and still own a GOOD quality American made car.

• 

  Very Impressed - 1996 Buick Regal
  By IMPRESSED - April 14 - 7:31 pm

  I have had my Buick for 4 years & only had to replace rear struts & alternator. That is great for a car with 198,000 miles on it. All major parts & transmission is original. Proper care of trans flushes & oil changes I believe will have this car another 100,000 miles. I WILL NOT GIVE IT UP EASILY! I never had a car so dependable before, not even foreign. I definately got my moneys worth out of this one!

• 

  Buick Owner - 2002 Buick Regal
  By Donna Frankson - April 14 - 5:05 pm

  I have driven a 1998 Buick Regal LS for past 5 yrs. I just traded it in for the 2002 Buick Regal GS Sedan, with turbocharger. I am a hugh fan of muscle cars, meaning I like my cars to perform quickly and quietly. I have owned Chrys, Pont, and Olds. I have enjoyed driving all these cars. The 1998 was leaking oil (small amt.), but ran so good I did not want to get rid of it. I decided that updating to 2002 was a wise move. I tried a 2006 Chev. Impala, but liked the ride and performance of the Buick so much more. Having just purchased it 4-13-06 I have to drive it more and see if it compares as well as the l998, which was excellent. Only draw back is having to use 91 Octane.

• 

  Reliable - 1992 Buick Regal
  By Angus - March 21 - 6:37 pm

  When I purchased the car a kid that didnt know anything about cars owned it. He said that this was wrong with it and that didnt work. I got it home looked it over and all it was a couple of blown fuses. Changed them out and never had to much trouble after that. It is one of the best cars that I haved owned.

• 

  Bought another - 1997 Buick Regal
  By Happy GS - March 8 - 1:28 am

  After selling our last (97), not my choice, I have purchased another. The car is great to drive always bringing a smile. Comfortable on long trips with good mpg. The only maintence I needed was the normal, belts, brakes, etc. The only other sedan I compare it to is my Cad Seville. For the money its a really good all around car. My only complant is the drink holder. Now that is cheap.

• 

  Ive always wanted one of these - 2003 Buick Regal
  By Poor Boy - March 2 - 10:17 am

  I liked the Regals when I was a kid and saw the mid-80s models and thought they were great then, and still do. I finally got my hands on this one, and though Ive only owned it for a few hundred miles, Im already in love. When you kick it, it moves. The ride is comfortable, but you can feel the road and remember that you are, in fact, driving. Buick has the greatest seats ever put into any car, bar none. Im a happy camper.