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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  Not your dads Buick - 1997 Buick Regal
  By forestgump14 - May 15 - 2:00 am

  This has been a very reliable vehicle and is for those not familiar with the GS version will be shocked by the get up and go of the super-charged engine. The only thing I have replaced in this car besides tires and brakes, is the water pump. I am not sure that there is a better combination of performance, comfort, price and bells and whistles in its class

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  Ok, with speed - 1997 Buick Regal
  By nick D - May 15 - 2:00 am

  Purchased used w/56K in 9/01. Transmission went out, as did power window motors (both w/in 4K miles) but all covered by extended warranty. Have had recurrent brake-rotor noise that apparently cannot be remedied. But, not one other problem in nearly two years. Would highly recommended purchasing extended warranty for any Regal.

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  Ok, with speed - 1997 Buick Regal
  By Nick D - May 15 - 2:00 am

  Purchased used w/56K in 9/01. Transmission went out, as did power window motors (both w/in 4K miles) but all covered by extended warranty. Have had recurrent brake-rotor noise that apparently cannot be remedied. But, not one other problem in nearly two years. Would highly recommended purchasing extended warranty for any Regal.

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  Buick Review - 2000 Buick Regal
  By RB the Buick Driver - May 14 - 2:00 am

  I have driven this car for 39 months have had to do the normal maintenance only until just recently. At about 60,000 miles, there was something going on with the transmission -- the dealer says it make be resolved with a transmission fluid flush (about $1300) or may need a new transmission ($2600). I cant understand why the transmission should be bad this soon. Ive driven Buicks for the past 3 cars - - I may need to go to a Toyota or Honda. This is just ridiculous. Otherwise, this is a comfortable ride, especially on road trips. Ive just had to do the brakes for the second time (Im at 64735 miles).

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  baby why ? or you poor poor thing - 1991 Buick Regal
  By capricornchild7 - May 13 - 2:00 am

  when i first laid eyes on her i thought wow! what a car. a car i can feel i have arrived, coming from a geo driver who now wishes she still had her geo.i am writing this review because i am so upset in how much money it will cost me according the buick dealership to get my baby purring again and see if she still got something. i need a entirely new braking system in md,temple hills area that will cost approx. $1952.00 please that more than the car. then i think maybe if the other owner had kept her up then she wouldnt be asking so much out of me

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  First time Buick Owner - 1998 Buick Regal
  By lcaldw - April 25 - 2:00 am

  This has been a great car to drive. However there have been a few things that are very annoying. Mainly the wheel noise is horrible, the cup holders for the front are VERY inconvenient to use. And they are placed in the wrong angle. It makes it very difficult for the driver to reach their cup as it is in a ackward position to begin with. I had to replace the battery and the blower fan mower at less than 100K miles on it.

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  What are those folks at GM doing? - 2003 Buick Regal
  By In Pgh - April 25 - 2:00 am

  This is a dated car and doesnt compare well with the competition. Who is Earl Hartley, and who cares? However, "GM points," 0% financing and generous dealer discount ultimately made the Regal more attractive. Reliability was another consideration. In four years of driving a 99, I had no problems whatsoever. Only complaint was cheap Goodyear tires which lasted about 20k miles.

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  Buick Regals are the best cars ever. - 1993 Buick Regal
  By Lukemc86 - April 24 - 2:00 am

  This car was my mostest favorite of all of my cars. I had a car before that died after a mere two weeks of my punishing use. The Buick has performed well up to speeds of 110 mph (thats all the further the speedometer goes). Theres plenty of room for all kinds of people, I had comfortably fit six people in my Regal with plenty of room.

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  Great value - 2003 Buick Regal
  By Bill T. - April 19 - 2:00 am

  This is a great value for a car that has so much to offer. A boulevard ride, great performance and brakes and an ergonomically correct instrument panel (everything is within easy reach).

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  Fun to drive - 2000 Buick Regal
  By First Buick - April 18 - 2:00 am

  The Supercharged Engine makes this a real fun drive. A very comfortalble commuter car in the midsize range. Have not had any problems with car. Steering wheel radio controls a plus. Needs more breaking power.