"Willkommen zu Hause" Regal. The 2011 Regal may just qualify as the most un-Buick Buick in quite a while. The premium mid-size sedan comes with more than a hint of European panache. It's assembled in Germany and based on General Motors' global midsize vehicle architecture. GM's well-regarded Vauxhall Insignia (on sale in Europe since 2008) shares many similar underpinnings. In 2009, Insignia was named 'European Car of the Year' by 59 journalists from 23 countries.
Those seeking noteworthy back stories may enjoy some of the bragging rights bestowed upon the 2011 Regal. In a few short months, production shifts from Russelsheim, Germany to North America for 2012 models and beyond sold in the United States, guaranteeing the 2011 edition will possess certain international intrigue.
While Buick's sporty four-door is new, the Regal name is not. First surfacing back in 1974, its tenure has endured numerous gyrations including stints as a coupe and a rear-drive model while offering a multitude of engines sizes and outputs (V-8, V-6 and four cylinder). In 2004, the name cruised into semi-retirement here in the states only to be recalled to duty in 2011.
Joining the solely front-wheel-drive Regal in Buick's 2011 lineup are the slightly larger mid-size LaCrosse sedan, ageing full-size Lucerne sedan and three-row Enclave crossover. Lucerne enthusiasts take note; time is running short. This year marks the final hurrah. While the full-size Lucerne exits stage left in 2011, an all-new, compact four-door Verona arrives front and center in 2012.
During a press event prior to the opening of the 2011 Chicago Auto Show, Tony DiSalle, Vice President of Buick Marketing reiterated Buicks importance to the Windy City. "Chicago is the third largest metro sales market for Buick behind only Detroit and New York and offers a diverse, untainted cross section of consumers."
While Buick battles back a sometimes curmudgeon- like image here in America, the name cultivates the exact opposite effect in China. The tri-shield division rates as one of the hottest and hippest brands in the emerging market. Two years ago, the Insignia went on sale in China branded as the Buick Regal.
China's huge market potential is one reason Buick survives as one of four remaining post-bail GM divisions. Pontiac and Saturn were not as fortunate as the 2009 soft bankruptcy played out. Before GM's slimming down, the second generation Saturn Aura was discussed as the U.S. twin of the much hyped Opel Insignia. Saturn's demise is Buick's gain.
The base engine, a 2.4-liter, direct-injection four-cylinder is mated with a fuel-efficient six-speed automatic transmission generating an adequate 182 horsepower. Also available (and tested this week) is a more potent, smooth running, 2.0-liter turbocharged four delivering 220 horsepower available with a manual transmission, a rarity probably last utilized by Buick in the forgettable, lark-of-a-compact Skylark. DiSalle estimates 35 percent of dealer Regal inventory now consists of turbos. Turbo charging takes advantage of compressed air feed into engine cylinders for a more potent air/fuel combustion delivering greater horsepower.
Starting price for the 2.0 turbo edition checks in at $28,745. After factoring in a comprehensive $5,690 option package (larger 19-inch wheels, in-dash navigation, sunroof, rear-seat-mounted airbags, and upgraded, 9-speaker stereo), $195 metallic exterior paint and a $750 destination charge, the bottom line ended at $35,380. The 2.4-liter, naturally-aspirated four cylinder checks in at $26,245. By contrast a German-built, front-wheel-drive Audi A4 four-cylinder sedan (211 horsepower) checks in at $32,300.
Turbo models add an interactive 'Drive Control System' allowing drivers to choose from three (sport, touring, normal) modes via center dash buttons. Each designates a unique suspension, steering, throttle and stability setting.
The naturally-aspirated engine delivers decent mileage figures of 19 miles per gallon city and 30 mpg highway with regular, 87-octane petro. The turbo engine recommends premium for optimal performance with estimates of 20 mpg city and 32 mpg highway with six-speed manual transmission, and 18/28 with six-speed automatic. The responsive turbo is the recommended choice for those desiring to match Regal's entry luxury ambiance with performance.
During its 2011 maiden voyage, only a CXL trim is offered. In the upcoming 2012 model year, a high-performance GS trim gets added with a higher output turbo four cranking out 255 horses. Also arriving in 2012 is eAssist (the 'e' standing for electric) fuel saving technology, squeezing approximately 25 percent better efficiency from the naturally aspirated four cylinder engine (thanks to lithium-ion battery storage of regenerative braking energy powering an electric motor generator).
The easy-on-the-eye's, easy to-view at-a-glance instrument panel features two large circular analog gauges with a large, vertically opposed digital message window in between. Along the top are two smaller circular gauges. All are housed within a clam-shell arch. The ignition key slips into a manually-adjusting tilt and telescoping steering column cylinder (no push start or power steering column in 2011). The cavernous glove box matches up nicely with another bin-type storage container that folds down from the lower dash on the driver's left side. Below our tester's in-dash navigation screen was a group of push-buttons monitoring air and sound functions. Fan-speed, direction and temperature settings are all button, not dial controlled. Between the front seats is a dial and push-buttons providing a path to cycle through navigation/sound screen options.
Firm, highly bolstered leather front bucket seats with white stitching come standard (no cloth) and heat up with the push of a center dash button (also standard). Expect slightly lower seating positions than traditional family-oriented sedans. The electronic parking brake activates with a push of a button between the front seats adjacent to dual cup holders with a sliding cover. Satellite radio and Bluetooth connectivity come standard as do a USB port and iPod auxiliary jack. The tester's monotone piano black interior included a thick, leather-wrapped, three spoke steering wheel with imbedded cruise control functions. Brushed aluminum accents surround the floor-mounted sifter and C-clamp-shaped door grab handles. Wood grain interior accents coupled with cashmere-colored leather seats are also available.
Side doors swing open far enough for suitable leg entry. Comfortable leather back seats accommodate two, three is a crowd especially with tight head room for those 6-feet, two-inches and taller. Seatbacks fold down with a 60/40 split to gain trunk access. The larger slice includes a fold down arm rest with cup holders and extra storage. A power moon roof over the front riders is optional as is the in-dash navigation. No rear entertainment system is available.
The sleek exterior holds true to Buick's conservative yet elegant bloodline. A stout deck lid contrasts with tucked in body panels. Chrome trimming surrounds side windows. The large rectangular rear window and four side doors provide good sight lines with minimal blind spots. Eighteen-inch alloy wheels come standard (19-inchers optional) along with front fog lights. Buick's circular, tri-shield logo situates in the middle of a large, waterfall grille flanked by narrow, cat's eye headlight housing. Tail lights are narrow and band-like as well. Noticeably absent are small side/hood portals, found in select Buicks through the ages. These icons, however, are scheduled to make a 2012 comeback.
Trunk cargo volume measures 14.25 cubic feet, average for this segment. Interior goose-neck-type hinges are framed around padded protection so as not to damage transported goods. Dual exhausts come standard. Smallish side view mirrors incorporate an aerodynamic arrow-head shape without built-in blinkers (2012 models add them).
Given its European tilt, a connected-with-the-road ride and suspension are part of the menu. It's not a Buick mimicking the outgoing Lucerne's softer ride. The brake pedal steps into action when called upon, but sans any oversensitivity with a comfortable foot throw. Powertrain warranty coverage is for five years or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first). Interior quietness is admirable at highway speeds.
Six months of OnStar, GM's in-vehicle communication network, comes standard. With the push of a button near the rear-view mirror, this system connects occupants with a 24-hour manned command central; no tutorial to wade through. The 2011 version includes automatic crash response if Regal gets entangled in unforeseen circumstances. Other standard safety equipment includes anti lock brakes, brake assist, traction control, dual-stage frontal air bags and side curtain air bags. Optional are rear-seat thorax air bags.
Attractive pricing when stacked against entry luxury rivals and underpinnings closer to an Audi A4 than a Buick Century running mate of yesteryear are just some of the reasons to check out Regal. About three-quarters of all Buick dealers nationwide get coupled with GMC truck showrooms.
At a glance:
Price as tested: $34,630
Destination charge: $750
Length: 190.2 inches
Wheelbase: 107.8 inches
Engine: 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbo
Horsepower: 220
City/Highway economy: 18/28
Assembly: Russelsheim, Germany
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