Buick Regal (5th gen) 2008-2017

[Ferrer]

The Buick Regal is an upscale mid-sized car that was first introduced by Buick for the 1973 model year. The model was originally positioned as a personal luxury car, and typically offered in both coupe and sedan forms until 1997, when the Regal became sedan-only due to the decline of the personal luxury coupe market. For certain model years between 1973 and 2004, the Regal shared bodies and powertrains with the similar Buick Century, although the Regal was positioned as a more upmarket vehicle.

The Regal was discontinued in the North American market in 2004, being succeeded by the Buick LaCrosse. In 2008, a new version of the Regal was introduced for the Chinese market, which is a badge engineered version of the Opel Insignia. The new Regal was introduced to the North American market in 2011, positioned as a mid-size vehicle. A new model was introduced for 2018, which is offered in a liftback sedan and a "TourX" station wagon version. GM discontinued the Regal in the North American market after the 2020 model year, making Buick exclusively a CUV marque there.

Fifth generation (2008-2017)
The fifth-generation Buick Regal is a four-door, five-passenger, midsized sedan with a front engine, front-wheel drive layout. According to GM published information, more than 41% of Regal buyers in the US are coming from non-General Motors brands, and more than 60% of CXL Turbo buyers are under the age of 55.

Development
The fifth generation Buick Regal rides on GM's Epsilon II platform and is mostly identical to the Opel Insignia. It first went into production in Rüsselsheim, Germany, in 2008. The Shanghai GM twin of the Insignia was introduced in China as Buick Regal in December, 2008 for the 2009 model year.

GM originally planned to sell a modified version of the Opel Insignia in North America as the second generation Saturn Aura, but changed strategy after deciding to discontinue the Saturn brand. The Regal utilizes unibody construction with galvanized steel front fenders, hood, roof and door panels and thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) bumper covers. The North American Regal weighs about 13 lb (6 kg) more than an equivalent Opel Insignia due to increased structural support in the B-pillar necessary to meet U.S. rollover standards.

Marketing
GM revealed the fifth generation Regal to North American dealers on October 14, 2009, and introduced the Regal to the public in November, 2009 at the LA Auto Show. Sales of the Regal began in February 2010. In North America, the Regal is positioned below the larger, more expensive LaCrosse and above the Verano compact sedan which debuted late in calendar year 2011.

Production
Production of the Shanghai GM variant of the Regal began in November 2008 and ended in July 2017. North American production at General Motors of Canada's Oshawa, Ontario, assembly plant was confirmed on November 25, 2009, and production began at Oshawa Car Assembly in February 2011. The initial production for the North American market was done together with its Opel twin the Opel Insignia in the Adam Opel AG's Rüsselsheim, Germany assembly plant from March 1, 2010 to March 25, 2011 (33,669 cars in 2010 and 12,637 in 2011).

Trim levels
CXL
The Regal debuted in North America with a 2.4L DOHC I4 engine rated at 182 hp (136 kW) and 172 lb⋅ft (233 N⋅m) of torque — using a Hydra-Matic 6T45 six-speed

The 2011 Regal manufactured in North America was offered in a single trim level, marketed as CXL, offered with two engine choices and seven option packages. Buick had planned to offer a lower-level trim called CX with cloth seats and a higher level trim called CXS, but those trim levels were not offered.

CXL Turbo
The CXL Turbo comes equipped with a turbocharged 2.0L direct-injected Ecotec DOHC I4 rated at 220 hp (164 kW) and 258 lb⋅ft (350 N⋅m) of torque, mated to either an Aisin AF40 6-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission, making the Regal Turbo the first Buick model to be offered with a manual transmission since the Buick Skyhawk ended production in 1989. The 2.0L turbo is the first direct-injected turbocharged production car capable of running on any blend of gasoline or E85 ethanol.

GS
At the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, GM showed a concept GS version of the Regal based on the Opel Insignia OPC and the Vauxhall Insignia VXR. The concept featured a 2.0L, 270 hp (201 kW), 295 lb⋅ft (400 N⋅m) high-output DOHC I4 turbocharged Ecotec engine, a 6-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drive.

The production GS leaves most of the concept specifications intact, but is front-wheel drive. The GS features Buick's Interactive Drive Control System with GS mode, a choice of an FGP Germany F40-6 six-speed manual or Aisin AF-40 (G2) six-speed automatic transmission, high performance brakes with Brembo front calipers and high performance strut (HiPerStrut) front suspension. 19 inch wheels will be standard and 20 inch forged aluminum wheels will be available. The GS is expected to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in under 7 seconds. The production version is equipped with GS-only high-output version of the Ecotec 2.0L turbo engine with 270 hp (201 kW) and 295 lb⋅ft (400 N⋅m) of torque. The GM LHU engine used in the GS trim makes 135 hp per liter - Buick’s highest specific output ever. The GS went on sale in fall 2011 as a 2012 model.

The Shanghai GM variant of Regal GS went on sale in China on September 15, 2011. This car has been localized. The output of the 2.0L Turbo SIDI engine is 162 kW (217 hp), which is about 40 kW (54 hp) less than the production US-model. The torque is 350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft). and the top speed is claimed as 232 km/h (144 mph). The car is only offered in this case as a front-wheel-drive. There exist also some interior and exterior differences between the American and Chinese models.

Sport Touring Edition
For 2016, the Regal added a new Sport Touring Edition which included unique 18" aluminum black pocket wheels and a rear lip spoiler.

2014 update
GM revealed an updated 2014 Regal at the 2013 New York Auto Show. Changes include a revised interior and exterior, a boost in performance for the CXL Turbo up to 258 hp (192 kW) and 295 lb·ft (400 N·m) of torque, and an available all-wheel drive option offered for the 2.0L engine/6-speed automatic transmission equipped vehicles. Changes for the GS include revised interior and exterior, a drop in power to match that of the CXL Turbo, and available an all-wheel drive option offered for the 2.0L / six-speed automatic transmission equipped vehicles. The six-speed manual transmission is still offered, but only in the front-wheel drive variant. Buick's VentiPorts have reappeared starting with 2014 models, a styling feature unique to Buick that dates back to 1949.

Several new safety features were added for the 2014 year, which include forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a following-distance indicator. The foregoing are all part of a Driver Confidence package, while collision preparation, which pre-loads the brake system ahead of an imminent collision, and adaptive cruise control are available separately.

Source: Wikipedia

Buick Regal (Chinese version) #1

[Ferrer]

Buick Regal (Chinese version) #2

[Ferrer]

Buick Regal (US version) #3

[Ferrer]

The 2011 Regal: A Buick Bred On The Autobahn

Sport Sedan Blends Sleek Design with European Road Manners for Great Driving

LOS ANGELES – On Thursday Buick will reveal the 2011 Regal sport sedan to customers in the L.A. area. Armed with turbocharged horsepower, a driver-selectable suspension system and a firm, European-tuned chassis, it delivers a driving experience that rivals the best import sport sedans in the segment.

“The 2011 Buick Regal is like nothing you’ve ever experienced from this brand,” said Susan Docherty, general manager of Buick GMC. “The Regal is the next chapter in Buick’s transformation and will expand the portfolio to include a sport sedan.”

The new Regal arrives in the second quarter of 2010, with its sights aimed squarely on competitors like the Acura TSX and Volvo S60. It has a longer wheelbase and greater trunk volume than those vehicles, along with standard features – including a six-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch wheels and OnStar – that aren’t offered standard on either competitor.

The Regal’s development is rooted in Germany, where the globally led engineering team created the award-winning Opel Insignia – the 2009 European Car of the Year. The Insignia has garnered more than 31 prestigious awards and is the best-selling midsize sedan in Europe. Regal will bring all of Insignia’s award-winning design, technology and European-inspired performance capabilities to the American market.

The Regal has already been a success on another continent, in China. It went on sale in December 2008 and more than 64,000 Regals have been sold there. Enthusiastic customers cite its sculpted, flowing design and responsive performance as the top reasons for purchase.

Regal at a glance

Regal will initially be offered in premium CXL trim only, with additional trim levels to be offered in the 2012 model year. The well-equipped Regal CXL includes the following as standard or available equipment:

Standard 2.4L Ecotec direct injected engine rated at an estimated 182 horsepower (136 kW)
Available 2.0L Ecotec turbocharged and direct injected engine rated at an estimated 220 horsepower (164 kW) – available late-summer 2010
Both engines have a six-speed automatic transmission standard with driver-shifting control
Estimated 30 mpg on the highway with the 2.4L and 29 mpg highway with the 2.0L turbo engine
MacPherson strut front suspension and four-link independent rear suspension
All-new Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS) available with the 2.0L turbo, offering driver-selectable suspension settings and automatic driver suspension setting adaptability
Four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel anti-lock braking system, brake assist and electronic parking brake
Standard StabiliTrak stability control system and full-function traction control
Standard dual-stage frontal air bags, side-curtain air bags and pedal-release system; rear-seat thorax air bags available
Available navigation system, Harmon Kardon sound system, internal flash drive (1GB), hard drive with 10GB for music and USB port
Standard 18-inch wheels (19-inch wheels standard with IDCS)
Standard 12-way power, leather and heated driver seat; leather and heated passenger front seat; Bluetooth capability; XM Satellite Radio and OnStar.

Design story

The Regal’s sleek design blends the sweeping silhouette and proportions of a coupe in a progressive package that suggests motion from all angles. Great attention to detail complements that aggressive styling, with tailored applications of Buick’s signature design cues, such as the waterfall grille, select use of chrome trim and superior fit and finish of the exterior panels.

“Regal is all about great proportions,” said John Cafaro, design director, passenger car. “For example, with the fenders flared to wrap around the tires. It’s an aggressive stance that people aren’t used to seeing in recent Buicks.”

The car’s performance-oriented spirit is also conveyed in sleek, sculpted body-side detail and aggressive headlamps that further suggest motion. At the rear, an abbreviated deck and tucked-in body panels are the hallmarks of a contemporary sport sedan, with bold taillamps and their intricate lighting elements reinforcing Regal’s attention to detail. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard.

The sweeping design motif carries over to the interior, where the side panels flow uninterrupted into the instrument panel. The instruments have the look of expensive sport timepieces and are lit with ice-blue LED lights. The center stack, housing the climate and “infotainment” controls, was designed to allow for a lower, driver-centric instrument panel profile. Features such as a thick-rimmed, leather-wrapped steering wheel and firm, highly bolstered and leather-covered seats also support the sport-oriented driving experience.

“There is great design harmony between the exterior and interior,” said Cafaro. “The feeling of flow and motion carries through in an engaging manner that makes you want to take the Regal out to your favorite twisting road to see what it can do.”

A breakthrough interior

The Regal’s finely crafted, sporty and well-appointed interior builds on the exceptional attention to detail found in the Enclave and LaCrosse, blending signature styling cues with contemporary sport sedan aesthetics.

Regal’s firm, highly bolstered seats were benchmarked against the top import competitors for comfort and support, while a standard flow-through center console offers plenty of storage for passengers in the front and back.

Smart applications of technology are also hallmarks of the Regal, including details such as a multi-function controller on the center console for operation of the audio system, navigation system and the Bluetooth phone. The faceplate for the “infotainment” screen is set at a 30-degree angle to contribute to the car’s flowing interior design.

A new era in Buick design is also seen in the satin metallic, piano black and new, Kibo-patterned interior trim materials. Kibo is a rich, dark, progressively grained wood that lends an international flair to the Regal.

Under the hood

Unique with its all-four-cylinder powertrain, the Regal relies on the excellent horsepower-per-liter ratio of the Ecotec engine family to deliver smart, on-demand performance that is also very efficient.

Both the standard 2.4L engine and the available 2.0L turbo use direct injection technology to optimize performance, reduce emissions and maximize fuel efficiency. The 2.4L is the same engine offered in the Buick LaCrosse, but in the smaller, lighter Regal, it delivers more agile performance. The 2.0L turbo cements the sport sedan credibility of the Regal, with on-demand power comparable to a V-6, but the inherent efficiency of a four-cylinder. To ensure responsive power across the rpm range, the 2.0L turbo uses a twin-scroll turbocharger that builds power quickly at lower rpm.

Distinct, uniquely calibrated six-speed automatic transmissions are paired with each engine. Both offer driver shift control that enhances the sporty driving feel of the Regal.

Driving experience

The chassis and structural systems were developed in Germany and give the Regal the handling and dynamics of a premium European sport sedan, as well as the quiet, refined ride and road manners expected of a Buick. The body structure is one of the most rigid in the segment, which is approximately 25-percent stiffer than the previous Regal. This solid structure supports more precise suspension tuning and a quieter ride.

A relatively long wheelbase of 107.8 inches (2738 mm) gives the Regal refined, well-balanced vehicle dynamics and supports comfortable ride tuning. Additionally, an independent MacPherson strut-type front suspension with single-path mountings and hydraulic ride bushings; a four-link independent rear suspension; hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering; and optimized four-wheel disc brakes are optimized to the capability of the individual powertrains and tailored to the expected use by drivers. Models equipped with the 2.0L turbo engine, for example, feature larger brakes.

Latest-generation electronic stability control (ESC or StabiliTrak), anti-lock brake system (ABS), and traction control system (TCS) are standard with Buick’s innovative, Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS) real-time damping system offered on models equipped with the 2.0L turbo powertrain.

[Ferrer]

Interactive Drive Control System

Regal’s Interactive Drive Control System chassis technology (available on models with the available 2.0L turbo engine) offers enhanced vehicle stability and greater driving safety. It is designed to change the personality of the car based on the personality of the driver. A sophisticated driving mode control module continually monitors driving style utilizing yaw rate, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, steering wheel, throttle and vehicle speed. It defines the dynamic vehicle state, including acceleration, braking and cornering, to optimize chassis reactions. It also executes all of the IDCS driver selections.

All four dampers are electronically controlled and continuously adapt within milliseconds to the prevailing road conditions, vehicle movements and individual driving style. Chassis settings are adjustable by the driver, with Normal, Tour and Sport settings.

IDCS allows the driver to choose between three different operating modes that change the suspension settings, throttle response, shift pattern and steering sensitivity through the variable effort steering system. The three modes deliver three types of experiences:

Normal – balanced and optimized for all driving situations
Tour – optimized for comfort and relaxed driving on long journeys
Sport – optimized for road holding; enthusiast driving .
Selecting “Sport” mode optimizes the car for dynamic driving, tightening the suspension and steering response and speeding up the reaction of the automatic transmission. The “Tour” mode is optimal for long-distance cruising or rough road conditions, providing an increase in comfort. “Normal” or Default Mode is the perfect all-around setting for daily commuting and city traffic. The other major benefit of Interactive Drive Control is that it automatically adapts Regal’s performance settings to individual driving styles. When a driver begins to drive more aggressively it will tighten the suspension and increase steering effort and change to a more aggressive throttle response. When the vehicle senses that the driver is doing relaxed cruising, it adjusts settings for rolling smoothness and comfort.

Apart from a more rewarding driving experience, IDCS also offers safety benefits in emergency situations. For example, if an obstacle must be avoided when the car is in Tour mode, various chassis sensors convey this to the DMC and the dampers are stiffened within milliseconds, delivering greater body control.

[pimento]

It's not really all that regal... But I guess the Buick Kinda Nondescript isn't much of a name.

[Ferrer]

It's not really all that regal... But I guess the Buick Kinda Nondescript isn't much of a name.
Maybe Buick Insignia would've been better...

[Kitdy]

The LaCrosse and Regal are huge improvements over past Buick models in terms of looks and I would also bet driving dynamics.

[pimento]

Maybe Buick Insignia would've been better...

I did think of that, but then I thought that even that's a little too fancy.

[Ferrer]

I did think of that, but then I thought that even that's a little too fancy.
Well it's no so bad, is it? I agree that the car is a bit middle of the road, but it's huge imporvement over the Vectra.

[LeonOfTheDead]

The Vectra GTS was good looking though.
Only that though.

[pimento]

Well it's no so bad, is it? I agree that the car is a bit middle of the road, but it's huge imporvement over the Vectra.

It's saying something about the Vectra that something that is just fine is a huge improvement..

[Ferrer]

It's saying something about the Vectra that something that is just fine is a huge improvement..
Indeed. But then again Opels have never been terribly remarkable, despite some exceptions, have they?

[Ferrer]

Buick Regal GS

DETROIT – With an estimated 255 turbocharged horsepower (190 kW), a six-speed manual transmission and an advanced, adaptive all-wheel-drive system, the Buick Regal GS show car is a high-tech, high-performance version of the brand’s newest sport sedan. It was introduced at the 2010 North American International Auto Show.

The mechanical elements were developed with the aim of delivering a driving experience that is sporting, confidence-inspiring and refined. It has a performance-oriented drivetrain, a lowered body and lower center of gravity. Exterior and interior cues include two additional vertical front air intakes; large, forged aluminum 20-inch wheels and performance tires; a racing-inspired sport steering wheel and metal pedals. Recaro high-performance front seats feature four-way lumbar support and cushion extensions.

“We designed the Regal GS to explore the appeal of a high-performance variant of the Regal,” said Craig Bierley, product marketing director for Buick. “Like the Regal, the Regal GS is based on the award-winning Opel Insignia, and we believe it will reinvigorate Buick’s storied Gran Sport legacy.”

The Regal GS exterior is distinguished by vertical air inlets in the front fascia, as well as unique rocker panels, an integrated rear spoiler, dual exhaust outlets, Olympic White paint and satin metallic accents.

“The idea behind the Regal GS was taking the production model in a more aggressive direction to appeal to performance enthusiasts,” said John Cafaro, Buick design director. “But along with its aggressive stance, there’s sophisticated style in the design that complements the driving experience.”

Inside, the Regal GS varies from the standard Regal by featuring a completely jet black interior, including the pillars and headliner, sport shifter for the six-speed manual transmission and a suede-covered, flat-bottom steering wheel reminiscent of those used in international racing series. The instrument panel glows ice blue when the driver engages the sport mode of the Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS).

Turbocharged AWD performance

Power for the Regal GS comes from a high-output 2.0L Ecotec turbocharged engine with direct-injection technology. It is based on the engine that will be offered on Regal CXL models later this summer, but the engine and turbocharger are tuned to deliver greater boost pressure in the GS. The output is estimated at 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (400 Nm).

The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission that directs torque to an adaptive all-wheel-drive system calibrated for performance driving. An electronic, limited-slip rear differential helps ensure the engine’s power is distributed effectively during cornering.

The high-performance drivetrain is expected to enable the Regal GS to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds. That performance is complemented by a four-wheel-independent suspension, with a unique High Performance Strut (HiPerStrut) design in front. The HiPerStrut system helps reduce torque steer and maintain negative camber during cornering. This improves ultimate grip levels in dry and wet conditions, as well as improves the direct feel of the road, while isolating undesirable feedback. Behind the wheel the driver experiences reduced torque steer, improved grip and increased cornering power, along with crisper handling, steering precision and feedback.

The Regal GS features a high-performance Brembo brake system with 14 x 1.2-inch (355 x 32 mm) cross-drilled rotors; four-piston, high-strength aluminum calipers, and high-performance pads.

The Regal GS is also equipped with Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS) chassis technology (also offered on Regal CXL models with the 2.0L turbo engine). It delivers enhanced vehicle stability and greater driving safety, while also adapting the driving characteristics of the car to the driver’s preferences. The driver selects among three operating modes – normal, sport and GS – that change the suspension settings, throttle response and steering sensitivity through the variable-effort steering system.

[Ferrer]

Buick Regal #7

[RacingManiac]

Ah GM, why not the full-tilt VXR......

Although on second though, a blown 4 might be lighter for a car like this, and get better weight distribution...

[Ferrer]

Ah GM, why not the full-tilt VXR......

Although on second though, a blown 4 might be lighter for a car like this, and get better weight distribution...
It's certainly odd since you've got much cheaper fuel.

In fact our similarly powered equivalent Insignia also has a turbo six.

[Rockefella]

I saw this car on TopGear yesterday, someone posted the Insignia in the wrong thread

[RacingManiac]

It's certainly odd since you've got much cheaper fuel.

In fact our similarly powered equivalent Insignia also has a turbo six.

But we also have more annoying green nazi here....

But more I think about this the 4 might make more sense.....

[Ferrer]

But we also have more annoying green nazi here....

But more I think about this the 4 might make more sense.....
Also the big six is probably better suited to high speed cruising rather than the small four.

[RacingManiac]

That I'd agree, but high speed in US isn't that high by European standard(70-90mph at most). And GM tend to throw a super tall 6th on their box anyway...

So far I guess this is still a "concept", but I think it'll be cool if they make it, with the Turbo4 or the 6...

[Commodore GS/E]

Also the big six is probably better suited to high speed cruising rather than the small four.

I think the V6 runs smoother, especially during autobahn driving. Sven (a friend of mine) works at the local Opel dealership and has already driven the V6 (not the OPC, though). He liked it.

[Ferrer]

I think the V6 runs smoother, especially during autobahn driving. Sven (a friend of mine) works at the local Opel dealership and has already driven the V6 (not the OPC, though). He liked it.
We almost bought one.

[Commodore GS/E]

We almost bought one.

Normally i never give advice concerning car buys...but in this case i tell you: if you still want to buy one, you should wait a year and than buy a used one. Insignia V6s are cools cars. The only complain i have (and that i will have 'til i die) is that Opel ditched the old straight sixes wich were unbelievable durable and easy to repair.
But then i have to admit that i'm complete bonkers concerning straight sixes :D

[Ferrer]

Don't worry we already bought an (almost) new XF 4.2 :)

[Commodore GS/E]

Don't worry we already bought an (almost) new XF 4.2 :)

congratulations :) which year is it?

[Ferrer]

2008 I believe. We bought it a year or so ago. 11.000km, full of extras (most of which you don't need) and 33 grand off list price.

[Ferrer]

Buick Regal GS

Highlights

The all-new, 2012 Regal GS blends a 270-horsepower (201 kW) high-output Ecotec 2.0L turbo engine, six-speed manual transmission, responsive Interactive Drive Control System suspension technology with exclusive GS-mode, Brembo front calipers and other features into one of Buick’s most balanced performance sedans ever.

The torque from Regal GS’s exclusive Ecotec 2.0L high-output turbocharged engine provides more launch force than the Acura TSX V-6, Audi A4 Sport, Lexus IS 250 and 350, Infiniti G25 and G37, and Volvo S60. It also delivers the highest specific output of any production engine GM has ever offered, and at 135 horsepower per liter, is the most power-dense engine ever certified by the Society of Automotive Engineers.

Buick’s exclusive Interactive Drive Control System is standard on the Regal GS, and allows drivers to choose from three operating modes – Standard, Sport and GS Mode – that change the suspension settings and steering sensitivity according to driver preferences. Regal GS also features a four-wheel independent suspension with a unique High Performance Strut (HiPer Strut) front suspension design that reduces torque steer and improves grip and cornering power.

A lower ride height, 19-inch, 5-Twin Spoke alloy wheels (20-inch, 5-Twin Spoke polished alloy wheels with summer-rated performance tires are available) and four-piston Brembo front calipers also contribute to the GS’ performance persona.

Regal GS design

Unique body-color front and rear fascias, with the front fascia incorporating prominent, vertical air intake slots accented in a satin-metallic finish.

Rear fascia has a pair of integrated, satin-metallic trapezoidal exhaust outlets.
Rocker panel extensions and a rear spoiler.

Slightly lower ride height than other Regal models for a sportier stance.
Aggressive-looking, 19-inch, 5-Twin Spoke alloy wheels and all-season tires (20-inch, 5-Twin Spoke polished alloy wheels with summer-rated performance tires are optional).

GS-specific ebony interior.

Satin-finish elements on the instrument panel, steering wheel and console.
Instrument panel glows white when the driver engages the GS Mode of the Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS).

Regal GS interior – standard and available features

Standard features:

Passive keyless entry with push-button start.
Standard XM Satellite Radio with three-month trial service.
harman/kardon premium 336-watt, 5.1 Matrix Surround Sound system with nine speakers.
Bluetooth phone connectivity.
Leather-wrapped, flat-bottom sport steering wheel with audio controls and metal sport pedals.
Leather-appointed sport seating.
Heated driver and front passenger seats, with 12-way adjustable driver and front passenger seats – including four-way lumbar adjustment.
120-volt accessory power outlet.
Power windows with express up/down feature in the front and express down in the rear.
Front and rear ultrasonic parking assist.
Bi-Xenon HID headlamps with flash-to-pass feature, auto on/off, auto delay, warning buzzer.
Buick IntelliLink (later availability) uses Bluetooth or USB to connect the driver’s smart phone to a new high-resolution, full-color seven-inch touch screen display radio. IntelliLink expands on Buick’s current Bluetooth and USB capabilities to allow smart phone control via voice activation and steering wheel-mounted controls. It also enables streaming stereo audio from the phone through services such as PANDORA® Internet radio and Stitcher SmartRadio®.
IntelliLink complements the safety, security and connectivity services of OnStar, also standard on all Regal models. With a simple button touch, voice command or via a downloadable smartphone app, Regal owners can access popular OnStar services such as Turn-by-Turn navigation and Destination Download, hands-free calling, remote door unlock, vehicle diagnostics, emergency assistance and much more.

Other available features:

Power tilt-sliding sunroof with sunshade.
Audio system with seven-inch color touch screen display, SD card reader in center console, GPS navigation, multi-function controller, iPod support. Available only when sunroof is ordered.

Chassis and suspension

The Regal GS rides on a wheelbase of 107.8 inches (2738 mm) that delivers refined, well-balanced vehicle dynamics. It also features a four-wheel-independent suspension, with a unique High Performance Strut (HiPer Strut) front suspension design.

Drivers may choose more aggressive, performance-oriented damping characteristics through the standard Interactive Drive Control System.

Four-wheel-independent suspension, with a unique HiPer Strut front suspension design.

Ride height lowered 10 mm, and spring and stabilizer bar rates raised by 20 percent for more responsive handling.

HiPer Strut system helps reduce torque steer, improve grip and maintain negative camber during cornering.

Four-link independent rear suspension is designed to minimize unwanted toe and camber effects.

Both front and rear dampers incorporate active Computer Damping Control (CDC), continuously changing damper characteristics’ to maintain optimal vehicle ride control over varying road surfaces and profiles.

Four-wheel disc brake system with Brembo four-piston front calipers, larger ventilated front discs and high performance linings.

Electronic parking brake actuated via a center console-mounted control.
Standard StabiliTrak stability control system with integrated, full-function traction control.

Interactive Drive Control System

The Regal GS is equipped with the Interactive Drive Control System, which adapts damping and other driving functions to drivers’ preferences. While the Regal Turbo offers Interactive Drive Control with the choice of a standard adaptive setting, a more comfortable Tour mode and a Sport mode, the system in the Regal GS is deliberately tuned for those who enjoy a higher level of performance:

Standard: Delivers ideal all-round performance, while maintaining comfort characteristics for everyday driving.
Sport: Features a firmer level of suspension damping and reduces body roll for more agility.

GS: Readies the car for dynamic, enthusiast-level driving. Increased steering efforts provide more direct feedback to the driver, while increased damping levels ensure ultimate wheel control and reduced body roll for ultimate agility. Only the GS mode will alter the shift feel on an automatic transmission.

Efficient, proven powertrain

High-output Ecotec 2.0L turbocharged DOHC VVT engine with direct-injection technology provides acceleration of a V-6 with the fuel efficiency of a four-cylinder. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 27 mpg on the highway with the standard six-speed manual.

Output rated at 270 horsepower (201 kW) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (400 Nm). Peak torque is achieved at a relatively low 2400 rpm; 95 percent of peak torque is available between 2,300 and 4,900 rpm.

Highest specific output of any GM production engine, and at 135 horsepower per liter, the most power-dense engine certified by SAE.

Three-inch-diameter exhaust system provides reduced back pressure for higher engine power.

Standard six-speed manual transmission.

Available six-speed Aisin Warner automatic with Driver Shift Control (mid-model year availability).

Safety and crash-avoidance features

Regal GS offers standard and available safety features designed to protect occupants before, during and after a crash. Safety-enhancing features include:

Eight standard air bags including dual-stage frontal and side-impact air bags, rear-seat thorax side-impact air bags and head curtain side-impact air bags.
Three-point safety belts in all seating positions and air bag passenger sensing system to detect the presence of a small adult or child in the front passenger seat.

StabiliTrak electronic stability control to help drivers maintain vehicle control in certain driving situations, and help mitigate rollover crashes.

Four-wheel anti-lock brakes with brake assist and traction control.

Daytime running lamps for improved visibility to other vehicles as well as pedestrians.

LATCH system for safe and secure attachment of child safety seats.

Standard ultrasonic front and rear parking assist with audible warning.

Standard tire pressure monitoring system.

[Ferrer]

Buick Regal #9

[Ferrer]

Buick Regal #10

[Ferrer]

Buick Regal #11

[Ferrer]

Buick Regal #12

[RacingManiac]

Its not a 4x4 though right? This one is FWD only?

[Ferrer]

I thought it was four wheel drive, and that it said so in the press release. But it's not the case...

[Commodore GS/E]

GM: "AWD? Who the hell needs traction? Everybody knows that fwd is the best!!1!"

Not. The only logical reason why they could have excluded it is that they are planning some sort of Über-Regal with awd, but I'm not really believing that.

[RacingManiac]

Probably just the cheapest way to go.....

I think also they may be gauging sales result to see what the people are reacting to a "hot" Buick.....it is still a Buick....

[Ferrer]

Despite not being a four wheel drive fan, as everyone knows, 270bhp seem a bit too much to put through the front wheels only...

[RacingManiac]

Well the new gen of front steering knuckle design(Ford-speak: Revoknuckle, GM-speak: Hi-Per Strut) was designed to deal with that as they reduce the moment-arm which wheel can tug on the steering. Cars like the new Focus RS and some of the more powerful GM FWD platform car already employ this to good success....

[Ferrer]

Even with the trick suspension, there must be torque steer, and wheel spin in 1st, 2nd and maybe even third.

[Commodore GS/E]

Even with the trick suspension, there must be torque steer, and wheel spin in 1st, 2nd and maybe even third.

Does the Regal GS even use the HiPerStrut design? I thought it was only used in the OPC ._.

[porlamfer]

Buick Regal #13

Regal GS Chinese Version
Assembled by Shanghai-GM, the Chinese version of Regal GS goes on sale on 15 Sep 2011. This car has been localized. The output of the 2.0T SIDI engine is 150 kW, which is about 50 kW less than the production US-model. There exist also some exterior and interior differences.

[porlamfer]

Buick Regal #14

Regal GS Chinese Version

[porlamfer]

Buick Regal #15

Regal GS Chinese Version

[porlamfer]

Buick Regal #16

Regal GS Chinese Version

[porlamfer]

Buick Regal #17

Regal GS Chinese Version

[Ferrer]

A facelift, probably soon to be applied to the Insignia too #18

[Ferrer]

A facelift, probably soon to be applied to the Insignia too #19

(By the way, the output of the Regal GS engine has been reduced to 259bhp, the same as the standard Regal Turbo engine)

[jcp123]

A bit rough around the edges still, but a very very nice car.