2011 Buick Regal Sedan Reviews

Buick Regal

For 2011, the Buick Regal nameplate returns after a six-year hiatus. Mention the words Buick Regal and you're bound to get one of three responses. The 2011 Buick Regal is based on the Opel Insignia and as such shares that smart sedan's athletic handling and well-sorted European ride. Basically, you can consider this Buick's midsize car.

A turbocharged 2.0-liter engine sporting 220 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque is also offered and is a much better choice. Buick is positioning the 2011 Regal against the likes of the Acura TSX and Lexus IS 250. The 2011 Buick Regal is a midsize family sport sedan available in two trim levels: CXL and CXL Turbo.

Opting for the Regal CXL Turbo will add rear parking sensors and a 12-way power-adjustable front passenger seat -- both of which are available on the standard Regal CXL as part of the optional Comfort and Convenience package. Options exclusive to the turbo model include 19-inch wheels, xenon headlights and an Interactive Drive Control system with Sport, Tour and Standard modes. Options for either Regal include a sunroof, a hard-drive-based navigation system with digital music storage and a nine-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system.

The EPA estimates fuel economy at 19 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 23 mpg in combined driving for the 2.4-liter engine.

Safety

Standard safety equipment for all 2011 Buick Regal models include antilock brakes, traction control, stability control, On Star, front seat side-impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.

Driving Impressions

Quick steering and a firm, unwavering attitude on a winding road give the Regal plenty of sport sedan credibility. Sport mode noticeably improves the Regal's sportiness, while Tour gives the car a compliant ride without a hint of old-school Buick float.

The 2011 Buick Regal offers midsize sedan buyers a sporty option that can compete with some upscale models.

Not only that, Autoblog, like other reviewers, argues that the Regal can compete with upscale midsize sport sedans like the Acura TSX and Audi A4.

Among midsize cars, the Regal shines with performance that balances fuel economy and power, handling and ride comfort. All in all, if you're shopping midsize sedans, reviewers say that the Regal should be on your short list.

The Regal's price makes it more expensive than most base-model affordable midsize cars, but less expensive than other upscale midsize cars.

Both in the United States and in China -- Buick's primary market these days -- the regal slots under the Lacrosse. The Regal will feature only direct-injected four-cylinder engines, launching in spring 2010 with a 182-hp, 2.4-liter and becoming available shortly thereafter with a 220-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter. Production will start at Opel, Germany plant before eventually moving stateside.

There's also plenty of exterior style to attract American consumers' attention, with bulging fenders, a steeply raked roofline, and short overhangs. Opel designers were almost certainly not trying to channel Harley Earl with the car's sweeping side creases, but the Regal nevertheless makes for a convincing Buick even though it has received precious few cosmetic changes in its transatlantic journey.