I have driven the Regal GS last year.
And was very impressed by it.
This time, I got to spend a few days with an AWD version. And this one was also was an automatic.
(Which I assume is a more popular choice.)
I think the Regal/Opel Insignia is a great design. It still looks modern and fresh to me.
(actually as good or better than the new Chrysler 200)
Most of the interior is still the same. Most changes are around the console area. And it is now even better than before.
The fit and finish is as good as it gets. Everything is super solid and material used everywhere are of high quality.
The Bose stereo of my test car sounds great. The seats are super comfortable and very supportive.
Quite a high quality place to spend some time.
Although the back seat isn't as roomy as other mid sized sedans out there. A problem it shared with the pre-2014 Malibu.
The 2.0 Liter engine is, as always, super smooth and powerful. (VW should take a lesson on how to make a smooth 2.0 Liter Turbo engine. With more power.)
It is rated at 19/27 MPG.
I did get 19 in the city, (but you have to drive it like a Prius.)
And I had no problem getting 31 HWY.
The steering feels very good, and a bit firm. As it should be in a sportier version.
But I must say, still not as perfect as the Fusion 2.0 Liter.
There is still a Sport button on top of the console.
As just like before, it doesn't change a thing. It is really weird that they even offer it.
Suspension, steering and transmission behave exactly the same either way...
There was almost zero torque steer with the FWD model I drove last year. And of course, there is none whatsoever with tis AWD model.
The car always feels very secure and safe to drive.
Now for the 6 speed auto.
It is mostly very smooth. And a perfect companion for HWY driving.
But it does always reach for the higher gear. Which becomes annoying in fun canyon roads. Where you have to push it into downshifting most of the time.
Sure, you can use the "fake manual" which actually works really well and fixes the problem.
But I just wished they had a simple S mode that could hold the gears a little longer.
And paddle shifts are missing. (For once they could be really useful)
Otherwise, I think the Regal is a fantastic car.
the last one I drove had a weird USB problem where it couldn't recognize most playlists on my phone.
GM's new IntelliLink is as good as it can be. And there are no problems to report.
The Regal is a great driving car. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a really good upscale sedan with German road manners.
But it isn't cheap.
It starts at around $30 600. The GS model at $37 800.
My test car had about every single option and was $44 275.
Which seems pretty high.
Until I priced an Audi A4 with similar equipment, at above $48 000.
The main problem might still be Buick's image. Which is not in the same league as Audi's.
(The Regal name doesn't help either).
I will try to get a "regular", non GS model to drive soon. As I think it might be a batter deal. Since both cars use the same engine.
I hope more and more people keep an open mind and give the Regal a chance.
As it is truly a great car.