NEW BUICK REGAL
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Car and Driver website visitor rankings:
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| Here's how our visitors have reviewed this vehicle. |
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Average Rating |
| Overall |
8.22 |
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| Vehicle Styling |
7.59 |
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| Braking |
8.14 |
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| Handling |
7.86 |
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| Fuel Economy |
7.39 |
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| Interior Comfort |
8.14 |
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| Acceleration |
9.26 |
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| Dependability |
8.43 |
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| Fit and Finish |
6.93 |
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| Transmission |
8.54 |
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| Ride |
8.56 |
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| Rating Scale: 1= worst 10= best
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| To read other User Road Tests or to submit your own review click here |
(Read more of Car and Driver's review here)
 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
A competent sedan for the money, but in a category full of excellent competitors, the aging Regal fails to elicit much enthusiasm.
Pros
Powerful supercharged V6 in GS, spacious interior, easy-to-use controls.
Cons
Dated interior lacks modern features, seats aren''t supportive, can''t match resale value of its competitors.
What''s New for 2004
For 2004, the Regal gets only minor cosmetic changes. New wood trim is offered along with a new ETR audio system with speed-sensing volume, RDS and a CD player. The Leather package has been upgraded with dual-zone climate control and a split-folding rear seat. Carpeted floor mats that were standard equipment last year are now part of an options package that must be purchased at additional cost.
Overview
Introduction:
Although nearly identical to the Buick Century, the Regal can be had with more upscale features. There is also a performance version for those who want more fun in their family sedan. With a choice of two strong V6 engines, a long list of standard features and a reasonable sticker price, the Regal remains a reasonable alternative to the import sedans. A lack of upgrades over the years has left it lagging behind the competition (a redesign is due next year), but for those who can do without the latest gadgets the Regal offers a solid mix of practicality and value. Ante up for the high-performance GS model, and you''ll be rewarded with a nondescript sport sedan that will quietly slip under the nose of the local authorities while dishing out healthy doses of supercharged power. If you''re shopping for a midsize family four-door with an American nameplate, the Regal is worth a look. But if you''re after the best family sedan in the segment, the Regal''s newer competitors offer better overall packages. Make sure you test-drive them before making a decision.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The Regal comes in two trim levels: LS and GS. The Regal''s basic design is similar to the lower-rung Century, with a unique front fascia being the most noticeable difference between the two. LS versions feature a chrome-accented grille, while GS models have a body-colored grille and larger 16-inch alloy wheels and performance tires. In keeping with Buick''s tradition of value, base LS Regals come standard with features like keyless entry, a six-speaker concert sound stereo system and large, comfortable seats with standard six-way power adjustment for the driver. Some of the notable optional equipment available on the LS includes a leather-trimmed interior, dual-zone climate control and the OnStar communications system. Antilock brakes and traction control are optional on the LS, but standard on GS trim levels.
Powertrains and Performance:
LS models are powered by a 3.8-liter V6 that boasts an even 200 horses. Move up to the GS, and you get a serious dose of horsepower in the form of a supercharged 3.8-liter V6 that lays down 240 horsepower through a heavy-duty four-speed automatic transmission. With EPA mileage ratings of 19 mpg city/29 mpg highway for the base V6 and 17 city/27 highway for the supercharged version, both engines offer a good combination of power and economy.
Safety:
Antilock brakes and traction control are optional on the LS and standard on the GS. A side-impact airbag for the driver only is optional on both Regals. Additionally, all cars are eligible for OnStar, GM''s 24-hour on-demand driver assistance system. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the Regal four stars (out of a possible five) for driver-side frontal-impact protection and three stars for front passenger. Side-impact tests resulted in three-star ratings for both front and rear passengers. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Regal an "Acceptable" rating in frontal offset crash testing.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
The Regal''s dated interior design is functional but bland. Special Joseph Abboud versions offer a more upscale look with rich chestnut leather seating and two-tone trim on the inside. A premium audio system, sunroof and satellite steering wheel controls are also included on all Abboud Regals. Trunk space is generous for a midsize car with a maximum capacity of 17 cubic feet.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
In LS form, the Regal has adequate power for just about any kind of driving. Our choice, however, would be the Regal GS, as its supercharged V6 provides serious speed when needed with imperceptible shifts from the excellent four-speed automatic transmission. Both Regals handle reasonably well, but road feel is virtually nonexistent. The seats are initially comfortable but grow less so on longer trips due to lack of support, and the ride is pleasant so long as the suspension isn''t overly taxed by the driver or the road surface. Regardless of which model you consider, rest assured that it will provide a mostly smooth ride with plenty of room for five.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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