2012 Buick Regal Sedan

Summary

Provided by NADAguides.com

A mid-size sedan available in three different trim levels, the 2012 Buick Regal offers drivers the option of the base model, premium model, and turbo model. The standard Regal is powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 182 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque. Upgrading to the premium trim level grants the driver universal home remote, push button start, remote vehicle starter, 8-way power seat, and rear parking assist. For increased performance Buick offers a turbo trim, powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-charged 4-cylinder engine that yields 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Fuel mileage falls within an EPA estimated range of 18 mpg city to 32 mpg highway, depending on engine selection. Available features include 20-inch wheels, halogen headlamps, heated outside mirrors, power sunroof, 9-speaker premium audio system, navigation, hands-free phone capabilities, push button start, keyless start, rear parking assist, steering-wheel mounted controls, USB port, and universal home remote. Safety is comprised of advanced airbag system, anti-lock braking, traction control, OnStar, and tire pressure monitoring. The Regal is backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty.

Benefits of Driving a 2012 Buick Regal Sedan

The Regal is sized slightly smaller than mainstream mid-size sedans like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord or Nissan Altima but a little larger than mid-size performance/luxury sedans like the Acura TSX or Volvo S60. At a price that's well below those premium brand sedans, GM is pitching the Buick--especially the performance-oriented GS--as a sporty alternative. That said, with a very full range of standard convenience and safety features, plus a fashionable look, the Regal is safe and sporty, yet still comfortable, alternative for families who see the mainstream offerings as a little too boring.

What's new for 2012?

Following its introduction in 2011 as an all-new model, the Buick Regal gets some notable changes for 2012. Among the biggest developments is a new eAssist model, which pairs a gasoline engine with a 15-hp battery-powered electric motor, helping to generate boosts of power when needed and increases mileage o 37 mpg on the highway. A sporty GS model also joins the lineup, with a turbocharged 2.0L Ecotec engine making 270 horsepower and paired with either a standard 6-speed manual or available 6-speed automatic. All 2012 models get a new 7-inch touchscreen with Buick IntelliLink standard.

Model Strengths

Sporty styling
nicely detailed interior
fuel-efficient eAssist model
value pricing for lots of standard features
performance-tuned GS model

Model Review

GM offers the 2012 Buick Regal with three different engines: a 182-horsepower, 2.4L 4-cylinder on the base Regal, a 220-hp, 2.0L 4-cylinder on the sporty Turbo model and a 270-hp 2.0L on the performance-minded GS. The base models are hooked up to a 6-speed automatic transmission in this front-wheel-drive sedan, while the Turbo and GS models are available with either a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual.

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