Buick Regal reviews

1998 Buick Regal Interior Features

The Regal is the sportiest of the Buicks, a trait that's reflected inside. Although the controls and instrument panel design look tame compared to a Pontiac Grand Prix, it's pretty daring by Buick standards. An attractive cowling curves over the instrument panel and the dashboard, in turn, sweeps nicely into the door panels.

Major instruments are readily visible through a large, leather-wrapped steering wheel, whose upper half is open to afford just such a view. Optional auxiliary audio controls are built into the upper wheel spokes, and you can honk the horn by pressing on the center of the hub, which houses the driver's airbag.

Regal's bucket seats, covered in leather in GS models, don't offer quite as much lateral support as those in the Pontiac GTP, but offer better comfort for long trips and are a definite improvement over the previous model. Our test car came with optional heated seats, a welcome in the depths of a Michigan winter. We also appreciated the heated outside mirrors, which are standard on all Regals.

Part of GM's formula for winning the mid-size sedan wars is packing in more comfort and convenience features than its target competitors, and the Regal is rolling proof of this.The Regal LS is well-equipped, with dual-zone air conditioning, excellent audio, power windows, mirrors and door locks, antilock brakes (ABS) and low-speed traction control, just to hit the highlights.

The GS is loaded. Rather than detail its contents, we suggest you study the data panel; it'll take awhile, because there's a lot to read. However, one thoughtful item--a warning light to let you know when you have low pressure in one or more tires--does bear mention here. Low pressure is the prime cause of reduced tire life, and can substantially reduce traction, particularly on wet pavement.

Interior room is a major asset of the Regal. There's plenty of space up front, which you'd expect, and plenty of space in back, which you might not. Unlike many mid-size cars, three adults can sit back there comfortably, without territorial squabbles or contortions, and they can do so for extended periods of time. And because the rear seats are slightly elevated, they'll have a good forward view, to help them critique your driving. The center seating position isn't quite as comfortable as the outboard spots, and it lacks a three-point belt, but in general the Regal will shame its import competition for rear seat roominess.

The rear seat also features a center pass-through to the trunk, for stowing longish cargo, and the option of an integrated child safety seat.

Speaking of safety, the Regal stacks up as contemporary, though not outstanding. Besides standard ABS and traction control, it has the required dual front airbags, plus side impact protection and GM's daytime running lamps.