For some younger drivers the Buick Regal might seem like a new model, but it has actually been around since 1973. In 2004 the Regal took a leave of absence until 2011 when it was re-introduced, positioned as an upscale sport sedan.
Introduction
Involved in one of the most highly competitive auto-markets, the refreshed Regal needed to make itself known and with a large family of trims that offer choices for everyone, it has certainly been able.
Speaking of a large family, the Regal is offered in seven different trims separated primarily based on their engine/transmission. Three trims (Base, Premium I, and Premium II) come with a 2.4L Ecotec 4-cylinder engine with eAssist paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. The remaining four trims are all equipped with a 2.0L Turbo Ecotec DOHC 4-cylinder engine. However, the most expensive trim, the GS, has a high-output version that produces 270 HP. The other three trims (Turbo Premium I, Turbo Premium II and Turbo Premium III) use the standard turbo engine that still puts out a strong 220 HP while attached to a different six-speed automatic transmission for the turbo engines. The base eAssist engine is very efficient achieving 36 mpg on the highway while the turbo (not in the GS) gets up to 29 mpg.
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Which Style To Buy?
2013 Buick Regal Base
Recommended for: Shoppers seeking a well-priced and sporty American sedan
Buick wants consumers to think “comfort” when thinking of the luxury GM brand so even the base trim is well equipped. The interior receives French seam-stitched leather seating, a 7” Intellilink touch-screen and ice-blue ambient illumination. Other standards include StabiliTrak electronic stability control, premium 7-speaker audio system and dual zone automatic climate control. Driver and front passenger seats are heated while only the driver has an 8-way power seat and 4-way power lumbar adjuster. A SiriusXM Satellite Radio trial is included with TravelLink, which updates the driver on the latest traffic and weather conditions wherever they go.
2013 Buick Regal GS
Most PopularRecommended for: Drivers looking for the fastest Regal in production
The GS was made to perform, inside and out. The exterior is designed with special sport-styled fascias and comes with 19” twin-spoke wheels only offered on the GS. Other items exclusive to the GS include the HiPer strut front suspension and four-wheel antilock disc brakes with Brake Assist and Brembo front calipers. The larger rotors build more brake power, faster allowing for shorter stopping distances and better control. All the bells and whistles are also added, including the Harman Kardon 336-watt, 5.1 Matrix surround, 9-speaker audio system. Parking assist is added to the front bumper as well for pulling into small parking spots and tight garages.
2013 Buick Regal Premium 1
Most PopularRecommended for: Those wanting equal comfort for driver and passenger alike
Luxury extends on to the passenger with the non-turbo engine’s mid-level trim as both the driver and passenger have access to 12-way power adjustable seats (8-way seat, 4-way lumbar). The key fob gets a little fancier as well with Passive Keyless entry, push button start and remote start. The driver is helped in reverse with the rear Parking Assist feature and a 120V AC power outlet makes its way to the interior. The 7” touch-screen is on this trim as well however 18” alloys are equipped instead of the 17” ones on the base trim.
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