Regal gets a sporty, techy makeover
When you look at the newest models, you’ll notice first in the 2014 Regal what Buick describes as “a more contemporary and premium presence.” Regal’s body sits a tad lower and is slightly wider. While the front waterfall grille feature and midsection of the midsize sedan remain the same, the front gets a new look and the back end gets a slight makeover, too.
The 2014 Regal starts at $30,615 (including a $925 destination charge). A more fuel efficient 2.4-liter 4-cylinder with eAssist starts at $32,485. The Regal AWD starts at $32,790, while the potent Regal GS is priced starting at $37,830. Updates for 2014 include new exterior design elements, with signature wing-shape LED lighting; a revised interior with GM’s next-generation IntelliLink infotainment system; new advanced safety features; a more powerful and fuel-efficient turbo engine; and a new all-wheel-drive system, with an electronic limited-slip differential to improve traction and handling.
We found the updated version has added interior amenities, and is refined, simpler and uncluttered. The center stack radio controls now set up with seven buttons instead of 17, for instance. The new steering wheel has push controls for safety and infotainment, and a new instrument panel has a larger 8-inch color touchscreen with intuitive controls and smartphone-influenced swipe recognition for easier navigation.
Dual-zone climate controls also feature “capacitive-touch operation.” There is attractive ice-blue lighting and the new instrument cluster has a high-resolution, 4.2-inch color display that provides vehicle information, navigation, audio system functions, and phone features.
Under the hood is a new 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine that is standard on both Regal and Regal GS. Horsepower is rated at 259, while the 295 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine gets 18 percent more horsepower than the 2013 Regal Turbo and brings improved fuel economy.
A 2.4-liter engine with eAssist light electrification technology gets EPA-estimated ratings of 25/36 mpg; it comes as a front-driver only. Sixspeed automatic transmissions are set up with both engines and a six-speed manual is available in the front-drive Regal GS only.
We drove three versions of the new Regal on a recent drive in Ohio and Kentucky, motoring over a wide selection of roads that ranged from freeways to narrow and winding country lanes.
What really stands out on the Regal GS are the driving differences that come as a result of Buick’s Interactive Drive Control system, allowing us to select different drive modes, including a track-oriented competi- tive setting. It’s also distinguished by increased steering effort that gives better feedback, more sophisticated suspension technologies that reduce body roll, and a four-wheel-disc brake system that features front Brembo four-piston front calipers and larger rotors. The GS trim also has a lowered ride height and 19-inch aluminum wheels to enunciate a sporty stance. We enjoyed the smooth-shifting six-speed manual, a rare offering in today’s car world.
Although we drove both the front drive and the AWD, we did not encounter traction-compromised surfaces to test out the prowess of the AWD system that not only transfers up to 90 percent of traction from front-to-rear, but also across the back end from wheel-to-wheel, when needed. We are familiar with this system and GM’s use of it and recommend it as a safety boost for owners who live in inclement regions of the country.