Sneak peek: Turbocharged 2011 Buick Regal sedan

Buick’s second all-new model since GM emerged from bankruptcy will take a classic name: Regal. The Regal will debut at the LA Auto Show next month.

Smaller than Buick’s other new model, the LaCrosse, the Regal is about the size of the Acura TSX and the Volvo S60. It will have a choice of two four-cylinder engines: a 2.4-liter, making 182 hp, and a turbocharged 2.0-liter version putting out 220 hp. Each will come with a standard six-speed automatic transmission.

Adjustable suspension in the turbocharged model will have three settings: Normal, Touring, and Sport. Supposedly, the Touring mode will soften the suspension for highway drives, while Sport will firm it up for winding roads.

The standard model goes on sale in the spring, with the turbo following next June.

The new Regal is based on the European Opel Insignia and has already been a hit in China. Pricing has not yet been announced. No news yet about resurrecting the grand daddies of all Buick muscle cars: The Grand Sport or Grand National.

—Eric Evarts 

Comments

[Sam]

If Buick wants to gain younger customers, it should also bring the wagon version of this car and the 6-speed manual. I would but that version of this vehicle; I won't but a plain-jane ssedan version.

[Ron]

The neww 2011 Buick regal needs to have a v6 option. All the other cars they are in competition with do. Performance will be a big issue in the states whether it sells well or whether it doesn't. It's a great looking car to come from GM.