The Buick Regal has been completely overhauled from rockers to roof for 2018, gaining a three-inch longer wheelbase and losing some 200 pounds in the process while offering a wide range of new technologies. But none of this is the biggest news for this tri-shield offering.
The car’s headlining feature is its new Sportback body, which melds the sleekness of a sedan with the convenience of a hatchback. This “coupe-like design” provides four-door access with ample cargo space. Behind the rear seats, it provides some 31.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold the 40/20/40 split backrests down and that figure exceeds 60, more space than you get in a BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe or Audi A5 Sportback.
But arguably even more significant that this is the concurrent reveal of the TourX, a station wagon version of the car, which provides lusty style with even greater practicality.
Riding slightly higher than the Sportback model, the TourX is designed to compete with cars like the Volvo V60 Cross Country and Audi Allroad, providing more than 73 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. All-wheel drive is standard and its body is some three inches longer than the Sportback’s.
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Motivating these Buicks is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Horsepower should measure 250. As for torque, if you opt for front-wheel drive (in the Sportback) it clocks in at 260 lb-ft, but if you go with optional all-wheel-drive (standard in the TourX), the twist swells to 295. Yes, please!
As for transmissions, front-drive variants feature an all-new nine-speed automatic. Examples equipped with four-corner traction make due with an eight-ratio self-shifter.
As mentioned, the Regal Sportback’s body is about 200 pounds lighter than its predecessor’s, getting stiffer, stronger and better in the process. In lightest form, this car weighs less than 3,750 pounds.
One groundbreaking feature is this car’s new active hood pedestrian safety system. At speeds between 16 and 30 miles an hour, it can detect an imminent collision with a person and lift the hood by about four inches to lessen the impact.
Inside, these Buicks should offer a cockpit-like cabin with a driver-focused center stack. Premium materials and comfortable accommodations are also a hallmark of this vehicle.
When it comes to standard equipment, the Regal is generously equipped, with every model featuring standard hill start assist, 10 air bags, heated side-view mirrors and a seven-inch infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An eight-inch screen is optional.
The 2018 Buick Regal will be built in Germany. It’s set to go on sale in the fourth-quarter of the year. Pricing and efficiency information has not been released yet.
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