The Buick Regal GS, a sportier variant of the Regal Sportback, emerges as a compelling option for those seeking a blend of athletic aesthetics and everyday practicality. Departing from Buick’s traditional luxury car lineage, the 2018 Buick Regal Gs is engineered to capture the attention of a younger, more enthusiastic demographic. Equipped exclusively with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission, and confident all-wheel drive, this model promises an engaging driving experience wrapped in a visually striking package.
However, while the 2018 Buick Regal GS undeniably boasts an emotionally charged design and integrates contemporary onboard technology, its success hinges on delivering the dynamic driving performance its sporty appearance suggests. This review delves into whether the 2018 Buick Regal GS truly lives up to its sporty aspirations, or if it prioritizes style and comfort over outright performance.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: More Competent Than Thrilling
Under the hood, the 2018 Buick Regal GS features a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing a respectable 310 horsepower and 282 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with driving modes including Normal, Sport, and GS (effectively a Sport+ mode), expectations are set for a multifaceted driving character. Yet, in practice, the Regal GS exhibits a more subdued personality.
In its default Normal mode, the nine-speed automatic transmission prioritizes seamless upshifts, aligning with the demands of daily commutes and fuel efficiency rather than spirited driving. Engaging Sport or GS modes results in minimal discernible change. While the transmission may hold gears for slightly longer durations, a noticeable improvement in throttle response or shift mapping immediacy remains elusive. The absence of paddle shifters further limits driver engagement, and a manual transmission option is not available.
While the Buick Regal GS is presented as a sporty vehicle, it is not a corner-carving sports sedan. The Sport and GS modes are intended to stiffen the suspension, utilizing Continuous Damping Control to dynamically adjust chassis characteristics. The Regal GS capably tackles corners and effectively absorbs road imperfections, delivering a comfortable rather than firm ride. However, the differentiation between the driving modes in terms of suspension feel is subtle at best. Steering weight is the most tangible difference, progressing from super-light in Normal mode to a more substantial feel in GS mode.
The stop-start system operates discreetly and cannot be deactivated. This fuel-saving technology contributes to the EPA-estimated fuel economy figures of 19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined. Real-world testing yielded a combined fuel economy of around 19.2 mpg, reflecting a driving style that occasionally explored the vehicle’s purported sportiness.
Exterior Appeal and Interior Disappointments
The Sport Red exterior of the test vehicle accentuates the Regal Sportback’s flowing silhouette, a departure from conventional Buick designs. The profile evokes comparisons to the Audi A5 Sportback, while the front fascia, characterized by slender headlamps and prominent air intakes, projects an image of inherent athleticism. The 2018 Buick Regal GS certainly captures attention with its exterior styling.
However, the interior of the 2018 Buick Regal GS falls short of expectations set by its exterior. The cabin incorporates budget-feeling buttons, substantial plastic elements, and an overall dated aesthetic. Were it not for the inclusion of an 8-inch touchscreen, the interior design might be perceived as belonging to a vehicle from the mid-2000s. The dashboard design lacks visual dynamism, and some button sizes appear disproportionately large.
Despite the interior’s shortcomings, the front seats of the 2018 Buick Regal GS are a highlight. Standard sport seats provide exceptional support and include heating, cooling, and massage functions. These seats offer a high level of comfort and feature integration.
The Regal Sportback configuration significantly enhances cargo capacity. It offers 31.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expanding to an impressive 60.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. This cargo volume rivals that of compact crossover SUVs like the Mazda CX-5, making the Regal GS a practical choice for individuals who require substantial cargo space but prefer a car to an SUV.
Technology and Features: User-Friendly and Well-Equipped
The 2018 Buick Regal GS is equipped with Buick’s IntelliLink infotainment system, accessed through the aforementioned touchscreen. The system features a single physical home button and a logically structured interface.
The IntelliLink system includes integrated applications such as news briefs and the Marketplace feature, enabling in-car ordering from services like Dunkin’ Donuts. The navigation system is user-friendly and accurately interprets street names. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard, along with a Wi-Fi hotspot. Wireless smartphone charging is available, and the vehicle offers three USB ports and a 12-volt outlet.
A head-up display is also available, projecting clear and customizable information onto the windshield, remaining visible even when wearing polarized sunglasses. Standard safety features across the 2018 Buick Regal GS range include blind-spot monitoring and a rear-seat reminder. Adaptive cruise control is offered as part of the Driver Confidence Package II, capable of bringing the vehicle to a complete stop and pausing for up to 3 seconds before disengaging.
Conclusion: A Stylish and Functional Daily Driver
With a starting price of $39,995 (excluding destination charges), the 2018 Buick Regal GS presents a competitive offering. Adding the Driver Confidence Package II for adaptive cruise control enhances its feature set, bringing the total to around $40,760.
Key competitors to the 2018 Buick Regal GS include the Kia Stinger, available with a twin-turbo V6 and rear- or all-wheel drive, and premium options like the Audi A5 Sportback and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe.
The 2018 Buick Regal GS distinguishes itself as a functional and comfortable vehicle suitable for daily driving, offering a unique alternative to conventional sedans and crossovers. While its sporty driving dynamics may not fully match its visual promise, it remains a commendable effort from Buick, blending distinctive styling with practical utility.
