The base Regal will do a lot to bring new people into Buick showrooms, and it could even steal from Acura and Lexus folks who are turned off by those brands' styling (Acura) or aging models (Lexus IS).

The big question is whether the Regal that's in showrooms today will be impressive enough to turn those fence-sitters into Regal owners. Until the turbo engine comes along, the Regal will simply be a terrific-looking, well-equipped, comfortable midsize sedan with terrific handling. If you don't need the extra power, it's a convincing package.