Performance
The Regal I tested packs the base engine — a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that's
good for 182 horsepower. There's no way around it: This is a sedate engine. You
probably won't notice that it lacks power during typical around-town driving or
during your commute, but once you hit even a moderate hill, the engine groans
with disapproval.
Let's just say this isn't an engine for driving enthusiasts.
When passing on the highway, the six-speed automatic transmission kicks down
somewhat aggressively, creating a lot of engine noise, but at least it gets to
the right gear. Even in this base configuration, the steering and handling
shine. The large, leather-wrapped steering wheel is tightly sprung, as if it
were loaded with a few dozen large rubber bands. It offers a European feel
without being heavy to turn. In sharp turns, the Regal snaps around bends like a
true sport sedan, and it feels well-planted. Fans of BMW or other rear-drive
cars might find the back end a bit light.
The terrific handling doesn't compromise ride quality. On various surfaces,
the Regal exhibited little road noise, with none of the floaty ride I found in
the redesigned LaCrosse. The Regal's short wheelbase is not a detriment here.
While the power is nothing to write home about, the mileage — at 20/30 mpg
city/highway — is quite good, matching up well with the Acura TSX's 21/30 mpg.
The TSX is the Regal's closest competitor in terms of price, power and size, and
while that car's 201-hp four-cylinder is a brilliant Honda engine, the TSX has
lackluster steering and a rather floaty ride. Maybe we could get the two
together on Match.com?
I did get to drive an early version of the turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder that will go on sale toward the end of 2010. You can read my thoughts in a drive report here. An even more powerful turbo model, called the GS, will go on sale sometime in 2011.
See also:
Transmission
Driver Shift Control (DSC)
Driver Shift Control (DSC) allows you to shift an automatic transmission similar
to a manual transmission. To use the DSC feature:
1. Move the shift lever from D (Drive) ...
Services Provided
• Emergency Fuel Delivery:
Delivery of enough fuel for the
vehicle to get to the nearest
service station.
• Lock-Out Service: Service to
unlock the vehicle if you are
locked out. A remot ...
Programmable Unlocking Feature
The following is the list of available programming
options:
Mode 1: Driver’s door unlocks when the
transmission is shifted into PARK (P).
Mode 2: All doors unlock when the transmission
is shi ...