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:
2004 Buick Rainier Review
The 2004 Buick Rainier leaves little doubt that an automaker can create two
different vehicles with different characters from one platform.
That's good news, considering all the automakers have ma ...
Radio Messages
CAL ERR (Calibration Error): The audio system
has been calibrated for your vehicle from the
factory. If CAL ERR displays it means that
the radio has not been configured properly for
your vehicle a ...
Automatic Transmission
The automatic transmission has a
shift lever located on the console
between the seats.
P (Park): This position locks the
front wheels. It is the best position
to use when starting the engin ...
