2012 Buick Regal GS

Buick has unveiled the halo version of its Regal, the model that’s based on the Vauxhall / Opel Insignia.

Called the GS, it will come with a turbocharged two-litre Ecotec four-cylinder engine connected to a six-speed manual transmission (a six-speed automatic will also be available later). An output of 255 bhp (190 kW / 258 PS) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque promises brisk performance, with Buick estimating that the 0-60 mph (96 km/h) sprint should be achieved in under seven seconds.

But the Regal GS is front-wheel drive, which raises a rather obvious question: Why didn’t Buick simply badge-engineer the Vauxhall Insignia VXR (also known as the Opel Insignia OPC)?



Not only do the European cars get a 2.8 litre V6 turbocharged Ecotec motor with 320 bhp (239 kW / 325 PS) and 435 Nm (321 lb-ft) of torque, but they also feature permanent four-wheel drive. As a result, the VXR / OPC gets from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h).



However, one benefit of sticking to just four cylinders is better fuel consumption. The manual and automatic versions of the Regal GS achieve Highway economy figures of  29.0 mpg US (34.8 mpg UK / 8.1 l/100km) and 28.0 mpg US (33.6 mpg UK / 8.4 l/100km) respectively, which is virtually identical to what the 220 bhp (164 kW / 223 PS) Regal CXL Turbo manages.



255 bhp is still a lot of horsepower to go through the front wheels, though. To help combat the inevitable torque steer, Buick has fitted High Performance Strut (HiPerStrut) front suspension which maintains negative camber during cornering.



Other chassis gizmos include active Computer Damping Control (CDC), which continuously modifies damper characteristics according to the road surface, and an Interactive Driver Control System that changes suspension settings and steering response depending on whether ‘Standard’, ‘Sport’ or ‘GS’ mode has been selected. Whether all of that technology is a substitute for all-wheel drive remains to be seen.



The Regal GS is scheduled to go on sale in the second half of 2011, so Buick is certainly making anyone who’s interested in the car wait for it.



Pricing has not yet been confirmed, but the GS will enjoy a decent standard specification which includes 19” alloy wheels (20” optional), Bluetooth telephone connectivity, passive keyless entry with push-button start, Harmon/Kardon 320 watt sound system with nine speakers, XM Satellite Radio, sports seats with leather upholstery, heated driver and front passenger seats, front and rear park distance control and bi-xenon headlights.