The last time a GS model was released by Buick, it was 2004. This model was powered by a 3.8 L L67 Series II supercharged V6 that produced 240 HP and 280 lb-ft of torque. Technology, and the constant need to improve fuel economy, has allowed Buick to pump out more horsepower out of a smaller engine, all while providing an estimated fuel economy of 33 MPG.
UPDATE 08/04/2011: Buick has announced that the Regal GS will be put on sale this fall at a starting price of $35,310, which includes a $860 destination charge. Standard features on the GS model include: push-button start; a leather-wrapped, flat-bottom sport steering wheel with audio controls; metal sport pedals; and leather-appointed, heated and 12-way adjustable sport seating, a Harman Kardon premium 336-watt, 5.1 Matrix Surround Sound system with nine speakers.
The Regal GS exterior is defined by prominent, vertical air intake slots and specific grille treatment. The vertical elements of the vehicle are accented in a satin-metallic finish and feature a pair of integrated, satin-metallic trapezoidal exhaust outlets and an integrated rear spoiler.
The GS cuts a sportier stance, too, with a lower ride height than other Regal models and aggressive 19-inch, 5-Twin Spoke alloy wheels and all-season tires (20-inch, 5-Twin Spoke polished alloy wheels with performance tires are optional).
Standard features on the GS model include: push-button start; a leather-wrapped, flat-bottom sport steering wheel with audio controls; metal sport pedals; and leather-appointed, heated and 12-way adjustable sport seating, a Harman Kardon premium 336-watt, 5.1 Matrix Surround Sound system with nine speakers.
For the interior, Buick is offering a racing-inspired, flat-bottom sport steering wheel and metal sport pedals, along with leather-appointed 12-way power-adjustable sport driver and front passenger heated seats.
Engine
The 2012 Buick Regal GS has the privilege of being powered by Buick’s exclusive Ecotec 2.0L direct-injected turbocharged four-cylinder, boasting of direct injection, continuously variable valve timing, forged steel crankshaft, a twin scroll design turbocharger, and an efficient intercooler system. This whole package was SAE-certified to deliver 270 horsepower (201kW) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (400Nm), up from the 255 HP originally predicted and much higher than the current Regal Turbo and its 220 HP. The peak torque is available at a low 2,400 rpm, but 95% of it is available between 2,300 and 4,900 rpm.
The EcoTec engine is mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission, but a six-speed automatic will be available at a later date. This complete package allows the Regal GS to complete the 0-60 mph sprint in 6.7 seconds, nearly two seconds faster than the Regal Turbo.If anyone thinks fuel economy will suffer because of the added horsepower, they would be absolutely wrong. The Buick Regal GS actually gets 33 MPG (7.1L/100km), which is about 1 MPG better than the standard Regal. This vehicle truly achieves the best of both worlds.
Buick Regal GS Features
The Buick Regal GS features a four-wheel-independent suspension with a unique High Performance Strut (HiPerStrut) front suspension design. The HiPerStrut system minimizes torque steer and maximizes the contact between the tires and the road when cornering. The Interactive Drive Control System chassis technology, which increases handling and stability, is also present in the Regal GS.
This system comes with two options in the Regal Turbo, “Standard” for everyday use and “Sport” for a higher level of performance. However, unlike the Regal Turbo, the Regal GS also gets a “GS” mode which further tightens the suspension and steering response. Braking power for the GS comes in the large diameter four-wheel disc brake system that features big, four-piston Brembo front calipers, as well as standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control with integrated, full-speed traction control.
Buick Regal GS Pricing
The Buick Regal GS will be in dealerships in the fall of 2011 with a starting price of $35,310, which includes a $860 destination charge.
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