The performance Gods have answered the call once again and this time it's with a hot hatchback from Buick. This past Wednesday in Milford, Michigan GM announced an all new all-wheel drive 2018 Buick Regal GS.
The Regal GS is based on the same "sportback" body style as the new standard Regal, but even though it is a hatchback, it looks very much like a normal sedan with a trunk.
Unlike the W-body GS with its famous L67 supercharged 3.8 litre or the last GS using a turbo 4 cylinder, the 2018 model is keeping it old school and going naturally aspirated. GM is sticking with the 3.6 liter V6 used in the 6th generation Camaro, but instead of 335 hp, the Buick receives 310 hp with 282 lb-ft of torque.
All this power will be sent through a 9 speed dual clutch automatic that shares the same torque vectoring all wheel drive system as the Ford Focus RS. This will allow for a variable amount of torque to be sent individually to each rear wheel. In the RS this can be used for "Drift mode," although it's not likely we will see a drifting Buick Regal anytime soon.
Buick
The braking and suspension department was put hard to work as the new Regal comes with the second generation of Continuous Damping Control. Much like magnetic ride control, this system is capable of 500 adjustments per second making the shocks and struts conform to any road and any driving style. Coupled with fully independent suspension, large Brembo brakes and 19 inch wheels, this Buick means business.
Buick
Inside, we see GS specific sport seats that are heated, cooled, massaging and come with adjustable thigh and lumbar support. The steering wheel resembles most true sports cars with a flat bottom and the pedals are unique to the GS as well. Convenience and safety features are up to par with any high end vehicle and they include available, lane keep and departure warning, forward collision alert, emergency braking and adaptive cruise along with pedestrian braking and GM's famous full color heads up display.
Buick
The real shocker here is the price, as this car beats out its two closest competitors by a large margin. The GS will cost $39,990 with destination charge. Compare that to the Acura TLX A-Spec SH-AWD at $45,750 and the Lexus IS350 F-sport priced at $47,245.
We will see this car at dealerships later this year. Or will we? Considering the price, package and that the GS is an absolute stunner, there is a good chance these will be selling like hot cakes. We didn't get a Grand National just yet, but this will more than do for now.
H/T Autoblog
Related: Bring back the Buick Grand National and take my money!