The new Buick Regal is a good-looking vehicle. You comment, "I thought the Regal went away from the Buick lineup about 5 or 6 years ago." You are correct, but General Motors has brought the nameplate back. Actually, this car is not new because it is sold in Europe as an Opel and in Great Britain as a Vauxhall Insignia. It is simply being brought to North America as a sporty family sedan. Why didn't GM simply call it a Buick Insignia?
The 2011 Buick Regal is only available in one trim level - CXL. It is not un-attractive, but is simply a moderate, yet appealing mid-size sedan. It offers a smart ride, normal handling, and a number of premium touches. I remember my grandfather's big, shiny, long, black with chrome Buick. This Regal CXL is not even in that playing field.
The Buick Regal CXL is front-wheel drive, has four full-size doors, and a huge traditional-style trunk. It sports the Buick signature waterfall grill on the front, although it is slightly L-shaped that appears to flow like a waterfall rather than a slab of rock with creases. If you remove the distinctive grill and the badges, it is not easy to identify this as a Buick. Get behind the wheel, look over the dashboard and instrument panel, and you might think you are in the English Vauxhall Insignia. Oops - I forgot. You are in an Insignia. Only the badges have been changed.
Judy and I traveled to England, Wales, and Scotland not too long ago and we rented the Opel/Vauxhall Insignia often during the trip. It proved to be a wise decision and we really enjoyed the ride. Recently we have had the new 2011 Buick Regal CXL for a full week's test drive and it was an interesting comparison. We like the cabin layout. The interior's looks are definitely sleek and very European. The physical controls were not always easy to operate, however. Overall, the Buick Regal is a comfortable car to drive.
