2019 Buick Regal Pros vs Cons

With the release of the new 2019 Buick Regal, it’s clear Buick is no longer a brand just for senior citizens. This cool midsize sedan should definitely appeal to younger buyers. Not only does the Regal deliver a responsive performance, but it also has a very stylish exterior. A good number of standard features also makes the Regal one of the segment’s better values. However, does the new Regal deserve to be chosen over the competition?

What’s New for 2019?

This year, Buick has added a more luxurious Avenir trim to the lineup. The Essence trim now features an upgraded climate control system with an ionizer.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2019 Buick Regal – The Pros

1. Base Engine Has Ample Thrust

Don’t overlook the Regal’s base engine. This turbocharged four-cylinder develops a competitive 250 horsepower. The Regal’s competent power enables it to hit 60 mph in around 6.2 seconds. When passing vehicles on the highway, you’ll find the sedan’s thrust to come in handy. Highway fuel economy is also not bad for a family-sized car. According to the EPA’s estimates, drivers can anticipate getting up to 32 mpg on the interstate.

2. Performance-Focused GS Model

The GS model is the most exciting version of the 2019 Buick Regal. Unlike the other trims, it comes equipped with a 310-horsepower V6. The enhanced output lowers the sedan’s 0-60 time to a more exciting 5.8 seconds. When you step on the accelerator, you’ll immediately hear the V6’s engine more intimidating growl. Aside from packing more power, the Regal GS also benefits from sportier suspension tuning and high-performance Brembo brakes.

3. Confident Handling and a Friendly Ride

Buick vehicles have long held a reputation for delivering a comfortable ride. The 2019 Buick Regal is no exception. When you take the Regal for a cruise, you’ll quickly grow to appreciate its good ride quality. While the standard suspension is softer, even the GS model’s stiffer shocks effectively absorb rough pavement. You will also enjoy the Regal’s composed handling. A light steering system makes the sedan easy to drive.

4. Stylish Exterior Design

The 2019 Buick Regal is far from a stale-looking family car. In fact, it actually has a very dynamic appearance. Its sleek hatchback design will catch the eye of a lot of people. This Buick sedan’s body style looks a lot similar to the much pricier Audi A5 Sportback. Gloss black trim and a set of 19-inch alloy wheels come equipped on the luxurious Avenir model. Meanwhile, race-inspired front and rear bumpers help give the GS model a sportier look.

5. Great for Family Road Trips

In comparison to the previous-generation Regal, the new model is a lot more family-friendly. Passengers riding in the back can certainly take advantage of the extra head- and legroom. If you decide to take a long road trip, the Regal’s comfy driving position will help keep you motivated. The sedan’s seat cushions have a very pleasant feel. Buick’s exclusive QuietTuning helps block wind and road noise.

6. Hatchback Design

A hatchback design adds to the Regal’s everyday practicality. You’ll enjoy more than 31 cubic feet of cargo space. Some of today’s crossover SUVs don’t provide nearly as much room for your extra stuff. From holiday gifts to home improvement supplies, you’ll be able to cram plenty of stuff in the back of the 2019 Buick Regal. Furthermore, the rear hatch makes it easier for you to load large items.

7. Popular High-Tech Features Come Standard

Drivers seeking the maximum luxury will gravitate towards the upper trims. However, a lot of popular high-tech features come standard. Designed to support multiple devices, the standard 4G Wi-Fi hot spot will keep your entire family connected to the web. Meanwhile, Apple Car and Android Auto enables you to bring up your favorite apps on the touch-screen display. Keyless ignition and a USB port come standard as well.

8. Valuable Safety Features

Some valuable safety technologies are available for the 2019 Buick Regal. All trims come standard with an OnStar communications system, which can link you to an emergency respondent. An available Driver Confidence package helps you to feel more assured. While blind-spot alert takes the fear out of changing lanes, rear cross-traffic alert makes backing out of parking spaces less dangerous. Safety technologies, such as forward collision braking and lane-keep assist, can be added as well.

9. Can Be Equipped with All-Wheel Drive

Unlike top-selling family sedans like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, the 2019 Buick Regal can be equipped with all-wheel drive. When the driving conditions start to become slippery, sensors direct this intelligent AWD system to route more power to the wheels with the most grip. The AWD system will also help the Regal to better attack curves.

10. Competitively Priced

Prices for the new Buick Regal start at a competitive $25,000. This is a good deal for such a fine sedan. Although nice options like an eight-speaker Bose sound system and wireless charging are available, a satisfying number of features come standard. Even the more entertaining GS model stickers for less than $40,000.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2019 Buick Regal – The Cons

1. Some Competitors Deliver Better Fuel Economy

For a family vehicle, the 2019 Buick Regal is relatively good on gas. Nevertheless, some of its competitors offer greater fuel savings. Although the Accord packs less power, drivers are rewarded with a combined 33 mpg. Furthermore, you must feed the turbocharged Regal premium gas. On the bright side, the V6-powered Regal GS runs on regular unleaded.

2. Frustrating Automatic Engine Stop-Start System

The Regal’s automatic engine stop-start system can be a pain in the neck. Although it may help curb fuel consumption in heavy traffic, some drivers will hate how it operates. Car critics have experienced a jerk when the system shuts off the engine. Over time, this issue could become a big annoyance. Even worse, Buick doesn’t allow you to turn off the system.

3. Poor Predicted Reliability

Buick tends to produce dependable vehicles. However, the 2019 Buick Regal has a below-average predicted reliability rating. This may concern the drivers who consider reliability to be a major factor. According to experts, the new Toyota Camry should have fewer problems.

4. Regal GS Isn’t an Aggressive Sports Sedan

Although the new Regal GS is relatively powerful and handles well, it’s still geared more towards comfort. Buick didn’t want to make the sedan too aggressive. Furthermore, a manual transmission is no longer offered on the Regal GS. Drivers seeking a more athletic car should take a look at the new Kia Stinger or the new Audi A5.

5. Interior Quality a Step Below a Premium Luxury Car

In terms of interior quality, the 2019 Buick Regal GS is not equal to an entry-level Mercedes-Benz sedan. You can’t overlook the Regal’s cheaper interior materials. If you desire finer craftsmanship, spend the money on a more luxurious car.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

Before you sign the paperwork for a new 2019 Buick Regal, first sample the 2019 Audi A5. Although the Audi may have a nicer interior and deliver more precise handling, you’ll save a lot of money by choosing the Regal. Prices for the A5 begin at more than $44,000. You can also benefit from the Regal’s additional storage space.

The Kia Stinger has been getting a lot of great reviews. Like the 2019 Buick Regal, it features a practical hatchback design. Although the Stinger has a higher MSRP, buyers can take advantage of its longer warranty. When it comes to performance, the 365-horsepower Stinger GT definitely trumps the Regal GS. Drivers seeking the smoothest highway ride may prefer the Regal.

You should also give the 2019 Honda Accord a look. In contrast to the Regal, it can be equipped with a manual gearbox. There’s also more passenger room in the Accord’s backseat. Keep in mind that an AWD system is not offered on the Accord.

Conclusion

The 2019 Buick Regal is a less expensive alternative to cars like the Audi A5 and the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. If you desire a more stimulating driving experience, don’t hesitate to go for the sportier Regal GS. An agreeable highway ride and great cargo space make the Regal a worthy car for out-of-town traveling. Unfortunately, buyers must learn to live with the Regal’s poorly engineered stop-start system.