The 2017 Buick Regal represents a pivotal moment for the brand, arriving at a time when Buick was aggressively modernizing its image. This model year marked the debut of the third-generation Regal, a vehicle designed to shed the brand's dated reputation and compete directly with upscale European sedans. It was a car built for the discerning driver who valued quiet, comfort, and a touch of European sophistication without the luxury price tag, offering a compelling blend of performance, technology, and refinement that was rarely seen in its class.
Design and Exterior Refinements
Visually, the 2017 Regal signaled a dramatic shift from its boxy predecessor. Buick embraced its new "Keystone" design philosophy, resulting in a sleek, fastback-inspired silhouette that was both aggressive and elegant. The front fascia, dominated by the signature waterfall grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights, gives the car a wide, planted stance. At the rear, the dramatic sloping roofline culminates in LED taillights, enhancing the coupe-like appeal and improving aerodynamics for better efficiency on long drives.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Regal transforms into a sanctuary of quiet luxury, a core strength of the brand. Materials quality is a significant leap forward, with soft-touch surfaces, premium leather upholstery, and brushed metal accents creating an atmosphere of genuine sophistication. The cabin is remarkably serene, thanks to extensive sound insulation that makes highway cruising a tranquil experience. The available 8-inch IntelliLink infotainment system is a highlight, featuring a responsive interface, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration, ensuring that the technology feels current and user-friendly.
Spacious and well-appointed cabin with high-quality materials.
Advanced infotainment system with seamless smartphone integration.
Excellent noise insulation for a peaceful driving environment.
Comfortable, supportive seats ideal for long-distance travel.
Intuitive driver controls and easy-to-read instrumentation.
Performance and Handling Dynamics
Driving the 2017 Regal reveals a side often overlooked in luxury sedans: its engaging personality. The available turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine delivers a satisfying 180 horsepower, providing ample power for everyday driving and passing maneuvers. The standout, however, is the available turbocharged 2.0-liter engine paired with the 6T70 automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. This combination offers a spirited drive, with quick shifts and confident acceleration. The standard nine-speed automatic transmission is a work of art, shifting so smoothly and quickly that it’s nearly imperceptible, keeping the engine in its optimal power band.
Suspension and Ride Quality
Handling is precise and communicative, a rarity in this segment. The Regal feels planted through corners, with the optional FE3 performance suspension tightening its grip and providing a more athletic, confidence-inspiring ride. Even with the standard suspension, the ride is firm yet comfortable, effectively smoothing out road imperfections without feeling soft or unsettled. This balance of comfort and control is a testament to Buick's engineering, making the Regal a car you actually enjoy driving, not just traveling in.
