The 2017 Buick Regal Turbo represents a significant moment in the brand's history, marking a focused effort to bring a premium driving experience to the competitive mid-size sedan segment. Often overshadowed by domestic rivals, this model year combined sophisticated European-inspired styling with the responsive performance of a turbocharged engine. It was designed to appeal to drivers who appreciated quiet luxury, refined technology, and confident handling without the luxury brand price tag.
Design and Exterior Styling
Under the direction of then-Buick design chief Michael Simcoe, the second-generation Regal adopted a bold, angular language that set it apart from the flowing lines of its predecessor. The front fascia is defined by a large, waterfall-style grille flanked by sharp LED headlights, giving the car a wide-awake and aggressive stance. This visual update was not merely cosmetic; the redesign also improved aerodynamics, contributing to the vehicle's efficient highway performance.
Interior Craftsmanship and Comfort
Inside, the 2017 Regal Turbo moved away from the cluttered dashboards of the past, embracing a clean, driver-centric cockpit. Premium materials, such as soft-touch plastics and available leather upholstery, created a tactile environment that felt upscale. The seats, bolstered for sport driving, offered substantial support for long commutes or spirited back-road drives, striking a rare balance between comfort and control.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Powering the core model was a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This unit, shared with other GM platforms of the era, delivered immediate thrust and pushed the Regal with authority while maintaining respectable fuel economy for its class. The available six-speed automatic transmission was well-calibrated, shifting smoothly in everyday scenarios yet quick to downshift when the driver demanded a more aggressive response.
Responsive turbocharged engine delivery.
Stable and composed highway cruising.
Available adaptive suspension for enhanced handling.
Quiet cabin at steady speeds.
Technology and Infotainment
The 2017 model year introduced Buick’s next-generation IntelliLink system, built on the Android Auto platform. This interface was a significant leap forward in usability, featuring a responsive touch screen, customizable home screen widgets, and seamless smartphone integration. Available features like 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity allowed multiple passengers to stay online, while the Bose audio system delivered rich, clear sound that filled the cabin.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety was a strong point, with the Regal earning high marks from independent testing authorities. Standard features on most trims included forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera. Higher trims expanded this suite with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and available adaptive cruise control, providing a comprehensive buffer against common driving hazards.
