GM has revealed the production version of the 2010 Detroit Auto Show"s Buick Regal GS concept but to our disappointment, the automaker has kept the 255HP 2.0-liter turbocharged engine instead of the Opel Insignia OPC"s far more potent 2.8-liter twin-scroll turbocharged V6 with 325 ponies. The General"s cost-cutters also ditched the OPC"s four-wheel drive system as the GS is a front-wheel drive model only.
Buick says with the standard six-speed manual gearbox, the GS will accelerate from 0 to 60mph in less than seven seconds (*estimated). In comparison, the basic $28,200 VW Passat CC 2.0 Turbo with 200HP completes the standard sprint in 6.9 seconds, while the European Opel Insignia OPC in 5.8 seconds.
Later on, Buick will offer the GS with an optional six-speed automatic with Driver Shift Control.
The car rides on standard 19-inch alloy wheels and all-season tire, with 20-inch polished alloy wheels shod in performance tires being optional. Braking power comes from a four-wheel disc brake system featuring Brembo front calipers, while there"s also a standard StabiliTrak stability control system with integrated, full-function traction control.
Other than that, the Regal GS features Interactive Drive Control System which allows drivers to customize the suspension settings and steering sensitivity between three modes: standard, sport and GS.
The styling more or less follows in the footsteps of the Insignia OPC with a bespoke aero kit and bumpers, and a raft of interior upgrades such as the leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, sport seats and unique decorative trim.
The Regal GS goes on sale in the second half of 2011, with pricing to be announced closer to launch. However, being that prices for the 220HP Regal Turbo range from $28,795 to $34,435, we don"t expect anything less than a mid-$30k sticker.
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