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2012 Buick Regal GS unveiled in production form

General Motors has released details of the upcoming production version Buick Regal GS, which, for an American car, doesn't look too bad. It also features a nice little 190kW engine under the bonnet for some extra spice.


Although it's unlikely Australia will ever see this exact model, if there ever was an American wish list of cars we'd like to see in Australia though, this would be one of them. It's based on the European Opel Insignia and it looks handsome and well-rounded with plenty of flow around the wheel arches. The lights all appear to be less cluttered than other modern designs, too.

As mentioned, under the bonnet there's a 190kW motor. It comprises of an Ecotec 2.0-litre turbocharged unit that also offers a very meaty 400Nm of torque. These figures suggest the car will crack the 0-100km/h sprint in under seven seconds. It is, unfortunately, front-wheel drive though so estimations may be a little off.

Underneath, the car features completely independent suspension with a HiPerStrut front arrangement - designed to eliminate camber and toe movements under suspension compression. The front also gets Brembo brakes - unusually, not on the back though. These are wrapped in stylish but not overdone - minus the flash chroming - 19 inch alloys, front and rear, with the option of upgrading to 20 inch size.

Taking a look inside the car and we find its neatly presented with modern touches, like the exterior. There's an almost-Lamborghini-style flat-bottom steering wheel, 12-way power adjustable leather sports seats up front and Buick's Interactive Drive Control System - adjustable steering, suspension and throttle sensitivity settings.

Other tasty features include:

  • Passive keyless entry with push-button start
  • Standard XM Satellite Radio with three-month trial service
  • Harmon/Kardon premium 320-watt sound system with nine speakers
  • Bluetooth phone connectivity
  • 120-volt accessory power outlet
  • Front and rear ultrasonic parking assist
  • Bi-xenon HID headlamps

This is a pretty cool package we think, and one Holden should definitely consider bringing down under very soon. Plans for the Opel/Vauxhall Insignia coming to Australia still haven't been officially confirmed.

The Buick Regal GS will go on sale in the US during the second half of 2011. Prices are yet to be finalised.

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