The 2012 Buick Regal is definitely not the Regal of yesteryear you may have heard your grandparents fawn over. This mid-size sedan has a lot of modern features that start at the engine and stretch all the way to the interior, making it a model you should look into if this is the type of vehicle you’re shopping for.
Key Features
Whether you want to burn rubber or take it easy on your budget, the 2012 Buick Regal has both the eAssist hybrid and GS models to choose from.
This model’s exterior is extremely attractive as well. Its sleek design stands out from other domestic mid-size sedans for all the right reasons. The 2012 Regal would be right at home strutting out of a European manufacturer’s factory.
It’s also easy to love the six-speed shiftable automatic transmission which connects you to an engine capable of a 19/31 mpg fuel economy.
Changes for 2012
Easily the biggest change from 2011 is that you can now pick a hybrid model. The Regal eAssist leverages an electric motor with a lithium-ion battery to help its 2.4 liter gas engine. However, the new Regal GS is also a noteworthy addition to the family that debuted in 2012. Its 270-horsepower engine is no joke.
What We Like
The vehicle’s IntelliLink Bluetooth-enabled “infotainment” system is the final touch that distinguishes this new age Regal from its predecessors. Also, the 2.4-liter engine on the basic model turns in a surprising performance. So if you don’t go for the GS, don’t worry. You’ll still get plenty of power.
What Concerns Us
That being said, the 2.4-liter engine sometimes made the Regal’s steering a bit less sharp. The 2.0-liter engine didn’t have the same problem. If you’re a fan of the traditional Regal look, this new, dynamic exterior may not be for you.
Available Models
Aside from the basic trim, you have the GS and hybrid models. The GS will give you a turbocharged engine that harnesses 220 horses. With the hybrid, you get fuel economy of 25 and 36.
Major Recalls
Altogether, 2012 Regals have been recalled four times. In 2012, recalls were for issued with parking lamps that could reduce visibility and, later in the year, because there were no indicators to tell the driver when their front turn signals burned out.
In 2013, another recall was issued because generator control modules (GCMs) in some 2012 Regals were not working right and could eventually kill the engine. Then, in 2014, it was discovered that some Regals had bolts in the drivers’ and passengers’ front seats that could cause them to drop suddenly to the lowest possible setting.
Common Issues
The most common issue is simply when lovers of past Regals purchase this one and find out how little they have in common with the ones they’re used to.
