Regal GS 2011 Buick Concept Car
As we all know, the upcoming 2011 Buick Regal is essentially a rebadged version of the Opel Insignia, a car that won the prestigious 2009 European Car Of The Year award the year it was launched, equipped with a 182-hp, 172-lb-ft, 2.4-liter inline-four as the sole engine. A few months later, the Regal gets a 220-hp, 258 lb-ft, turbocharged 2.0-liter four and a slew of performance options, including a six-speed manual transmission and an optional “Interactive Drive Control System” with three distinct driver-adjustable suspension, steering, shift and throttle settings, the Buick Regal GS Concept is a high-tech, high-performance version of the brand’s newest sport sedan. It was introduced at the 2010 North American International Auto Show.
The 2.0-liter engine is the same unit that will be offered in the Regal CXL later this summer, but the engine and turbocharger are tuned to deliver greater boost pressure in the GS. The output is estimated at 255-horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Drive is sent to all four wheels via an adaptive all-wheel drive system equipped with an electronic limited-slip rear differential.
The high-performance drivetrain is expected to enable the Regal GS to accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds.
Regal GS 2011 Buick Concept Car
The mechanical elements were developed with the aim of delivering a driving experience that is sporting, confidence-inspiring and refined. It has a performance-oriented drivetrain, a lowered body and lower center of gravity. Exterior and interior cues include two additional vertical front air intakes; large, forged aluminum 20-inch wheels and performance tires; a racing-inspired sport steering wheel and metal pedals. Recaro high-performance front seats feature four-way lumbar support and cushion extensions.
“We designed the Buick Regal GS to explore the appeal of a high-performance variant of the Regal,” said Craig Bierley, product marketing director for Buick. “Like the Regal, the Regal GS is based on the award-winning Opel Insignia, and we believe it will reinvigorate Buick’s storied Gran Sport legacy.”
The Buick Regal GS exterior is distinguished by vertical air inlets in the front fascia, as well as unique rocker panels, an integrated rear spoiler, dual exhaust outlets, Olympic White paint and satin metallic accents.
“The idea behind the Buick Regal GS was taking the production model in a more aggressive direction to appeal to performance enthusiasts,” said John Cafaro, Buick design director. “But along with its aggressive stance, there’s sophisticated style in the design that complements the driving experience.”
Regal GS 2011 Buick Concept Car
Inside, the Buick Regal GS varies from the standard Regal by featuring a completely jet black interior, including the pillars and headliner, sport shifter for the six-speed manual transmission and a suede-covered, flat-bottom steering wheel reminiscent of those used in international racing series. The instrument panel glows ice blue when the driver engages the sport mode of the Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS).
The Regal GS isn’t confirmed for production, but GM officials can hardly contain their enthusiasm for this version of Buick performance, updated for the 21st century. Case in point: When asked whether buyers would embrace a manual transmission in a Buick, GM vice chairman Bob Lutz said the performance option is an essential ingredient on any creditable sports sedan, regardless of take rate.
Federico thinks the Buick enthusiasts from the division’s distant performance-oriented past will like the Regal GS.
“We believe this is a worthy successor to the Gran Sport legacy,” Federico said.
