2012 Buick Regal Review
2012 Buick Regal Review
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Used Regal for sale
Appraise This CarBuick Regal model years
Buick Regal types
- Sedan
- GS
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Sporty handling
- high fuel economy from eAssist model
- upscale cabin
- lots of standard features.
Cons
- Sluggish acceleration
- some interior comfort and visibility issues
- narrow trunk.
What’s new
Two new Buick Regal variants debut for the 2012 model year: the mild-hybrid eAssist and the sporty GS. A much-needed touchscreen interface also debuts, along with Buick's IntellliLink smartphone integration.
Edmunds says
After a somewhat disappointing debut last year, the 2012 Buick Regal receives some much-needed improvements. But unless you spring for the GS version, it's still quite a ways off from its lofty sport sedan positioning.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2012 Buick Regal 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$172/mo for Regal Base
Regal Base
vs
$176/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Vehicle overview
When Buick reintroduced the Regal to the lineup last year, it was touted as having "a driving experience that rivals the best import sport sedans in the segment." A bold statement, to be sure, but we found that marketing line to be overly optimistic. Last year's Regal did have some nice qualities, mainly its handling chops, but its lack of performance had it coming up short of sport sedan territory.
The 2012 Buick Regal, however, comes closer to its intended premium sport sedan target with the introduction of the Regal GS. With engine output increased to 270 horsepower (up from the Regal Turbo's 220), a more firmly tuned suspension, a standard manual transmission, Brembo brakes and available summer performance tires, the GS certainly holds more appeal to those looking for driving excitement.
On the other side of the spectrum, the Regal family also gains a new eAssist mild-hybrid powertrain that increases fuel economy by 25 percent over the base 2.4-liter engine. Also new for 2012 is the availability of Buick's IntelliLink system that pairs with certain smartphones to allow for Internet streaming audio like Pandora.
We do like that the 2012 Regal lineup has received some much-needed bolstering, but it still misses the mark set by other entry-level luxury sport sedans. The Regal GS does have capable handling, but its acceleration is underwhelming given its rated horsepower. Acceleration is slower still with the other models. While they're more expensive, sedans like the BMW 328i and Infiniti G25 are just more refined and fun to drive.
If you're not so concerned with performance, the 2012 Buick Regal makes more sense. The new eAssist engine gives a nice boost to fuel economy, and overall, the Regal does provide a lot of features for the money. Even so, we'd still suggest shopping around some. The Acura TSX, Audi A4 and Volvo S60 are worth looking at. We also recommend Buick's own LaCrosse, as it can also be had with the eAssist engine and is priced similarly, yet is a more polished and roomier sedan overall.
Performance & mpg
The 2012 Buick Regal's base engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 182 hp and 172 pound-feet of torque. The EPA estimates mileage for this unit at 19 mpg city/31 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined.
The optional eAssist light hybrid powertrain uses the same 2.4-liter engine in conjunction with an 11-kilowatt electric motor/generator and lithium-ion battery system. This combination improves mileage to an impressive 25/36/29 mpg. A six-speed automatic with manual shift control is the only available transmission on these models.
The Regal Turbo receives a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that makes 220 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. It, too, comes with a standard six-speed automatic transmission, but a six-speed manual is offered as an option. Mileage is estimated at 18/29/22 for the automatic and 20/32/24 for the manual.
The Regal GS uses the same turbo engine, but benefits from added turbo boost and a free-flowing exhaust to kick power output up to 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed manual transmission is standard, with the automatic available as an option (late availability). The manual GS is expected to return 19/27/22 mpg.
In recent Edmunds testing, a Regal with the base 2.4-liter required 9.9 seconds to accelerate from zero to 60 mph, which is considerably slower than competing sedans. The Turbo improves that time to 8.4 seconds, but it's still off the mark for the class. In order to achieve a competitive time, you'd have to spring for the top-of-the-line GS, which turned in a quick 6.2-second run with the automatic transmission. Curiously, the manual was slower at 6.9 seconds due to the difficulty of launching it smoothly.
Safety
Standard safety equipment for all 2012 Buick Regal models includes antilock disc brakes, traction control and stability control, OnStar, front seat side-impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Rear-seat thorax airbags are standard on the Premium 2 and above trim levels.
In Edmunds brake testing, both the base Regal and Turbo came to a stop from 60 mph in 122 feet, which is about average for cars in this class. The GS, with its bigger Brembo brakes and optional 20-inch summer tires, managed to stop in an impressive 107 feet.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Buick Regal the highest score of "Good" in its frontal-offset, side-impact and roof strength tests.
Driving
While the 2012 Buick Regal lineup represents a significant departure from the floaty and disconnected feel of Buicks past, it is still a far cry from the sport sedan image the brand is trying to project, due mainly to a lack of grunt. The base 2.4-liter engine tends to generate more noise than power. The Turbo models are quicker to get up to speed, though there's a slight and sometimes annoying delay before the car really hits its stride and pulls hard. And surprisingly enough, we prefer (and recommend) the automatic transmission to the manual gearbox, as the former provides better performance, while the latter isn't that rewarding to drive due to longish shifter throws and its reluctance to be shifted quickly.
The ride is hard to fault, however, as passengers will enjoy a type of isolation that's synonymous with the Buick brand. The cabin remains quiet, with little road or wind noise intrusion. Likewise, the ride quality is smooth, flattening out most ruts and bumps in the road. Our editors found the steering precise, but too light (except on the GS) and disconnected for their tastes – especially for a sport sedan – but for most buyers this won't be an issue.
The Regal can display some impressive athleticism while taking on a twisty road. This is especially true of the GS and other models with the Interactive Drive Control that provides three distinct settings for steering, suspension and throttle tuning. Sport mode delivers a noticeable firmness and added confidence in curves, while the compliant Tour mode (not available with the GS) is probably more in line with the typical Buick owner's expectations.
Interior
Overall, the 2012 Buick Regal's cabin is attractive and features a sweeping arc on the dash. The standard front seats provide plenty of support for spirited driving and comfort for long-haul trips. Those riding in back, however, may find the rear seatbacks a bit flat and uncomfortable, and tall adults will likely bemoan the lack of headroom. Rearward visibility might be another issue for some drivers given the car's sloping coupelike roof line, and a rearview camera isn't offered.
One of our biggest complaints about last year's Regal was the unintuitive navigation controls. Fortunately, the new touchscreen goes a long way toward alleviating those problems. Even so, the Regal's center stack controls -- particularly those for the audio system -- are hampered by a layout with too many similar-looking buttons.
Trunk capacity is respectable at 14.2 cubic feet, but the trunk is narrow, meaning there's less space for golf bags than you'll find in some other similarly sized luxury sedans. The eAssist Regal models use some of the trunk space for the battery packs, dropping capacity to 11.1 cubes.
2012 Buick Regal models
The 2012 Buick Regal is offered in base, Turbo and GS trim levels.
Standard features for the base Regal include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, heated mirrors, foglights, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, full power accessories, remote keyless entry, leather upholstery, heated front seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driver seat with power lumbar (power height adjustment only for the passenger), split-folding rear seats, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Also standard are Bluetooth, OnStar and a seven-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, an auxiliary audio jack, iPod connectivity and IntelliLink smartphone integration (late availability).
Base Regal buyers can opt for the Premium 1 package which adds keyless ignition/entry, remote starting, rear parking sensors, an eight-way power front passenger seat and a 120-volt power outlet. All Premium 1 features are standard on Regal Turbo and eAssist models. The Premium 2 package is available on the Base and Turbo Regal models and steps things up with automatic xenon headlights, a nine-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system and rear passenger side airbags. The Premium 3 package is only offered on the Regal Turbo and adds 19-inch wheels and adaptive suspension dampers with selectable drive modes (standard, sport and tour).
The Regal GS receives all of the above, plus Brembo brakes, a sport-tuned suspension, front sport seats, a thick-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel, front parking sensors, unique exterior and interior accents and a sportier GS driving mode (replaces Tour mode). The Regal GS is also eligible for optional 20-inch wheels with summer performance tires. Other options available on this and supporting trims include a sunroof and a navigation system.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Above Average
#22 out of 28 among Midsize Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Buick Regal from 2008-2022.$523/yr
vs. $415/yr
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).0.84x/yr
vs. 0.87x/yr
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).14.9%
vs. 10.2%
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2012 Buick Regal.
5 star(41%)
4 star(38%)
3 star(10%)
2 star(7%)
1 star(4%)
29 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.38 out of 5 stars
Buick Regal Eassist - Great car so far
whittonm, 06/03/2012
2012 Buick Regal Premium 2 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
Have owned this car for 2 months and can report that it does meet the gas mileage specs if you are light on the gas pedal.
In addition, the interior is very nicely done, the climate control is excellent, and the seats are great.
Exterior styling is also excellent, with many positive comments.
I bought this car becauseI could not find a Lexus, Acura, or similar with good styling, good … mileage, and a reasonable price.
5 out of 5 stars
What a Surprise!
car_man4, 06/08/2012
2012 Buick Regal GS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
The Buick Regal GS combines perfect blend of luxury and performance in a car.
This car makes me look forward to my 1.5 hour commute each way to work.
The adjustable suspension between
Comfort, Sport, and GS mode make each drive a new experience.
This car may not have the "Grand National" engine, but the turbo 4 cylinder with 270 hp with the automatic transmission provides the feeling … of endlessly smooth quickness.
This car will get away from you quickly.
This is the first "American" car that I have had that actual feels like a "German" car.
I think GM has a winner in this car.
Because these are limited this year, it feels nice being the only one on road with a unique car.
4.5 out of 5 stars
Nice step up from my Subaru
classicgeiger, 08/19/2012
2012 Buick Regal GS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
Wasnt sure that I wanted a Buick for my next car, but had to at least take a look at the GS bc it is a beautiful car.
After 1 month of owning the car I love it, handles amazing really gets up and go's when you need it to and is just as nice to sit back and cruise in.
Went with all the toys on this, including the 20's.
Makes it just that much more of a great car.
And the H-K sound system … is pretty pretty pretty good.
The only reason I didnt give it 5's all the way is bc I have had issues w/ my Navigation and iPod.
4.88 out of 5 stars
Extremely impressed with the GS
regal_gs, 11/28/2011
2012 Buick Regal GS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
We just picked up our GS last week and we have already put about 600 miles on it.
So far the performance, comfort, driving fun and fuel mileage is everything we hoped it would be.
The sport modes work extremely well at giving you a choice at how harsh and responsive the car is, the manual transmission is great (one of the main reasons for getting this car), and it looks fantastic.
We … were actually getting 31-32 mpg on the freeway and I averaged 28 mpg with the first tank (mostly highway).
It's just nice to actually get what the epa says it will do.
2012 Regal Highlights
Sedan
Base
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $27,055 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Flex-fuel (ffv) |
Combined MPG | 23 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $172/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 14.2 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Regal include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover10.9%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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