The 2017 Buick Regal represents a pivotal moment for the brand, arriving at a time when the American family sedan was rapidly evolving. Offered exclusively as a wagon, this model year positioned the Regal as a sophisticated alternative to the ubiquitous boxy crossovers, blending European-style design with practical utility. Under the hood, buyers could choose between a turbocharged four-cylinder for spirited driving or a refined six-cylinder for effortless highway cruising, all wrapped in a package that emphasized quietude and comfort.
Design and Exterior Elegance
Visually, the 2017 Regal commands attention with its low, sleek silhouette, a direct challenge to the likes of the Volvo V60. The design language is distinctly Buick, featuring the signature waterfall grille and swept-back LED headlights that give the car a perpetually aggressive stance. The addition of the Sport Touring package elevates the look significantly, adding a rear lip spoiler, 19-inch alloy wheels, and aggressive front air shutters that enhance both aesthetics and high-speed stability.
Interior Craftsmanship and Comfort
Step inside, and the Regal’s commitment to luxury becomes immediately apparent. The cabin is a sanctuary of quietude, built with soft-touch materials and available tri-tone leather seating surfaces that feel far removed from the plasticky ambiance of most competitors. The front seats provide exceptional support, featuring power adjustments, memory settings, and ventilated options on the premium trims, ensuring that every drive, regardless of duration, remains comfortable.
Available Bose audio system with CenterPoint® technology
Power liftgate with auto-close functionality
Heated front and rear seats for year-round comfort
Advanced safety suite standard on all trims
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Driving the 2017 Regal is a revelation that defies its sedan-like wagon body. The available 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 250 horsepower, delivering brisk acceleration and a smooth power curve that makes passing effortless. This powertrain is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that shifts decisively and is paired with the available twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system, providing confident traction in various weather conditions.
Refinement and the Available Twin-Turbo V6
For those who prioritize sheer smoothness and power, the Regal Sport Touring trim offered the 3.6L V6 engine. This powertrain is a masterclass in refinement, producing a muted growl under hard acceleration while remaining impeccably quiet during everyday driving. The addition of the performance-tuned suspension and larger Brembo brakes transforms the Regal into a genuine driver’s car, capable of handling mountain roads or open highways with equal aplomb.
Technology and Infotainment
In-cabin technology is robust, centered around a standard 7-inch touchscreen that integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly. The interface is intuitive and responsive, a significant improvement over many rivals in this segment. Higher trims upgrade to an 8-inch display with navigation, and the available rear-seat entertainment system ensures that back-seat passengers remain engaged on longer trips with DVD playback and dedicated controls.
Safety Ratings and Practicality
Safety was a cornerstone of the 2017 Regal’s design, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard features include forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and a robust suite of airbags. The generous cargo space, exceeding 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expanding significantly when folded, highlights the practical nature of the wagon configuration, making it a genuine workhorse for daily life.
