(Key words: 6th generation, E2XX platform, German development, 50th anniversary of vehicle model, two kinds of power, 9AT)
Buick Regal is a heavyweight model in the domestic mid-level car market. Its history can be traced back to 1973. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Regal, and it has been in China for 24 years. However, under the impact of new energy vehicles, its competitiveness has declined, so Buick has launched a new version in time. Besides introducing a new family-style front face, what changes have been made to the 2024 model? Why is Regal a "German car" with an American logo? Let’s analyze it in detail.
The history of Regal cars, why is the current generation a pure "German car"?
Regal is a medium-sized car series that Buick has been selling since 1973. It was first launched as a sub-model of Buick Century. Compared with the century, Regal’s shape is more sporty.Designed for young consumersAt present, it has developed to the sixth generation, but with the changes in the automobile market and the adjustment of the product line, the Regal market is shrinking step by step around the world. By 2023, Regal will only be produced in China, and Regal in other regions has been discontinued.
The first generation of models was launched by Buick in response to Pontiac Grand Prix and Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, and it was positioned as a luxury coupe. In 1978, Buick officially launched an independent Regal model, which was smaller in size than the previous generation and equipped with V6 engine as standard, with lower positioning, but more fun to drive.
In order to show the brand’s proud achievements in nascar racing, Buick introduced the Grand National, T-Type and limited production versions of GNX in the 1980s. The GNX version was built in cooperation with McLaren, which was a high-performance car. The maximum power of 300 horsepower made this car faster than Ferrari and Porsche at that time, and the Regal model was a smash hit.
In the 1990s, consumers preferred practical large-space models. The third generation model was a four-door sedan, which completely replaced the coupe.In 1997, Buick launched the fourth generation Regal, which shared the platform with the century again. In 1999, it was introduced to China by Shanghai GM and became the first generation of domestic Regal.
In 2008, Buick introduced the new five generations of Regal, and at this time, Regal in North America had stopped production, so SAIC-GM directly introduced Insignia from Opel, re-trained and branded Buick. At that time, Opel belonged to General Motors, but as a German brand, its R&D base and production base were located in Germany.Therefore, since the fifth generation, Regal has become a "German car". The sixth generation Regal was launched in 2018 and is still based on the new Opel Insignia.
Practicality of 2024 Buick Regal 25T Premium Edition (159,800)
First driving
From the model history, Regal has always been a Buick family sports car, which is different from Century/LaCrosse. The 2024 model still belongs to the sixth generation model. Opel is responsible for the research and development of this car. The suspension is the combination of the common front McPherson and rear multi-link independent suspension. The subframe adopts a full-frame structure, and there are two reinforcing bars in the middle of the car body to increase the torsional rigidity.
The hanging lower arm is welded by double-layer stamping, with a circular hollowing design to reduce the weight. The outer metal of the hydraulic bushing is made of aluminum alloy, and the front and rear are equipped with anti-roll bars, which conforms to the characteristics of European cars and is worthy of recognition in terms of handling.
Compared with the old model, the power has not changed. The 25T version is the old 552T version. The maximum power of the 1.5T four-cylinder engine is 169 HP, and the peak torque is 250Nm, which reaches the mainstream power data of the 1.5T engine. The all-aluminum design reduces the weight, accelerates for 9.1 seconds per 100 kilometers, and has a top speed of 205km/h, which is suitable for home use.
Due to the cancellation of the active closed air intake grille in the 2024 model 1.5T, the wind resistance at low speed is slightly higher, and the fuel consumption of WLTC per 100 kilometers increases by 0.13L, reaching 6.89L.
Second ride
The size of the new model has not changed, with the length, width and height of 4.904 meters, 1.863 meters and 1.461 meters respectively, and the wheelbase of 2.829 meters. The second row of leg space is enough. The 2024 model comes standard with electric sunroof, PM2.5 filter device and 8-inch touch screen, which supports Apple Carplay and Baidu Carlife, OTA upgrade, 4G car networking, WIfi hotspot, mobile APP remote control, etc., and cancels voice control multimedia and telephone. The sports seat with a mix of suede and leather was changed into a leather-like seat.
Third auxiliary driving/parking
Assisted driving is a shortcoming of traditional brands. The 1.5T model only has the functions of cruise control and road rescue call, but has no functions such as active braking and collision warning. Parking is equipped with a single camera reversing image and rear parking radar, which is different from the common 360-degree panoramic or 540-degree transparent chassis.
Car detective’s point of view:There are only two configurations in the 2024 model. With the guide price lowered, the configuration is "omitted" compared with the old model. The biggest change of the new model is the front face, and the design is quite controversial. Of course, different people have different opinions on aesthetics. What do you think of the 2024 Regal? Welcome to discuss.