The 2012 Buick Regal GS borrows some exterior styling cues off its European counterpart, the Opel Insignia OPC, integrating the front air intakes and oversized exhaust outlets. Unlike what was announced last January, all-wheel drive will not be available in North-American models.
Many will be delighted to know that the Regal GS will be equipped with a turbo 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine that develops 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque; it won’t be as powerful as its European cousin, though. The GS will be offered with a 6-speed manual transmission, and Buick claims to have reworked the suspension in order to reduce torque steer.
As for the LaCrosse eAssist luxury sedan, Buick promises a fuel economy improvement of 25% compared to the current model equipped with the 4-cylinder mill. For model-year 2012, the base, direct-injected 2.4-litre engine will be complemented by an electric system and a lithium-ion battery pack, which allows the engine to take a breather in certain conditions. Total output is rated at about 180 horsepower.
To be more precise, fuel delivery will be interrupted during deceleration, and 15 extra horsepower from the electric motor will assist the engine during acceleration, which helps the car consume less fuel. The energy in the battery pack will be regenerated while braking, just like in other vehicles that use similar technology (think hybrids).
To save even more fuel, the LaCrosse has received aerodynamic improvements and new different tires, and will be equipped with a new display that will help the driver manage the car’s acceleration for optimal fuel economy. Trunk space has been reduced slightly, however, as room was necessary for the battery pack.
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| 2012 Buick Regal GS (Photo: General Motors) |
Many will be delighted to know that the Regal GS will be equipped with a turbo 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine that develops 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque; it won’t be as powerful as its European cousin, though. The GS will be offered with a 6-speed manual transmission, and Buick claims to have reworked the suspension in order to reduce torque steer.
As for the LaCrosse eAssist luxury sedan, Buick promises a fuel economy improvement of 25% compared to the current model equipped with the 4-cylinder mill. For model-year 2012, the base, direct-injected 2.4-litre engine will be complemented by an electric system and a lithium-ion battery pack, which allows the engine to take a breather in certain conditions. Total output is rated at about 180 horsepower.
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| 2012 Buick LaCrosse With eAssist (Photo: General Motors) |
To be more precise, fuel delivery will be interrupted during deceleration, and 15 extra horsepower from the electric motor will assist the engine during acceleration, which helps the car consume less fuel. The energy in the battery pack will be regenerated while braking, just like in other vehicles that use similar technology (think hybrids).
To save even more fuel, the LaCrosse has received aerodynamic improvements and new different tires, and will be equipped with a new display that will help the driver manage the car’s acceleration for optimal fuel economy. Trunk space has been reduced slightly, however, as room was necessary for the battery pack.