2001 Buick Regal: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Regal shares a basic design with Buick's conservative Century sedan, but is more similar in market positioning and performance to its other platform-mates, the Oldsmobile Intrigue and Pontiac Grand Prix. Regal comes in LS and uplevel GS sedans. Both have automatic transmission and a V6 engine; the GS adds a supercharger for more power. ABS 4-wheel discs, a tire-pressure monitor, and traction control are standard. Leather upholstery, side airbag for the driver, firmer Gran Touring suspension, and General Motors' OnStar assistance system are standard on GS, optional on LS. The Joseph Abboud fashion designer package adds special paint, trim, and Gran Touring suspension.

COMPETITION

Perennial Best Buys Honda Accord and Toyota Camry continue to shine with refinement, model diversity, and comfort. Both come in coupe and sedan forms, offer economic 4-cylinder or sporty V6 power, have room for four adults, and are reasonably priced.

Recommended models include the smooth Chevrolet Impala, the import-flavored Chevy Malibu, the sporty Nissan Maxima, surprising Olds Intrigue, and the good-looking Pontiac Grand Prix. All come with V6 power, offer lots of standard equipment, and have pleasing road manners that will suit a variety of driving styles. We've also added the Ford Taurus and clone Mercury Sable to our Recommended list.