2004 Buick Regal: Road Test
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2004 Buick Regal ▼
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- MSRP: $24,530 -$28,980
- Invoice: $22,445 -$26,517
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Our road test for the 2004 Buick Regal includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Buick Regal from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Buick Regal, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Buick Regal help you decide if a 2004 Buick Regal is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LS | GS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 5.2 |
Both Regals feel strong. Test GS did 0-60 mph in 6.9 sec, test LS in about 8 sec. Transmission shifts smoothly, promptly.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LS | GS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
GS not much thirstier than the LS, averaging between 16.9 and 20.1 mpg in our tests. Buick recommends premium-grade gas for GS.
RIDE QUALITY
| LS | GS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
Controlled and comfortable. LS base suspension rides about the same as Gran Touring setup.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LS | GS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 6.1 |
Not European-sport-sedan agile, but controlled and well-balanced. GS pulls to the side due to torque steer in rapid takeoffs. We have not tested an LS without ABS, but with ABS, Regal's brakes are capable with firm pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| LS | GS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.8 |
Some wind and road noise at highway speeds, but quiet overall.
CONTROLS
| LS | GS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6.4 |
Climate controls are too complex, but most gauges and switches are legible and well-placed. Interior ambience suffers from lots of hard plastic surfaces. Lack of curtain side airbags shows Regal's age.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LS | GS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 |
Roomy, but shorter people might feel confined by the tall dashboard. Subpar lateral support.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LS | GS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.5 |
Sufficient head and leg room for larger passengers, but cushion is too short and soft for adequate support. Not wide enough to comfortably fit three adults.
CARGO ROOM
| LS | GS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
Trunklid opens wide, hinges don't intrude. But there's a wide bumper shelf to stretch over.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LS | GS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 |
Regal is less refined than Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, though it is competitively priced and--except for GM's stinginess in charging extra for ABS and a lone side airbag--is well-equipped.
Total Score
| LS | GS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 54 | 56 | 56.1 |
Total Score: 55
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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