This just in – the 2011 Buick Regal will be offered with a 6-speed manual transmission. During an event this morning in Michigan, the press was allowed to take the new 2011 Buick Regal for a spin. On hand was a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged Regal with a 6-speed manual transmission.

Jim Federico, the man behind the Opel Insignia and Buick Regal said that the 2.0L turbo version of the new GM sedan will be offered with a 6-speed manual shortly after it debuts in the second quarter of 2010.

When it arrives at local dealerships, the 2011 Buick Regal will be offered in two variants including a 182-hp 2.4L 4-cylinder and a 220-hp 2.4L 4-cylinder turbocharged.

Now if we can just get a 6-speed manual on a 335-hp 2.8L turbocharged V6 Buick Regal GS – we may stop complaining about the Pontiac G8 GXP being gone (okay no – we’re just kidding – we still miss the G8).

Click here for more news on the Buick Regal.

2011 Buick Regal:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Straightline

When the 2011 Buick Regal goes on sale in the second-quarter of 2010, it will be offered with a 2.4L inline 4-cylinder engine making 182-hp and a maximum torque of 172 lb-ft. A turbocharged variant making 220-hp will join the lineup later next year.

However, for those of you looking for more power from the new Regal (basically an Opel Insignia OPC version of the Regal) you’re in for a treat. According to Bob Lutz, under consideration is the revival of the Regal GS with the same 335-hp 2.8L turbocharged V6 and all-wheel-drive as the Regal’s European sibling, the Opel Insignia OPC.

Also under consideration is the Regal Sport Wagon, a Buick version of the Insignia Sports Tourer that will compete with the upcoming Acura TSX wagon. Lutz said that GM may definitely consider the model if the new Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon does well in the U.S. market.

Now only if we can get the Regal Sport Wagon in a GS trim – we’ll be satisfied.

Click here for more news on the Buick Regal.

2011 Buick Regal:

- By: Omar Rana

Source CARandDRIVER

Here is some more Buick Regal news for you guys. According to Wards Auto, General Motors is planning a mild-hybrid version of the Regal sedan for launch in the later part of 2010. The model will be the first GM vehicle to make use of the company’s second-generation hybrid drivetrain. The hybrid Buick Regal sedan will improve fuel-economy by at least 20 percent over the base gasoline version.

The new hybrid system will feature a 120 V lithium-ion battery back by Hitachi, which takes up 24 percent less space, has 40 percent less mass, and has 33 percent more power than the current system found in the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid sedan.

The base 2011 Buick Regal will be powered by a 2.4L inline 4-cylinder engine producing 182-hp and a peak torque of 172 lb-ft. It will be mated to Hydra-Matic 6T45 6-speed automatic helping it deliver an estimated fuel-economy of 20/30 mpg (city/highway).

Click here for more news on the Buick Regal.

2011 Buick Regal:

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Wards Auto (via GM-Volt)

The Buick Regal, once known for great performance, is going to be reintroduced next year with the intent of re-establishing Buick as a volatile performance car manufacturer.

The 2011 Regal, which is essentially a rebadged five-passenger Opel Insignia sedan, gets Buick’s distinct grille and a few minor interior and exterior differences is all the really distinguishes one from the other.

The Regal continues Buick’s recent movement to resuscitate the label and reclaim a younger market; the average Buick buyer today is 70 years old. The Enclave crossover and the LaCrosse sedan launched the movement, and now the Regal comes in to play to target buyers in their 40’s and 50’s, specifically those interested in the Acura TSX, Audi A4, and Volvo S60.

At launch, the 2011 Buick Regal will be available with a 182-hp 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. A 220-hp 2.4L 4-cylinder turbocharged will join the lineup in summer 2010. Buick hasn’t announced anything about offering a V6 variant of the new Regal.

Click here for more news on the Buick Regal.

2011 Buick Regal:

- By: Stephen Calogera

General Motors has just released two videos of the 2011 Buick Regal. One video shows the interior details of the new Regal while the other is features driving footage of the new sedan. You can check out both videos after the jump

Click here for more news on the Buick Regal.

Refresher: The 2011 Buick Regal will be available in two options including a 182-hp 2.4L 4-cylinder and a 220-hp 2.4L 4-cylinder turbocharged. Estimated fuel-economy for the non-turbocharged model comes in at 20/30 mpg (city/highway). The 2011 Regal will be built in Russelsheim, Germany, giving it the handling and dynamics of a premium European sport sedan.

2011 Buick Regal:

2011 Buick Regal in Action:

2011 Buick Regal Interior Details:

2011 Buick Regal:

- By: Omar Rana

Yesterday, General Motors unveiled the new 2011 Buick Regal, which is making its public debut today in Los Angeles. In its press release GM said that the Buick Regal’s key competitors include the Acura TSX, Volvo S60, Mazda 6 and Volkswagen Passat.

As GM does the whole “May the best car win” campaign, we figured we’d run a little test of our own out of curiosity. Based on what you know about the 2011 Buick Regal, would you pick it over its key competitors?

Let us know in the poll below – if you have something to say, follow the jump for the comments section.

Refresher: The 2011 Buick Regal will be available in two options including a 182-hp 2.4L 4-cylinder and a 220-hp 2.4L 4-cylinder turbocharged. Estimated fuel-economy for the non-turbocharged model comes in at 20/30 mpg (city/highway). The 2011 Regal will be built in Russelsheim, Germany, giving it the handling and dynamics of a premium European sport sedan.

2011 Buick Regal:

- By: Omar Rana

After all the wait, General Motors has finally released the new 2011 Buick Regal sedan, which will make its public debut in Los Angeles tomorrow.

“The 2011 Buick Regal is like nothing you’ve ever experienced from this brand,” said Susan Docherty, general manager of Buick GMC. “The Regal is the next chapter in Buick’s transformation and will expand the portfolio to include a sport sedan.”

The 2010 Buick Regal, which will compete with the Acura TSX and Volvo S60, has a chassis and structural systems that were developed in Germany, giving it the handling and dynamics of a premium European sport sedan. The 2011 Regal will be offered with two engine choices including a 2.4L inline 4-cylinder engine making 182-hp and a maximum torque of 172 lb-ft. The base 2.4L model engine will be mated to a Hydra-Matic 6T45 6-speed automatic helping it deliver an estimated fuel-economy of 20/30 mpg (city/highway). The range-topping model will be powered by a 2.4L 4-cylinder turbocharged unit rated at 220-hp with a peak torque of 258 lb-ft. Mated to an Aisin AF40 6-speed automatic, it will return an estimated fuel-economy of 18/29 mpg.

Standard features on the 2011 Regal will include the StabiliTrak stability control system, 18-inch wheels and 12-way power, leather and heated driver seat; leather and heated passenger front seat; Bluetooth capability; XM Satellite Radio and OnStar. Buyers can opt for a navigation system, Harmon Kardon sound system, 1GB internal flash drive, hard drive with 10GB for music and USB port.

The 2011 Buick Regal will be built in Russelsheim, Germany, meaning it will bring the Opel Insignia’s award-winning design, technology and European performance capabilities to the American market. Sales will begin in the second quarter of 2010.

Make the jump for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

2011 Buick Regal:

Press Release:

The 2011 Regal: A Buick Bred On The Autobahn

Sport Sedan Blends Sleek Design with European Road Manners for Great Driving

QUICK FACTS

* A new midsize Buick sport sedan with a European-bred driving experience
* On sale in the second quarter of 2010
* Based on the award-winning Opel Insignia and available now as a Regal in China
* Modern, sleek design with great attention to detail and excellent build quality
* Efficient, four-cylinder/six-speed powertrain with 30 mpg (est.)
* Turbocharged model available in summer 2010
* Driver-selectable Interactive Drive Control System available in summer 2010
* Available rear-seat thorax air bags
* Standard 18-inch wheels, leather and heated front seats, XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth and OnStar.

LOS ANGELES – On Thursday Buick will reveal the 2011 Regal sport sedan to customers in the L.A. area. Armed with turbocharged horsepower, a driver-selectable suspension system and a firm, European-tuned chassis, it delivers a driving experience that rivals the best import sport sedans in the segment.

The new Regal arrives in the second quarter of 2010, with its sights aimed squarely on competitors like the Acura TSX and Volvo S60. It has a longer wheelbase and greater trunk volume than those vehicles, along with standard features – including a six-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch wheels and OnStar – that aren’t offered standard on either competitor.

The Regal’s development is rooted in Germany, where the globally led engineering team created the award-winning Opel Insignia – the 2009 European Car of the Year. The Insignia has garnered more than 31 prestigious awards and is the best-selling midsize sedan in Europe. Regal will bring all of Insignia’s award-winning design, technology and European-inspired performance capabilities to the American market.

The Regal has already been a success on another continent, in China. It went on sale in December 2008 and more than 64,000 Regals have been sold there. Enthusiastic customers cite its sculpted, flowing design and responsive performance as the top reasons for purchase.

Regal at a glance

Regal will initially be offered in premium CXL trim only, with additional trim levels to be offered in the 2012 model year. The well-equipped Regal CXL includes the following as standard or available equipment:

* Standard 2.4L Ecotec direct injected engine rated at an estimated 182 horsepower (136 kW)
* Available 2.0L Ecotec turbocharged and direct injected engine rated at an estimated 220 horsepower (164 kW) – available late-summer 2010
* Both engines have a six-speed automatic transmission standard with driver-shifting control
* Estimated 30 mpg on the highway with the 2.4L and 29 mpg highway with the 2.0L turbo engine
* MacPherson strut front suspension and four-link independent rear suspension
* All-new Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS) available with the 2.0L turbo, offering driver-selectable suspension settings and automatic driver suspension setting adaptability
* Four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel anti-lock braking system, brake assist and electronic parking brake
* Standard StabiliTrak stability control system and full-function traction control
* Standard dual-stage frontal air bags, side-curtain air bags and pedal-release system; rear-seat thorax air bags available
* Available navigation system, Harmon Kardon sound system, internal flash drive (1GB), hard drive with 10GB for music and USB port
* Standard 18-inch wheels (19-inch wheels standard with IDCS)
* Standard 12-way power, leather and heated driver seat; leather and heated passenger front seat; Bluetooth capability; XM Satellite Radio and OnStar.

Design story

The Regal’s sleek design blends the sweeping silhouette and proportions of a coupe in a progressive package that suggests motion from all angles. Great attention to detail complements that aggressive styling, with tailored applications of Buick’s signature design cues, such as the waterfall grille, select use of chrome trim and superior fit and finish of the exterior panels.

“Regal is all about great proportions,” said John Cafaro, design director, passenger car. “For example, with the fenders flared to wrap around the tires. It’s an aggressive stance that people aren’t used to seeing in recent Buicks.”

The car’s performance-oriented spirit is also conveyed in sleek, sculpted body-side detail and aggressive headlamps that further suggest motion. At the rear, an abbreviated deck and tucked-in body panels are the hallmarks of a contemporary sport sedan, with bold taillamps and their intricate lighting elements reinforcing Regal’s attention to detail. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard.

The sweeping design motif carries over to the interior, where the side panels flow uninterrupted into the instrument panel. The instruments have the look of expensive sport timepieces and are lit with ice-blue LED lights. The center stack, housing the climate and “infotainment” controls, was designed to allow for a lower, driver-centric instrument panel profile. Features such as a thick-rimmed, leather-wrapped steering wheel and firm, highly bolstered and leather-covered seats also support the sport-oriented driving experience.

“There is great design harmony between the exterior and interior,” said Cafaro. “The feeling of flow and motion carries through in an engaging manner that makes you want to take the Regal out to your favorite twisting road to see what it can do.”

A breakthrough interior

The Regal’s finely crafted, sporty and well-appointed interior builds on the exceptional attention to detail found in the Enclave and LaCrosse, blending signature styling cues with contemporary sport sedan aesthetics.

Regal’s firm, highly bolstered seats were benchmarked against the top import competitors for comfort and support, while a standard flow-through center console offers plenty of storage for passengers in the front and back.

Smart applications of technology are also hallmarks of the Regal, including details such as a multi-function controller on the center console for operation of the audio system, navigation system and the Bluetooth phone. The faceplate for the “infotainment” screen is set at a 30-degree angle to contribute to the car’s flowing interior design.

A new era in Buick design is also seen in the satin metallic, piano black and new, Kibo-patterned interior trim materials. Kibo is a rich, dark, progressively grained wood that lends an international flair to the Regal.

Under the hood

Unique with its all-four-cylinder powertrain, the Regal relies on the excellent horsepower-per-liter ratio of the Ecotec engine family to deliver smart, on-demand performance that is also very efficient.

Both the standard 2.4L engine and the available 2.0L turbo use direct injection technology to optimize performance, reduce emissions and maximize fuel efficiency. The 2.4L is the same engine offered in the Buick LaCrosse, but in the smaller, lighter Regal, it delivers more agile performance. The 2.0L turbo cements the sport sedan credibility of the Regal, with on-demand power comparable to a V-6, but the inherent efficiency of a four-cylinder. To ensure responsive power across the rpm range, the 2.0L turbo uses a twin-scroll turbocharger that builds power quickly at lower rpm.

Distinct, uniquely calibrated six-speed automatic transmissions are paired with each engine. Both offer driver shift control that enhances the sporty driving feel of the Regal.

Driving experience

The chassis and structural systems were developed in Germany and give the Regal the handling and dynamics of a premium European sport sedan, as well as the quiet, refined ride and road manners expected of a Buick. The body structure is one of the most rigid in the segment, which is approximately 25-percent stiffer than the previous Regal. This solid structure supports more precise suspension tuning and a quieter ride.

A relatively long wheelbase of 107.8 inches (2738 mm) gives the Regal refined, well-balanced vehicle dynamics and supports comfortable ride tuning. Additionally, an independent MacPherson strut-type front suspension with single-path mountings and hydraulic ride bushings; a four-link independent rear suspension; hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering; and optimized four-wheel disc brakes are optimized to the capability of the individual powertrains and tailored to the expected use by drivers. Models equipped with the 2.0L turbo engine, for example, feature larger brakes.

Latest-generation electronic stability control (ESC or StabiliTrak), anti-lock brake system (ABS), and traction control system (TCS) are standard with Buick’s innovative, Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS) real-time damping system offered on models equipped with the 2.0L turbo powertrain.

Interactive Drive Control System

Regal’s Interactive Drive Control System chassis technology (available on models with the available 2.0L turbo engine) offers enhanced vehicle stability and greater driving safety. It is designed to change the personality of the car based on the personality of the driver. A sophisticated driving mode control module continually monitors driving style utilizing yaw rate, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, steering wheel, throttle and vehicle speed. It defines the dynamic vehicle state, including acceleration, braking and cornering, to optimize chassis reactions. It also executes all of the IDCS driver selections.

All four dampers are electronically controlled and continuously adapt within milliseconds to the prevailing road conditions, vehicle movements and individual driving style. Chassis settings are adjustable by the driver, with Normal, Tour and Sport settings.

IDCS allows the driver to choose between three different operating modes that change the suspension settings, throttle response, shift pattern and steering sensitivity through the variable effort steering system. The three modes deliver three types of experiences:

* Normal – balanced and optimized for all driving situations
* Tour – optimized for comfort and relaxed driving on long journeys
* Sport – optimized for road holding; enthusiast driving .

Selecting “Sport” mode optimizes the car for dynamic driving, tightening the suspension and steering response and speeding up the reaction of the automatic transmission. The “Tour” mode is optimal for long-distance cruising or rough road conditions, providing an increase in comfort. “Normal” or Default Mode is the perfect all-around setting for daily commuting and city traffic. The other major benefit of Interactive Drive Control is that it automatically adapts Regal’s performance settings to individual driving styles. When a driver begins to drive more aggressively it will tighten the suspension and increase steering effort and change to a more aggressive throttle response. When the vehicle senses that the driver is doing relaxed cruising, it adjusts settings for rolling smoothness and comfort.

Apart from a more rewarding driving experience, IDCS also offers safety benefits in emergency situations. For example, if an obstacle must be avoided when the car is in Tour mode, various chassis sensors convey this to the DMC and the dampers are stiffened within milliseconds, delivering greater body control.

2011 BUICK REGAL VS. ACURA TSX AND VOLVO S60*

*2009 models of the TSX and S60 cited.

Bold denotes category advantage.

2011 BUICK REGAL PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

Overview

Engines

Transmissions

Chassis/Suspension

Brakes

Wheels / Tires

DIMENSIONS

Exterior

Interior

Capacities

Note: Information shown is current at time of publication.

- By: Omar Rana

2010 has certainly been a banner year for the GM by way of luxuriously and sleekly redesigned vehicles. We had the opportunity to test out the 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS, and we must say – there was little left to be desired. The ‘10 LaCrosse breaks Buick’s mark as the automobile for grandparents with its sleek design, premium interior, and superior handling. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also named the sedan a 2009 Top Safety Pick.

The Enclave SUV proved that if Buick creates a well-designed and well-executed vehicle, new car shoppers will give it a chance. Will the LaCrosse sedan be a similar success? Let’s find out.

Click through to read more and to view the high-res image gallery (at the bottom of the post).

Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS:

2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS Specifications:

Base Price: $33,015.
Price as Tested: $33,960.
Engine: 3.6L V6 VVT Direct Injection – 280-hp/259 lb-ft of torque.
Transmission: 6-Speed Hydra-Matic 6T40.
Curb Weight: 3,948 lbs.
0 to 60 mph: 7.0 seconds.
Fuel-Economy: 17/27 mpg (city/highway).

Exterior:

The exterior has a very elegant yet fairly sporty look with its sculpted design scheme of what could best be described as ‘angular curves,’ and with its high rear-end and aggressive front-grille design, the car comes off as almost bullet-like. According to the exterior design team, the front headlamps and grille were all designed to look as if they were three individual pieces of art fused into one. To them we say; well done. The front halogen fog lamps and chrome-tip dual exhaust embedded into the rear-bumber serve as bookends to one of the most attractive exteriors when it comes to the mid-size sedan market. Our 2010 LaCrosse CXS came with 18″ chrome-plated wheels finish of the exterior with a dynamic flair, and the power heated outside rear view mirrors with driver auto-dimming bring the interior’s luxury amenities to the outside. (The fog lamps and 18″ chrome-plated wheels are not available on the CX model, and optional on the CXL)

The ’sculpture’ that is the 2010 LaCrosse stands at 59.2 inches in height, 73.1 inches in width, and 197 inches in length. All of this sits on a 111.7 inch wheelbase and carries an estimated curb weight of 3,948 pounds on the CX model, 4,018 pounds on the CXL with front-wheel drive, and 4,065 pounds on the CXS model.

How does the exterior of the LaCrosse compare to its rivals? Well, while Acura still thinks its milk-mustache grille on the TL is something positive and while Lexus’ ES still remains mundane and dull, the Buick LaCrosse (we feel) eats its competitors for lunch when it comes to styling. Who would have thought that someone would ever say that about a Buick.

Interior:

The interior of the 2010 LaCrosse is without question one of the most luxurious interiors on the market today in terms of build quality and design. The swooping dash and interior door panels flow seamlessly so that as a passenger or driver, you will feel nestled in a pod of comfort and luxury; quiet luxury and comfort as the 2010 LaCrosse also offers one of the quietest rides on the market today. The center console sweeps up from the shift-knob and meets the dash to create a hub that houses AM/FM/CD/XM stereo (or a navigation system if you opt for one), automatic climate control knobs, and power-lock buttons. The dash cascades out in dramatic fashion from the center stereo and connects to the beautiful, leather-upholstered interior door panels that sweep back and disappear behind the front seats.

The front bucket seats on our $33,105 LaCrosse CXS (that’s the starting price) were adorned in plush and supple leather, and offered 8-way power adjustability for the driver. Other cool standard features on our CXS test-model included a Harman/kardon 11-speaker, 5.1 Matrix sound system with USB port. Is that it? Apparently so. One (or a couple) bone we had to pick with the $33,105 LaCrosse CXS was that it didn’t have a sunroof, which is a $995 option; nor did have Xenon headlamps, a $695 option. We’d rather have those two options over 18-inch chrome wheels – the 18-inch aluminum wheels would’ve done just fine.

Buyers going for the base $27,835 2010 LaCrosse CX, will get a bunch of standard features including OnStar, cruise-control, 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat, single-zone climate control.

Those that go for the 2010 LaCrosse CXL, which starts at $30,395 for the FWD model, will enjoy extras such as:

• Automatic Dual-Zone Air Conditioning
• Auto-Dimming Inside Rearview Mirror
• Bluetooth Connectivity
• Heated Leather-Appointed Seats
• Power Driver Lumbar Support
• Remote Start

Those that want a little more can go for the $33,765 LaCrosse CXS which has everything from the CXL but adds:

• Harman/kardon 11-speaker, 5.1 Matrix sound system with USB port
• USB Stereo Connectivity
• 110 V Power Outlet
• Heated and Ventilated, Perforated Leather-Appointed Seats

Besides the sunroof and the xenon headlamps, buyers can also choose the $1,995 navigation and audio system option (AM/FM/XM stereo, single CD/DVD player, 40GB Hard Drive Device, MP3 playback, HDD-based navigation and rearview camera system) or the $1,295 rear seat entertainment system.

When compared to the interiors of its Japanese rivals, the Acura TL and the Lexus ES, the Buick LaCrosse definitely stands up strong – if not pulls out ahead in some cases.

Performance:

No matter how discriminating the buyer, no one in their right mind purchases a Buick with the expectation of a sporty, performance oriented ride. If you are, then there is a BMW 5-Series for that.  That being said; for what the 2010 Buick LaCrosse actually is, we thought it rode and handled exceptionally well.

All models come standard with a MacPherson strut front suspension, power brakes, and StabiliTrak stability control system that includes traction control and brake assist.

The basic model, the LaCrosse CX, is powered by a 3.0L V6 that makes 255-hp and a peak torque of 217 lb-ft. Buick will later add a 2.4L DOHC 4-cylinder Direct Injection engine mated to a 6-speed Hydra-Matic 6T40 transmission. The result is a machine that will put out 182 horses and 172 lb.-ft. of torque. All of this is supported by the front end MacPherson struts and 4-link rear suspension, and controlled by a power rack-and-pinion steering system.

The CXL derives its power from a more powerful 3.0L V6 VVT Direct Injection engine that comes mated to the same 6-speed Hydra-Matic 6T40 transmission. The more powerful engine on the CXL is realized with the output of 45 extra horses for a total of 255-hp on the FWD model and 252-hp on the AWD model. The FWD model achieves 217 lb.-ft. of torque while the AWD gets 215 lb.-ft. Both models are supported by the front end MacPherson struts and H-arm rear suspension, and have the same power variable effort magnetic rack-and-pinion steering system found on the CXS. Rear Park Assist is also available on both CXL models, and standard on the CXS.

Our test 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS was powered by a 3.6L V6 VVT Direct Injection engine and the same transmission as its two baby siblings. The 2010 LaCrosse CXS produces a total of 280-hp and a maximum torque of 259 lb.-ft. 0-60 mph comes in at 7.0 seconds. EPA estimated fuel-economy comes in at 17/25 mpg and we managed a total of 18.4 mpg over the full week.

Overall:

As compared to its key competition as identified by GM; the Acura TL, Toyota Avalon, Lincoln MKZ, and Lexus ES350, the 2010 Buick LaCrosse arrives as best in class. The phenomenal price tag on this superior product is enough to entice one alone; the CX carries a starting MSRP of $27,835, the MSRP on the CXL is $30,395/$32,570(AWD), and the CXS carries a starting MSRP of $33,765. The ride, amenities, comfort, and styling offered by the LaCrosse give even the finest interiors a run for their money, though none that rival the LaCrosse come as modestly priced.

Review: 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS:

- By: Stephen Calogera

All Photos Copyright ©2009 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

Buick today released a very horrible teaser of the Buick Regal on its YouTube channel. Why is it horrible? Well, because we already know what the Buick Regal will look and earlier this month, we saw a spy shot of it during a photo shoot.

The 2011 Buick Regal will go into production in the summer of 2010 and the base model will be offered with a 180-hp direct-injected 2.4L 4-cylinder ECOTEC or a 220-hp 2.0L ECOTEC direct-injected, turbocharged 4-cylinder ECOTEC. A 280-hp 3.0L V6 Buick Regal GS is also rumored.

Click here for more news on the Buick Regal.

Make the jump for the video if you’re really bored.

- By: Omar Rana

General Motors Company will shut down its plant in Delta Township, Mich. for one week starting Nov.2 as it faces “critical parts shortage.”  The plant builds the GMC Acadia and the Buick Enclave crossovers. GM is also retooling to add production of the Chevrolet Traverse to the plant, reports Automotive News.

The plant pumps out about 900 Enclaves and Acadia units a day, or about 3,600 in a four-day, 10-hour-shift period.

GM spokeswoman Heidi Magyar said that about 2,700 hourly and salaried workers will be laid off for the week. She said that skilled trades workers will continue to work on the plant for the Traverse retooling.

“At this time we anticipate only being down one week,” Magyar says. “We’ll continue to monitor the situation and notify employees.”

And now moving on to more fun things…

- By: Omar Rana

Staying with tradition, its time to say goodbye to our week-long affair with the 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS with some fun facts about the new GM sedan.

• Starting MSRP comes in at $27,835 for the base model: Our 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS had a starting price tag of $33,015 with a final price tag of $33,210 with a Carbon Black Metallic color option ($195) and a $750 destination charge.
• Power: 3.6L V6 producing 280-hp/259 lb-ft – mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. 0 to 60 mph comes in 7 seconds.
• EPA fuel-economy estimated at 17/27 mpg (city/highway): We averaged a combined fuel-economy of 18.4 over the full week.
• Fun options: Heated steering wheels, cooled seats, remote start, seamless iPod connectivity. However, we did miss having a sunroof.
• Key competitors: Acura TL, Lexus ES, Lincoln MKZ, Toyota Avalon and the Lincoln MKS (maybe).

Look out for the full-review coming next week. You can still ask us questions about the 2010 Buick LaCrosse in the comments section below.

2010 Buick LaCrosse CSX (Weekly Test-Dirve):

- By: Omar Rana

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

We’re spending our last day with the 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS before it goes back tomorrow. We’ve already given you a look around the exterior and interior and today, we’re going to give you some information on how the new 2010 LaCrosse compares to its Japanese rivals.

2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS (FWD):

• Price: $33,015.
• Power: 3.6L V6 producing 280-hp/259 lb-ft – mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode.
• 0 to 60 mph in 7.0  seconds.
• Fuel-economy: 17/27 mpg (city/highway).

2010 Acura TL (FWD):

• Price: $35,105.
• Power: 3.5L V6 making 280-hp /254 lb-ft – mated to a 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift paddle shifters (6-speed manual available as an option).
• 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds.
• Fuel-economy: 18/26 mpg (city/highway).

2010 Lexus ES350 (FWD):

• Price: $34,800.
• Power: 3.5L V6 producing 272-hp/254 lb-ft – mated to a 6-speed automatic sequential shift.
• 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds.
• Fuel-economy: 19/27 mpg (city/highway).

For those looking to save a couple thousand, keep in mind that the 2010 Buick LaCrosse CX has a base price of $27,835 with a standard 255-hp 3.0L V6, premium cloth seats and 17-inch wheels.

2010 Buick LaCrosse CSX (Weekly Test-Dirve):

- By: Omar Rana

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

We have three more days with the 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS as we come close to completing our week long test-drive. Today we’re going to give you a little tour of the exterior of the new LaCrosse sedan.

At the 2008 Beijing Auto Show, GM unveiled its Invicta concept, which the 2010 LaCrosse draws its styling influence from mixing some classic Buick cues with modern design. Take a walk around the new 2010 Buick LaCrosse and you’ll notice a sweeping design that gives the sedan a coupe-like profile, which we have to say is much more impressive than other mid-size sedans in the segment.

Our two favorite features include the waterfall grille and the exhaust tips that are integrated into the rear bumper creating an uninterrupted sporty look. Standard on CXS and available on CXL models is a headlamp system that combines HID lighting elements with GM’s adaptive forward lighting technology that allows headlights to swivel 15 degrees in the direction of the front wheels.

The 2010 LaCrosse also offers a range of 17-, 18- and 19-inch wheels and a large, two-panel panoramic sunroof.

Our test 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS features a Carbon Black Metallic paint job – other exterior colors include Quicksilver Metallic, Gold Mist Metallic, Midnight Blue Metallic, Red Jewel Tintcoat, Summit White, White Diamond Tricoat and Mocha Steel Metallic.

As always, we encourage you to stay in touch and ask us all the questions you want about the 2010 Buick Lacrosse. If you want a quicker response send us a Tweet and we’ll reply ASAP.

2010 Buick LaCrosse (Weekly Test-Drive):

- By: Omar Rana

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

As most of you are probably aware by now, we are test-driving the new 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS this week. Today we’re going to provide you with a look around the inside of the new GM sedan.

GM says that the interior of the new 2010 LaCrosse is a “collaborative effort between American and Chinese designers drew inspiration from many sources, including traditional Eastern architecture, modern design and Buick’s classic models of the past.”

So far we’ve spent four days inside the new Buick LaCrosse and we have to say that we are very impressed by the overall quality of the interior. Features like the real-seam stitching on the seats, instrument panels, a Harman Kardon sound system and the vertical center stack give a very luxurious feeling. The interior is highlighted by ice-blue LED ambient lighting (on CXS models) around the audio controls, along the instrument panel and in the footwells. The only thing that takes away from the luxurious feeling is the center display if you don’t opt for the navigation system. The display features a dot-matrix like feel that takes away from the overall comfortable and elegant presence; in fact, it’s the same display used on new Chevrolet models.

One thing you’ll notice right away once you start driving is that the 2010 Buick LaCrosse is very quiet. Thanks to Buick’s new QuietTuning engineering technology, the LaCrosse offers an exceptionally quiet driving experience.

Interior color choices include a pair of contrasting two-tone combinations – Cocoa/Light Cashmere and Dark Titanium/Light Titanium – as well as Jet Black.

Make sure you stay in touch and ask us all the questions you want about the 2010 Buick Lacrosse. If you want a quicker response send us a Tweet and we’ll reply ASAP.

2010 Buick LaCrosse (Weekly Test-Drive):

- By: Omar Rana

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

After we closed shop last night here at egmCarTech, we picked up a 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS for a week long test-drive. While we’ve previously seen the new 2010 LaCrosse at the auto shows across the United States, it was a whole different feeling getting one delivered and knowing you’ll drive it around for a whole week… a good feeling.

First Impressions: As soon as the 2010 Buick LaCrosse pulled up we were taken aback by how well-designed the new GM sedan is when compared to its rivals (the Acura TL, Toyota Avalon, Lincoln MKZ and the Lexus ES). Take a seat inside the car (and we kid you not) and you realize that GM has worked really hard in improving overall interior design and quality. The leather seating, white stitching and the overall modern look and feel steps away from the “is that your daddy’s car” perspective.

Our 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS sedan is powered by a 3.6L direct injection V6 that produces 280-hp and 259 lb-ft of torque. The MSRP of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS starts at $33,105, but our test-vehicle carries a final price tag of $33,960 with the optional $195 Carbon Black Metallic exterior and the $750 destination charge. For those of you not looking to spend over $30,000 on a new mid-size sedan, the 2010 LaCrosse starts at $27,085 with a 255-hp 3.0L DOHC V6, premium cloth seats and 17-inch wheels (our model has 18-inch wheels).

As always, stay in touch as we review the car and ask us all the questions you want about the 2010 Buick Lacrosse. If you want a quicker response send us a Tweet and we’ll reply ASAP. This is your chance to learn everything you want about the LaCrosse if you’re in the market to buy one.

2010 Buick LaCroose (Weekly Test-Drive):

- By: Omar Rana

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

Yes, the Buick Regal will be arriving in the United States next year as a 2011 model year. If you want to see how the Buick Regal will look when it is officially unveiled you can just take a look at the Buick Regal in China (click here), the Opel Insignia in Europe (click here) or this shot taken by an amateur during a photo shoot for the US-spec Regal in Michigan that just popped up on Facebook.

Early reports say that the 2011 Buick Regal will be available with a 180-hp direct-injected 2.4L 4-cylinder ECOTEC or a 220-hp 2.0L ECOTEC direct-injected, turbocharged 4-cylinder ECOTEC. A 280-hp 3.0L V6 Buick Regal GS is also rumored.

The 2011 Buick Regal will go into production in the summer of 2010.

For those of you still thinking whether or not Buick will be able to get away from the “that’s what old people drive” point-of-view, check out some of these comments some youngsters have posted on Facebook.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Facebook

Earlier this week when General Motors made it official that the Opel Insignia will be coming to the United States badged as the Buick Regal, we were only thinking about one thing and one thing only – will Buick offer a high-performance version like the Opel Insignia OPC?

According to the folks over at GMInsideNews, GM will offer a “sport” model of the Buick Regal sedan, however it has not decided on the name as of yet (a GS badge is expected). Sources say that the sport Regal will be fitted with the 280-hp 3.6L V6 from the Buick LaCrosse and will have Brembo performance brakes. The Opel Insignia OPC is powered by a 2.8L V6 turbo engine making 325-hp (we’d much rather have that too).

Like the Opel Insignia OPC, the Buick Regal sport trim will offer a 6-speed manual transmission as an option along with all-wheel-drive.

The base Buick Regal model will offer two 4-cylinder ECOTEC engines. The base engine will be a 180-hp direct-injected 2.4L ECOTEC, which is currently available in the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox and the 2010 GMC Terrain. Moving up a level, the Buick Regal will also offer a 220-hp 2.0L ECOTEC direct-injected, turbocharged engine. All Regal models will come with a 6-speed automatic and optional all-wheel-drive.

GMI says that initial orders for the 2011 Buick Regal will start in six months. Production will start in the summer of 2010.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: GMI

General Motors Company confirmed today that Buick’s next mid-size sport sedan will be the Buick Regal. The company made the announcement during a Buick/GMC dealer business meeting.

“The transformation of Buick began with our luxury crossover, the Buick Enclave and continued this year with the launch of the 2010 LaCrosse premium sedan,” said Susan Docherty, Buick GMC General Manager. “We’re thrilled to announce that the Regal will be the next member of the Buick family.”

“The Regal name has played a very important role in Buick’s history for many years and continues to be one of the top Buick nameplates recalled by consumers even though it’s been out of the market for the past six years,” GM said in a statement.

Will it look like the Buick Regal currently sold in China? We most certainly hope so. GM did not confirm when the car will arrive in North American dealerships.

- By: Omar Rana