Boosted Buick Regal GS Engine Earns Accolades

OXFORD, MAINE (12/22/2011)(readMedia)-- Known in the 1960s for large, powerful V8 engines, Buick has a much more compact look under the hood these days, but its dedication to performance has remained. The automaker's newest powerhouse engine displaces just 2.0 liters through four cylinders, but its impressive power output and refinement have earned it a spot on the Ward's Auto 10 Best Engines list for 2012.

Ward's editors rated engines on power, technology, observed fuel economy and noise and vibration characteristics. Only units that were new or significantly updated for the 2012 model year were considered. Featured in the sporty 2012 Buick Regal GS available at Buick dealerships, the brand's award-winning Ecotec 2.0 liter engine uses turbocharging and direct injection to produce 270 horsepower, yet still reaches up to 27 mpg on the highway. That provides the Regal GS with 135 horsepower per liter, which is the highest output relative to displacement of any engine on the Ward's list.

"Buick has found ways to modernize the brand without losing some of their models' defining features, and the engine in the Regal GS is a perfect example," said Rick Smith, general manager of Oxford, Maine Buick dealership Goodwin Buick. "The Regal GS has the power of Buicks of old, but its turbocharged, direct-injection two-liter engine means it will never be called a gas guzzler."

With all of that power being channeled to the front wheels, torque steer would be a problem in some cars, but not the Buick Regal GS. The sport sedan uses a High Performance Strut (HiPerStrut) system, which provides advanced handling and quells unwelcome feedback through the steering wheel. Featuring a standard six-speed manual transmission and a powerful Brembo brake package, the Regal GS can also decelerate just as quickly as it accelerates.

Car and Driver magazine recently pitted the 2012 Buick Regal GS up against the 2012 Volvo S60 R-Design, a 325-horsepower all-wheel-drive sports car featuring a turbocharged six-cylinder engine. The publication liked that the Regal's well-upholstered seats kept passengers in place even during hard corners, which the GS attacked fluidly thanks to its adjustable three-mode suspension. While the Volvo was harsh over bumps, Car and Driver editors noted that the Regal GS offered a refined driving experience, rewarding it with the win.

Despite its sporty abilities, the Regal GS retains the smooth ride and quiet interior that Buick drivers have come to expect. Inside, the GS features leather seating for five and a 336-watt Harman Kardon stereo system with nine speakers and SiriusXM Satellite Radio. There is also an optional GPS system with a seven-inch touch screen, as well as available USB connectivity for media players and other devices.

"Power is just one dimension of the Regal GS, because it's designed to deliver both on the open road and when you happen to find yourself stuck in traffic," Smith noted. "The interior is peaceful and comes with features that can keep you entertained and connected regardless of where you are driving."

About Goodwin Buick:

Goodwin Buick is part of the Goodwin Motor Group, which has been serving Maine motorists for nearly 80 years with a customer-first attitude that has earned them a loyal following. From the spacious Buick Enclave SUV to the Buick Verano luxury sedan, Goodwin Buick offers a wide selection of new and used Buicks, as well as unmatched Buick service. Their Oxford, Maine Buick dealership can be visited at 1606 Main Street, found online or contacted by phone at 877-892-3404. Goodwin Buick can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoodwinChevroletBuick.