It's here. Buick enthusiasts have been brimming with anticipation for the return of an iconic performance moniker. We've seen plenty of the new Regal, but here's our first official look at the high-performance-themed 2012 Buick Regal GS.
As expected, the car's European roots and Opel handprint are unmistakable on the visual side. The Regal GS shares many styling similarities with the Insignia OPC, including the satin-metallic, vertical air intake ducts prominently forged to the front fascia. A unique front grille sits between the bi-xenon HID headlights, while trapezoidal exhaust outlets give the rear a more striking look. An integrated rear spoiler and rocker panel extensions build up the theme of aggression. But we'd be remiss to call the Buick an Opel clone, as this Regal comes solely with front-wheel drive and four cylinders beneath the hood.
The engine pressed into service was never a secret. Regal GS drivers will be treated to a version of GM's direct-injected and turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec inline-four used in the Regal CXL Turbo, only with more power. Buick's tuning team fitted a 3-inch-diameter exhaust system and encouraged the intercooled, twin-scroll turbocharger to compress even greater amounts of air for a more fiery combustion. The gain in performance numbers is obvious on paper: The CXL Turbo is rated at 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque; the GS version puts out 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet.

As Buick's gift to the enthusiast, a six-speed manual comes standard and helps propel the Regal GS from 0-60 mph in under 7 seconds (the CXL Turbo we just tested takes 7.5 seconds to get there). Despite its estimated 3710-pound curb weight, fuel economy isn't affected at 19 city/29 highway mpg, which is 1 mpg better in the city than the weaker CXL Turbo. The Regal GS will be offered with a six-speed automatic with Driver Shift Control at a later date, and that transmission will be sufficient for 18 city/28 highway mpg.
With fuel efficiency numbers pleasing enough for the CAFE bean counters, let's dive into the components. The target Regal customers (re: young) who are thrilled to row their own gears will no doubt also appreciate the lowered ride height, Brembo front four-pot brake calipers, real-time Computer Damping Control, and Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS).