Buick Regal Rated Second-Best Premium Sedan by Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports placed the 2014 Buick Regal just behind the BMW 328i in its premium sport sedan rankings, highlighting the model’s performance and value.
Consumer Reports has recognised the 2014 Buick Regal as one of the top choices in the premium sport sedan segment. In the magazine’s latest overall ratings, the Regal was named the second-best pick, placing just one point behind the BMW 328i. This strong performance saw the Regal tie for second place with the Mercedes-Benz C250, outscoring several established German competitors while offering a lower price point.
Buick Regal Earns High Praise from Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports' Premium Sport Sedan Rankings
Consumer Reports' rankings are closely followed by both car buyers and industry experts. The magazine’s 2014 premium sport sedan comparison placed the Buick Regal just behind the BMW 328i, a respected benchmark in the segment. The Mercedes-Benz C250 matched the Regal’s score, but both trailed the BMW by a single point. Other notable contenders, such as the Audi A4 and Lexus IS, received lower scores in this evaluation.
| Model | Relative Score |
|---|---|
| BMW 328i | Top score |
| Buick Regal | -1 point |
| Mercedes-Benz C250 | -1 point |
| Audi A4 | Lower |
| Lexus IS | Lower |
The Regal’s position near the top of the rankings is significant, especially considering its price advantage over most German rivals. The car is based on the Opel Insignia, a model developed in Europe, but Buick has tailored it for the US market with unique tuning and features. This approach has allowed Buick to offer a car with premium driving dynamics at a more accessible price point, appealing to buyers seeking value as well as performance.
Performance and Engineering Highlights
Consumer Reports highlighted the Regal’s new 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine as a major strength. The magazine’s engineers found that this engine made the Regal both quicker and more fuel-efficient than the previous version. This improvement in performance and efficiency contributed significantly to the Regal’s high ranking. The publication described the car as thoroughly developed and satisfying to drive, with handling characteristics more reminiscent of German sports saloons than the soft-riding Buicks of the past.
The change in the Regal’s character reflects a broader shift in Buick’s approach, moving away from the traditional image of softly sprung luxury vehicles towards a more dynamic, European-inspired driving experience. For buyers, this means the 2014 Regal offers responsive handling and a refined ride, making it competitive with traditional segment leaders.
Volvo S60: Another Noteworthy Competitor
In the same round of testing, Consumer Reports also evaluated the Volvo S60. The S60 was praised for its new 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which replaced the previous five-cylinder unit. According to the magazine, this new engine brought marked improvements in drivability, fuel economy, and refinement. While the Volvo did not achieve the same score as the Regal or the BMW, it was described as a solid and practical alternative to the usual mix of German mid-sized premium sedans.
The Volvo S60’s improvements highlight the increasing competition in the premium sport sedan segment, with manufacturers focusing on both performance and efficiency. For buyers considering alternatives to German brands, the S60 offers a blend of practicality and modern engineering.
Value for Money and Market Impact
The 2014 Buick Regal’s strong showing in Consumer Reports’ rankings is particularly notable given its lower price compared to most German rivals. By delivering premium driving characteristics and advanced engineering at a more accessible price, Buick has positioned the Regal as a compelling option for buyers seeking both value and performance. The model’s success in these independent tests may influence perceptions of the Buick brand, which has historically been associated with comfort rather than sportiness.
For consumers, the Regal’s high rating offers reassurance that they can obtain a well-rounded, enjoyable sport sedan without paying a premium for a German badge. The recognition from Consumer Reports may also help Buick attract new buyers who previously overlooked the brand in favour of more established European competitors.
