Hey guys! Are you in the market for a sleek, versatile, and fun-to-drive car? Then buckle up, because we're diving deep into the 2018 Buick Regal Sportback! This isn't your grandpa's Buick; it's a modern, stylish hatchback that's ready to shake things up. In this comprehensive review, we'll cover everything you need to know, from its performance and features to its pros and cons, helping you decide if it's the right ride for you.

Overview of the 2018 Buick Regal Sportback

The 2018 Buick Regal Sportback marks a significant departure from traditional Buick sedans. It embraces a European-inspired hatchback design, offering increased cargo space and a sporty silhouette. This model year was part of the Regal's sixth generation, and it aimed to attract a younger, more dynamic audience.

The Regal Sportback came in several trims, including the base Regal Sportback, Preferred, Essence, and GS. Each trim level offered a different set of features and amenities, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their specific needs and preferences. For instance, the base model provided essential features and a comfortable ride, while the Essence trim added leather upholstery, heated seats, and advanced safety technologies. The GS model, on the other hand, catered to performance enthusiasts with its more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and distinctive styling cues. The range of choices made it accessible for different budgets and lifestyles, ensuring that there was a Regal Sportback for a wide array of drivers.

Under the hood, the standard engine was a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, delivering a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. For those seeking more thrills, the GS model featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine that churned out significantly more horsepower. Both engines were paired with smooth-shifting automatic transmissions, providing a refined driving experience. The availability of all-wheel drive on certain trims added to the Regal Sportback's appeal, making it a capable performer in various weather conditions. From its design to its performance options, the 2018 Regal Sportback was designed to stand out in the crowded mid-size car segment.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2018 Buick Regal Sportback offers a driving experience that blends comfort with agility. The standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for daily commuting and highway cruising. The engine's responsiveness and smooth power delivery make the Regal Sportback feel confident and capable in various driving situations. Whether you're accelerating onto the highway or navigating city streets, the Regal Sportback offers a balanced and engaging driving experience. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to the car's overall refinement.

For those seeking a more exhilarating driving experience, the GS model features a 3.6-liter V6 engine that cranks out 310 horsepower and 282 lb-ft of torque. This engine transforms the Regal Sportback into a genuine sports sedan, delivering quick acceleration and a thrilling exhaust note. The GS model also comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which offers even quicker and more precise gear changes. In terms of handling, the Regal Sportback strikes a good balance between comfort and agility. The suspension is tuned to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, while still offering enough control and feedback to inspire confidence in corners. The available all-wheel-drive system further enhances traction and stability, making the Regal Sportback a capable performer in all weather conditions. Overall, the 2018 Buick Regal Sportback offers a compelling blend of performance and handling that appeals to a wide range of drivers.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2018 Buick Regal Sportback, you'll find a well-designed and comfortable interior with a range of convenient features. The cabin is crafted with quality materials, giving it a premium feel. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making long drives a pleasure. Depending on the trim level, you can find features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. These features enhance the overall comfort and convenience of the Regal Sportback, making it a great choice for both daily commutes and long road trips. The attention to detail in the interior design contributes to a pleasant and upscale driving experience.

In terms of technology, the 2018 Regal Sportback comes standard with a user-friendly infotainment system that includes a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. These features allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system, giving you access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation. Available features include a premium Bose audio system, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and wireless charging. These technology features keep you connected and entertained on the road. The intuitive interface and responsive touchscreen make it easy to control various functions, enhancing the overall driving experience. The Regal Sportback also offers a range of advanced safety features, such as forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, providing added peace of mind on the road.

Cargo Space and Practicality

One of the standout features of the 2018 Buick Regal Sportback is its impressive cargo space and practicality. Unlike traditional sedans, the Sportback's hatchback design allows for a much larger and more versatile cargo area. With the rear seats up, you get a generous 31.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which is more than enough for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. When you need even more space, you can fold down the rear seats to reveal a cavernous 60.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity. This is comparable to some small SUVs, making the Regal Sportback a surprisingly practical choice for families or anyone who needs to haul a lot of gear. The wide opening and low liftover height make it easy to load and unload items of all shapes and sizes.

The Regal Sportback's practicality extends beyond its cargo space. The rear seats are spacious and comfortable, providing ample legroom and headroom for adult passengers. The car also has plenty of storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a large glovebox, door pockets, and a center console with cupholders. These storage solutions help keep the interior organized and clutter-free. The Regal Sportback is also easy to maneuver in tight spaces, thanks to its responsive steering and compact dimensions. This makes it a great choice for city dwellers who need a car that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures. Overall, the 2018 Buick Regal Sportback offers a compelling combination of style, comfort, and practicality that sets it apart from traditional sedans.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many car buyers, and the 2018 Buick Regal Sportback delivers respectable numbers in this area. The standard 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is EPA-rated at 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. These figures are competitive for a mid-size car with this level of performance. The actual fuel economy you achieve may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions, but overall, the Regal Sportback offers a good balance of power and efficiency. The engine's smooth and responsive performance doesn't come at the expense of excessive fuel consumption, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and long road trips.

For those who prioritize fuel efficiency, the Regal Sportback also offers an available eAssist model, which pairs the 2.0-liter engine with a mild hybrid system. This model achieves even better fuel economy, with EPA ratings of 25 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The eAssist system uses a small electric motor to assist the engine during acceleration and regenerative braking to capture energy and recharge the battery. This helps to improve fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. The Regal Sportback's fuel-efficient engines and available eAssist technology make it a smart choice for drivers who want to save money at the pump without compromising on style or comfort. Whether you choose the standard engine or the eAssist model, you can expect reasonable fuel costs and a pleasant driving experience.

Pros and Cons

To give you a well-rounded perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2018 Buick Regal Sportback:

Pros:

• Stylish hatchback design: The Regal Sportback stands out from the crowd with its sleek and sporty appearance.
• Spacious cargo area: The hatchback design provides ample cargo space, making it more practical than traditional sedans.
• Comfortable ride: The Regal Sportback offers a smooth and comfortable ride, perfect for long journeys.
• User-friendly technology: The infotainment system is easy to use and comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Available all-wheel drive: The optional all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in all weather conditions.

Cons:

• Rear visibility: The sloping roofline can somewhat compromise rear visibility.
• Base engine can feel strained: While adequate, the base engine may feel a bit strained when fully loaded or going uphill.
• Some rivals offer more advanced safety features: Some competing models offer a more comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies.
• Interior design could be more exciting: While well-built, the interior design may not be as visually exciting as some competitors.

Conclusion

So, what's the final verdict on the 2018 Buick Regal Sportback? Overall, it's a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish, versatile, and comfortable car. Its hatchback design sets it apart from traditional sedans, offering increased cargo space and practicality. The Regal Sportback also boasts a smooth ride, user-friendly technology, and available all-wheel drive. While it may have a few drawbacks, such as limited rear visibility and a somewhat underwhelming base engine, its strengths outweigh its weaknesses. If you're looking for a car that combines style, comfort, and practicality, the 2018 Buick Regal Sportback is definitely worth considering. It's a modern Buick that's sure to impress!