Buick Regal Sportback

Produced from 2018 through 2020, the Regal Sportback is a premium midsize four-door hatchback with room for up to five people. It represents the sixth and final generation of the automaker’s storied Regal nameplate, which initially went into production in the 1970s. Buick also produced a wagon variant, called the Regal TourX, which is reviewed separately. Both versions were originally developed by General Motors’ German subsidiary, Opel.

Most Regal Sportbacks employ a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower. It drives the front wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission or all four wheels via an eight-speed unit when equipped with optional all-wheel drive (AWD). The high-performance GS version boasts a 310-hp 3.0-liter V6 and comes standard with AWD as well as a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and front sport seats. No hybrid or electric versions of the Regal Sportback were made.

Buick sold the Regal Sportback in a variety of trims, including the base version (called 1SV), the slightly upgraded Preferred and Preferred II, the well-equipped Essence, and the range-topping Avenir. Standard equipment includes keyless entry and ignition, cloth seats, a WiFi hotspot, and a 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with a rearview camera and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Stepping up to the Preferred trim adds a power-adjustable driver seat, while the Preferred II also includes dual-zone automatic climate control, a heated steering wheel, and an upgraded 8.0-inch touchscreen. The Preferred trims also give buyers access to numerous optional features, such as LED headlights, rear parking sensors, remote start, a sunroof, and a wireless device charger. The upscale Essence and the performance-oriented GS trims further offer leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable passenger seat (among other features), while the top-tier Avenir boasts unique styling details and upgraded interior materials, such as quilted leather seats. The Essence and Avenir trims can also be outfitted with adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, and lane-keeping assist, which are part of the Driver Confidence 2 package.