2012 Buick Regal GS

After a length buildup, Buick has officially revealed its performance-minded Regal GS at the Los Angeles Auto SHow.

The Buick Regal GS production car features a 255 horsepower, 295 lb-ft. of torque, direct-injected, turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission that distributes its power to the front wheels through the HiPerStrut system – which is aimed at reducing torque steer.

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.

The Regal GS will be unveiled this evening at a consumer event in Miami. It goes on sale in the second half of 2011. Pricing has not yet been announced.

Product highlights include:
• Exclusive Ecotec 2.0L turbocharged and intercooled engine rated at an estimated 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 295 lb-ft of torque (400 Nm)
• Six-speed manual transmission, with six-speed automatic with Driver Shift Control to be offered later
• Interactive Drive Control System with GS mode
• Four-wheel independent system with HiPerStrut front suspension
• High-performance four-wheel disc brake system with Brembo front calipers
• Standard 19-inch, 5-Twin Spoke alloy wheels and all-season tire and optional 20-inch, 5-Twin Spoke polished alloy wheels with performance tires.

Inside the GS, the Regal's cockpit has largely been left alone, save the addition of some sport enhancements. A flat-bottom sport steering wheel is standard, as are heated, leather sport seats. Other standard goodies include things like Bluetooth, XM satellite radio, park assist and bi-Xenon headlamps.