2018 Buick Regal to Get V6 Power, Wagon Variant, Q2 2017 Reveal: Source

Update: Added statement from Buick.

As Buick rolls out its Avenir sub-brand, slashes underperforming products, and bolsters its crossover and SUV portfolio, the Regal withers on the vine — but not for long.

Speaking with a well-placed source, TTAC gleaned details on the forthcoming Buick Regal, which will be revealed in the second quarter of 2017, possibly at the New York International Auto Show.

According to the source, who shared the information under the condition of anonymity, the next-generation Buick Regal, which will again sit atop the same platform as the Opel Insignia, is set to grow in body and heart.

The Regal will bow with a more spacious cabin befitting its place in the market, particularly in the rear where space is at a premium in the current-generation model. Also, as most of the Regal’s competitors offer V6 engines, the midsize Buick will do the same, though our source did not divulge exactly which V6 Buick will drop under the Regal’s hood.

Buick designers have applied more distinctive styling to the Regal to set it apart from its European sibling. Our source stated the differences will be in the same vein as those found between the Buick Encore and Opel Mokka.

Speculation regarding the Regal’s doubling of available body styles with the addition of a crossover-style wagon will also be proven true next year, stated our source. The wagon is likely to wear the TourX moniker and come with all-wheel drive.

In three to five years, there’s also the possibility of a diesel powering the Regal, though that’s still being discussed internally.

Those looking for a mild performance increase should fear not of the Avenir sub-brand. The Regal GS is here to stay, though what form it will take is uncertain.

Buick representative Stuart Fowle would not confirm the details.

“The Buick Regal is currently having its best year since 2014 and the GS model in particular continues to draw younger customers interested in balanced, refined performance. While we cannot comment on the future of the Regal, the current model continues to play an important role in our lineup.”

Expect the Buick Regal, which switches to full-time production in Germany, to arrive at dealer lots toward the end of 2017 as a 2018 model.

Buick will launch three new or redesigned models through the 2017 calendar year, including Regal.

[Image: General Motors]