Don't hate on the Regal.
I totally will back up the OP on this one. I test drove the Regal for about 15 minutes.
...and I was quite impressed yet a little let down by a few minor things.
First off, the interior, right up there with some of the best in the segment, IMO (i.e., CC, TSX,..etc) and I can say that with total confidence because I've actually sat in about a dozen different cars from within the segment over the last few weeks and I was very impressed with the look, and the feel, and the materials shown in the car. I was shocked by the interior, which from the photos, looked really boring, but it's totally different story up-close.
The button layout, seems busy on the console, but it's actually very logically placed, easy to read and touch, and everything felt great. The nav system screen had really great resolution, the steering was very smooth and felt good to the touch, and for the non-sport oriented version of the car, it handled exceptionally well. I mean, check the reviews--they'll all seem to agree about how I felt about this car: Impressive HANDLING...Well, like I said, for a family sedan/non-Sports car anyway. I was surprised by how well tuned the suspension and steering was. I absolutely loved the steering wheel on the Regal and the car itself felt incredibly poised and balanced--its dynamics felt very European (and rightly so), similar to an Audi A4. Also, it felt way more nimble on corners than the CTS (base) and of course the heavier Dodge Charger, and had a ride much more smoother than the Sonata.
Sadly, I was let down by a few things that a car in this class and at this price really should've had, which could be massive dealbreakers. This includes the lack of push button start, rear view camera, paddle shifters, or a panoramic roof option.
The CXL was fully loaded for about $32k or so, which makes it extremely competitive along the likes of the TSX, CC, and even the A4 (all of which I've driven). I'm liking this car tremendously, but I'm waiting for the CXL Turbo. The Turbo should prove to be a great machine.
A few pics from my test drive:
I don't think this car is gonna win many comparison test between the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima turbocharged sedans. They both offer more HP, fuel economy, and available features at a lower price--of course Buick may be seen as a high quality and reliable car, so, it'll come down to consumer preference.
Either way, all three turbo cars are among the top of my list of my most favorite upcoming sedans.