Acceleration from a standstill to 60 miles per hour serves as a key benchmark for understanding a performance sedan's dynamics. For the 2017 Buick Regal GS, this metric encapsulates the blend of refined comfort and spirited capability that defines the model. Achieving a 0-60 mph time of approximately 5.7 seconds, the Regal GS demonstrates that American turbocharged engineering can rival traditional European sport sedans without sacrificing daily usability.
Under the Hood: The Heart of the Regal GS
The performance credentials of the 2017 model year begin beneath the sculpted hood, where a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine takes center stage. This powerplant, shared with the Opel Insignia OPC in heritage, generates 250 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The relatively modest displacement is offset by a sophisticated direct injection and turbocharging system that delivers immediate power delivery, forming the foundation for the 0-60 mph performance figures.
Transmitting Power to the Road
Managing the force generated by the turbocharged engine is a six-speed automatic transmission equipped with a performance-mode paddle shifter. This transmission is far more than a simple component; it is calibrated for responsiveness, holding gears longer to maximize acceleration and utilizing quick shifts to maintain momentum. The integration of all-wheel drive in this model year further enhances traction, ensuring that the torque reaches the pavement efficiently rather than spinning the wheels during aggressive takeoffs.
Drivetrain Dynamics
Standard front-wheel drive for improved fuel efficiency.
Available intelligent all-wheel drive system for enhanced grip.
Performance-tuned transmission shift points for reduced latency.
The Role of Chassis and Suspension
Power alone does not dictate acceleration; weight distribution and suspension geometry play critical roles. The 2017 Regal GS benefits from a reinforced chassis and a lowered, sport-oriented suspension setup. This configuration reduces body roll during cornering and maintains optimal tire contact patch during straight-line acceleration. The result is a launch that feels planted and controlled, minimizing wheel hop and maximizing efficiency in converting engine power into forward motion.
Braking and Traction Management
An often-overlooked factor in 0-60 mph testing is the brake system's influence on the launch. The Regal GS features large front brake discs and calipers that provide confident stopping power. More importantly, the stability control system is engineered to allow a significant amount of wheel slip before intervening. This calibrated tolerance permits the driver to apply full throttle without triggering traction control prematurely, a detail that preserves momentum and contributes directly to the aggressive 5.7-second time.
Real-World Driving Experience
While laboratory tests provide precise data, the true nature of the 2017 Regal GS is revealed in real-world driving. The transition from zero to sixty is remarkably smooth, characterized by the low-end shove of the turbocharger rather than a harsh jerk. The integration of the engine note through the available performance exhaust system creates an aural backdrop that confirms the urgency of the acceleration. This blend of refinement and intensity is the hallmark of the GS designation, offering thrill without chaos.
Comparative Context
When placed alongside competitors in the premium compact and entry-level luxury segments, the Regal GS holds its own. Its 0-60 performance sits comfortably between the well-rounded BMW 330i and the more aggressively tuned Mercedes-AMC C43. While some rivals may offer slightly quicker times, the Regal GS distinguishes itself by providing this performance wrapped in a package renowned for its luxury appointments, quiet cabin, and exceptional warranty coverage.
