2018 Buick Regal TourX Brings Back the Buick Wagon

The Buick Regal underwent a complete redesign for 2018 and included in that update is a model labeled the TourX. The 2018 Regal TourX is a station wagon. Which makes us happy because station wagons are deserving of a comeback. Especially one with standard all-wheel drive.

Overview

The 2018 Buick Regal TourX is in the midsized category and seats five. It’s got great looks, comfortable seating, a sporty drive quality, and solid infotainment. The wagon bodystyle means more versatility and daily usability as well. The Regal TourX is a better-than-expected option from Buick that really surprises.

Trim Packages

The 2018 Buick Regal TourX is a five-passenger wagon offered in three trim levels. Each uses the same engine and transmission.

• TourX base – The base model Regal TourX is well-equipped as-is. It includes LED running lamps, heated mirrors, keyless ignition/entry, 60/40 split-fold rear seating, a rearview camera, a 7-inch touchscreen with OnStar communications and in-car WiFi, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Bose audio. There are no options upgrades of note for the base model. A panoramic sunroof is also optional.
• Preferred – The TourX Preferred adds to the base model with an auto-dimming rearview, leather-wrapped steering, and access to several options packages. Packages add driver aids or audio and infotainment.
• Essence – This trim upgrades the Preferred with a hands-free liftgate, dual-zone climate, heated front seating and steering, leather upholstery, and a 40/20/40 split-fold rear seat. Also added are an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, two rear USB ports, satellite radio, and an upgraded audio system. Options include more driver’s aids/comfort items and access to advanced safety options. A panoramic sunroof is also optional.

Exterior and Interior Design

To be right up front, the 2018 Buick Regal TourX is one of the best-looking vehicles we’ve seen in a long time. The sharp front fascia, beautiful use of chrome accents, and the signature Buick cascading grille all come together beautifully on the TourX.

The overall wagon shape is conducive to the design language used on the Regal, which is made up of clear lines, a wide beltline, and a sporty roof curve.

Inside, the 2018 TourX is nicely done with an airy, spacious appeal. Some items are hit-and-miss, however, as the plastics on the dash can feel cheap compared to the upscale items around them. The clearly faked stitching was a nice attempt, but comes off as half-assed, especially in the base trim.

Even with those negatives, though, the Regal TourX has a wonderful feel to its interior overall. Seating is comfortable, nicely bolstered, and roomy. The front seating is excellent on all fronts and storage is also great, with plenty of space for gadgets and gear around the cabin.

The rear seats are also accommodating, at least in the outboards, with plenty of legroom and headroom for a midsize vehicle. The center seat is more about kids or occasional third occupant, but is not very spacious. Parents will note easy access to the LATCH anchors in both of the outboard positions.

For infotainment, the Regal uses the latest in Buick’s interfaces, which includes crisp graphics, fast responses, and a smart system. The built-in WiFi is extremely useful and access to most things is pretty straightforward. We’re fans of the work General Motors has put into the infotainment setups in their brands.

We’re fans of the overall design of the 2018 Buick Regal TourX and while we see room for improvement, this wagon remains one of the best we’ve seen at the price point.

Driving the 2018 Regal TourX

The 2018 Buick Regal TourX is powered by a smooth little 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that’s turbocharged to produce 250 horsepower to its nine-speed automatic transmission. The smooth engine and well-done transmission return a great drive quality. The transmission’s programming allows it to downshift quickly when power is needed and it’s not afraid to let the driver pour it on.

Handling in the Regal TourX is excellent, with precise steering and great body control. The standard all-wheel drive in the TourX means better control for the driver, which only adds to the beautifully-tuned chassis.

Whether driving around town or on the highway, the TourX offers an engaging, sporty appeal for everyday driving. On the highway, it never lacks for power. This is all tempered by the daily-use needs of the car, of course, which means punchy off-line performance is not its forte.

A quiet ride, nicely-done interior, and wonderful drive quality come together for a car that is never boring on any daily drive.

Our week in the Regal TourX saw an average of 27 mpg in overall fuel economy.

Competition

There are several midsize competitors, but not many station wagons to choose from. The wagon is making a comeback, though, as we’re seeing more of them in the offing.

We’d list chief competitors as being the Audi A4 Allroad, the Subaru Outback, and the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. Of these, only the Audi and perhaps top-most trimmed Outback are truly competitive with the Regal TourX, as the VW is not offered in a package comparable in premium appeal.

• Audi A4 Allroad – The Allroad has a significant amount of appeal to it, with road handling and driveability that is a bit better than that of the Regal TourX. The exterior, however, is not as beautiful as the Buick and the Audi’s price point is a bit higher.
• Subaru Outback – The Outback is offered in its mid- and high-level trims with accoutrements comparable to the Buick Regal TourX. The Outback is a bit larger, has more off-pavement credibility, and good styling. We like the Buick’s look better, though, and note that the engine differences are broad, mostly in the TourX’s favor.

Strong Points

• Beautiful exterior design that really has no rival in or around this segment.
• Sporty drive quality that doesn’t impede on comfort or fuel economy.
• Strong infotainment offering with plenty of capability, even at the base level.

Weaknesses

• Interior a bit hit-and-miss on its upscale appeal.
• Reliability unknown as this is an all-new model.

Conclusions

The 2018 Buick Regal TourX is a beautiful wagon with a lot of appeal. Its reasonable price point, excellent accoutrements, and good everyday qualities are definite sells. So far, the Regal TourX is the best of the comeback station wagons we’ve seen.

Test Period Length and Limitations
The Regal TourX was a manufacturer’s press loan for about a week. During that time, a total of over 200 miles were put on the vehicle in varied driving conditions and with varied passenger loads.