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| 2014Hybrid.Com |
As for standard features, the 3014 Regal eAssist has a nice array that includes remote keyless entry; power locks, windows, and mirrors; cruise control; tilt/telescoping steering column; leather wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise controls; leather seating; heated front seat with an eight-way power driver’s seat; dual-zone climate controls; a CD/satellite audio system with an auxiliary input jack for connecting a portable digital audio device; and GM’s OnStar system.
Two option packages are offered that add convenience items like a Harmon Kardon 336 watt audio system, a GPS navigation with seven-inch touch-screen display, keyless start and remote start.
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| 2014Hybrid.Com |
The 2014 Regal eAssist is classified as a midsize sedan, but it rides on a 107.8-inch wheelbase, which is about four inches shorter than LaCrosse. This means the 2014 Regal is a bit smaller, with a tighter backseat. Trunk volume in standard 2014 Regals measures 14.2 cubic feet. It drops to 11.1 cubic feet in the 2014 Regal eAssist because the battery pack sits behind the backseat, cutting space and reducing the standard folding rear seatback to a pass-through.
Economics
If the 2014 Regal’s European styling and driving dynamics appeal to you, then the choice is fuel economy or performance. The 2014 Regal eAssist and Regal 2.0 Turbo both have a base price of $29,015 but, eAssist offers a fuel economy rating of 25 city/36 highway while the 220 horsepower Turbo model turns 19 city/23 highway.
The closest entry-luxury hybrids are the 2014 Lexus HS 250h and 2014 Lincoln’s MKZ Hybrid. Both are full hybrid modes and thus offer better fuel economy – 35 city/34 for the Lexus and 41 city/36 highway for the Lincoln. However, Regal eAssist is thousands less than both of these hybrids.
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| 2014Hybrid.Com |
eAssist is another sign that hybrid technology—in all its variety of flavors—will become increasingly commonplace in the auto market. However simple the eAssist hybrid system is, it has impressive fuel economy gains and reduces emissions. And, when paired with the Buick 2014 Regal’s Euro styling and handling plus its under $30,000 price tag, it deserves a place on your shopping list.
Reviews
The eAssist car retains the standard 2014 Regal’s dynamic character. It’s reasonably sharp and connected (especially by past Buick standards) and provides an overall pleasurable driving experience—as long as you’re not in a big rush. The steering still has a bit of a dead spot on-center, but that’s no fault of the hybridization.
