Regal TourX

Make
Buick
Segment
Wagon

Since Buick is now a crossover-only brand focusing on popular models like the Encore GX in the US, the Regal Sedan and its rugged TourX wagon sibling were discontinued for the 2020 model year. This makes sense to a degree since the Regal itself was actually a rebadged Opel Insignia. Opel was sold to Groupe PSA, which has in turn merged with FCA to create Stellantis. Still, in some markets, such as China, the Regal lives on, where it was recently refreshed for the 2021 model year. But what if the USA still received Opels as Buicks? Well, the new Opel Astra - which was closely related to the Verano in the US - has now spawned a Sports Tourer variant that shows us the wagon we could've had beneath the Regal TourX.

The sleek Sports Tourer is Opel's first wagon to adopt the brand's new design language first seen on the Opel Mokka EV. As such, it sports a sculpted hood, sharp creases, L-shaped LED headlights with daytime running lights, and slim taillights. It's one of many attractive European wagons we wish would come to America.

Despite having a 2.75-inch longer wheelbase, the new Astra Sport Tourer is 2.3 inches shorter than its predecessor thanks to its short front overhangs. With the rear seats up, the new Astra Sport Tourer offers up to 21 cubic feet of cargo space, increasing to 57.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down. As expected, engine options carry over from the Astra hatchback, with a choice of a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine available in 108 hp and 128 hp states of tune and a 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel with 128 hp.

For the first time in a Sport Tourer, a plug-in hybrid variant with an electrified 1.6-liter turbo is also available rated at 225 hp. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, while the more powerful versions including the PHEVs include an eight-speed automatic. For extra practicality, gasoline and diesel variants feature an optional "Intelli-Space" moveable load floor that can be adjusted into high and low positions and parked at a 45-degree angle.

Due to the position of the battery, the plug-in hybrid variants have less luggage space, reducing to 19.3 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 55.5 cubic feet with the seats folded down. As standard, the high-tech interior is equipped with a ten-inch digital instrument cluster and a ten-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Pricing details haven't been confirmed but the order books will open early next year before customer deliveries start in mid-2022.