The Buick Regal TourX, a stylish and practical wagon, offered a compelling alternative to SUVs. While discontinued after the 2020 model year, the TourX remains a popular choice on the used car market due to its cargo capacity, comfortable ride, and available all-wheel drive. Knowing which model years offer the best combination of features, reliability, and value is crucial for making a smart purchase. This guide will help you navigate the used Buick Regal TourX market, highlighting the best years and those to potentially avoid.

Buick Regal TourX: Model Year Deep Dive

Model Year Standout Features & Strengths Potential Weaknesses & Issues
2018 Launch year, attractive styling, ample cargo space, standard 2.0L turbo engine, available all-wheel drive. Some early production issues reported, potential for higher depreciation compared to later years. Infotainment system can be slow to respond for some users.
2019 Improved infotainment system response time, minor trim level adjustments, continued strong performance. CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity issues reported by some users. Same engine as 2018, potential for similar known issues.
2020 Final model year, potentially better deals due to discontinuation, availability of remaining inventory. Limited availability compared to earlier years. Potential for higher maintenance costs as the car ages due to part availability.

Detailed Explanations

2018:

The 2018 Buick Regal TourX marked the return of a Buick wagon to the US market after a long hiatus. Its standout features include a stylish exterior design, a spacious cargo area significantly larger than comparable sedans and crossovers, and a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that provides ample power for both city and highway driving. The availability of all-wheel drive (AWD) made it an attractive option for drivers in regions with inclement weather. Potential weaknesses of the 2018 model year include some reported early production issues, which are common in first-year models. In addition, the infotainment system, while functional, can sometimes be slow to respond to inputs, which can be frustrating for some users.

2019:

The 2019 Buick Regal TourX addressed some of the shortcomings of the 2018 model. A key improvement was the enhanced infotainment system, which offered faster response times and a more user-friendly interface. While the engine and overall mechanical components remained largely unchanged, the 2019 model benefited from minor trim level adjustments that refined the overall driving experience. However, some users have reported connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which can be intermittent and require troubleshooting. The potential for similar engine-related issues as the 2018 model should also be considered, as the powertrain is the same.

2020:

The 2020 Buick Regal TourX represents the final year of production for this wagon. A significant advantage of purchasing a 2020 model is the potential for better deals due to the car's discontinuation. Dealerships may have been more willing to offer discounts to clear remaining inventory. However, the limited availability of the 2020 TourX compared to earlier years means that finding the specific trim level and options you desire may be more challenging. As the newest model year, maintenance costs may initially be lower, but as the car ages, potential challenges with part availability could arise due to the discontinuation.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which Buick Regal TourX year is the most reliable? The 2019 model year is generally considered the most reliable due to improvements in the infotainment system and fewer reported early production issues compared to the 2018 model.

  • What engine does the Buick Regal TourX have? All model years of the Buick Regal TourX are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

  • Is the Buick Regal TourX available with all-wheel drive? Yes, all-wheel drive (AWD) was available as an option on all trim levels of the Buick Regal TourX.

  • What is the cargo capacity of the Buick Regal TourX? The Buick Regal TourX offers 32.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 73.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

  • Are there any common problems with the Buick Regal TourX? Some common problems include infotainment system glitches, potential connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and, for earlier models, some early production issues.

  • How does the Buick Regal TourX compare to other wagons? The Buick Regal TourX offers a compelling blend of cargo capacity, comfort, and available all-wheel drive, making it a strong competitor to other wagons like the Subaru Outback and the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. It typically offers a more refined driving experience than the Outback and more cargo space than the Golf Alltrack.

  • How much does a used Buick Regal TourX typically cost? The price of a used Buick Regal TourX varies depending on the model year, trim level, mileage, and condition, but typically ranges from $18,000 to $30,000.

  • Is the Buick Regal TourX a good family car? Yes, the Buick Regal TourX is a good family car due to its spacious interior, ample cargo capacity, comfortable ride, and available all-wheel drive, making it suitable for road trips and everyday family needs.

  • What are the different trim levels offered on the Buick Regal TourX? The Buick Regal TourX was offered in several trim levels, including the base 1SV, Preferred, Essence, and Avenir. Each trim level offers different features and amenities.

  • Is it difficult to find parts for the discontinued Buick Regal TourX? While the Regal TourX is discontinued, parts are generally still available through Buick dealerships, aftermarket suppliers, and online retailers. However, availability could become more limited in the future.

  • What is the fuel economy of the Buick Regal TourX? The fuel economy of the Buick Regal TourX is estimated at around 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway for the front-wheel-drive models, and slightly lower for all-wheel-drive models.

  • Does the Buick Regal TourX have good safety ratings? The Buick Regal TourX generally received good safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, it's essential to check the specific safety ratings for the model year you are considering.

  • What should I look for when buying a used Buick Regal TourX? When buying a used Buick Regal TourX, thoroughly inspect the vehicle's condition, check the maintenance history, test drive the car to assess its performance, and have a mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection. Pay close attention to the infotainment system, engine, and transmission.

  • Does the Buick Regal TourX have a timing belt or a timing chain? The Buick Regal TourX uses a timing chain, which generally requires less maintenance than a timing belt.

  • How long will a Buick Regal TourX last? With proper maintenance and care, a Buick Regal TourX can last for 200,000 miles or more.

Conclusion

Choosing the best year for a used Buick Regal TourX depends on your individual needs and priorities. The 2019 model year offers a good balance of reliability and features, while the 2020 model year may offer better deals due to its discontinuation. Consider your budget, desired features, and tolerance for potential maintenance issues when making your decision, and always conduct a thorough inspection before purchasing.