Saturday Drive: 2012 Buick Regal GS

Not only is it the fastest Buick you can buy in the states (which some consider akin to the “healthiest Big Mac”), it also comes with a six-speed manual transmission as standard equipment. A six-speed automatic transmission will be an option later this year.  (David Undercoffler / Los Angeles Times)

Other modifications hinting at the GS’ aggressive inclinations are Brembo four-piston front brakes; a four-wheel independent suspension that’s 10 millimeters lower; 19-inch wheels; aggressive front and rear bumpers; dual chrome-tipped exhaust outlets; and an extra-thick, leather-wrapped, flat-bottomed steering wheel.  (David Undercoffler / Los Angeles Times)

Standard on the GS is a Drive Control System with normal, Sport and GS modes that progressively firm up the suspension’s damping level and increase steering resistance.  (David Undercoffler / Los Angeles Times)

My tester had options like a navigation system with 7-inch touchscreen; a sunroof; 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in summer tires; and some extra-sparkly (technical term) metallic black paint.  (David Undercoffler / Los Angeles Times)

The engine’s power is excellent and this car loves to accelerate, though with peak torque coming a little late (for a turbo) at 2,400 rpm, the GS takes a moment to get moving rapidly. This is more a byproduct of the car’s 3,700-pound curb weight rather than turbo lag, since there really isn’t any.  (David Undercoffler / Los Angeles Times)

Drivers and passengers alike will notice is this car’s turbo whine. Some fans of forced-induction love this noise, but to these ears it just sounded like the car was having a prolonged asthma attack. It was much more of an annoyance than a reminder that you were driving a performance-oriented sedan.   (David Undercoffler / Los Angeles Times)

Once you get moving, this car enjoys a spirited freeway cruise or trek over sweeping canyon roads. The car’s Buick nameplate combines with its stout engine to also make this car a bit of a sleeper, though the 20-inch wheels and more aggressive front may key fellow drivers into the fact that this isn’t papa’s Roadmaster.  (David Undercoffler / Los Angeles Times)