Buick has introduced the 2019 Regal Avenir.
Designed to build on the success of the LaCrosse and Enclave Avenir, the luxury-oriented model has a familiar design but is distinguished by a three-dimensional mesh grille and exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels with a pearl nickel finish.
The exterior styling changes are barely noticeable, but bigger updates occur in the cabin. Drivers are greeted by whisper beige or ebony leather front seats with diamond quilted accents and embroidered headrests. A closer inspection also reveals Avenir-branded sill plates and special floor mats with contrast stitching.
The real highlight of the interior – according to Buick – is the addition of the company’s new “cloud-connected infotainment system.” Debuting on the Regal Avenir, the system has GPS navigation, voice recognition technology and access to an assortment of apps.
Other standard features include a wireless smartphone charger, an eight-speaker Bose audio system and an assortment of driver assistance systems. The latter include rear park assist, rear cross traffic alert and lane change alert with side blind zone alert.
Power is provided by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 250 hp (186 kW / 253 PS) and 260 lb-ft (352 Nm) of torque. It is connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels.
The 2019 Buick Regal Avenir will go on sale this fall and pricing will be announced closer to launch. However, the model will likely be on the expensive side as the Buick noted demand for midsize cars, priced between $30,000 and $40,000, has grown 30 percent in the past four year.