2018 Buick Regal GS Will Not Offer Manual Gearbox

Buick already ditched the six-speed manual gearbox in the current Regal GS after a (not surprisingly) slow take rate, but unfortunately, the option won’t be returning for the GS’ follow-up act.

The Truth About Cars has unearthed another California Air Resources Board document, the same institution that confirmed the Regal TourX wagon, and it shows no stick shift option in sight. Instead, the document reaffirms the rumor of a 3.6-liter V6 engine as the sport sedan’s powerplant, but it will be paired to a nine-speed automatic sending power to all four wheels.

What is interesting is this seems to be the only all-wheel drive variant available with the nine-speed automatic, which is reserved for front-wheel drive Regals only outside of the GS. As for the aforementioned V6 engine, power outputs may hover around 335 horsepower, which is what the Camaro team has massaged out of the regular Camaro LT. Though, Buick could do more to compensate for zero forced induction.

We already have an idea of what the 2018 Regal GS will look like, too. Images of the Chinese-spec Regal GS leaked last week, showing a much more aggressive body and performance cues. If the information provided with said leaks is true, we’ll be seeing more of the 2018 Regal GS when it debuts at the Shangai Auto Show this week.

Former GM Authority staff writer.

Sean Szymkowski

Former GM Authority staff writer.

View Comments

  • I have a2013 Regal GS with the 6spd manual . I love this car . Saddens me that I won't replace it wit the next generation GS because a manual won't be offered .. Looks like a BMW is my next option

  • It's always a numbers game as Buick made the decision to kill off the option of a manual transmission because of slow sales and the fact that most modern automatic transmissions are faster than a manual as demonstrated in the Corvette; the 9-speed automatic will also squeeze out as much fuel mileage efficiency as possible.

  • I also have a 2011 regal Cxl turbo 6 SPD manual, love it. It's sad that they chose not to have a mt as a option. I bet the Opel will

  • I agree, I currently own a 2011 Buick regal Cxl turbo 6 SPD manual, love this car. It is sad to hear that Buick is done with this option. I hate driving automatics because I personally think it's boring. Guess my next buy won't be a Buick regal