Thanks to its excellent torque, the 3800 Series II V6 that comes on the Regal LS can haul this big sedan out of the blocks in a hurry. GM's 3800 Series II is an excellent engine and it delivers 200 horsepower. The Series II has stood the test of time, but has been refined over the years and is widely used by General Motors. Projected fuel economy is 19/30 miles per gallon city/highway.Though it's a good engine, the normally aspirated 3800 Series II above pales next to the supercharged engine that comes on the Regal GS. Supercharging adds 45 horsepower to the output of the 3800 V6, but the bigger benefit comes in the form of mass quantities of torque. While the Regal LS comes with 225 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm, the GS boasts 280 pound-feet at 3600 rpm. Torque is the force you use to get off and running when the light turns green or to pull out for a pass on a two-lane highway; the Regal GS performs both of these tasks with gratifying zeal. This zeal is habit-forming. Because the Regal GS is so quiet, its power means that it requires some extra attention to the speedometer as the supercharged V6 quickly tows the Regal beyond legal speed limits. Punch the throttle from a standstill and the Regal GS will exhibit a bit of torque steer, a gentle tug on the steering wheel at full throttle, but this trait becomes almost transparent after a bit of familiarization. Regals are equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission. Both LS and GS come with traction control. The GS comes with full-range traction control, which uses the braking system and engine power controls to reduce loss of traction on slippery surfaces. The LS only uses engine modulation for traction control. Even with its stiffer Gran Touring suspension package, which comes standard on the GS, the Regal isn't quite as athletic as the Grand Prix GTP. On the other hand, its ride quality is distinctly smoother and more compliant and it handles well. The Gran Touring suspension includes touring tires for better steering, handling and control. The front springs and front stabilizer are stiffer, while a rear stabilizer bar is added. Rear shock absorbers and front struts are tuned for higher dampening rates for more body control. The Gran Touring package also includes GM's MagnaSteer, the variable-assist power rack-and-pinion steering that provides easier steering at low speeds but increased steering effort at higher speeds for improved steering feel. As a result, the steering is accurate and exceptionally quick. Likewise, braking performance is a definite cut above, with good control and pedal feel. The Gran Touring package comes with larger front brake rotors to increase braking response.
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