If you're looking for performance, the Regal GS has got it. The large-displacement 3.6-liter V6 delivers instant power, and a quick punch of the GS mode button prepares the car for a windy mountain road or a quick run around the race track.

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DETROIT - A big part of Buick's reinvention of the last seven years has been a number of sporty performance cars designed to appeal to younger buyers. The 2018 Buick Regal will continue in that direction with a lineup of engaging designs including the 310-horsepower Buick Regal GS. We were able to test-drive all of the upcoming Regal models recently at GM's Milford Proving Grounds in Michigan.

The basic Regal for 2018 will be a compact four-door "Sportback" coupe with a large rear hatch that encompasses the entire rear window. The hatch offers a large access point for the trunk while folding rear seats further enlarge the potential cargo space. The 2018 Regal will also be available as a five-door station wagon, called the Regal TourX.

Both the Regal Sportback and TourX offer a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 250 horsepower. The Sportback is available with your choice of front-wheel- or Buick's intelligent all-wheel-drive. All TourX models come with all-wheel-drive. Front-wheel-drive Regals use an 9-speed automatic transmission, while all-wheel-drive models use a 8-speed automatic.

The star of the Regal lineup is the all-new Regal GS. The GS is based on the Sportback body and powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine rated at 310 horsepower and 282 pound-feet of torque. The GS is equipped with the 9-speed automatic transmission and intelligent AWD.

The GS also boasts sport features including upgraded Brembo brakes, an active suspension capable of 500 adjustments per second, and a GS driving mode that tightens both suspension and steering response. The sport treatment continues with 19-inch wheels, unique sport seats, and a racing-inspired flat-bottomed steering wheel.

The technology story on the new Regal line includes an available 8-inch touchscreen interface with Bose sound system and active noise cancellation. GM's signature OnStar safety and convenience system is standard with a 5 year basic service plan included.

On the road, the Regal Sportback and TourX models offer good performance. The TourX will be a favorite among Portland drivers for its versatile wagon styling, panoramic sunroof, and slightly raised ride height. This is a wagon that will keep you mobile and comfortable no matter what next winter throws at us. The Sportback also offers more configurable capacity than conventional coupes or sedans.

But if you're looking for performance, the Regal GS has got it. The large-displacement 3.6-liter V6 delivers instant power, and a quick punch of the GS mode button prepares the car for a windy mountain road or a quick run around the race track.

The 2018 Regal line will be available for sale later this fall, and the starting price of the Regal Sportback will be $26,840 including all fees. That price is about $2,000 lower than the corresponding 2017 Regal. The Regal TourX will start at $30,920, and the Regal GS will retail starting at $40,915.

2018 Buick Regal GS

Base price: $39,990

Price as tested: $40,915

Type: Compact sportback

Engine: 3.6-liter V6 (310 hp, 282 lbs-ft)

Transmission: 9-speed automatic

EPA estimated mileage: TBD

Overall length: 192.9 inches

Curb weight: TBD

Final assembly: Ruesselsheim, Germany