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Sorry Folks, But the Buick Regal TourX’s Plastic Cladding is Here to Stay

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Although the Opel Insignia has a model that comes without plastic cladding around the wheels, Buick will release no such model for the Regal TourX

2018 Buick Regal TourX

If you want a Regal TourX, you’re going to have to deal with its plastic cladding

Despite the American market’s usual apprehension regarding modern wagon-based vehicles, Buick is convinced that the Regal TourX will be a success, predicting approximately 50% of Regals it sells will be TourX models. Still, one of the most divisive aspects of the new Regal TourX is the plastic cladding that surrounds its wheels.

Unfortunately for those who would like a Buick Regal TourX sans the off-road plastic outlining the wheels, Buick has confirmed that it has no plans to release a TourX without the design feature.


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After many enthusiasts expressed interest in a Regal TourX model that did not possess the cladding, GM Authority reached out to Buick for any information surrounding such a model. Buick responded, stating the plastic cladding was here to stay.

A spokesperson from Buick stated that the design was “right where it needs to be.” The Regal TourX was developed to be a bridge between Buick’s utility vehicles and its passenger cars.

Buick is expected to release details about a new Regal wagon in the coming months, which could look a lot like the Opel Insignia Sports Tourer

Here’s what the Regal TourX would look like without the cladding

What’s truly baffling about this decision is the fact that the Opel Insignia, the vehicle that the TourX is based upon, has a wagon model without the cladding. The Insignia’s Sport Tourer model lacks the plastic surrounding the wheels, while also sitting lower to the ground.

Of course, most wagon-based models sold here in the States do possess a similar plastic cladding. This includes the Subaru Outback, which is posed to be the Regal TourX’s main competitor.


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If the plastic cladding isn’t a deal breaker for you, then the Buick Regal TourX will serve as a fine station wagon for your needs. On the other hand, if you can’t stand  plastic covering near your vehicle’s wheels, then you should probably be prepared to look elsewhere for your next ride.

News Source: GM Authority