For better or worse, many old nameplates did not survive the current phase of auto industry streamlining. Tough economic times leave little room for sentimentality, but there is one exception. The Regal has resurfaced and Buick hopes that fond memories will bring sedan buyers to the brand.

Representing Decisive Auto Latino at the recent Regal launch held in San Diego, I drove the all-new four-door, four-cylinder midsize sedan CXL and turbo. From my perspective, both versions of the sedan looked in good form.

While it matches more contemporary designs, the rounded exterior Euro-styling (it was designed and is currently built in Germany), sans the signature Buick portholes, will grab some looks.

The 2011 Regal’s interior signals that Buick still stands for accessible refinement and luxury. Smart applications of technology, including details such as a multi-function controller on the center console for operation of the audio system, the Bluetooth phone, and optional navigation system, add convenience. The faceplate for the “infotainment” screen is set at a 30-degree angle to contribute to the car’s flowing interior, and the satin metallic, piano black and new, Kibo (a rich, dark, progressively grained wood) trim materials accent the inside.

In a unique move, Buick will begin the Regal re-introduction with its top-of-the line trim levels, the CXL and Turbo (to be introduced later this year). Mid-level and base models will appear next year. Buick marketing director Roger McCormack explains that the objective is to jump-start the Regal launch.

Regal reps at the launch claim the Acura TSX and Volvo S60 as the sedan’s chief competitors but I’m going to add the Hyundai Sonata. Both the Regal and Sonata will be available exclusively as four-cylinder models.

One advantage the Regal has over its European competitors however, is its longer wheelbase and greater trunk volume, along with standard features, like a six-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch wheels, and OnStar.

A 2.4-liter Ecotec direct injected engine rated at an estimated 182 horsepower, powers the CXL while a turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec rated at an estimated 220 horsepower comes out later this year.

On the test drive, the turbo added a much appreciated oomph to the engine performance without sacrificing too much fuel economy. The regular four-cylinder should achieve an estimated 20 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 30 mpg on the highway matched to the standard six-speed automatic transmission while the turbo should get 18 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. A six-speed manual will be available after the turbo introduction.

The mid-sized market is packed and as such, packaging (the car buyer’s bottom line) will set the competitors apart.

Standard safety features on the Regal include the latest-generation electronic stability control (ESC or StabiliTrak), the anti-lock braking system, traction control, OnStar onboard emergency and information system, dual-stage frontal air bags, side-curtain air bags, and pedal-release are standard.

Creature comforts include leather seating with heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, 18-inch alloy wheels, and an AM/FM/XM stereo, single disc CD and MP3 player. For added convenience, cruise control, steering-wheel mounted audio and cruise controls, a split-rear folding seat, and manual tilt/telescoping, leather wrapped steering wheel are also standard.

Pricing for the all-new 2011 Regal starts at $26,995 for the premium CXL model, including a $750 destination charge. That’s pretty aggressive and matched to the Regal provenance, Buick could have a winning combination on its hands. At the least, the new Regal is a sight for sore eyes.