The addition of an optional AWD package is the biggest news for the 2014 Buick Regal.

The 2014 Buick Regal, now arriving in dealerships, will feature both more power, available all-wheel-drive and an expanded suite of safety features, according to General Motors.

It’s been just three years since Buick introduced the current Regal platform – borrowed from its German Opel subsidiary. So, some of these updates come quicker than one might expect. That’s particularly true of the Haldex-style all-wheel-drive system. But with AWD becoming increasingly common, especially in the luxury segment, it’s now a disadvantage for any automaker with upscale aspirations not to offer it in this competitive segment.

The other big change is that Buick will no longer offer two different flavors, if you will, of its popular 2.0-liter turbo. The power ratings will now be the same for both the Regal GS and Regal Turbo models — 259 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque – which GM boasts is more punch than any of its key competitors, including the Acura TSX, Audi A4, Lexus IS 250 or Mercedes-Benz CLA 250.

There will be only one version of the 2.0-liter turbo available on the 2014 Buick Regal.

Meanwhile, improvements, such as an updated twin-scroll turbocharger are promised to deliver a smoother, quieter ride with improved power and efficiency.  Equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, the 2014 Regal Turbo gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, an increase of 3 mpg, or 17%, city economy over the 2013 version.

“Power and fuel efficiency are typically mutually exclusive,” said Mike Katerberg, chief powertrain engineer. “But with our new 2.0-liter Turbo, we were able to increase both and create one of the most torque-rich and fuel efficient combinations on the market.”

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The base engine, meanwhile, remains the 2.4-liter naturally aspirated inline-four with eAssist, GM’s mild hybrid system shared with the bigger Buick LaCrosse. It delivers 182 horsepower.

(GM’s new online tools are meant to make it easier to buy online. Click Here for details.)

Though the biggest changes can be found under the hood, the 2014 Regal does get some cosmetic tweaks, as well, including new LED running lights and a modified grille.

Modest interior upgrades include the updated Buick IntelliLink infotainment system.

Inside, the 2014 Buick Regal sport sedan also features updated leather-appointed seating surfaces – and a host of new technologies.

The sedan now comes standard with Buick’s next-generation IntelliLink connectivity including eight-inch color touch display and a suite of active safety technologies including Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Change Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control and a collision preparation system – which helps stop the car more quickly if a crash seems imminent – are available options.