Can we call it a hot hatch? The next-generation 2018 Buick Regal bowed earlier this week in Sportback and TourX wagon form, but one variant was missing from the spotlight: the go-fast GS model.

While the existing Regal GS makes do with a high-output turbocharged four, a source told us last year the new Regal would offer six-cylinder motivation. So far, the launch date and the TourX wagon variant claims have come to pass, though there’s still no V6 Regal in sight.

Actually, there is. And it happens to be in plain sight.

Two days ago, the following paragraph appeared on the Regal landing page of Buick Canada’s website.

Engineered to make getting there all the fun, the all-new Regal’s excellent driving performance is something to be experienced with available new powertrain and AWD system (3.6L v6 on GS and Twin Clutch AWD).

Detailing the new model, the site touts the Regal Sportback’s GS variant, equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 and Buick’s twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system.

The mention then disappeared from the site.

If you’re skeptical of the evidence so far, just search for the mention in Google. The GS mentions remains cached in the page description:

A Buick spokesperson declined to confirm the authenticity of information on Buick’s website.

To date, the only engine announced for the Regal Sportback is a 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four. TourX models (which won’t be available in Canada) see torque boosted from 260 lb-ft to 295. Moving up to a V6 would give buyers at least 305 horsepower, going by the mill’s other applications. There’s also the possibility Buick could reach further into the parts bin and pull out the 335 hp variant found in the Chevrolet Camaro, giving the automaker added bragging rights.

With the 2018 Regal not expected on dealer lots until the fourth quarter of this year, Buick has plenty of time to schedule another product announcement.

[Image: General Motors]