If nothing else, Buick is commended for offering manual transmissions, which are on the endangered species list.
The 2013 Buick Verano Turbo sedan will be priced at $29,990, including a destination charge of $885. The turbocharged Verano uses GM’s Ecotec 2-liter four-cylinder engine with direct injection and continuously variable valve timing to produce 250 horsepower (187 kW) at 5300 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. (353 Nm) of torque at 2000 rpm.
Zero-to-60 mph acceleration is an estimated 6.2 seconds, with the compact car returning an EPA rated fuel economy of 20 city and 31 mpg highway with the six-speed manual transmission that is a no-cost option. The standard six-speed automatic is not yet rated. (The original 2.4 liter Verano is about an 8-second 0-60 mph car and for 2013 is EPA rated at 21 city and 32 highway. )
Verano Turbo is claimed to offer more power and better fuel efficiency than the competition. A 2012 Lexus IS250 is rated at 204 horsepower, with fuel efficiency estimates of 19 city, 28 mpg highway when equipped with a manual transmission.
In addition to its 2.0L engine, dual exhaust, sport pedals and rear spoiler, standard equipment for the Verano Turbo includes IntelliLink connectivity, a Bose 9-speaker audio system, leather-appointed upholstery, push-button start, rear park assist and rearview camera, radar-based side blind zone alert and rear cross-traffic alert, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. A power sunroof and navigation are optional.
Verano is based on the Chevrolet Cruze, itself based on the Opel Astra, and like Cruze, Verano also straddles the mid-size and compact classes by its size – with about 120 cubic feet of passenger and cargo room and seating for five. (See Driving Impression – Chevrolet Cruze)
Verano sales began in late 2011 with a 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission and standard voice-activated IntelliLink. For 2013, a rearview camera is standard on all Verano models.
In July Buick sales were off 15% year-over-year as the brand continues to struggle in the U.S. Verano sales were 4,235 units and have increased each month since the car launched in December 2011. However, Verano has killed the Opel-based Regal – off 49% at 1,800 units in July, which is smaller and more expensive, a tough showroom challenge.
“Buick Verano continues to build momentum in the marketplace with eight straight months of sales increases since launch,” said Tony DiSalle, vice president of Buick marketing. “The new Verano Turbo increases the performance of an already capable luxury sedan while continuing to offer customers the smart, purposeful technology they expect.”
With the arrival of this turbo, Buick will offer three different models with turbocharged engines and optional six-speed manual transmissions, including the Regal Turbo and Regal GS luxury sport sedans. The 2013 Buick Encore luxury crossover, on sale early next year, will feature a standard turbocharged engine.
