Verano

Make
Buick
Segment
Sedan

Although we've reported on the 2012 Buick Verano prior to the Detroit show, some new information has come to light about the new baby Buick. While we're still slightly skeptical that this could turn out to be 21st century GM badge engineering, we were happily surprised to learn that the Verano will pack a serious punch under the hood. GM has announced that they intend to significantly differentiate the Verano from its close Chevrolet Cruze cousin.

They will be offering it with not only a standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 177 hp standard, but also an optional turbo 2.0-liter four found in the Regal Turbo. Buyers can also choose between either a six-speed manual or automatic for each engine. Just to clarify the excitement here, this means that Buick will offer the smaller and lighter Verano with a total of 220 hp that can be had with a six-speed manual. Buick is also claiming the Verano will have one of the quietest cabins in its class due to the use of laminated glass, triple door seals, and several other road noise deafening technologies.

Does the Verano look like a Buick-fied Cruze? A bit, yes, but the General seems to be investing serious money and technology in order to make it more than just a re-skinned Chevy.