The Forgotten Gem: A Review of the Buick Verano
In the landscape of modern compact sedans, few cars managed to strike the unique balance of "premium" and "accessible" quite like the Buick Verano. Launched in North America for the 2012 model year, the Verano was a crucial part of Buick's strategy to attract a younger demographic and shed its "grandpa car" image. Positioned below the Regal, the Verano aimed to offer a luxury-like experience in a more manageable and fuel-efficient package. While its production run was relatively short, the Verano left a lasting impression as a quiet, comfortable, and surprisingly well-equipped sedan. This review delves into what made the Verano a truly unique offering and why it remains a compelling used car today.
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| The Forgotten Gem: A Review of the Buick Verano |
A Quiet Contender: Design and Interior
The Buick Verano's design was a masterclass in understated elegance. It was based on the same global platform as the Chevrolet Cruze, but Buick’s engineers worked tirelessly to give it a distinct identity. The exterior featured a clean, sculpted silhouette, with Buick’s signature waterfall grille and subtle chrome accents. It was handsome and sophisticated, avoiding the overly aggressive styling of some competitors.
However, the real magic of the Verano was on the inside. Buick's "QuietTuning" philosophy was on full display. The cabin was exceptionally serene, thanks to a host of sound-dampening measures, including triple-sealed doors, laminated glass, and acoustic insulation. The result was a tranquil driving environment that felt far more expensive than the car’s price tag suggested. The interior materials were a significant step up from its Chevrolet counterpart, with soft-touch plastics, well-placed trim, and a high-quality feel to the controls. The seats, often available in leather, were comfortable and supportive, making long trips a pleasure.
Performance and Ride: Effortless and Composed
The Verano was never marketed as a sports sedan, and its performance reflected that. The standard engine was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, producing a respectable 180 horsepower. This engine provided adequate power for daily driving and highway cruising, but it wasn't a car you'd seek out for thrilling acceleration. Its strength lay in its smoothness and refinement.
The true star of the lineup was the Verano Turbo, introduced for the 2013 model year. This variant was a game-changer, equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that cranked out a potent 250 horsepower. The turbo model transformed the car, giving it a much more spirited character and the kind of effortless passing power that buyers in the premium segment expect. Both engines were paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.
On the road, the Verano delivered a ride that was both composed and compliant. The suspension was tuned for comfort, soaking up road imperfections with ease. It wasn't a corner-carver, but its steering was precise and its handling was predictable, making it a confident and relaxing car to drive. The combination of a quiet cabin and a smooth ride was a major selling point and a genuine luxury that set it apart from rivals.
Features and Value: A Richly Equipped Package
One of the Verano’s most compelling attributes was the sheer amount of equipment it offered for its price. Even the base models were well-equipped with features like dual-zone automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a rearview camera. Higher trims added luxuries like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, a Bose premium audio system, and navigation.
Safety was also a priority. The Verano was available with advanced safety features for its time, including Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and forward collision warning. These features, combined with a strong safety rating, made the Verano a secure choice for families and commuters alike. It represented excellent value, giving buyers a taste of luxury appointments without the hefty price tag of an Audi A3 or Lexus IS.
The Final Verdict: A Well-Kept Secret
The Buick Verano’s run came to an end in 2017 in North America, a victim of the automotive market's shift away from sedans and towards SUVs. While it may not have been a sales giant, it was a critical success. It earned praise for its exceptional cabin quietness, comfortable ride, and rich list of features.
Today, the Buick Verano remains a hidden gem in the used car market. It offers a level of comfort and refinement that is hard to find in a compact sedan from that era, all at a very affordable price. It’s a testament to the idea that a premium experience doesn’t have to come in a large, expensive package. The Buick Verano was, and still is, a car that quietly over-delivered, proving that luxury can indeed be found in a smaller, more accessible form. It may be gone from dealer showrooms, but its legacy as a smart and serene little sedan endures.
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