2012 Buick Verano Overview

The Buick Verano is a brand new model for 2012. It is also the smallest Buick, staking a claim on the compact luxury segment.

The Verano's powertrain is a 2.4L 4-cylinder. The dual overhead cam unit is E85-capable and produces 177 horsepower, which is good for a claimed 8-second sprint to 60 mph. It is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. A sporty turbocharged variant is expected later in the model year.

Veranos come very well equipped with amenities such as 18-inch wheels, remote start, power sunroof, heated leather seating, heated steering wheel, automatic climate control, a nine-speaker Bose stereo, IntelliLink Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, parking assist and more.

The best thing about the Verano may be its quiet ride. Buick has gone above and beyond to make the Verano a silent experience, with acoustic laminated glass, triple-sealed doors, a sound-deadening headliner, heavy-duty material on either side of the firewall, refined chassis dynamics and many, many luxury-level touches as well. The results are impressive and a welcome experience at this price.

As in all Buicks, safety is a high priority in the Verano, and as such the car includes ten airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and OnStar.

2012 Buick Verano Model Changes

The Buick Verano is an all-new model for 2012. As a compact luxury sedan which shares a platform with the Chevrolet Cruze, it slots in below the Regal as Buick's smallest offering. Power comes from a 177-hp 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, and the Verano is EPA estimated to achieve around 22 mpg city, 31 mpg highway. Luxury abounds inside, as do superior noise reduction materials, and the new Verano is one of the quietest cars on the road. Pricing starts at under $23,000.

2012 Buick Verano Value

The 2012 Buick Verano is aimed squarely at the entry-level luxury buyer, and what that buyer gets is a well-built American car loaded with amenities you often have to pay up for to find. When compared to others in the segment, such as the Acura TSX and Lexus IS250, the Verano more than holds its own, yet is priced more than $7,000 beneath the former and $10,000 under the latter.

2012 Buick Verano Strengths

Whisper-quiet ride; premium luxury features; competitive, entry-level pricing; standard safety features