With a 2.4 L DOHC 4 Cylinder VVT engine the 2013 Buick Verano is a quiet yet powerful force. The engine provides 180 hp and in-tuned acceleration/response which for a 4 cylinder is a pretty amazing feat. The vehicle was also equipped with Driver Shift Control, (DSC) manual mode which was both easy and fun to use while it delivered an additional boost in acceleration. There were a few extras included under the hood which provided additional power and torque. The Fuel economy is rated at 21/city and 32 /hwy. During the one week testing period 29 mpg average was achieved.
The undercarriage included Macpherson Struts creating an even quieter, smoother and comfortable ride. Steering, and handling were very responsive but the vehicle did require a wide radius in the case of U-Turns.
Buick classifies the Verano as a luxury while the EPA categorizes it as a compact. I do not agree with either statements. Instead the Verano is a large midsized and is equipped with ample accessories for both technology, safety, and comfort. The engine and the ride were both quiet and the doors were equipped with (noise deadening) tuning glass and triple door seals to ensure the interior's quiet ride.
The vehicle's interior was abundant with power, control, comfort, and simply 'handy' features such as; a cell phone holder, heated seats and steering wheel (which were perfect for our colder days), front sport bucket seats which provided superior support. The driver seat is six-way powered and adjustable. The back seats are 60/40 split and provided adequate leg room, cup holders, and a power outlet.
Entertainment-wise the Verano included an upgraded (nine speaker Bose) audio system with navigation, (XM was also a part of this test car). The entertainment system featured a 7” color touch screen, CD MP3, AUX, USB, and Bluetooth, voice recognition.
The system also included Pandora streaming capabilities, remote vehicle start, and a sunroof. The tested model did experience an occasional glitch with the navigation system where the feature would not hold address information if the vehicle was turned off and then re-started. In this instance the driver would have to re-program or push 'previous destination' in order to re-obtain, re-calculate or at times re-enter destination information. The LED screen was also in need of an overhead hood to reduce glare on the touch screen.
The Verano included numerous safety features from rear vision camera with side blind zone and rear cross traffic alert, (these systems performed well and were helpful). Also the vehicle is well-equipped with 10 standard air bags (which is an above average amount and a big plus). Mechanical safety features such as Stabilitrak, Traction Control, and ultrasonic parking assist are also included. It is worth noting that the button for the hazard light system was front and center on the console and very accessible. The abundance of safety features earned the 2012 Verano a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.
Base price $26,755
Sunroof and entertainment package (with destination) $29, 830
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