2013 Buick Verano 1SL

Quick, luxurious, and affordable with enhanced technology helps describe the white diamond tricoat exterior and choccachino interior Verano that was my test drive for a week.

Verano has a stout and strong heart that beats in the form of the standard direct inject 2.4 L Ecotec 4-cylinder engine with VVT that puts out 180 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque, obtaining 32 highway mpg.

The 6-speed automatic transmission featuring Driver Shift Control allows the driver to be more proactive and enjoy a “hands on” experience.

For $26,755 you get a vehicle with a rear-camera system, side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, and navigation—four features that are rarely standard on vehicles, especially those under $30,000. 

Inside, Verano is standard-equipped with front bucket seats and 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Six-way power adjustment driver seat, heated front seats, and leather seating surfaces are added as you move up the model ladder. 

Numerous safety features like headlamps, a theft detection system, and tire pressure monitor make Verano an extremely practical vehicle.

The seats are positioned to allow you to easily command power windows and door locks, and operate the 7” color touchscreen in the center console that controls the audio system with SiriusXM, USB port, AUX port, Bluetooth music streaming, and iPod support. Warm wood tones and tasteful metal accents add to the luxurious feel inside. 

Items like tilt and telescopic steering column and cruise control require some effort, but very little.

Verano is quiet inside thanks to a Buick technology called Quiet Tuning that reduces unwanted noise from road, wind and passing vehicles. Like noise-concealing headphones, the technology blocks and absorbs sound, leaving outside noise where it should be—outside. 

Noise-reducing technologies are built into key areas of Verano’s structure. Even the forged, machine-faced 18” alloy wheels suppress turbulence because the tires are engineered to minimize road vibrations, hence less noise.

Inside you have an amazing amount of room for your “stuff.” The center console provides several areas to store your electronics, including a discreet compartment in the armrest for your smartphone. Cup holders illuminated by ambient lighting help you find your beverage easily in the dark.

Outside, Verano is equipped for a festive gala. Tinted solar glass, matching body color/door handles, chrome accent, and front fog lamps all add touches of elegance to an already fitting interior. 

Driving the Verano was a blast, though a couple more inches added to the seats would have made it more comfortable. The Verano is quick to respond on the road, making passing an easy exercise, while the steering has just the right amount of strength to make handling very secure.

But engineers must forge ahead to develop better mpg to remain competitive. 

Verano is covered by a 6-year/70,000 mile Powertrain Limited Warranty and a 4-year/50,000 mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty. Numerous safety features like headlamps, a theft detection system, and tire pressure monitor make Verano an extremely practical vehicle.

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected]

Wheelbase: 105.7”
Body width: 71.4”
Over all length: 183.9”
Cargo volume (cu.ft.): 14.3
Fuel tank (app): 15.6 gallons
Curb weight: 3300 lbs.

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