GM surprised us today with the unveiling of a new version of the Buick Verano that not only sports a much more powerful turbocharged engine but for the first time, also gives the option of a manual transmission.
While its understated looks make it seem like the regular 180hp Verano with the only giveaways being a discreet "T" badge, the dual exhaust outlets and a barely visible decklid spoiler, the Turbo is actually faster than the 270hp Regal GS.
Power for the flagship model of the Verano series comes from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with direct injection and continuously variable valve timing that produces 250hp at 5,300 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. (353Nm) of torque at 2000 rpm.
Buick notes that more than 90 percent of the Verano Turbo’s peak torque is available between 1,700 to 5,500 rpm.
The Verano Turbo will be available with a choice of a six-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox, with Buick quoting an estimated 0-60 mph sprint time of 6.2 seconds, or half a second quicker than the 270hp Buick Regal GS.
We'll have to wait for the fuel economy numbers, though GM says the Verano Turbo is expected to be "in line with Buick’s other turbocharged models".
Pricing for the newest addition to the Verano's range is to be announced closer to the start of production in late 2012.
5 Comments:
Cool page indeed! Thanks a lot for the review.
Yeah take that Acura ILX and stick your weak 2.0 and non Tech Package-No AT 2.4 you know where.
On a more serious note, this is even more competition for Acura to realize what a mistake they have done with the ILX powertrain offerings. $32k for a 150hp entry luxury sedan does not calculate very well in people's minds. There is so much else where that you could get for that kind of money.
bye bye Regal.
Good on the Manual tranny, that combined with an Opel chassis should bring some smiles in the curves. Particular curious as to how the modern auto tranny and turbo work together. Will be putting it on my test drive list.
My only experience with a turbo and and auto trans was my wifes Buick Regal 'T' type turbo coupe. Even though it had more torque and HP it was a little lack luster compared to my driver at the time an 'SVO' Mustang.
The new Astra sedan makes this Verano look SO frumpy.
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