New 2012 Buick Verano

In related Buick news, before 2012 we’re set to receive a hybrid version of the LaCrosse and past 2012 GM has indicated plans to build a new Buick flagship based on the same platform as the upcoming Cadillac XTS. The basis for this vehicle is not entirely known, with different sources claiming it will be based on the Cruze architecture, while others suggest it will run on the upcoming Aveo platform suggesting it will be a small vehicle indeed. After this model debuts we’ll see Buick unveil a compact crossover called the Encore.

For starters it could be offered with the Cruze’s 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, but a more likely candidate is the 181-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter currently offered on the Excelle GT in China. Riding on the same architecture as the Chinese Buick Excelle (and Chevy Cruze), several engines are possible.  In 2012 Buick will expand its lineup further down-market, introducing the Verano compact below the Regal.

Interior 2012 Buick Verano

The Verano and Excelle GT are based on the GM Delta II global compact platform that underpins the Cruze and the Opel Astra. A version of the Verano went into production earlier this year in China, where it is sold as the Buick Excelle GT. Pricing has not yet been announced on Verano, but GM said earlier that the car will be priced between $21,000 and $26,000. It is equipped with standard 17-inch forged alloy wheels; two 18-inch wheel designs are available.

The Verano, which slots into the Buick lineup below the Regal, will also feature standard antilock brakes, traction control, electronic stability control and 10 standard airbags. More recently, the GM brand salvaged the portholes to appear on the 2006 Buick Lucerne. They date back to 1949 and such cars as the 1949 Buick Super Model 56C convertible coupe. Portholes have resurfaced recently as a Buick styling cue.  Exterior design cues on the Verano include a black chrome waterfall grille, blue translucent projector-beam headlamps, chrome accents and portholes.

012 Buick Verano Detroit

The EPA has yet to rate the Verano, but the sedan is expected to return an estimated 31 mpg on the highway. Buick claims the standard engine in the Verano gets the car from zero to 60 mph in 8.0 seconds. A 2.0-liter turbo engine will be offered on Verano in the future, it said, but gave no technical specifications. The automaker also uses the 2.4-liter engine on such mainstays as the Chevrolet Malibu.

GM said the Verano an upscale companion to the Chevrolet Cruze, will get a standard 177-horsepower 2.4-liter engine when it debuts late next year. The Verano, which targets smaller offerings from Lexus and Audi, will be officially unveiled at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show.  DETROIT  GM has turned to the tried-and-true with its 2012 Buick Verano, showing off a compact sedan with the automaker's familiar Ecotec 2.4-liter four cylinder engine and such longtime Buick touches as portholes.