From Inside Line.

HANGHAI, China — General Motors will launch a new Buick Skylark compact in China in 2009 that could be exported to the U.S. as a 2010 model.

The Skylark will replace the Daewoo-based Excelle in China and will be assembled by the Shanghai GM joint venture, Inside Line has learned.

GM also is considering whether to add another Chinese Buick, the new Australia-sourced Park Avenue sedan, to its U.S. lineup in 2009, supplier sources told IL.

The new Skylark is based on GM's Delta 2 global small-car architecture. It will share its underpinnings with the next-generation Chevrolet Cobalt, Opel Astra and Pontiac G6. A new Saab, the 9-1, will be based on the same platform, as will the next-generation Saturn Astra.

The current Buick Excelle that's built in China is a version of the Daewoo Lacetti that's also sold in North America as the Suzuki Forenza and in other overseas markets as the Chevrolet Optra. The next-generation Lacetti also is expected to shift to the Delta 2 platform in Korea.

The new Park Avenue is based on the Holden Statesman and goes on sale shortly in China. IL has learned that Buick's U.S. dealers have asked for the car in late 2008 as an '09 model. GM has tentative plans to assemble a redesigned Park Avenue, based on its Zeta rear-drive architecture, in North America in late 2010, alongside a new rear-drive Chevrolet Impala.

This is what it may look like:

has a very strong Opel look to it.

I knew sooner or later GM/Ford or any other major automakers will import cars from China. It's the best way to fend off new competitors from Asia.

Actually, it's a Saturn (Opel) Astra with a chinese Buick Park Avenue front end.

wallah ehh ya man

What un ugly photoshop.
The car will not be based on present generation of Astra.

Spy shots: Cruze-based Buick compact sedan

Production of the new baby Buick isn’t expected to start until 2012 at the earliest

General Motors is still more than a year away from launching the Chevrolet Cruze sedan in North America but instead of speeding up its arrival the carmaker is working on a new Buick sedan based on the Cruze platform. Fears of GM’s cash problems haven’t managed to deter work on the new Buick compact sedan, which like the Cruze may be offered as a global model.

Built around GM’s FWD Delta II platform, the Buick compact sedan also shares much in common with the next-generation Opel Astra, which means there’s a chance it could be produced at Russelsheim plant in Germany.

U.S. versions are likely to be built at GM’s Lordstown plant in Ohio alongside the Cruze. The new model will almost certainly be offered in China as well. Engine options should mirror that of the Cruze, which means a range of compact four-cylinder units in both naturally-aspirated and turbocharged forms, with both petrol and diesel options.

The other benefit of the Delta II platform is the possibility of a plug-in hybrid version using Volt technology, although GM is more likely to use other brands such as Cadillac to expand its plug-in hybrid range.

Don’t hold your breath for the new sedan as it isn’t expected to be launched until sometime in 2012.

http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j3/daewoo-chevrolet/2012_buick_delta_ii_compact_seda-1.jpg
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j3/daewoo-chevrolet/2012_buick_delta_ii_compact_seda-2.jpg
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j3/daewoo-chevrolet/2012_buick_delta_ii_compact_seda-3.jpg
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j3/daewoo-chevrolet/2012_buick_delta_ii_compact_seda-4.jpg

Source: http://www.motorauthority.com/spy-shots-2012-cruze-based-buick-compact-sedan.html

This is probably the successor of the Chinese Buick Excelle, as Buick China and North America will share more models in the future (starting with the Buick Regal and Buick LaCrosse).

http://photocdn.sohu.com/20090320/Img262905109.jpg

Nice photoshop:
http://photocdn.sohu.com/20090320/Img262904969.jpg

Source: http://auto.sohu.com/20090320/n262895881.shtml

Gm Upcoming Opel/vauxhal Astra Sedan?

The Buick Excelle will be based on the upcoming Opel Astra I.

http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j3/daewoo-chevrolet/62383363_3094a5adc8.jpg

I think the Buick Excelle and Opel/Vauxhall Astra I sedan will share their bodies with only a few differences like the grille and door handles.

2012 Buick Excelle hatchback/HRV (based on the Opel Astra I)

http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/5877/17054941840280917.jpg

http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/7438/21820616790262467.jpg

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/7341/40976361070273527.jpg

Source: auto.sina.com.cn (Autoscoops.eu Forum)

New spy shots of the upcoming Buick Excelle hatchback/HRV:
http://i672.photobucket.com/albums/vv83/badgeengineering/Img264054719.jpg

Source: http://auto.sohu.com/20090520/n264054436.shtml

This one looks great!!

New pictures.
http://i672.photobucket.com/albums/vv83/badgeengineering/buick_astra_00.jpg
http://i672.photobucket.com/albums/vv83/badgeengineering/buick_astra_02.jpg
http://i672.photobucket.com/albums/vv83/badgeengineering/buick_astra_05.jpg
http://i672.photobucket.com/albums/vv83/badgeengineering/buick_astra_06.jpg

http://es.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/fotos-espia-nuevo-sedan-compacto-de-buick-futuro-opel-astra-se/
http://www.autohome.com.cn/news/200906/63672.html

New HRV caught testing:
http://auto.sina.com.cn/news/2009-07-02/0929504599.shtml

http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-7-foto_4219952_15407128_16248734.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-7-foto_4219952_15407128_16248731.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-7-foto_4219952_15407128_16248728.jpg

Looks great IMHO..

some more spy pics:
http://i672.photobucket.com/albums/vv83/badgeengineering/867195_1.jpg
http://i672.photobucket.com/albums/vv83/badgeengineering/867195_4.jpg
http://i672.photobucket.com/albums/vv83/badgeengineering/867195_5.jpg

Source: http://www.pcauto.com.cn/nation/brand/shbk/0907/867195.html

http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185173.jpg

source:
http://news.cheshi.com/gcxc/200909/138761.shtml

More:
http://www.autohome.com.cn/news/200910/74321.html

Looks really sweet!!!:thumb:

Excelle completely uncovered:
http://auto.sina.com.cn/car/2009-11-02/0925534900.shtml

http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-8-foto_4219952_17371519_17423380.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-8-foto_4219952_17371519_17423381.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-8-foto_4219952_17371519_17423382.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-8-foto_4219952_17371519_17423383.jpg

New Excelle at Guangzhou Auto Show (126 photos):
http://photo.auto.sina.com.cn/guangzhou2009/#27_131_1_0_0_1


http://cache.mars.sina.com.cn/photoauto_d/photo/27/02/35/27_235.jpg
http://cache.mars.sina.com.cn/photoauto_d/photo/27/01/50/27_150.jpg
http://cache.mars.sina.com.cn/photoauto_d/photo/27/01/48/27_148.jpg
http://cache.mars.sina.com.cn/photoauto_d/photo/27/02/03/27_203.jpg

PRESS RELEASE:

Shanghai GM Introduces Buick Excelle XT
Five-Door Coupé-Like Sedan Offers New Standard for Performance & Refinement

Shanghai – Shanghai GM introduced the new Buick Excelle XT five-door coupé-like sedan today at the Guangzhou Auto Show. The premium compact hatchback was designed, engineered and executed to set a new standard for performance and refinement in its class. It goes on sale across China in 2010.

"The Excelle XT is Buick's first coupé-like sedan in China that is based on GM's all-new front-wheel-drive compact vehicle architecture," said Kevin Wale, President and Managing Director of the GM China Group. "Developed as a collaborative effort by GM's global team, the model was tailored for the domestic market by GM's Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) automotive engineering and design facility in Shanghai."

"The Excelle XT carries the same self-confident air as its sibling, the popular Buick New Regal sedan," said Shanghai GM Vice President Terry Johnsson. "When people see this car, they'll notice its presence, stance and proportions. When they get inside, they'll recognize its craftsmanship and attention to detail. And when they get behind the wheel, they'll appreciate its responsiveness and excellent handling."

The Excelle XT incorporates Buick's new design language and sets a new visual standard for its class, both inside and out.

Stylish Exterior

Inspired by the Buick Riviera concept vehicle, the new Excelle XT's assertive, self-confident exterior is enabled by dynamic lines combined with sophisticated sculptural surfaces. The overall execution clearly speaks to Buick's new design language, yet provides an expression that is appropriate for the compact segment.

A strong cab-forward silhouette with a deeply raked windshield and falling rear roofline adds excitement to the hatchback format, while also improving ease and versatility of use. Artistry is further reflected in free-flowing forms, such as the prominent but softly styled shoulder line, while precision can be seen in the visual balance of the four-window side graphic.

With a bold new "face" and a hood line that culminates in narrow three-dimensional-effect headlamp units, the Excelle XT looks dynamic and purposeful without being aggressive or brash.

Roomy, Fashionable Interior

The free-flowing forms and contours exhibited on the outside are carried forward inside. The interior is clearly up to Buick's premium standards, with crafted flowing lines, low-gloss surfaces, and premium appointments throughout.

A signature feature is the wraparound wing-shaped instrument panel that arcs into the top of the door mouldings. It embraces occupants, offering a warm and welcoming ambience.

Four interior trim levels provide a wide choice of decor. The base trim, for example, offers the choice of a red or blue finish for the instrument panel, door panels and seats. The center stack, outer air vents and door grab handles are finished in a piano-black lacquer or grey or matte chrome trim, adding upscale, precision quality to the interior.

The Excelle XT offers a host of innovations and technologies. They include a class-leading choice of infotainment and communication systems, including three audio packages and two on-board navigation systems; Bluetooth wireless connectivity and USB and personal device connectivity; a tire pressure monitoring system; dual-zone electronic climate control; heated front seats; and electronic parking assist.

The Excelle XT's design and overall proportions maximize occupant space. The cab-forward windshield and raked center stack add to the roomy feeling. There are ample onboard storage facilities in front and back. The Excelle XT also has a separate under-floor stowage compartment. The three-level moveable Flex-Floor in the rear cargo area puts the deck height at bumper level for the easy loading and unloading of goods.

Choice of Efficient Powertrains

Excelle XT buyers have a choice of three lightweight powertrains that offer high specific power output, low fuel consumption and reduced CO2 emissions:

- A high-output 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine that delivers 135 kW, a specific power output of 84.4 kW per liter, and 235 Nm of torque between 1,980 and 5,400 rpm. The most powerful series production engine in its displacement class, it was developed for customers whose priority is sporty performance. Its Superboost function can briefly unleash up to 266 Nm of torque for quick and safe overtaking.

- A naturally aspirated 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine with a two-stage variable intake manifold that delivers 116 horsepower (85 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 155 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm.

- A 1.8-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder gasoline engine with double continuous variable cam phasing (DCVCP) that delivers 138 horsepower (103 kW) at 6,300 rpm and 175 Nm of torque at 3,800 rpm.

A six-speed automatic transmission with sporty feature is standard in all models.

Excellent Ride and Handling

The Excelle XT has a fun-to-drive character with high levels of steering precision and ride comfort.

The chassis incorporates the proven McPherson strut layout in front. In back, Buick has applied a new suspension system for the Excelle XT – a compound crank rear axle with a Watts link. The result is greater wheel camber stiffness and compensation in body roll, with a constant track width in jounce. It also adds enhanced lateral stability for both improved handling and greater ride comfort.

The speed-sensitive rack and pinion steering system is electrically powered to save fuel. The electric motor is mounted on the steering rack rather than at the base of the steering column to give improved driver feel when turning the steering wheel. The Excelle XT is also equipped with the dual-circuit braking system, which features three brake disc combinations.

Advanced Safety and Security

With a maximum five-star NCAP safety rating anticipated, the Excelle XT's body structure along with its restraint systems are designed to exceed crash safety standards around the world.

Its high structural integrity is reflected in its solid, on-the-road feel and the suppression of unwanted noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) inside the cabin.

The Guangzhou Auto Show is open to the public from November 24-30. Shanghai GM is showcasing 26 vehicles from Buick, Chevrolet and Cadillac on its 3,000-square-meter stand.

Shanghai GM is a joint venture between GM and SAIC that was formed in June 1997. It operates vehicle and powertrain manufacturing facilities in Shanghai; Yantai, Shandong; and Shenyang, Liaoning. Shanghai GM builds, imports and sells a comprehensive range of Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet and Saab products. In 2008, the joint venture sold domestically 445,709 vehicles. In the first 10 months of 2009, Shanghai GM sold domestically 548,708 vehicles.

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/new-buick-excelle-debuts-in-china-sedan-coming-to-america-soon/

First spy photos of the CDM Buick Excelle sedan:

http://i45.tinypic.com/etcz9w.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/sbhv2v.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/10r7hvk.jpg

Source: http://auto.sohu.com/20091209/n268791665.shtml

Excelle hatch to be launched on January 23rd for 120,000RMB

Small article from China Car Times:
The Chinese automotive media are estimating that the Buick Excelle will start at 110,980rmb when it launches on January 23rd 2010.

The Excelle hatch will start with a 1.6L hatchback, and will also have a 1.8L as well as the flagship 1.6 turbo assisted model.

The 1.6T is the model that is being anticipated the most, the 1.6T is good for 184bhp, and 235Nm of torque.

First review of Excelle 1.8:
http://news.bitauto.com/shipai/20100106/2105083850.html

http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17562894.jpg
http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17562890.jpg
http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17562892.jpg
http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17562893.jpg

http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17562895.jpg
http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17562896.jpg
http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17562897.jpg
http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17562898.jpg

http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185177.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185175.jpg
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/series/6662/1/614005.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/series/6662/1/614003.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/series/6662/1/613994.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/series/6662/1/613993.html

http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185178.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185179.jpg
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/6662/3/614129.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/6662/10/614055.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/6662/10/614049.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/6662/10/614035.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/6662/3/614133.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/6662/3/614132.html


more:
http://car.autohome.com.cn/pic/series/982.htm

Excelle XT turbo:
http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17576195.jpg
http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17576197.jpg
http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17576196.jpg
http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17576198.jpg

http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17576199.jpg
http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17576202.jpg
http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17576200.jpg
http://www.mojalbum.com/kitajci-11-foto_4219952_17377335_17576201.jpg

source:
http://piclib.pcauto.com.cn/?frame

I wonder how long it will take for GM to bring that down here. Interior looks good but call me bland, but I prefer the grey interior to the red one as the plastic looked a little bit cheap.

SGM announced prices for new Excelle:
http://auto.sina.com.cn/z/excellextlaunch/index.shtml
http://www.autohome.com.cn/news/201001/91789.html


http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185180.jpg

Excelle 1.6 in red with grey interior:
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185184.jpg
http://img.autohome.com.cn/upload/spec/6416/u_2010012818370138571.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185181.jpg
http://img.autohome.com.cn/upload/spec/6416/u_2010012818330449571.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185182.jpg
http://img.autohome.com.cn/upload/spec/6416/u_2010012818335369871.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185183.jpg
http://img.autohome.com.cn/upload/spec/6416/u_2010012818340979171.jpg

link:
http://car.autohome.com.cn/pic/series/982.htm

Comparison between Excelle 1.6T and new Golf 1.4 TFSi:
http://www.autohome.com.cn/advice/201002/96042.html


http://img.autohome.com.cn/2010/2/21/21-17-19-13-248668584.jpg

New Excelle GT:
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-12-foto_4219952_17382683_17760270.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-12-foto_4219952_17382683_17760272.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-12-foto_4219952_17382683_17760273.jpg

http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185188.jpg
http://img.autohome.com.cn/upload/spec/7488/u_201004081132001193343.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185187.jpg
http://img.autohome.com.cn/upload/spec/7488/u_201004081127257753343.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185186.jpg
http://img.autohome.com.cn/upload/spec/7488/u_201004081127210883343.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185185.jpg
http://img.autohome.com.cn/upload/spec/7488/u_201004081126144793343.jpg

http://car.autohome.com.cn/pic/series-s7488/982.htm

Excelle GT

http://i49.tinypic.com/vr829x.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/5ocfiu.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/2j5fo8k.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/30282t0.jpg

128 photos: http://car.autohome.com.cn/pic/series-s7488/982.html
69 photos: http://db.auto.sohu.com/photo/model_wg2845.html

Cant see the pics at work, so Ill reserve judgment on the car itself until later.

Having said that, Excelle is pronounced the same as Excel a late 80s, early 90s Hyundai, but feels French when you read it. Neither of those are desirable traits for a Buick, IMO.

Whats wrong with Buick Astra?

http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185194.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185195.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185193.jpg
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/1/739124.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/1/739126.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/1/739122.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/1/739120.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/12/739018.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/12/738979.html

http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185192.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185196.jpg
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/10/739108.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/10/739106.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/10/739101.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/10/739099.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/10/739102.html

http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185191.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185190.jpg
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/3/738940.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/3/738937.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/3/738944.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/3/738943.html
http://car.autohome.com.cn/photo/7488/3/738920.html


more:
http://car.autohome.com.cn/pic/series-s7488/982.htm

Below links for artist impressions about a possible Buick Excelle Wagon. By photoshop artist Theophilus Chin.
With Excelle GT front:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/theophiluschin/4708357206/

With Excelle XT front:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/theophiluschin/4708357072/

Buick announced prices for Excelle GT. They vary from 137.700 to 187.300 RMB.
http://auto.sina.com.cn/z/yinglanggtss/index.shtml
http://www.autohome.com.cn/news/201006/122081.html

Below is the first picture of Excelle GT with xenon lights:
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185189.jpg

First impression:
http://www.che168.com/article/html/201006/20100625/20100625_303762_1.html

http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-14-foto_4219952_17393070_17951644.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-14-foto_4219952_17393070_17951645.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-14-foto_4219952_17393070_17951647.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-14-foto_4219952_17393070_17951646.jpg

Interior:
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185200.jpg
http://img.autohome.com.cn/upload/spec/6671/u_2010062417434794132.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185197.jpg
http://img.autohome.com.cn/upload/spec/6671/u_2010062417394136332.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185198.jpg
http://img.autohome.com.cn/upload/spec/6671/u_2010062417404242532.jpg
http://s2.mojalbum.com/kitajci-27-foto_4219952_17406937_18185199.jpg
http://img.autohome.com.cn/upload/spec/6671/u_2010062417430939432.jpg

spurce:
http://www.che168.com/1810/pic.html

That ain't your Grandfather's Oldsmobile. Oh wait, that's a Buick!

Buick Verano - American version of Excelle GT:
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/10/2012-buick-verano-detroit-2011/

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/07-2012-buick-verano-detroit-opt.jpg


PRESS RELEASE
The all-new 2012 Buick Verano compact luxury sedan, the brand's third new model in the past two years and first in the compact luxury segment, will be revealed at the North American International Auto Show.

Verano goes on sale in the fourth quarter of 2011, the latest model in a product renaissance that began with the Enclave and continued with the LaCrosse and Regal. Like them, Verano is distinguished by luxury and technology, including 10 standard air bags, an available heated steering wheel and a next-generation radio system with OnStar-powered connectivity that enables seamless communication between the Verano and the driver's smart phone.

Five elements infused in Verano that define its character:
* Sculpted design – Refined styling with a sporty profile, blending Buick's signature cues – including a black chrome waterfall grille, blue translucent projector beam headlamps, portholes and chrome accents
* Luxurious interior – Premium seat comfort and support redefined for a compact sedan and matched with upscale, soft-touch materials and premium leather – all complemented by leading-edge infotainment and ambient lighting
* Quiet tuning – The quietest compact sedan on the road – quieter than many midsize and full-size cars – Verano's quietness is supported by acoustical laminated glass, triple door seals, refined chassis dynamics and specially manufactured 17-inch standard forged alloy multi-spoke wheels, which minimize road noise
* Refined and responsive performance – Powerful and efficient Ecotec 2.4L/six-speed automatic powertrain matched with a refined, responsive suspension system, including a sophisticated Watts Z-link rear suspension and four-wheel disc brakes with standard anti-lock brakes, full-function traction control and StabiliTrak electronic stability control
* Purposeful technology – Convenience and safety features that enhance the driving experience and are rare for the segment, including 10 standard air bags, a next-generation radio, touch screen navigation and advanced connectivity technologies powered by OnStar.

Verano carries the modern Buick design cues introduced on the Enclave and interpreted for the LaCrosse and Regal. They include a bold, detailed black chrome waterfall grille, prominent blue translucent projector beam headlamps, portholes, chrome accents, premium wheels and a tailored body-to-wheel relationship. An arching roofline connects a steeply raked windshield and fast-sloping rear pillars to give the car a sporty profile that's complemented by large, 17-inch standard multi-spoke forged alloy sterling silver-finish wheels. Two premium 18-inch wheel designs are available.

Unique to Verano are translucent blue projector-beam headlamps, which give the car a distinctive, upscale appearance. A palette of rich colors enhances the premium look, including Claret Red Tintcoat and White Diamond Tricoat. Other exterior color choices include Black, Olympic White, Switchblade Silver Metallic, Cyber Gray Metallic and Mocha Bronze Metallic.

Complementing Verano's precisely crafted, premium-accented exterior is an interior marked by exceptional seat comfort and support, as well as premium soft-touch materials, including ambient lighting inspired by the LaCrosse. Metallic and wood trims and warm ambient lighting make the cabin an inviting environment.

Neutral and medium titanium colors are offered on interiors with leatherette/fabric seating surfaces, while ebony, cashmere and a unique Choccachino color are offered on the available leather-trimmed interiors. Verano uses the same premium leather material for the seats that is used on the LaCrosse.

The instrument panel blends with an integrated center stack that houses the infotainment display, climate controls and radio controls. Flush-mounted components within the center stack have a gap tolerance of less than 1 mm, while the instrument panel-to-door panel gaps are less than 5 mm. Those tolerances are among the best in class.

Verano's headliner cover is made of a knit material that is one of five layers of an acoustically designed headliner to help quiet the passenger compartment. The interior pillar and other moldings are color- and grain-matched to the headliner.

Additional interior standard and available features include:
* Push-button engine start
* Dual-zone climate control with standard air conditioning (automatic climate control available)
* Heated steering wheel
* Heated leather-appointed seating
* Electronic parking brake
* Console armrest that slides and locks
* Power windows with express up/down in the front and express down in the rear
* Steering wheel radio controls
* Uplevel front and rear reading lamps.

Verano delivers the library-quiet driving experience for which Buicks have become known. Quiet-tuning systems, processes and components are built into every facet of the vehicle's architecture. All are designed to block or absorb sound and dampen or eliminate vibrations.

Hydraulic ride bushings, for example, and an isolated engine cradle reduce or eliminate vibration pathways that could be transmitted to the passenger compartment. Similarly, a number of noise-reducing and noise-cancelling technologies are employed throughout the body structure, including:
* The steel front-of-dash panel is sandwiched between two damping mats
* Nylon baffles are used in various hollow portions of the body structure and filled with sound-absorbing foam that expands when the body enters the paint oven
* The headliner comprises five layers of thermal fiber acoustic material, including a premium woven fabric on the visible outer layer
* Patches of sound-damping material are applied strategically throughout the body structure and melt into place when the body passes through the paint oven, allowing the patches to follow the contours of the sheet metal below
* Sound insulation material between rear-body structural components that is made from recycled denim
* Triple-sealed doors that feature fiberglass "blankets" serve as water, airflow and noise barriers. The doors are also beta-braced, meaning they close with a solid, precise sound and no resonance
* Optimized windshield and side glass for quietness, with 5.4-mm-thick laminated windshield and 4.85-mm laminated side glass
* The engine's intake and exhaust systems are tuned for quiet performance
* Isolated brake and fuel lines prevent vibrations.

Even the wheels and tires contribute to Verano's quietness. The standard 17-inch aluminum wheels are manufactured in a unique way to enhance quietness, while the tires minimize road noise.

The front suspension uses decoupled MacPherson struts for better isolation, providing greater separation of extreme road conditions – large potholes, for example – from everyday driving conditions. At the rear, a technically advanced Watts Z-link design helps center the rear axle during cornering, which helps keep the Verano's handling responses symmetrical on both left-hand and right-hand turns. The linkage's capability to center the axle during cornering delivers a more-balanced driving experience because the rear suspension better follows the lead of the front suspension.

The Z-link design is also lighter and requires less space than a typical fully independent rear suspension. The lower weight contributes to Verano's fuel economy, while the compact design enables more trunk space.

Steering inputs are executed by an electric power steering system, featuring a dual-pinion rack. Electric powering steering helps save fuel because it removes the conventional power steering pump from the engine's driven accessories. Engineers tuned the speed-sensitive system to provide quick, direct reaction to steering actions and a strong on-center feel. The system has a ratio of 15.5:1 and requires only slightly more than two turns, lock to lock.

Stopping power is handled by a four-wheel disc brake system with standard anti-lock and electronic brake force distribution, as well as StabiliTrak electronic stability control with traction control.

The next-generation radio system includes a navigation system, along with USB and auxiliary input jacks, and includes full Bluetooth with streaming audio, structural speech recognition, SMS texts and more. Additional connectivity features include text-to-speech conversion of SMS texts, smart phone app integration (Pandora, Stitcher, etc.) and Gracenote music organization for external devices (USB drives, etc.), including Playlist Plus and Album Art features.

Safety is another component in Verano's technology story. Primary features include:
* Ten standard air bags, including frontal, head curtain side air bags, front and outboard rear-seat side-impact air bags and new knee air bags. The head-curtain side air bags deploy in a rollover crash
* StabiliTrak electronic stability control, traction control and anti-lock brakes
* Collapsible pedal system, which allows the pedals to detach during a crash to reduce the risk of leg or ankle injuries
* OnStar with Automatic Crash Response..