Stepping up one notch from the base in the 2013 Buick Verano lineup gets the lower midlevel Verano Convenience Group trim. This 5-passenger compact sedan offers some entry-level luxury features for decently cheap money, along with an impressive 14.3 cubic feet of trunk space, a well-wrought cabin and an economical 4-cylinder powerplant.
Standard amenities aboard include 18-inch polished alloy wheels and heated power-adjustable mirrors outside, while cloth and leatherette upholstery, a 6-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, split-folding rear seatbacks, full power accessories and leather, simulated wood and simulated alloy accents grace the interior. The telescoping and tilt-adjustable leather steering wheel mounts audio and cruise controls, while rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera and Bluetooth-integrated OnStar Directions and Connections service remain embraced by dual-zone climate control. Sun Sensor automated lighting and climate control, meantime, is complemented by front and rear floor mats, while entertainment is provided by GM’s ballyhooed IntelliLink system flaunting a 7-inch color display controlling a single-CD player, 6 speakers, satellite radio and a USB connection. This system also boasts standard data links for such favorites as Stitcher and Pandora radio.
Options-wise, hard-drive-based navigation can be added to the standard IntelliLink audio system, while such add-ons as a power sunroof, sport pedals, cargo organizers and mats, and splash guards also remain available.
As with its Base sibling, the 2013 Verano Convenience Group boasts a 180-hp, variable-valve-timed (VVT) Flex Fuel (FFV) 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder powerplant that mates with the standard 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission for 171 lb-ft of torque. Once again, look for mileage in the range of 21 mpg city/32 highway in this front-wheel-drive-only (FWD) compact 4-door.
Noteworthy standard safety features, finally, include 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front and rear side-mounted airbags, and front and rear head airbags. Further safety equipment includes daytime running lights, front fog/driving lights, OnStar emergency services and stolen vehicle recovery assistance, a post collision safety system and a remote antitheft alarm. New for 2013, the Convenience Group also sports a blind-spot warning system and rear crossover alert.