Buick's latest compact dose of sunshine enters its third season with new safety technologies and safety-minded gadgets on the options roster. Translated from Spanish to mean "summer," the Verano warmed up to the road for 2012 with a breezy air of graceful comfort, adding a turbo engine for 2013 and promising a hybrid for its upcoming 2015 refresh. This year is the tech update, adding forward collision alert and lane-departure warning systems alongside voice-activated text messaging and the single-button Siri Eyes Free system of television fame.
Only moderately peppy in its Base form, the Verano offers no less than a 9-second sprint to 60 mph or 6 seconds to the same with the top-shelf turbo engine and its optional stick shift. Otherwise a typical front-wheel driver with a 6-speed shiftable automatic, it stands out for a comfortable ride in a beautiful interior with many practical appeals such as a 15.2-cubic-foot trunk and as much as 32 mpg highway, not to mention top-notch safety ratings all around.
The only downsides are its compact-classic rear bench that 2 adults will find a bit cramped and some unfortunate Buick-classic challenges with high technology. More than a few drivers of previous years note glitchy behavior in just about everything computerized, from the dual-zone automatic climate control system standard in the base trim suddenly throwing hot air on up to the top-shelf stereo systems forgetting which channel to start on, and yes, the optional navigation system is not immune, either.
Not every example has these issues, however, and they're likely a product of trying to keep up with the Verano's massive Chinese demand. Even so, if that doesn't encourage a thorough test drive on its own, bear in mind the Base Verano doesn't offer power-adjustable front seats by default. Expect to opt up for some features other makers offer standard in their entry-level luxe lineup, even if those options are very competitively priced.
That said, the Base is handsomely equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity, 7-inch touchscreen IntelliLink infotainment system, OnStar and a 6-speaker stereo with CD player, satellite radio, USB/iPod and auxiliary jack connectivity.
Move up to the Convenience Group for features like heated side mirrors, an auto-dimming rear-view, blind-spot warning system, rear parking sensors and a 6-way powered driver seat. Nearing the top, the Leather Group adds keyless entry, leather interior, heated front seats, heated steering wheel and a 9-speaker Bose sound system to the Base. All these trims come equipped with a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine good for 180 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque and rated at 21 mpg city/32 highway.
Buying in at the Premium Group nets the turbocharged 2-liter putting out 250 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque for a rating of 21/30 with its automatic or 20/31 directed by an optional 6-speed stick. For features, this trim adds all the Convenience and Leather perks together with a rear spoiler. Although it's named after the sunny season, a sunroof is merely optional for all trims, almost as if to punctuate its departure from the norm.
