Shanghai 2015: Buick Verano Debuts

Cameron Aubernon
by Cameron Aubernon

Aimed at those “who value a personal and dynamic driving experience,” the next-gen Buick Verano debuted at the 2015 Shanghai Auto Show.

Power for the sedan comes from a 1.5-liter direct-injection turbo-four stated to be the most powerful engine in General Motors’ Ecotec family. Output amounts to 166 horses and 184 lb-ft of torque, all of which is directed to the front via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission specially adapted for road conditions in China. Fuel economy is 6.1 liters per every 100 kilometers.

The Verano’s styling draws from both the 2013 Riviera and 2014 Avenir concepts, such as the Avenir-esque, wing-shaped high-intensity discharge xenon headlamps with daytime LEDs and matching LEDs in the rear. A fastback roof, steeply raked windshield and “streamlined” C-pillars make the sedan appear longer than it actually is — no dimension figures were given at this time — while its double-sweep beltline give the Verano a sculpted appearance.

Other features include: 17-inch, 10-spoke aluminum wheels shod in Continentals; start-stop; signature Buick waterfall grill; and dual integrated inset exhaust.

The Verano is the newest vehicle in Buick’s Chinese market lineup meant to address the needs of customers in the midsize sedan segment, following the Excelle and Excelle GT.

Cameron Aubernon
Cameron Aubernon

Seattle-based writer, blogger, and photographer for many a publication. Born in Louisville. Raised in Kansas. Where I lay my head is home.

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  • Wmba Wmba on Apr 20, 2015

    Goodness gracious, a 2009 Elantra with a Buick grille. Verrry nice.

  • Mjz Mjz on Apr 20, 2015

    This is a total dud. Like the previous Malibu re-do, the out going version looks better,

  • TMA1 TMA1 on Apr 21, 2015

    I'm confused by the name. Is it replacing the Excelle, or will it be sold along side it? Because the current Verano is already sold in China as the Excelle (looks great as a hatch).

  • Qbranch Qbranch on Apr 21, 2015

    Why does almost every new GM vehicle seem like a brand new car... that's 10 years old? They need a new slogan... "consistently over promising, always under-delivering"

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