The 2011 North American International Auto Show
Buick Verano
Traditionally, Buick has been the epitome of the full-size American car. But it's a new day for General Motors, and one of the cars GM is showing off in Detroit is Buick's first compact sedan in a generation. Due in showrooms next fall, the 2012 Buick Verano will offer luxury in a smallish package. Powered by a 2.4-L four-cylinder engine and a six-speed transmission, the Verano produces 177 h.p. with a fuel economy better than 31 m.p.g. The car's exterior includes the traditional Buick features, like a black chrome waterfall grille and portholes. But GM has also used acoustical laminated glass, triple door seals, refined chassis dynamics and specially manufactured 17-in. standard forged alloy multispoke wheels to reduce the road noise usually found in small cars. The Verano also comes with 10 standard air bags. No official pricing has been released yet, but the car should run about $18,000 to $19,000.