2012-MY Buick Verano Starts at MSRP of $23,470

DETROIT – Buick announced its 2012 Verano will have a starting retail price of $23,470. The Verano is Buick’s third all-new model in the past three years, according to the division.

Buick is offering the car in three models. The top model will carry a suggested retail price of $26,850, including destination charge. All models are powered by a 2.4L four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, which delivers 180 hp at 6,700 rpm with 171 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,900 rpm.

Buick said the Verano’s exterior is distinguished by “sleek lines,” blue translucent projector beam headlamps and standard fog lamps. Wheels will include 18-inch multi-spoke, forged alloy, silver-finish wheels, with a premium 18-inch split spoke wheel design available on certain models.

The new Verano features Buick’s acoustic refinement and soft-touch materials. The up-level models for the Verano feature the same leather materials used in the LaCrosse. A dozen noise-reducing and noise-cancelling technologies are used in more than 50 areas of Verano’s body structure for increased cabin isolation and quietness, according to Buick. The Verano features seat heaters that automatically start when the temperature drops below 45F when using the remote start as do the rear defogger (on all models) and heated outside mirrors.

Standard interior options include leatherette seating, high-resolution 7-inch diagonal LED backlit color-touch radio display with IntelliLink technology, and 10 standard airbags. Other standard features include automatic climate control, remote start, power windows, and steering wheel radio controls.

The all-new Buick IntelliLink system is standard. It uses Bluetooth or USB to connect a driver’s smartphone to the touch-screen display radio. IntelliLink allows smartphone control via voice activation and steering wheel-mounted controls. Other options include streaming stero audio from the phone through services such as Pandora and Stitcher SmartRadio. OnStar is standard for six months on all Verano models.