GM surprised us today with the unveiling of a new version of the Buick Verano that not only sports a much more powerful turbocharged engine but for the first time, also gives the option of a manual transmission.
While its understated looks make it seem like the regular 180hp Verano with the only giveaways being a discreet “T” badge, the dual exhaust outlets and a barely visible decklid spoiler, the Turbo is actually faster than the 270hp Regal GS.
Power for the flagship model of the Verano series comes from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with direct injection and continuously variable valve timing that produces 250hp at 5,300 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. (353Nm) of torque at 2000 rpm.
Buick notes that more than 90 percent of the Verano Turbo’s peak torque is available between 1,700 to 5,500 rpm.
The Verano Turbo will be available with a choice of a six-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox, with Buick quoting an estimated 0-60 mph sprint time of 6.2 seconds, or half a second quicker than the 270hp Buick Regal GS.
We’ll have to wait for the fuel economy numbers, though GM says the Verano Turbo is expected to be “in line with Buick’s other turbocharged models”.
Pricing for the newest addition to the Verano’s range is to be announced closer to the start of production in late 2012.
PHOTO GALLERY
