Buick didn’t really need to tease the new Verano and Verano GS hatchbacks for China because they’re just rebadged Opel Astras.
However, they insisted on doing that, so here’s the first photo of the all-new Buick Verano GS, which will debut this year in China alongside the Verano Hatchback. Both models are based on the same mid-range global passenger car platform as the new Opel/Vauxhall Astra.
As the photo shows, only brand-specific details will differentiate the Buick Verano Hatchback from the Astra. The Verano GS will add sporty details such as bright red strips for the front and rear bumpers, bright red brake calipers, bigger roof spoiler, black waterfall grille and dark-painted five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels.
Both the Buick Verano Hatchback and Buick Verano GS will be powered by GM’s new Ecotec small engines. The Verano Hatchback will feature a 1.5L SIDI naturally aspirated engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed DSS automatic transmission.
The Verano GS will get the 1.5T SIDI turbocharged engine, paired with a seven-speed DCG dual-clutch transmission. The engine has a maximum output of 166hp at 5,600 rpm, with fuel consumption rated at 5.9 l/100 km (39.8 mpg US).
Buick promises the new Verano family members will offer “European car-like handling thanks to testing and tuning at Germany’s famed Nürburgring circuit.”
Built by SAIC-GM, the Verano Hatchback and Verano GS will add to the Buick Verano sedan, which went on sale in China on June 27.
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