Fast Facts:

• New turbocharged engine option
• Available 6-speed manual transmission
• Standard Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Optional FamilyLink safety service through OnStar

Introduction
The Buick Verano is a premium compact sedan that serves as the entry-level Buick model. It is based on the same platform as the Chevrolet Cruze, and is a key competitor to the new 2013 Acura ILX.

Exterior Features
The new 2013 Buick Verano Turbo might be hard to spot. Look for unique 18-inch forged aluminum wheels finished in Manoogian Silver, a subtle rear lip spoiler, dual exhaust outlets, and a small "T" badge on the decklid. The Verano Turbo is also offered in two new colors: Luxo Blue Metallic and extra-cost Carbon Black Metallic.

Interior Features
Buick loads the Verano Turbo with a comprehensive list of features, including leather seats, heated front seats, heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bose premium sound system, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Buick IntelliLink color touch-screen radio includes a USB port, Bluetooth hands-free calling and music streaming, and compatibility with Pandora and Stitcher Internet radio services. OnStar-based RemoteLink mobile smartphone applications are included, as well as Buick's QuietTuning sound-deadening approach to cabin serenity and an E-Z Key passive entry and push-button ignition system. The Verano Turbo also gets a unique set of sport pedals.

Optional Features
A navigation system is optional on the new Buick Verano Turbo, as well as a power sunroof.

Under the Hood
The 2013 Buick Verano Turbo is equipped with a turbocharged, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 250 horsepower at 5,300 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,000 rpm. Notably, Buick claims that 90 percent of peak torque is available from 1,700 to 5,500 rpm. A 6-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift Control is standard, and a 6-speed manual gearbox is available. Acceleration to 60 mph takes 6.2 seconds, according to Buick.

Fuel Economy
The EPA had not finalized the 2013 Buick Verano Turbo's fuel-economy estimates as this preview was published.

Safety
The Verano Turbo is equipped with 10 standard air bags, 4-wheel-disc anti-lock brakes with Panic Brake Assist, StabiliTrak traction and stability control, and a smart pedal brake override system that makes it impossible to accelerate with the brake pedal depressed. The Verano Turbo also has a reversing camera, rear park-assist sensors, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and 6 free months of OnStar service with Automatic Crash Response and FamilyLink vehicle location alerts.