The 2017 Buick Verano represents a pivotal moment for the American luxury brand, arriving at a time when the compact sedan market was becoming increasingly crowded and competitive. Offered as a more accessible entry point than the regal LaCrosse, the Verano aimed to blend upscale materials, refined handling, and efficient performance into a package that appealed to younger buyers and value-conscious luxury shoppers. This review examines how well the fourth-generation Verano delivered on that promise, analyzing its design, technology, and driving dynamics against rivals from the likes of Lincoln, Acura, and BMW.
Exterior Design and Refinement
Visually, the 2017 Verano signaled a departure from the outgoing model’s sharper, more angular language. Buick adopted its latest "winged arrow" grille and sculpted LED lighting, giving the sedan a more confident and contemporary stance. The available eighteen-inch alloy wheels and chrome accents contributed to a premium look that stood out in traffic. Inside, the use of soft-touch plastics, genuine wood trim, and metallic finishes created a cabin atmosphere that felt significantly more upscale than its price suggested, a deliberate move to compete directly with higher-segment vehicles.
Performance and Handling Dynamics
Under the hood, the Verano offered a choice between a capable turbocharged four-cylinder and a more economical inline-four. The 2.0L turbocharged engine, producing 250 horsepower, transformed the sedan into a spirited performer, delivering brisk acceleration and a responsive exhaust note that engaged the driver. The standard six-speed automatic transmission shifted smoothly, while the available nine-speed unit provided confident gear changes. Handling was one of the Verano’s strongest attributes, with a well-tuned suspension that absorbed road imperfections while maintaining solid body control through corners, a rarity in the compact class.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Seating comfort was a highlight, with supportive front buckets and a generously appointed rear bench that offered ample legroom for the segment. The available power driver’s seat with memory function made it easy to configure the cabin for different drivers, a thoughtful inclusion for a vehicle often used by multiple family members. The infotainment system centered around a responsive eight-inch touchscreen, though its initial interface felt slightly dated compared to newer competitors. Buick’s IntelliLink system eventually received over-the-air updates that improved navigation and smartphone integration, mitigating some of these early concerns.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety was comprehensive, with the Verano standardly equipping forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. Optional packages added features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines. These systems worked effectively in real-world testing, providing alerts that were timely and non-intrusive. The structure also earned strong ratings from safety authorities, giving buyers peace of mind without requiring them to pay for a premium trim level.
