Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4
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It seems that some people thought I was off my rocker when I mentioned the BMW 3 Series as a competitor to this Buick, but I stand by my statement for the following reasons. The BMW 320i has nearly identical power output, is similar in size and is more expensive than the Verano, so why can’t it compete? It is true that BMW shoppers may not be cross-shopping the Verano, but they are only doing themselves a disservice.
Sure, this is a front-wheel drive vehicle and not the rear-wheel drive holy grail that the BMW is, but for most drivers? They either don’t know, don’t care or may even prefer front-wheel drive for the better winter traction. I’ve only spent a few days with the Verano so far, and I’m beginning to realize that this is one solid machine.
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On the inside the only complaint I have is the rear seat legroom. It’s cramped back there, but so it is in the competition, and there’s not much you can do with a chassis of this size. The rest of the interior is fan-freakin’-tastic. How often do you get a loaded car with heated seats, cruise, heated steering wheel, auto climate control, LCD centre stack, wood trim with aluminium accents, sunroof and 18-inch wheels for well under $30,000? (The Hyundai Elantra comes close. -Ed)
Everything on the inside of the Verano is top notch: the sliding armrest makes getting comfortable on long drives a snap, the button layout and lighting are just right and all the gauges and switches are easy to read, use and reach. If I had to quibble, the seats are very flat and non-supportive, but unless you plan on taking this car to the race track you will not care.
The driver’s seat offers power fore-aft and height adjustment, while the bucket adjustment is manual, and the passenger seat is full manual. Am I falling for a Buick? Let me tell you this — this is not your grandfather’s Buick.
