Today, Buick announced that its new Verano premium compact sedan will offer an exciting turbocharged 2.0 liter 4-cylinder Ecotec engine for 2013. Big numbers for Buick's smallest sedan, the Verano's Ecotec turbo is good for 250-hp and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, motivating the car from 0-to-60 mph in just 6.2 seconds.
The Buick Verano Turbo's 260 lb.-ft. of torque figure is particularly amazing. Compared to its closest rival, the 2013 Acura ILX 2.4L, the Verano Turbo packs a whole 90 ft.-lb. more torque than the peak 170 lb.-ft. of torque offered in the ILX. What's more, the Verano Turbo is really great at delivering its power across the entire rev range too. 90 percent of the Verano Turbo's peak torque is available between 1700 to 5500 rpm. Defining itself as a sports brand, Buick will offer a choice of six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox for its Verano Turbo.
According to Ecotec 2.0L assistant chief engineer Amy Joss, "The 2.0L turbo engine was designed for refinement, higher output capabilities and reduced noise. The way it sounds, the power delivery and the refined character are all fitting of a luxury sedan with a fun side."
Critics agree. In December, Wards Auto awarded the Buick's 2.0L turbocharged Ecotec engine as one of 2012's 10Best Engines for North America. Wards editor-in-chief Drew Winter said, "This engine delivers a level of power and sophistication that redefines Buick."
The 2.0L turbo isn't the only small displacement performance engine found in the Buick line-up. The Buick Regal GS sports sedan features an Ecotec 2.0 tuned to 270-hp and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. Once again, the Regal GS torque figures best the Acura TSX V6 as well as the Audi A4 Sport.
The Verano and Regal model line offer 4-cylinder engine trims only, while the larger LaCrosse luxury sedan comes available with a choice of a 2.4 liter 4-cylinder or a 3.6 liter 6-cylinder engine.
Addressing Buicks current engine offerings, Buick Marketing vice president Tony DiSalle said "Buick's engine strategy continues to be driven by intelligent performance. Four-cylinder engines, turbocharging and eAssist are all the right solutions for today's market. With these advanced technologies, Buicks are more efficient without sacrificing their smooth, quiet character."
Even though it may seem odd for a luxury brand to embrace 4-cylinder powerplants like so, iMotor Times reported last month that a general increase in U.S. turbocharged vehicle sales is evident for 2012. Perhaps Buick's strategy is ahead of the curve.
2013 Buick Verano Turbo pricing and EPA fuel economy ratings will be announced closer to its release later this year. The standard Buick Verano is available now starting at $22,585.
