2017 Buick Verano
The 2017 Buick Verano was a compact luxury sedan that aimed to offer a more refined and comfortable driving experience than many of its mainstream competitors. Positioned as an entry-level luxury offering from Buick, it emphasized quietness, a well-appointed interior, and a smooth ride. While it shared its platform with the Chevrolet Cruze, the Verano differentiated itself with a more upscale presentation and a greater focus on premium features.
Highlights
-
Engine Options: The 2017 Verano offered two distinct engine choices, catering to different priorities:
- 2.4L Ecotec Four-Cylinder: This standard engine provided a balanced blend of efficiency and adequate power for daily driving. It was a reliable and fuel-conscious option for those prioritizing economy.
- 2.0L Turbocharged Ecotec Four-Cylinder: Found in the more potent trim levels, this turbocharged engine delivered significantly more horsepower and torque, offering a sportier and more engaging driving experience. It was the choice for those seeking quicker acceleration and more responsive performance.
-
Safety Features: Buick equipped the 2017 Verano with a suite of available advanced safety technologies designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants:
- Forward Collision Alert: This system uses a forward-facing camera to detect potential frontal collisions. If a risk is identified, it provides audible and visual warnings to the driver, allowing them time to react.
- Lane Departure Warning: This feature monitors lane markings on the road. If the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without the turn signal activated, it alerts the driver with an audible warning.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: While reversing, this system uses radar sensors to detect approaching traffic from either side, providing an audible alert and a visual display in the rearview camera. This is particularly useful when backing out of parking spaces.
- Side Blind Zone Alert: This system monitors the "blind spots" on either side of the vehicle. If a vehicle is detected in these areas, a warning light illuminates in the side mirror, alerting the driver to its presence.
- Standard Safety Features: As expected for a modern vehicle, the Verano also came equipped with a comprehensive set of airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a rearview camera.
-
Trim Summary: The 2017 Buick Verano was available in distinct trim levels, each offering a progressively richer set of features:
- Verano: The base model provided a comfortable and well-equipped entry point into the Buick brand, featuring essentials like a touchscreen infotainment system and comfortable seating.
- Verano Convenience Group: This package added desirable comfort and convenience features, often including things like heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and upgraded interior materials.
- Verano Leather Group: As the name suggests, this trim elevated the interior with premium leather upholstery, further enhancing the car's luxury appeal. It also typically included more advanced infotainment and convenience features.
- Verano Premium Group (with 2.0L Turbo): This was the top-tier offering, exclusively featuring the more powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine. It bundled all the luxury and convenience features of the lower trims and added sportier styling cues and potentially performance-oriented suspension tuning.
-
Other Notable Aspects:
- Quiet Cabin: A hallmark of the Verano was its exceptionally quiet interior, thanks to extensive sound-deadening materials and design elements. This contributed to a serene and relaxing driving experience, especially on the highway.
- Comfortable Ride: The Verano's suspension was tuned for comfort, effectively absorbing road imperfections and providing a smooth, composed ride. This made it an excellent choice for long commutes or those who prioritize a relaxing drive.
- Upscale Interior Design: The Verano's cabin felt more premium than many of its competitors, featuring soft-touch materials, attractive design elements, and a generally sophisticated ambiance.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Buick Verano is typically characterized by a focus on comfort and refinement. Expect a smooth and quiet ride that insulates occupants from road noise and bumps. The interior is well-designed and comfortable, making it a pleasant place to spend time.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance for the Verano, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, will be comparable to other compact sedans in its class. Buick's recommended maintenance schedule should be followed to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Parts are generally readily available through Buick dealerships and reputable auto parts stores.
- Insurance: Insurance costs will vary based on individual factors like driving record, location, coverage levels, and the specific trim and engine of the Verano chosen. However, as a mainstream luxury brand compact sedan, its insurance rates are generally not expected to be as high as larger luxury vehicles or performance-oriented cars.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Buick Verano offers a compelling package, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Rear Seat Space: As a compact sedan, the rear-seat legroom and headroom can be somewhat limited, especially for taller adults. If frequent passenger transport is a priority, a larger sedan might be a better fit.
- Infotainment System Responsiveness: While functional, the IntelliLink infotainment system, particularly in its earlier iterations, could sometimes feel a bit less responsive or intuitive compared to the slicker systems offered by some competitors.
- Limited Powertrain Options (for some): While the two engine choices cover a good range, some buyers might desire a more potent engine in the base model, or a hybrid option for even greater fuel efficiency.
- Front-Wheel Drive Only: The Verano was exclusively offered with front-wheel drive, which means it lacks the all-wheel-drive capability that some buyers in snowier climates might prefer.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Buick Verano stood out as a comfortable, quiet, and refined compact luxury sedan. It successfully delivered on Buick's promise of a more upscale experience, offering a serene cabin, a smooth ride, and a good array of available safety and convenience features. While it may not have been the sportiest or most technologically cutting-edge in its segment, it appealed to buyers seeking a quiet and comfortable daily driver with a touch of premium flair. Its strengths lay in its tranquil interior and comfortable demeanor, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize a relaxed driving experience.
