The 2012 Verano is Buick's entry in the compact-premium-car market, aimed to lure buyers who normally would consider Audi, Lexus, Acura and Volvo. The car is fitted with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine making 180 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque. That's paired with a second generation of General Motors' six-speed automatic transmission, which has new software. The suspension is MacPherson in front and a Z-link setup in the rear. Though it's based on similar underpinnings as the Chevrolet Cruze, the wheels, suspension tuning and sheetmetal are completely different, Buick officials say.

Up front is the familiar waterfall grille, and the headlights are tastefully accented with blue halos. The understated body has Buick's signature L-shaped contours on the sides, and the chrome-accented taillights stand out when viewed from the road. Inside is a quiet cabin fortified with about 15 pounds of sound-deadening materials placed throughout the car. The base price is $23,470, including destination, and it begins arriving on the market at the end of the year.

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