Why is the brand testing a compact sedan here in California?
We first saw the updated Buick Verano in May through a set spy photos. Although there aren’t any official indications that Buick will revive the nameplate in the United States, the attached video shows another prototype heavily camouflaged, which was tested in Death Valley. How can we tell it’s a Verano model? Let’s see.
Let’s start with the title. Although it may claim that this is the next-generation Chevrolet Cruze, the model is practically dead in America. At least for now, the last Cruze was built in March. Chevrolet does not plan to continue this series. It doesn’t make sense for us to test a vehicle that will not be sold in the United States, Eastern California.
This is not a Chevy prototype, and secondly. Although the rear end may fool you, the front fascia clearly displays the Buick flying V grille treatment that is seen on other models. The trial car is almost identical to the Buick Verano prototype that was spotted in Michigan earlier this summer ( photos below)
We are left wondering why Buick is testing a compact sedan in the United States, considering that more and more automakers are abandoning the sedan category and shifting resources to crossovers. After the 2017 model year , the Verano was removed from North America and is now available for purchase in China.
The refreshed model will be available at Buick dealers in China very soon, most likely next year. However, we’ll have to wait and see what the company’s plans are to bring it back to America. It’s currently available with either a 1.5-liter four-cylinder or a 2.0-liter four cylinder. This only turns the front wheels and will remain the same with the facelift.