Buick will introduce new premium features to its Verano compact luxury sedan in 2013, perhaps in an effort to remain competitive against the more youthful Acura ILX.
Those changes will include added cross-traffic alert and blind spot monitoring as standard equipment on the top-end version with leather seats. The same features are available on lower-end models in the “Convenience Group” package on lower-end models, which will also bring heated side mirrors, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, power base seats and rear parking sensors.
Pricing hasn’t been announced for the 2013 Buick lineup yet, which will include a mildly updated Regal and an unchanged full-size LaCrosse becuase a refresh is expected in 2014.
When the Verano landed in the market, it stood unopposed, but Acura is unseating GM’s attempt at entry-level luxury. It’s a tough game because the brands both need to strike a balance between value for the consumer and keeping cars profitable. Adding features like blind spot monitoring will probably help Buick have the more upmarket feel Acura can currently claim.
