Shanghai: Buick reveals updated Verano with 1.5L turbo engine

Buick‘s restyled compact Verano made its global debut today at the Shanghai auto show, featuring GM’s new 1.5L turbocharged Ecotec four-cylinder engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

That engine is notable as it will likely be used in North American versions of the car; it was recently introduced as part of the powertrain lineup in the Chevrolet Malibu, recently unveiled at the New York auto show. Making 166 hp and 184 lb-ft, it trades 14 hp for about 13 lb-ft versus the 2.4L four-cylinder used in the current Verano; we imagine it’s a good tradeoff, given the 1.5L’s low 1700-rpm torque peak.

Less certain is whether the Shanghai show car’s dual clutch transmission—which GM says was adapted specifically for China—will make it here; we think it more likely western versions of the Verano will carry on with a six-speed automatic, as will be used with this engine in the Malibu.

GM claims a combined fuel consumption rating of 6.1 L/100 km; that’s a couple ticks lower than the 6.3 combined rating GM expects the 1.5L Malibu to achieve when it undergoes EnerGuide testing.