Buick announced early this summer the Verano nameplate would be exiting the U.S. and Canadian markets following an abbreviated 2017 model year. The brand stated it would move away from the compact car segment as the Buick Encore took over entry-level vehicle duties.
Yet, here we are with spy shots from AutoGuide showing the Chinese-spec 2017 Buick Verano GS hatchback fully uncovered at General Motors’ Milford Proving Grounds. It’s a strange sighting noting the information above. Did Buick axe the sedan only to bring a Verano hatchback aboard? It could be so.
The Verano GS hatchback is a reskinned Opel Astra K, currently slated for the Chinese market only. However, if Buick wants to reinvigorate some extra “white space” into the brand, a premium hatchback could be a pretty darn good way to do it.
Comments
At least it’s not the Vauxhall Astra.
But it is. The Opel Astra, vauxhall asta and verano gs hatch are the same car.? I even think the Chevy Cruze hatch is on the same platform.
I know, I know. Just a bit of levity.
I hope it is a mule for a high performance Cruze hatch…
FIrst, they axed the Saturn Astra (and the Saturn brand all toghether). Then, they axed the Buick Verano. Why the hate on the Astra? :/
The real question should be why more Americans have not been buying them?
Fix that and you would have enough volume it would be difficult to cancel.
It’s not really the hate on Astra. It’s just most people went crossovers instead
More growth for the American hatch segment. Yes please. That is unless they import it from China which would probably be true. If that is the case then I hope it’s a Chevy Cruze mule.
This would be the perfect replacement for my wife’s Vibe. I want one.
Have you tried the Encore? It’s kind of a taller Vibe.
It even has attracted a lot of past HHR buyers.
Lordy, I hope so. This would make a fine addition to the line up.
GM needs hatchbacks with over 200 hp & 200 lbft, automatic paddle-shift transmissions, front seats that fold flat for long items, and cooled/ventilated & heated seats available in all seating positions. AWD must also be available.