Smallest Buick Model Joins Rest of Family as Top Safety Pick

RAYNHAM, MASS. (04/09/2012)(readMedia)-- While it is the smallest in the automaker's lineup, the 2012 Buick Verano recently proved that it can hold its own with its larger siblings when it comes to occupant protection. Currently available at Buick dealerships, the luxury compact sedan has been named a 2012 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Buick can now claim one of the safest lineups in the industry, as all of its 2012 models have earned Top Safety Pick status.

The IIHS rates vehicles in high-speed front and side crash tests, a rear crash test evaluating head and seat restraints, and a roof-strength test that determines how well the vehicle would protect occupants during a rollover. To become an IIHS Top Safety Pick, vehicles like the Buick Verano must earn the highest score of Good in all four crash tests.

"There is a perception that you need to compromise fuel efficiency or style for safety, but the Verano is a vehicle that does neither," said Gary Carter, general sales manager at Massachusetts Buick dealership Mastria Buick GMC Cadillac. "A true luxury sedan like the Verano integrates safety technology seamlessly, building it in from the beginning instead of throwing it in as an afterthought."

When designing its smallest car, Buick implemented a comprehensive safety strategy that started with the sedan's core. The 2012 Buick Verano's body is made up of more than 60 percent high-strength steel, creating a protective frame around passengers that can absorb much of the impact in a crash. That advanced body structure helped the Verano emerge as one of the leaders in the IIHS' midsize moderately priced cars segment.

The 2012 Verano is equipped with a host of other safety technologies that protect both during and immediately following a crash. As part of the standard 10 air bags in the luxury sedan, head curtain air bags deploy when the vehicle detects a rollover situation. Those air bags stay inflated for an extended period of time, continuing to protect passengers in the event the car is not immediately righted. Drivers also receive six complimentary months of OnStar's Automatic Crash Response System, which measures the impact of the crash and can send emergency assistance to the accident location.

While it is built to withstand a slew of potential road dangers, the Buick Verano's features also ensure that Massachusetts drivers don't forget that it is a luxury car first and foremost. Controls on the Verano's leather-wrapped steering wheel, along with standard Bluetooth connectivity, allow drivers to keep their hands on the wheel while selecting their favorite songs or making phone calls. Meanwhile, an available Bose premium nine-speaker sound system and three months of complimentary SiriusXM Satellite Radio present music at its best.

"The Verano offers buyers a more affordable luxury sedan, but you wouldn't know it when looking over the features, whether you're talking about convenience or safety," added Carter. "With the Verano, you don't have to buy a larger vehicle to have peace of mind on the roads, and you don't have to refinance your home to get luxury and style."

About Mastria Buick GMC Cadillac:

Serving Massachusetts car buyers for more than 50 years, Mastria Buick GMC Cadillac has earned a reputation for top-notch service and satisfied customers. With a wide selection of models like the Cadillac CTS, Buick Enclave and GMC Sierra pickup truck, Mastria Buick GMC Cadillac has the vehicles shoppers want, as well as the skilled service staff needed to keep their cars, trucks and SUVs running like new for years to come. Stop by their dealership at 1525 New State Highway in Raynham, Massachusetts, browse their inventory online at www.mastriamotors.com, find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MastriaBuickGMC, or call them at 800-821-1998 today.