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Buick Teases Verano Hatchback for China, Photo Suggests a 2016 Astra Twin

China is still getting all the good stuff from Buick, stuff that won't be delivered in America for some time. They've just dropped a teaser photo in our lap that shows an upcoming Verano GS sports hatchback model which will be making its debut later this year.
Buick Verano Hatchback 1 photo
Photo: Buick
As you can see, we're dealing with an exact copy of the European Opel Astra K, which is not a bad thing. Buick sells a lot of Veranos in China, and they've recently decided to focus on the hatchback market as well. And what better car to offer than one of the best-selling compacts in Europe?

"The new Verano models have trendy, sporty styling along with European car-like handling, premium interiors and advanced technology. They are targeted at trend-setting consumers who are looking for a driving experience that is born with sportiness," the press release reads.

European car-like handling?

That's a really weird way to talk about a car. But we get the general idea. The Buick marketing people will pitch this Verano Hatchback model to young customers who value driving thrills. The standard engine will be a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter from the SIDI family that's been specifically developed for the Chinese market.

It can be paired with either a manual transmission or a six-speed DSS intelligent automatic transmission. The Verano GS, which is a slightly warmer version of the Astra, will feature a 1.5-liter turbo. We've already seen it on the China-spec Chevy Cruze, and it delivers a familiar 169 PS output (124 kW) at 5,600 rpm.

European Astra K buyers might feel a little jealous, as the Verano GS also comes with a seven-speed DCG intelligent transmission. Yes, that's a DSG-rivalling twin-clutch unit that you cannot buy.

The sports hatch will also feature sporty styling, including a black waterfall grille, body stripes, red brake calipers and five-spoke alloy wheels with a dark-painted finish. Buick says they will "ignite a passion for driving," but we'll reserve our judgement for when the unveiling takes place.
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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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