The next smallest Buick, the upcoming all-new 2012 Verano sedan, will carry the philosophy of both new and old Buick. Not only will it be packed with a plethora of the latest technologies, but it will also be built with a certain amount of classic luxury that can only be found in the timeless, American brand. Keeping in step with other Buick sedans such as the Regal and LaCrosse, the Verano is expected to be one of the quietest vehicles offered by the industry today.
“By positioning the Verano against the very best, our noise and vibration team went above and beyond to deliver the quiet driving experience for which Buicks have become known,” said Chuck Russell, Verano vehicle line director. “Quiet-tuning components and systems are built into every facet of the Verano’s architecture.”
In order to keep noise pollution down to the lowest levels and to best its competition such as the Lexus IS250 and Acura TSX, the Verano incorporates a dozen noise-reduction and cancelling technologies. Since vehicles generate noise from the drive train, exhaust system, braking system, electrical system as well as the tires and wind, Buick engineers had their work cut out for them. According to the Verano press release, every bit of the 12 new pieces of technology did not add any extra weight to the car.
- A 5.4-mm-thick acoustic-laminated windshield and 4.85-mm-thick acoustic laminated side glass that minimizes wind noise
- Acoustic insulation material on both sides of the front steel dash panel and under the hood that reduce engine noise
- Five layers of acoustic insulation material in the headliner, including a premium fabric on the visible outer layer that muffles wind noise
- Triple-sealed doors that keep out exterior noise
- Three layers of acoustic insulation material in the doors that reduces the sound of wet-road sizzle
- Dual-density carpet on the floor that block coarse road and tire noise
- Underbody paneling that lowers wind and low road-surface noise while improving fuel economy
- Liquid-applied sound deadener that supports a solid body structure
- Specially tuned air intake and exhaust systems that enable pleasing engine sound quality without sacrificing engine performance
- Isolated chassis components that reduce vibrations over irregular road surfaces for a solid road feel
- A patented rear suspension that enables crisp road feel and superior ride and handling performance without sacrificing quietness
- Hydraulic suspension bushings and an isolated engine cradle that reduces or eliminates vibrations.
Source: Buick
