Autos Plus

FR EE

Buick Verano

Chevrolet Spark

The quiet compact offers luxury with many available features ....... E3

The hatchback features an electric look but runs on gasoline............. E3

Autos plus

cruze 99 2013 chevrolet

Lease for

ONLY

$

per mo.

e

SUNDAY JANUARY 13 2013 SECTION

STK#130069 I 24 MO. LEASE / 12,000 MI. PER YR. $3,999 CASH OR TRADE DUE AT SIGNING. TAX AND TAGS EXTRA. WELL QUALIFIED BUYERS

6445 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg

766-0284 • 800-427-4505 Search our entire inventory:

LawrenceChevy.com * REBATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NOT ALL CUSTOMERS WILL QUALIFY FOR ALL APPLICABLE REBATES AND INCENTIVES. TAXES, TAGS AND TRANSFER FEES ADDITIONAL. YOU MAY CHOOSE REBATES OR NEW CAR FINANCING AS LOW AS 0% UP TO 72 MOS. ON SELECT MODELS WITH FINANCING APPROVAL. 20% DISCOUNT INCLUDES ALL APPLICABLE REBATES.

730 EAST KING STREET • SHIPPENSBURG, PA 17257

532-2121 / TOLL FREE 1-888-532-2121 View All Our Inventory at HHCHEV.COM

Celebrate the NEW YEAR with New 2013

CHEVROLET MALIBU LS

MSRP $23,390 Stock #13038

*24 MONTH/24,000 MILES WITH APPROVED CREDIT THRU ALLY BANK. $2,948 TOTAL DUE AT SIGNING. SECURITY DEPOSIT WAIVED. TAX & TAGS EXTRA.

189/MO.**

CHEVROLET SONIC LS

New 2013

Stock #13041

New 2013

$

LEASE FOR

$

GREAT DEALS! CHEVROLET CRUZE LS

New 2013

MSRP $26,330 Stock #13047

**39 MONTH/39,000 MILES WITH APPROVED CREDIT THRU ALLY BANK. $2,838 TOTAL DUE AT SIGNING. SECURITY DEPOSIT WAIVED. TAX & TAGS EXTRA.

$

LEASE FOR

229/MO.**

CHEVROLET TRAVERSE LS

New 2013

Automatic, A/C, PW, CD

8 Passenger, V6, Automatic, A/C, PW, Cruise, CD, XM, OnStar

MSRP $16,090

MSRP $19,035

MSRP $31,650

ONLY

Stock #13047

15,784* New 2013

$

ONLY

Stock #73043

18,168*

CHEVROLET SILVERADO EXT CAB LT 4X4

V6, Automatic, A/C

All Star Edition, 5.3L, Auto, A/C, PW, Cruise, CD, Tow Pkg.

MSRP $24,780

MSRP $36,335

New 2013

$

NEW YEAR PRICE

Stock #73035

19,880*

CHEVROLET AVALANCHE LS 4X4 All Star Edition, 20” Wheels, 5.3L, Automatic, A/C, PW, Pwr Seat, CD

MSRP $42,230

GM Rebate $2,000 H&H Reduction $2,250

NEW YEAR PRICE

$

ONLY

30,500*

GM Rebate $3,000 GM Owner Loyalty $1,000 Trade-In Bonus Cash $1,000 All Star Discount $1,000 H&H Reduction $2,000

GM Rebate $2,500 GM Owner Loyalty $1,000 Trade-In Bonus Cash $1,000 H&H Reduction $400

$

CHEVROLET EQUINOX LS AWD

Automatic, A/C

CHEVROLET SILVERADO W/T

Stock #73011

New 2013

Stock #73001

28,335*

NEW YEAR PRICE

$

37,980*

Check Out the New 2013 CADILLAC MODELS All New 2013

CADILLAC ATS

All New 2013

Stop by for a test drive. You will be AMAZED!

CADILLAC XTS

Luxury Collection Fantastic Ride!

MSRP $34,440

$ Stock #63020

MSRP $50,970

AS LOW AS

32,900* TAX & TAGS EXTRA. SEE DEALER FOR COMPLETE DETAILS.

$ Stock #63013

AS LOW AS

48,900*

Autos Plus

E2 • The Sentinel

Sunday, January 13, 2013

Purchasing a Vehicle

Car Ownership

How to get the best deal on a used car

Car care tips that can extend the life of your vehicle

When it comes to value purchases, there are few that compare to buying a used car over a new one, since new cars begin to depreciate the minute they are driven off the lot. If you are able to find a used car that still has plenty of life, you can save thousands from what you would pay for a new car.

While buying used can net you the best deal on a car purchase, it also req u i re s yo u to d o yo u r homework to make sure you truly are getting good value from your purchase.

Here are six steps to help you rest assured that your used car purchase is a good one:

Identify the type of car you want to buy Consider expanding your search to similar car models that offer the same types of benefits. For example, though the Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain are different in name, they are nearly identical mechanically.

Use online resources

There is no truer saying than, “Take care of your car and it will take care of you.”

Taking care of your vehicle should be at the top of your priority list when you rely on it to transport you, your family and friends.

You don’t have to be a mechanical expert to take care of your car, you just need to be aware of what needs to occur and keep a regular schedule to ensure the safety and life of your car.

Brandpoint

A woman looks at a vehicle in a used dealership. car, but can be easily fixed, you may be able to find a bargain. Aftermarket part manufacturers often create good solutions for original problems. Again, it pays to do your research. Auto parts retailer RockAuto. com allows you to quickly check the availability and cost of replacement parts.

When you use Rock Auto’s Repair Index tool, you can also compare any two models you are considering to get an idea of which one might cost more to maintain.

Websites like Edmunds. com and car enthusiast forums can help identify any red flags around given models or years. Focus less on reported reliability when the car was new and more on the car’s reliability today. Minor problems in the Obtain car history first year are much less imOnce you have identiportant than major problems that might show up a fied a specific car, use the car’s VIN number to buy few years down the road. a vehicle history report Navigate known issues from Carfax.com or one If you discover that a par- of its competitors. Simply ticular model might con- googling the VIN number tain features that don’t age can also pull up free aucwell, it doesn’t necessarily tion records and sales hismean you should avoid the tories that may be helpful. car. If it’s a widely known If the history report is difissue that has damaged the ferent than what the owner reputation of that type of has told you, there’s plenty

of reason to proceed with mechanic for an inspection. caution.

“I have been a car nut Examine the vehicle since I was a pre-teen and Develop an inspection I only buy used cars, but I checklist to go over your- would still take any car I self as you test drive and was considering spendexamine the car. Check to ing a lot of money on to a make sure the license plates professional mechanic for are current and verify the an inspection,” says Tom vehicle recently passed Taylor, engineer and vice an emissions test if they president of RockAuto. are required in your area. The mechanic will almost Check brakes, hoses, belts, always find something you the body and underbody overlooked. His inspecfor signs of wear or damage tion may tell you to avoid a - a dealer should be more car or help you negotiate a than willing to put the car fairer price. Use RockAuto. on a lift for your inspec- com on your smartphone tion if you are serious about and the mechanic’s report buying the car. Make sure to immediately show the the heat and air condition- seller how much it will cost to replace needed parts. ing work.

If you’ve done your reGet an expert’s opinion search and followed these Do not worry if you are precautionary steps, you’ll not a car expert and have feel informed as you neno idea how to evaluate gotiate a selling price and some systems on the car. can rest assured that you’re Even if the car passes your getting a quality vehicle. All personal inspection, you’re that’s left is enjoying your not done yet. Take the car new purchase. to a trusted professional — Brandpoint

99

’13 Equinox LT

$

STK# 130031 LEaSE fOr OnLy

pEr Mo. 24 mo. lease / 12,000 mi. per yr.

3,999 cash or trade due at signing tax and tags extra. Well qualified buyers

0

%

on all remaining

What is ATF?

If your car has an auto m a t i c t ra n s m i ss i o n , the Automatic Transmission Fluid or ATF protects against transmission breakdown, corrosion system wear and oxidation.

Checking your ATF level is similar to checking your Know how to oil level, but with the car check your oil running. The usual recChecking and changing ommendation for change oil is important to keeping interval is about every your car’s engine running 30,000 miles. properly and efficiently.

Battery check Check your owner’s manuLike other car parts that al for what viscosity oil you should use and oil change have been made to last loninterval recommendations. ger, most car batteries are The type of motor oil you maintenance-free and can use is just as important as last more than three years. making sure it’s changed The first sign that may inregularly. Many cars are dicate you need a new batnow coming from the fac- tery is if you have trouble tory filled with synthetic starting the engine. oil. If your car didn’t come See clearly with synthetic, consider One of the most neglectswitching from conventional to premium syn- ed basic car care tips is thetic motor oil like Royal taking care of your windPurple. Using synthetic oil shield wipers. You should will allow you to go longer change your wipers every between oil changes, usu- 12 months or if the rubally up to 10,000 miles de- ber becomes worn. You pending on your driving will also want to check the habits. Fewer oil changes wiper fluid reservoirand means money saved and keep it full.

Basic car care is an easy less oil deposited back into first step in making sure the environment.

It’s also important to your car stays on the road know how to check your longer. Regular mainteoil between changes. Lo- nance checks can also catch cate where to check your needed repairs before they oil under the hood, and become big dollar items. make sure you’re parked on — Brandpoint

’13 Cruze LS

STK# 130069 LEaSE fOr OnLy

a level surface for an accurate reading. If you need to top-off your oil, make sure you don’t overfill, or you could damage the engine.

199

$

pEr Mo.

36 mo. lease / 12,000 mi. per yr.

3,999 cash or trade due at signing tax and tags extra. Well qualified buyers

’13 Malibu LS

for 72 mo.

2012 Traverse, Tahoe, & Suburban models

STK# 130272 LEaSE fOr OnLy

139

$

pEr Mo.

24 mo. lease / 12,000 mi. per yr.

3,999 cash or trade due at signing tax and tags extra. Well qualified buyers

’09 Chevyy Traverse LT #665183 $20,999

’10 Chevy Silverado Crew Cab #1209211 $23,999

’10 Chevy Camaro 2LT #665188 $20,999

’07 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited #1301376 $20,499

’11 Chevy Equinox LS #665196 $22,499

’13 Chevy Malibu Eco #1300076 $24,999

’04 Chevyy Tahoe LS #1301702 $13,999

’08 Chevy Avalanche #1300321 $25,999

’99 Chevy Silverado #1209711 $8,499

’12 Chevyy CCruze 2LT #665191 $18,499

’07 Chevy Suburban #1302481 $23,499

’10 Honda Element EX #1207872 $19,599

’11 GMC Sierra 1500 #1210771 $23,999

’07 Chevy Tahoe #1302922 $21,999

’05 Chevy Silverado #6651582 $6,999

’09 Chevy Traverse LT #665201 $27,499

’12 Kia Forte LX #1201341 $14,499

’07 Honda Civic EX #1301201 $11,499

’08 Chevy Equinox LT #1301951 $14,499

’09 Chevy Tahoe LT #665190 $27,999

’11 Chevy Tahoe LT #1300511 $38,999

* Rebates are subject to change without prior notice.

Not all customers will qualify for all applicable rebates and incentives.

6445 Carlisle Pike Mechanicsburg

See Our Entire Inventory at:

* Taxes, Tags and Transfer Fees additional. You may choose Rebates oR new car financing as low as 0% up to 72 mos. on select models with financing approval.

20% discount includes all applicable rebates.

766-0284 800-427-4505

’13 Equinox LT

’13 Cruze LS

STK# 130069 LEaSE fOr OnLy

99

$

STK# 130031 LEaSE fOr OnLy

pEr Mo. 24 mo. lease / 12,000 mi. per yr.

3,999 cash or trade due at signing tax and tags extra. Well qualified buyers

0

%

on all remaining

199

$

pEr Mo.

36 mo. lease / 12,000 mi. per yr.

3,999 cash or trade due at signing tax and tags extra. Well qualified buyers

’13 Malibu LS

for 72 mo.

2012 Traverse, Tahoe, & Suburban models

STK# 130272 LEaSE fOr OnLy

139

$

pEr Mo.

24 mo. lease / 12,000 mi. per yr.

3,999 cash or trade due at signing tax and tags extra. Well qualified buyers

’09 Chevy Traverse LT #665183 $20,999

’10 Chevy Silverado Crew Cab #1209211 $23,999

’10 Chevy Camaro 2LT #665188 $20,999

’07 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited #1301376 $20,499

’11 Chevy Equinox LS #665196 $22,499

’13 Chevy Malibu Eco #1300076 $24,999

’04 Chevy Tahoe LS #1301702 $13,999

’08 Chevy Avalanche #1300321 $25,999

’99 Chevy Silverado #1209711 $8,499

’12 Chevy Cruze 2LT #665191 $18,499

’07 Chevy Suburban #1302481 $23,499

’10 Honda Element EX #1207872 $19,599

’11 GMC Sierra 1500 #1210771 $23,999

’07 Chevy Tahoe #1302922 $21,999

’05 Chevy Silverado #6651582 $6,999

’09 Chevy Traverse LT #665201 $27,499

’12 Kia Forte LX #1201341 $14,499

’07 Honda Civic EX #1301201 $11,499

’08 Chevy Equinox LT #1301951 $14,499

’09 Chevy Tahoe LT #665190 $27,999

’11 Chevy Tahoe LT #1300511 $38,999

* Rebates are subject to change without prior notice.

Not all customers will qualify for all applicable rebates and incentives.

6445 Carlisle Pike Mechanicsburg

See Our Entire Inventory at:

* Taxes, Tags and Transfer Fees additional. You may choose Rebates oR new car financing as low as 0% up to 72 mos. on select models with financing approval.

20% discount includes all applicable rebates.

766-0284 800-427-4505

Autos Plus

Sunday, January 13, 2013

The Sentinel • E3

All About Cars

2013 Buick Verano: Luxury in a compact package The vehicle offers a quiet ride with many available features.

■

Introduced in 2011 as Buick’s first compact since Skylark’s last run in 1997, Verano brought luxury and sophistication to the compact segment along with Buick’s signature quiet ride.

Built in Orion Township, Michigan, the four-door, 5-passenger, front engine, front-wheel-drive Verano has added a second engine choice this year — a powerful, efficient 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine option.

Verano has also added dual exhaust, sport pedals, a rear spoiler and advanced safety features expected in a luxury car, such as a standard rearview camera on all models, and available Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear CrossTraffic Alert crash avoidance technologies on premium package trims.

Thoughtful design Like its larger LaCrosse and Regal sedan siblings, Verano is distinguished by thoughtful design, and sculpted Buick brand cues such as an arching roofline that connects a steeply raked windshield and fastsloping rear pillars. Verano is also highlighted by thin accent strokes of chrome, black chrome waterfall grille and portholes, blue translucent projector beam headlamps, 18-inch forged alloy, polished machine face and sterling silver-finish wheels with 10 dual spokes.

Co n s t r u c te d w i t h a steel body-frame integrated with front and rear crumple zones; galvanized steel front fenders, hood, roof, door panels; onepiece bodyside outer panel and thermal plastic olefin bumper fascias; Verano has a curb weight of 3,300 pounds. The vehicle seems compact only in length as it measures 183.9 inches long, 71.4 inches wide and 58.4

By Mike Blake

inches high on a 105.7-inch wheelbase.

Turbo added Verano offers two engine choices, an Ecotec 2.4-liter DOHC Inline-4 engine (which powered my test vehicle) mated to a Hydra-Matic 6T45 6-speed automatic transmission, and the Ecotec 2.0-liter I-4 Turbo. The cast aluminum block and heads direct injection system on the 2.4-liter puts out 180 hp and 171 lbs-ft of torque and is EPA estimated at 21 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. A week of mixeduse tests showed an average of 27.1 mpg. The Turbo alternative is good for 250 horses and 260 lbs-ft and is estimated at 21/30.

Wi t h a s tea dy p owe r curve, my test Verano accomplished a zero-to-60 mph run in 8.5 seconds and a quarter-mile in 16.6 seconds — according to the manufacturer, the Turbo can navigate a zero-to-60 run in 6.2 seconds with greater low-range acceleration. On the highway, acceleration is steady, but not crisp. The compact handles with little bobble and only slight understeer from its rack-mounted electric power steering.

Providing a smooth luxury riding experience, Verano is outfitted with an independent, MacPherson struttype front suspension with side-loaded strut modules, specifically tuned coil springs and direct-acting stabilizer bar (hollow). It is coupled with a specifically adapted compound crank (torsion beam) rear with double-walled, U-shaped profile, Z-link (tunable control arm). Power-assisted four-wheel disc electronic brake force distribution and

Submitted photo

Above: The Verano’s thoughtful design is highlighted by thin chrome accent strokes and a black chrome waterfall grille.

Below: Soft-touch materials make a comfortable cabin with accommodating leg room.

ABS offer solid braking capabilities.

Buick’s expected quiet ride is delivered via Verano’s quiet-tuning systems, processes and components that are built into every facet of the vehicle’s architecture. All are designed to block or absorb sound and dampen or eliminate vibrations. The steel front-ofdash panel is sandwiched b e twe e n two d a m p i n g mats; nylon baffles are used in various hollow portions of the body structure and filled with sound-absorbing foam that expands when the body enters the paint oven; the headliner comprises five layers of thermal fiber acoustic material, including a premium woven fabric on the visible outer layer; liquid applied sound deadener is robotically applied throughout the body structure to both deaden and dampen unwanted noises and vibrations and sound insulation material between rear-body structural components is made from recycled denim.

Additionally, the engine’s intake and exhaust systems

are tuned for quiet performance; windshield and side glass are optimized for quietness; and triple-sealed doors feature fiberglass “blankets” that serve as water, airflow and noise barriers.

Soft-touch interior Verano’s interior is marked by solid seat comfort and support, as well as premium, soft-touch materials. Metallic and wood trims and warm ambient lighting make the cabin an inviting environment.

Verano seats two in front and three in row two, with interior headroom of 38.3 inches in front and 37.8 inches in row two. Leg room is a accommodating at 42 inches in the first row and 34.7 inches in row two, while shoulder room is 55.1 inches in front and 52.9 for rear passengers.

Cabin features include push-button engine start, dual-zone automatic climate control is standard, heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel, six-way power driver’s seat, heated, leather-appointed seating,

electronic parking brake, console armrest that slides and locks, power windows with driver’s express up/ down and express down in the rear, steering wheel radio controls, heated outside rearview mirrors and selfdimming inside rearview mirrors and uplevel front and rear reading lamps.

Acclaimed by industry testing arms as a top safety pick, Verano’s safety features include a strong body structure to absorb crash energy, 10 standard air bags, antilock brakes, Stabilitrak fullfunction traction control, collapsible pedal system, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and OnStar with Automatic Crash

Response and tire pressure monitoring system.

Verano’s MSRP starts at $23,080 with the 2.4-liter engine. Crystal Red Tintcoat exterior added $495 and a dealer-installed Silver and Bright Chrome grille added $415. Destination charges were $895 for a price as tested of $24,885.

--Visit www.CarlisleEvents. com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004.

He’s been a “car guy” since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

Behind the Wheel

Chevy Spark looks electric but runs on gasoline The hatchback is the carmaker’s only subcompact and features the brand’s lowest starting retail price.

■

by ANN M. JOB Associated Press

Don’t be surprised if some people assume the 2013 Chevrolet Spark is another newfangled electric car.

Just 12 feet long and with an aerodynamic front end and abruptly chopped-off rear, the South Korean-built Spark could pass for an electric car.

But there’s no plug and no problem with fueling the 2013 version of this Chevrolet, because it comes with a gasoline-sipping, internal combustion, four-cylinder engine. (An electric Spark is planned for 2014.)

While the 2013 Spark doesn’t rival the government fuel economy numbers of electric cars, its top government mileage rating of 32 miles per gallon in city driving and 38 mpg on the highway for a manual transmission model put it ahead of many competitors.

For example, the best government mileage rating for the 2013 Honda Fit hatchback, which is similarly sized to the Spark, is 27/33 mpg with manual transmission.

Also of note: The Spark can come with high-tech features such as smartphone integrated navigation, Pandora personalized Internet radio, Stitcher Internet news broadcasts and Bluetooth audio streaming.

New for 2013, the fivedoor Spark hatchback also is Chevy’s only subcompact car and carries the lowest starting retail price of the brand.

Starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price, including destination charge, is $12,995 for a base 2013 Spark LS with five-speed manual transmission and 84-horsepower four cylinder. The

lowest starting retail price, including destination charge, for a 2013 Spark LS with four-speed automatic transmission is $13,920. However, smartphone compatibility comes only in higher trim levels starting with the 2013 Spark 1LT, whose starting MSRP, including destination charge, is $14,595.

In comparison, Chevy’s next-largest hatchback — the 2013 Sonic — has a starting retail price of $15,595 with five-speed manual and $16,690 with six-speed automatic.

Meantime, the five-door 2013 Honda Fit starts at $16,215 with 117-horsepower four cylinder and manual transmission and $17,015 with automatic.

The 2013 Ford Fiesta hatchback starts at $14,995 with 120-horsepower four cylinder and manual transmission and $16,090 with automatic. Top fuel mileage is 29/40 mpg for the 2013 Fiesta SFE model.

Chevy’s Spark has seats for four, with a low, plastic area with two exposed cupholders positioned between the two rear seats.

It’s actually not apparent, at first, that there are two rear doors for access to these seats.

This is because the doors sit nearly seamlessly into the side styling and door handles are tucked up in the back upper part of the door windows.

Room in these flat-cushioned back seats isn’t as bad as feared. There’s a full 37.3 inches of headroom in the back seat and more than 35 inches of legroom. This compares with 37.2 inches of headroom and just 31.2 inches of legroom in the back seat of a Fiesta hatchback.

Associated Press

This undated image provided by Chevrolet shows the 2013 Chevrolet Spark.

Indeed, back-seat passenger knees in the Spark don’t need to touch the front seatbacks unless a front passenger has his or her seatback reclined a good ways back.

A plus: Rear-door windows go down nearly all the way.

All Spark seats are either cloth or leatherette, and the latter decently mimics the look and feel of a lower-class leather.

Overall, the somewhat barebones nature of the Spark interior is handled with class.

With a pod of gauges seemingly hung on the steering column in front of the driver — and they move up and down when the steering wheel tilt is adjusted — there is an expansive plastic dashboard in front of the driver.

Yet, this area doesn’t look boring or low-cost, thanks to

styling lines that sweep out toward the windshield and nicely textured plastic. Even the ceiling material is textured.

The well-sized, 7-inch display screen that was in the middle of the center stack in the top-of-the-line test Spark 2LT had big enough letters and numbers to make navigation maps easy to see and use.

But there’s no covered storage for small items anywhere in the Spark except in the glovebox, which doesn’t have a lock.

There’s also no tactile feedback when using the display screen buttons.

Cargo space, with back seats in use, is a mere 11.4 cubic feet, which is less than what’s in the trunk of a small sedan like a Toyota Corolla.

But there’s a more accom-

modating 31.2 cubic feet in the Spark when split rear seatbacks are folded down.

The ride in the Spark can feel Spartan. The test car hit its bump stops a few times on city street bumps, sending a quick jarring sensation to passengers. The 15inch tires got to their limits quickly, and the lightweight, 2,269-pound Spark was buffeted one way and another on windy days. Passengers heard wind and road noise, and the little, 1.2-liter, dual overhead cam four cylinder roared when pressured to deliver power quickly.

The fuel-efficient nature of this powerplant was quickly apparent during acceleration, as peak torque is just 83 foot-pounds at 4,200 rpm.

This compares with the more spunky Fiesta’s 112

foot-pounds of torque at 5,000 rpm.

But the fuel mileage was genuine. In nearly all city driving — and it wasn’t gentle driving — the Spark tester averaged 29.4 mpg, which is better than the government estimate. A full tank of unleaded gasoline, therefore, could have lasted for 270 miles and cost under $30 at today’s prices.

A couple nits: The driver seat had a clunky knob to crank to raise seat cushion height, and the rear wiper on the back window is small and doesn’t clear the whole view.

There are no crash test ratings yet for the Spark, which comes standard with electronic stability control, traction control and 10 air bags, including bags mounted to the sides of the back seats.

Autos Plus

Sunday, January 13, 2013

The Sentinel • E3

All About Cars

2013 Buick Verano: Luxury in a compact package The vehicle offers a quiet ride with many available features.

■

Introduced in 2011 as Buick’s first compact since Skylark’s last run in 1997, Verano brought luxury and sophistication to the compact segment along with Buick’s signature quiet ride.

Built in Orion Township, Michigan, the four-door, 5-passenger, front engine, front-wheel-drive Verano has added a second engine choice this year — a powerful, efficient 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine option.

Verano has also added dual exhaust, sport pedals, a rear spoiler and advanced safety features expected in a luxury car, such as a standard rearview camera on all models, and available Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear CrossTraffic Alert crash avoidance technologies on premium package trims.

Thoughtful design Like its larger LaCrosse and Regal sedan siblings, Verano is distinguished by thoughtful design, and sculpted Buick brand cues such as an arching roofline that connects a steeply raked windshield and fastsloping rear pillars. Verano is also highlighted by thin accent strokes of chrome, black chrome waterfall grille and portholes, blue translucent projector beam headlamps, 18-inch forged alloy, polished machine face and sterling silver-finish wheels with 10 dual spokes.

Co n s t r u c te d w i t h a steel body-frame integrated with front and rear crumple zones; galvanized steel front fenders, hood, roof, door panels; onepiece bodyside outer panel and thermal plastic olefin bumper fascias; Verano has a curb weight of 3,300 pounds. The vehicle seems compact only in length as it measures 183.9 inches long, 71.4 inches wide and 58.4

By Mike Blake

inches high on a 105.7-inch wheelbase.

Turbo added Verano offers two engine choices, an Ecotec 2.4-liter DOHC Inline-4 engine (which powered my test vehicle) mated to a Hydra-Matic 6T45 6-speed automatic transmission, and the Ecotec 2.0-liter I-4 Turbo. The cast aluminum block and heads direct injection system on the 2.4-liter puts out 180 hp and 171 lbs-ft of torque and is EPA estimated at 21 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. A week of mixeduse tests showed an average of 27.1 mpg. The Turbo alternative is good for 250 horses and 260 lbs-ft and is estimated at 21/30.

Wi t h a s tea dy p owe r curve, my test Verano accomplished a zero-to-60 mph run in 8.5 seconds and a quarter-mile in 16.6 seconds — according to the manufacturer, the Turbo can navigate a zero-to-60 run in 6.2 seconds with greater low-range acceleration. On the highway, acceleration is steady, but not crisp. The compact handles with little bobble and only slight understeer from its rack-mounted electric power steering.

Providing a smooth luxury riding experience, Verano is outfitted with an independent, MacPherson struttype front suspension with side-loaded strut modules, specifically tuned coil springs and direct-acting stabilizer bar (hollow). It is coupled with a specifically adapted compound crank (torsion beam) rear with double-walled, U-shaped profile, Z-link (tunable control arm). Power-assisted four-wheel disc electronic brake force distribution and

Submitted photo

Above: The Verano’s thoughtful design is highlighted by thin chrome accent strokes and a black chrome waterfall grille.

Below: Soft-touch materials make a comfortable cabin with accommodating leg room.

ABS offer solid braking capabilities.

Buick’s expected quiet ride is delivered via Verano’s quiet-tuning systems, processes and components that are built into every facet of the vehicle’s architecture. All are designed to block or absorb sound and dampen or eliminate vibrations. The steel front-ofdash panel is sandwiched b e twe e n two d a m p i n g mats; nylon baffles are used in various hollow portions of the body structure and filled with sound-absorbing foam that expands when the body enters the paint oven; the headliner comprises five layers of thermal fiber acoustic material, including a premium woven fabric on the visible outer layer; liquid applied sound deadener is robotically applied throughout the body structure to both deaden and dampen unwanted noises and vibrations and sound insulation material between rear-body structural components is made from recycled denim.

Additionally, the engine’s intake and exhaust systems

are tuned for quiet performance; windshield and side glass are optimized for quietness; and triple-sealed doors feature fiberglass “blankets” that serve as water, airflow and noise barriers.

Soft-touch interior Verano’s interior is marked by solid seat comfort and support, as well as premium, soft-touch materials. Metallic and wood trims and warm ambient lighting make the cabin an inviting environment.

Verano seats two in front and three in row two, with interior headroom of 38.3 inches in front and 37.8 inches in row two. Leg room is a accommodating at 42 inches in the first row and 34.7 inches in row two, while shoulder room is 55.1 inches in front and 52.9 for rear passengers.

Cabin features include push-button engine start, dual-zone automatic climate control is standard, heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel, six-way power driver’s seat, heated, leather-appointed seating,

electronic parking brake, console armrest that slides and locks, power windows with driver’s express up/ down and express down in the rear, steering wheel radio controls, heated outside rearview mirrors and selfdimming inside rearview mirrors and uplevel front and rear reading lamps.

Acclaimed by industry testing arms as a top safety pick, Verano’s safety features include a strong body structure to absorb crash energy, 10 standard air bags, antilock brakes, Stabilitrak fullfunction traction control, collapsible pedal system, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and OnStar with Automatic Crash

Response and tire pressure monitoring system.

Verano’s MSRP starts at $23,080 with the 2.4-liter engine. Crystal Red Tintcoat exterior added $495 and a dealer-installed Silver and Bright Chrome grille added $415. Destination charges were $895 for a price as tested of $24,885.

--Visit www.CarlisleEvents. com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004.

He’s been a “car guy” since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

Behind the Wheel

Chevy Spark looks electric but runs on gasoline The hatchback is the carmaker’s only subcompact and features the brand’s lowest starting retail price.

■

by ANN M. JOB Associated Press

Don’t be surprised if some people assume the 2013 Chevrolet Spark is another newfangled electric car.

Just 12 feet long and with an aerodynamic front end and abruptly chopped-off rear, the South Korean-built Spark could pass for an electric car.

But there’s no plug and no problem with fueling the 2013 version of this Chevrolet, because it comes with a gasoline-sipping, internal combustion, four-cylinder engine. (An electric Spark is planned for 2014.)

While the 2013 Spark doesn’t rival the government fuel economy numbers of electric cars, its top government mileage rating of 32 miles per gallon in city driving and 38 mpg on the highway for a manual transmission model put it ahead of many competitors.

For example, the best government mileage rating for the 2013 Honda Fit hatchback, which is similarly sized to the Spark, is 27/33 mpg with manual transmission.

Also of note: The Spark can come with high-tech features such as smartphone integrated navigation, Pandora personalized Internet radio, Stitcher Internet news broadcasts and Bluetooth audio streaming.

New for 2013, the fivedoor Spark hatchback also is Chevy’s only subcompact car and carries the lowest starting retail price of the brand.

Starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price, including destination charge, is $12,995 for a base 2013 Spark LS with five-speed manual transmission and 84-horsepower four cylinder. The

lowest starting retail price, including destination charge, for a 2013 Spark LS with four-speed automatic transmission is $13,920. However, smartphone compatibility comes only in higher trim levels starting with the 2013 Spark 1LT, whose starting MSRP, including destination charge, is $14,595.

In comparison, Chevy’s next-largest hatchback — the 2013 Sonic — has a starting retail price of $15,595 with five-speed manual and $16,690 with six-speed automatic.

Meantime, the five-door 2013 Honda Fit starts at $16,215 with 117-horsepower four cylinder and manual transmission and $17,015 with automatic.

The 2013 Ford Fiesta hatchback starts at $14,995 with 120-horsepower four cylinder and manual transmission and $16,090 with automatic. Top fuel mileage is 29/40 mpg for the 2013 Fiesta SFE model.

Chevy’s Spark has seats for four, with a low, plastic area with two exposed cupholders positioned between the two rear seats.

It’s actually not apparent, at first, that there are two rear doors for access to these seats.

This is because the doors sit nearly seamlessly into the side styling and door handles are tucked up in the back upper part of the door windows.

Room in these flat-cushioned back seats isn’t as bad as feared. There’s a full 37.3 inches of headroom in the back seat and more than 35 inches of legroom. This compares with 37.2 inches of headroom and just 31.2 inches of legroom in the back seat of a Fiesta hatchback.

Associated Press

This undated image provided by Chevrolet shows the 2013 Chevrolet Spark.

Indeed, back-seat passenger knees in the Spark don’t need to touch the front seatbacks unless a front passenger has his or her seatback reclined a good ways back.

A plus: Rear-door windows go down nearly all the way.

All Spark seats are either cloth or leatherette, and the latter decently mimics the look and feel of a lower-class leather.

Overall, the somewhat barebones nature of the Spark interior is handled with class.

With a pod of gauges seemingly hung on the steering column in front of the driver — and they move up and down when the steering wheel tilt is adjusted — there is an expansive plastic dashboard in front of the driver.

Yet, this area doesn’t look boring or low-cost, thanks to

styling lines that sweep out toward the windshield and nicely textured plastic. Even the ceiling material is textured.

The well-sized, 7-inch display screen that was in the middle of the center stack in the top-of-the-line test Spark 2LT had big enough letters and numbers to make navigation maps easy to see and use.

But there’s no covered storage for small items anywhere in the Spark except in the glovebox, which doesn’t have a lock.

There’s also no tactile feedback when using the display screen buttons.

Cargo space, with back seats in use, is a mere 11.4 cubic feet, which is less than what’s in the trunk of a small sedan like a Toyota Corolla.

But there’s a more accom-

modating 31.2 cubic feet in the Spark when split rear seatbacks are folded down.

The ride in the Spark can feel Spartan. The test car hit its bump stops a few times on city street bumps, sending a quick jarring sensation to passengers. The 15inch tires got to their limits quickly, and the lightweight, 2,269-pound Spark was buffeted one way and another on windy days. Passengers heard wind and road noise, and the little, 1.2-liter, dual overhead cam four cylinder roared when pressured to deliver power quickly.

The fuel-efficient nature of this powerplant was quickly apparent during acceleration, as peak torque is just 83 foot-pounds at 4,200 rpm.

This compares with the more spunky Fiesta’s 112

foot-pounds of torque at 5,000 rpm.

But the fuel mileage was genuine. In nearly all city driving — and it wasn’t gentle driving — the Spark tester averaged 29.4 mpg, which is better than the government estimate. A full tank of unleaded gasoline, therefore, could have lasted for 270 miles and cost under $30 at today’s prices.

A couple nits: The driver seat had a clunky knob to crank to raise seat cushion height, and the rear wiper on the back window is small and doesn’t clear the whole view.

There are no crash test ratings yet for the Spark, which comes standard with electronic stability control, traction control and 10 air bags, including bags mounted to the sides of the back seats.

Get the Inside

SCOOP Every Week In www.parade.com

Parts & 825 Accessories HOODS, (2) Checy Stock Hoods for full size truck. $100 for both. Call 243-9890 JEEP ENGINE, 1948. 4 cyl., complete with clutch assembly & bell housing, painted, new plugs & gaskets. Includes engine stand. $600. Call 776-5855 or 574-1767.

SNOW PLOW, Meyers. 7.5’, complete. Like new condition! $1,500. Call 776-5855 or 574-1767.

855 Sport Vehicles FORD, 1994 Bronco Eddie Bauer.

148,650 miles, dark green/tan. $3,500/obo. 243-8153 or 385-8631 FORD, 2008 Escape Limited 4x4 LA SR V6, 43,571 miles. Rahal Select.

Motorcycles / 850 ATVs POLARIS, 2004 Predator 500.

SUZUKI, 2005 LTZ 250. TRAILER, 2004 Triton. All garage kept. Asking $5,500/all. Call 717-486-4837.

FORD, 2009 Escape XLT 4x4 SR V6, 53,953 miles. Rahal Select.

Stock #T43034B. $17,942!

1-866-785-0082 JEEP, 2005 Liberty 4x4. 95k miles, original owner. $7,500. 440-5874.

TOYOTA, 2005 Highlander SR 4x4 V6, 101,038 miles. Rahal Select.

Stock #T45069A. $12,988!

1-866-785-0082 TOYOTA, 2007 Highlander 4x4 64,958 miles. Toyota Certified.

newspaper logo here

For convenient home delivery,

Call 717-240-7135

Stock #T45490A. $18,948!

1-866-785-0082 TOYOTA, 2010 RAV4 Limited 4x4 V6, 13,437 miles. Toyota Certified.

Stock #TT590. $25,969!

1-866-785-0082

860

TOYOTA, 2008 Highlander 4x4 V6, 36,163 miles. Toyota Certified.

Stock #T45350A. $12,969!

1-866-785-0082

Stock #T45626A. $22,898!

1-866-785-0082

Trucks

DODGE, 1997 Ram 1500 4x4. V8, power brakes, power steering, tires like new, 83k. $6,500. 717-226-8964.

FORD, 2000 Ranger Extended Cab. V6, 5 speed, 103k mi. $5,500. Call 717-486-7635.

FORD, 2009 F250 Lariat 4x4 Supercab. 17k miles. Auto. A.C. Spray in bedliner. Great condition. $28,300. 243-0043 or 386-7856 TOYOTA, 2008 Tacoma Double Cab Sport 94,172 miles. Rahal Select.

Stock #T45647A. $20,988!

1-866-785-0082

Stock #TP5175. $15,969!

1-866-785-0082

855 Sport Vehicles DODGE, 2008 Durango SXT 4x4 V8, 50,400 miles. Rahal Select.

TOYOTA, 2009 RAV4 4x4 30,019 miles. Toyota Certified.

Stock #T45430A. $17,866!

1-866-785-0082

RV / 840 Travel Trailers WILDERNESS, 1996 Pull-Behind.

23", also with air. Everything works. $4,300. Call 717-776-3692.

855 Sport Vehicles

870

Vans

CHRYSLER, 2008 Town & Country LX, 135k mi. Auto., A/C, CD player, black. Inpsected. $6,500.

717-701-0840.

check out the

880

Autos

AUDI, 1998 A4, AWD, 5 speed manual, all power, excellent condition. 174k mi. $4,900. 648-5017.

CASH FOR CARS!!!!!!

Buying Cars, Trucks, Tractors, Buses, ATVs, RVs, Motorcycles & Heavy Equip.

Also offering Business & Industrial Clean-Outs!

Call Barrick’s Towing 717-386-4888 CHEVY, 1996 S10 Blazer. 4 door, 227k mi., no rust, 4.3 inspected, still drives. $950/obo. 776-3395.

CHEVY, 2009 Colbolt, 1 owner, moss green, 4 door, 12,400 mi. $9,900/obo. Call or text 448-9018.

FORD, 1994 Taurus SHO. 227k, inspected. $1,200. Call 795-6107.

JEEP, 2004 Grand Cherokee 4x4.

New inspection, 4 new tires, good condition, 106k miles. $7,500. Call 717-385-1050 or 717-385-1928.

MAZDA, 2003 Miata MX5 Convertible.

Leather, power windows, auto., CD, 68k mi. $8,700. 777-1068.

TOYOTA, 2009 Avalon XL 33,967 miles. Toyota Certified.

Stock #TP5191. $21,441!

1-866-785-0082

community calendar @ Cumberlink.com

“Cleanest Cars in Town” Since 1953! www.martysinc.com

If you are DOLLAR WISE see DODIE WISE, first last and always for a good used car

08 Ford Taurus SEL.......................... $9,900 05 Chevy Cobalt, AT, 1 Owner ............. $7,500 04 Ford Focus SW, AT, 1 Owner........... $7,300 04 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT ............. $8,900 04 Hyundai Accent AT....................... $6,000 03 Jeep Gr.Cherokee Laredo, 1 Owner....$9,000 03 Chevy S10 LS 4X4 ....................... $8,900 03 Ford Focus Cpe, AT, 65K................ $6,900 03 Ford Focus Sdn, AT...................... $6,000 03 Toyota Camry LE, AT .................... $9,500 03 Chevy Cavalier Cpe., AT, 1 Owner .... $6,500 03 Ford Focus CP, AT, 1 Owner............ $5,900 03 Honda CRV AT............................ $9,500 02 Honda CR-V EX, 1 Owner, AT, 96K...$10,500 02 Chevy Prizm, AT.......................... $5,500 02 Ford Focus ZX5, HB, AT, 4DR.......... $5,500 01 Saturn SL1, AT ........................... $4,900 01 Ford Focus SE, SW, Auto............... $5,000 00 Ford Focus ZTS, Leather, 79K ......... $5,900 00 Ford Focus SE, AT ....................... $5,500 99 Ford Escort, AT, 86K..................... $4,000 471 E. NORTH STREET, CARLISLE

249-5418

INTRODUCING THE NEW...

2013 Chevrolet

SPARK

Starting at

$12,995

2012 Chevrolet

CRUZE ECO

2013 Chevrolet

EQUINOX FWD LS

2013 Chevrolet

MALIBU LS

2012 Chevrolet

SILVERADO 1500 4WD CREW CAB LT

42 MPG • NOT A DIESEL STOCK #21200 • MSRP $19,995

STOCK #35340 MSRP $24,580

STOCK #31132 MSRP $23,150

STOCK #25578 MSRP $38,755

$18,514

$23,749

$22,202

$31,088***

or LEASE for

or LEASE for

Buy for

or 0% APR for 60 MOS.

Buy for

$219**/MO.

Buy for

Buy for

$189*/ MO.

*LEASE FOR 24 MONTHS/24,000 MILES. $1,999 DUE AT SIGNING. TAX & TAGS EXTRA. MUST FINANCE THROUGH ALLY BANK. FOR QUALIFIED BUYERS ONLY. **LEASE FOR 39 MONTHS/39,000 MILES. $2,559 DUE AT SIGNING. TAX & TAGS EXTRA. MUST FINANCE THROUGH ALLY BANK. FOR QUALIFIED BUYERS ONLY. ***$1,000 TRADE-IN ALLOWANCE BONUS CASH ON SILVERADO ONLY. TRADE MUST BE 99 OR NEWER LIGHT DUTY VEHICLE. LEASE TERMINATIONS CANNOT BE CONSIDERED FOR TRADE-IN. SEE DEALER FOR COMPLETE DETAILS. ALL OFFERS END 2/28/13.

DISCOVER FOR YOURSELF WHY THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE BUY FROM SUTLIFF EVERY YEAR.

12 MONTH/12,000 MILE WARRANTY EXTENSION PLUS 2-YEAR/30,000 MILE MAINTENANCE PLAN

1998 HONDA ACCORD EX

2007 PONTIAC GR PRIX GT

#S6521A, SUNROOF CD WINDOWS LOCKS CRUISE

#21135B, AUTO WINDOWS LOCKS CRUISE

$6,995

$9,750

2011 CHEVY SILVERADO LS

2010 TOYOTA TACOMA SR5

#P6625A, CERTIFIED 4X4 LONGBED CD WINDOWS LOCKS

#35217A, SPORT 4X4

$21,557

$25,995

2009 CHEVY EQUINOX

2011 CHEVY TRAVERSE 1LT

#P6537A, CERTIFIED AWD SPORT LEATHER SUNROOF

#S6560, CCERTIFIED AWD POWERSEAT CD WINDOWS LOCKS CRUISE

$17,882

$12,995

S6600 .............2011 CHEVY AVALANCHE Z71...............$37,494 35251A...........2008 CHEVY TAHOE LTZ..........................$34,995 35325A...........2011 BUICK ENCLAVE CXL .....................$29,995 S6634 .............2011 DODGE RAM SLT ............................$24,995 S6596 .............2012 CHEVY COLORADO LT ...................$23,833 21714A...........2011 NISSAN FRONTIER S .....................$20,995 P6558 .............2009 JEEP WRANGLER SAHARA............$20,994 25963A...........2003 CHEVY SILVERADO LS...................$15,617 P6531 .............2012 CHEVY SONIC 2LT...........................$14,479 P6606B...........2009 HYUNDAI SONATA GLS ................$13,651 35466A...........2008 CHEVY HHR ....................................$12,995 25731A...........2009 CHEVY MALIBU LS .........................$12,966 21701A...........2009 SATURN AURA XE...........................$11,695 35305B...........2006 PONTIAC G6 GT ................................ $9,995 31108A...........2005 CHEVY IMPALA LS............................ $9,495 21720A...........2005 CHEVY MALIBU LS ........................... $9,295 21729A...........2008 CHEVY COBALT LS............................ $8,995 31221A...........2001 CADILLAC DEVILLE.......................... $7,995 31107A...........2002 TOYOTA CELICA GT .......................... $6,995 35381A ..........2005 CHEVY AVEO LS................................ $6,495

717-234-4444 TOLL FREE 888-SUTLIFF

Since 1931

I-83 At 13Th Street Exit, Harrisburg (Only 20 minutes from Carlisle) - www.sutliffchevrolet.com

See dealer for Complete details

• LESS PAYMENT • LESS TIME • LESS MAINTENANCE

L.B. SMITH FORD LINCOLN -

YOUR RED CARPET LEASE HEADQUARTERS

OVER 400 NEW VEHICLES & 100 PRE-OWNED VEHICLES TO CHOOSE FROM BRAND NEW

2013 FOCUS SE Automatic, Heated Seats, All-Weather Mats, Electronic Stability Control

BRAND NEW

2013 FUSION SE Automatic, Reverse Sensing System, 2.5L 4 Cyl, Power Windows, Power Locks

BRAND NEW

2013 ESCAPE SE 4WD Automatic, 2.0 Liter EcoBoost Engine, Power Windows, Power Locks, Cruise

MSRP $20,585

OVER

65 FOCUS

Lease for

$149/MO.*

IN STOCK

plus tax

MSRP $24,790

OVER

Lease for

50 $219/MO.* IN STOCK

FUSIONS

plus tax

MSRP $29,135

OVER

Lease for

75 $249/MO.* IN STOCK

ESCAPES

plus tax

*24 month/10,500 miles per year lease. $2,995 due at signing. Cash or trade equity. Security deposit waived. Subject to credit approval.

Must finance thru Ford Credit. Credit score of 720 or higher. See dealer for complete details. Offer ends 1/31/13.

1-800-422-FORD

1110 MARKET STREET, LEMOYNE

761-6700 Email: fords@lbsmith.org • www.lbsmithford.com

#1 LEMOYNE

2013 Subaru

FORESTER 2.5X STOCK #68330 DFA-21 MSRP $21,049

CVM PRICE

21,049

$

2013 Subaru

LEGACY 2.5i STOCK #68266 DAB-01 MSRP $22,507

CVM PRICE

20,969

$

2013 Subaru

OUTBACK 2.5i STOCK #68345 DDB-01 MSRP $26,022

CVM PRICE

23,859

$

2013 Subaru

XV CROSSTREK 2.0i PREMIUM STOCK #68367 DRB-04 MSRP

25,361

$

2013 Subaru

IMPREZA WRX LIMITED STOCK #68354 DWP-14

MSRP

31,065

$

CUMBERLAND VALLEY SUBARU

6714 CARLISLE PIKE • MECHANICSBURG

800-382-1436

C U M B E R L A N D VA L L E Y S U B A R U . C O M

*0% for up to 48 months on Forester, Outback, Legacy and Tribeca for well qualified buyers through Subaru. See dealer for details.

START THE NEW

YEAR OFF RIGHT

2012 DODGE

DURANGO CREW AWD

#D8063, Leather Trim Seats, Sunroof, 3.6 Liter V6 MSRP $40,240

SAVE $5,256 CVM PRICE

$35,484

*

2013 DODGE

2013 DODGE

AVENGER SXT

CVM PRICE

DART SE

$22,180 *

OR 0% UP TO 72 MOS.

#D8349, Sun & Navigation, Rallye, Automatic MSRP $26,420

CVM PRICE

OVER AVAIL40 ABLE!

$17,953*

#D8513 ,6 Speed Manual, Bluetooth

MSRP $18,080

2012 RAM

1500 ST REGULAR CAB 4X4

CVM PRICE

$25,021*

#D8280, Chrome, Power/Remote Entry, 5.7 Liter, V8 Hemi, Automatic • MSRP $30,235

6720 CARLISLE PIKE • MECHANICSBURG, PA

(888) 609-8193

CVMAutopark.com

*All prices include applicable rebates and bonus cash. Must finance thru Ally bank. For qualified buyers only. Subject to credit approval. See dealer for complete details.