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www.kbb.com/buick/envision/
It’s been a while since we’ve talked about Buick. This is the Envision and while it hasn’t seen a ton of changes since the 2019 model year it’s had a few.
A couple of years ago the Envision got some significant upgrades in the safety department. And we all know that safety first is key staying out of trouble. Automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian detection, a following distance indicator so you can tell how close the car in front of you in and a high def rear view camera are just a few.
It also got a 10-inch touchscreen on the interior. That was a first for Buick. Wow, that seems like such a long time ago.
More importantly it got a front end update that gives it a more upright grille, different headlights, a more defined angle from the hood to the windshield and some sharper trim details around the windows. Overall, the Envision’s small nip tuck made large improvements in its appearance. Applause here.
Otherwise, this is the same Envision. So, for argument’s sake we’re not exactly going to call this a midcycle refresh. My editor has such a great sense of humor.
Under the hood you’re still getting a 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder (graphic: 228 hp/258 lb-ft torque). It’s not underwhelming, but it’s not exactly overwhelming either. That engine is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission that finds its gears just fine and does its job. Again, adequately.
When it comes to the suspension and handling, the ride in here is decidedly Buick-esque. Meaning comfort rules the day. It’s compliant and easy going
It gets a sport mode that heighten the driving experience a bit and it’s definitely spry.
For my money there are a couple of things I’m not a huge fan off.
First on initial acceleration there is a definite lag. Either that’s the turbo or the transmission taking a second to find a gear. Likely a combination of both.
The cabin is pretty quiet except when you’re getting it up to speed and the car is working hard. And visibility is only fair because that thick C Pilar gives you a significant blind spot. Amen for safety bells and whistles.
It gets 20-inch wheels, a programmable power liftgate, and an available panoramic moonroof. There’s diamond perforated heated leather seats with available massage, heated steering wheel, wood trim detailing, an available rear camera mirror.
It gets wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as wireless charging. Bonus. The Buicks is uncomplicated and quick. It’s one of the more intuitive ones out there.
And yes, this is the Avenir, but a lot of these features you do get on one trim level down the Essence, except for the wireless charging and ventilated front and rear seats. Those are only available on the Avenir.
The Preferred trim is the base model and on that interior you’ll get a slightly smaller touchscreen, smaller wheels, you don’t get a 7- or 9-speaker sound system, only a 6-speaker one, but compared to the RDX’s more than a dozen speakers you’re already on the back foot here.
You get respectable decent fuel economy (graphic: MPG: FWD: 23 city/30 hwy; AWD 22city/29 hwy) and you don’t really lose much is you opt for the power at all four wheels.
When it comes to price you’re looking at around $33,000 for the base model Preferred. The Essence will take you up to $37,000, and this Avenir starts at a lofty $41,300, but remember you’re getting a lot more features and tech, so if those are your priority the pricetag might be worth it.
So, it’s attractive, has a great interior and offers lots of premium features. If you’re looking for an upscale vehicle that doesn’t necessarily need to blow your socks of in the driving department, then the Buick Envision is one to check out.
00:00 2023 Buick Envision
0:21 Exterior
1:42 Engine
1:57 Driving Impressions
3:57 Interior