At a Glance:
- MSRP: From $31,800
- Horsepower: 228 hp
- Cargo volume: 25.2 ft³, 52.7 ft³ with seat area
- Seating capacity: 5
- MPG: Up to 24 city / 31 highway
- Engine: 2.0 L Turbo 4-cylinder
Introduced to the U.S. in 2014, the first generation of the Buick Envision was a capable, compact SUV that competed with similar class models from Cadillac, Lexus, and Lincoln. The 2021 model re-launches the Envision as a second generation vehicle with vastly improved safety features, reimagined dash and infotainment systems, and a wider and longer wheelbase that results in upgraded handling from previous years. The Envision is a compact version of the popular Enclave model and shares many of that vehicle’s better characteristics, as well as a few of its flaws.
Interior
Aside from the top-tier Avenir trim, the interior of the Envision classifies as tasteful and well-built, but gets edged out by other competitors in its class. And while seats are very comfortable, we also fault the Envision for less overall interior space compared to other compact SUVs.
Where it beats them, however, is in cabin noise. The Envision is a silent dream, making even its lowest level stereo system sound remarkably nuanced and pure. It also scores points for an all-new infotainment system that includes a configurable home screen that lets drivers save their profiles and preferences for easy access to settings and downloaded 3rd party apps.
Exterior
The all-new design of the Envision shares DNA with the larger Enclave model and the family resemblance is clear. Both vehicles are solidly handsome, if not flashy or glamorous. The Envision has subtle, modern lines that Buick claims also enhance the vehicle’s fuel economy.
Envision’s broader and squatter stance hints at its sportier handling and is somewhat reminiscent of the Audi Q series. From the outside, this latest iteration of the Envision is much more upscale and sleek than its earlier form.
Features
Standard in the Envision is an impressive suite of safety features, including blind spot monitor, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, auto high beams, rear park assist, rear cross traffic alert, and forward collision alert. Other available safety features include HD rear vision camera, adaptive cruise control, and HD surround vision.
Wireless Apple and Android auto, noise cancellation, LED lights, and Wi-Fi hotspot are also standard, but a wide array of non-standard features are spread out across three trim options: Preferred; Essence; Avenir.
At the Avenir level, you’ll find every bell and whistle, ranging from a massaging driver’s seat to remote start and hands free liftgate. That model also features a gorgeous interior, Bose sound system, and heads up display, but the cost is reflective of the additional features. At the top end of the Envision spectrum, you’ll pay $40,400.
Power & Handling
All trim variations of the 2021 Buick Envision run a capable 2.0L Turbo ECOTEC 4-cylinder engine. The powertrain offers smooth transition and acceleration, and enough juice to give drivers confidence during standard merging, passing, and uphill driving maneuvers. The mileage is also respectable.
However, the most notable improvement in the second generation of the Envision is its handling. First generation models, perhaps because of their different dimensions and wheelbase, struggled to compete with mid-luxury models from Acura, Cadillac, and Lexus. All that seems remedied in the 2021 update and the Envision runs neck and neck with those competitors now, cornering and accelerating like a champ. But Envision also has an ace up its sleeve. Buick’s secret sauce has long been its quiet, comfortable ride. While other vehicles in its price range might have slightly more pep, more responsive steering, and/or better road feel, Envision sits alone for a ride that is soft and silent.
Final Thought
2021 introduces a much-improved and modernized Envision. This new generation not only catches up with competitive compact SUVs, but leverages key Buick strengths to make it a front runner in some categories. Car shoppers will be pleasantly surprised by its giant leap forward in tech, safety, and drive performance.
Want to learn more about the 2021 Buick Envision?
Contact local dealers to schedule a test drive.