2016 Buick Envision
Buick Envision

2017 Buick Envision

Pros: Spacious-for-the-class interior; comfortable ride; quiet cabin

Cons: Some rivals are sportier; top-line trim levels are pricey; rear headroom tight with optional panoramic sunroof

CG Says: After its debut as a late 2016 model, Buick’s built-in-China compact SUV offers new trim levels and additional powertrain choices for 2017. The all-wheel-drive-only Premium and Premium II models are joined by base, Preferred, and Essence models. Base models are front-wheel drive only, while the Preferred and Essence are available with front-wheel drive or AWD. Premium models come standard with a 252-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder; the others are powered by a 197-horsepower 2.5-liter four. Both engines come standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission and fuel-saving auto stop/start technology. Regardless of trim level, the Envision seats five and has a roomy interior for its class, with a sliding rear seat for greater passenger/cargo room flexibility. A panoramic moonroof, head-up display, heated steering wheel, heated and cooled front seats, heated outboard rear seats, and a hands-free liftgate are among the available features. Available safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, forward-collision alert with front automatic braking, and a surround-view camera. The addition of lower-priced trim levels, available front-wheel drive, and a new engine choice for 2017 broaden the Envision’s appeal, though we wish the peppy turbocharged engine wasn’t restricted to the top trim levels and all-wheel drive. Still, if you’re in the market for an upscale SUV with an understated look and a relaxed driving demeanor, it’s worth your time to check out the Envision.

The Facts
Class Premium Compact SUV
Body Style(s) 4-door wagon
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
Manufacturer Buick
Nation of Manufacture China
Base Prices Base: $34,065
Preferred: $35,870
AWD Preferred: $37,720
Essence: $37,720
AWD Essence: $39,570
AWD Premium: $42,320
AWD Premium II: $44,960

Base Engine
2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
197
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
21-22
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
28-29

Optional Engine
turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
252
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
20
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
26

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