2019 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: The 2019 Buick Envision sees a number of changes. Front and rear styling has been freshened and topline models get LED headlights. The turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine of Premium and Premium II models sees a 35-lb-ft increase in torque for a total of 295 lb-ft, although horsepower is unchanged at 252. The turbo 2.0-liter also gains a 9-speed automatic transmission in place of the previous 6-speed auto. Buick claims these changes reduce the 0-60 mph acceleration time by about half a second. All models benefit from an improved engine stop/start feature that can now be switched off. The available adaptive cruise control can be switched to conventional cruise control and the available wireless cell-phone charging has been improved. An interior-air ionizer is newly available. Prices on all trim levels have been reduced by around $1400 to $2500 depending on model. Envision is Buick’s built-in-China, premium-compact-crossover SUV. Base models are powered by a 197-horsepower 2.5-liter four paired with a 6-speed automatic. The base 1SV model is front-wheel drive only, while the Preferred and Essence are available with front-wheel drive or AWD. Premium and Premium II models are exclusively AWD. 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. 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.