2024 Buick Envision: Redesigned Compact Luxury SUV is Worth Checking Out
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Buick has refreshed its entire portfolio over the past 18 months. In addition to the all-new Envista, updated Encore GX and third-generation Enclave (which we tested and reviewed a short while ago), there’s a redesigned Envision you need to know about.
The Car Guide was invited by Buick to test drive the 2024 Envision in the lovely mountains of Quebec’s Charlevoix region. Our particular tester was a Sport Touring (ST) model featuring a unique mesh grille in addition to black 20-inch wheels, black mirror caps and more black accents.
- Also: 2025 Buick Enclave: Improved in All Areas Except One
- Also: Buick’s First Electric Vehicle in Canada Will Have to Wait, Again
By the way, the Envision boasts new technologies and a revamped interior highlighted by 30 inches of uninterrupted digital real estate. Pricing starts at $42,799 (MSRP) in Premium trim and $44,999 in ST trim, while the top-line Avenir retails for $50,899.
Prepped for Long Trips
Before we hit the road, we ran a few errands and packed the trunk with a cooler, several bags and a suitcase. The flat edge of the trunk makes it easy to load items into the Envision. Extra storage space can be found under the floating centre console. Incidentally, the shifter is now located on the steering column.
In front of the driver is a massive, curved panel that combines the instruments and infotainment. It’s equal parts sleek and ergonomic. Navigation proves intuitive, aided by Google Built-in. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless smartphone charger and Wi-Fi hotspot all come standard, too.
Life inside the Envision is made more enjoyable by the 9-speaker Bose Premium Series audio system. Sure, it would have been nice to have the option of a more powerful stereo, but this one delivers beautiful sound.
Refined and Quiet
During our time on the road, we appreciated the quiet interior of Buick’s compact SUV, which benefits from active noise-cancelling technologies. The Continental ProContact tires were the only thing our ears didn’t like. The seats are embellished with white inserts and topstitching that contrast with the black and silver-trimmed dashboard, not to mention the light beige headliner. At night, ambient lighting adds a new dimension to the cabin. Material selection and build quality are beyond reproach.
Adaptive cruise control works well in most situations and adequately detects vehicles ahead when they change lanes, leading the vehicle to slow down or accelerate in smooth fashion. There are some limitations, mind you. For example, heavy or stop-and-go traffic can result in abrupt manoeuvres. Lane keeping assist could use some fine-tuning, as well. On that note, we don’t understand why Buick won’t offer GM’s remarkably effective Super Cruise system like it does in the new Enclave.
The various advanced safety features in the Envision do a good job, but road sign recognition didn’t work at all on our watch. Why? The answer is simple: we were driving a demo with no active OnStar subscription. The rear-view camera, meanwhile, is crystal clear. Too bad the image is displayed on just a fraction of the infotainment display.
Efficient Performer
The 2024 Buick Envision is motivated by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. With 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque on tap, acceleration is decent though not particularly exciting. Power delivery is smooth and reassuring thanks to the nine-speed automatic transmission, which also contributes to great fuel economy. After driving for nearly 1,200 km, we recorded an average of 7.8 L/100 km.
Alas, there is no other powertrain option available. General Motors is planning to launch several plug-in hybrids starting in 2027, but the Buick reps couldn’t be more specific about those plans.
All Envision models come with AWD. The system can be switched off to force the vehicle into FWD mode and improve efficiency. Fuel consumption dropped to 7.3 L/100 km while driving on the highway. However, it remained at 7.8 L/100 km combined, as was the case with AWD engaged, which is a bit puzzling.
The AWD system automatically distributes some of the engine’s power to the rear wheels when slip is detected. It also enhances handling in corners. Considering these facts, one has to wonder why the company insists on having an AWD kill switch.
What about comfort? The seats are firm, yet they’re designed in a way that prevents fatigue in the back and thighs on long drives. The ST model’s suspension isn’t as sophisticated as the luxurious Avenir’s, but since the Envision is smaller and lighter than the previously tested Enclave, ride quality is not affected as much.
Our Verdict
The Buick Envision is still largely overshadowed by the many other compact luxury SUVs on the market. It might have something to do with the lack of prestige and an electrified variant. Oh, and the pre-2024 design was seriously uninspiring, whereas the latest one looks more aggressive and attractive.
Something that people often overlook with the Envision is reliability. The powertrain has been around for a long time and few troubles have been reported. You can’t say that about a number of rivals. Buick has a good thing going right now and hopefully the Envision will reap the rewards.
