2018 Buick Envision Review

Name: 2018 Buick Envision Review
Brand: Buick
Rating: 4.1 (55 reviews)

Price Range: $16,590 - $22,998

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Price & Payment

8 cars

$18,769 avg. price

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Buick Envision model years

2018
2017
2016

Buick Envision for Sale

Edmunds' Expert Review

by Mark Takahashi^{Correspondent
Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the Edmunds YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.}

Pros

The cabin is quiet at highway speeds
You get a lot of features for the money

Cons

Weak acceleration with base engine
Unsettled ride quality at times
Cargo capacity is below average for the class

What’s new

The Buick Envision carries over largely unchanged for 2018.

Vehicle overview

Among small luxury crossover SUVs, the 2018 Buick Envision might be worth your attention. Though its exterior styling is generic, it comes with a generous amount of features for the price and has an attractive interior trimmed in high-quality materials. It slots between the compact Encore and larger Enclave in Buick's portfolio. As such, it's pretty easy to maneuver around town but still has a decent amount of interior and cargo space.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near San Antonio, TX

8 listings

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2018 Buick Envision
Essence 4dr SUV
$17,998
fair price
$203 below market
- 50,686 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use
- 5 Seats, 22 City / 29 Hwy MPG
- CarMax Centennial (1,073 mi away)
- Delivery available*
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Las Vegas, NV
CarMax values transparency and wants you to love your next car, not settle on it. Certain vehicles may have unrepaired safety recalls. Check nhtsa.gov...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: Yes
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (22 City/29 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: LRBFX1SA8JD007384
Stock: 27263274
Certified Pre-Owned: No
New Listing
2018 Buick Envision
Essence 4dr SUV
$20,990
fair price
$896 above market
- 17,583 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 22 City / 29 Hwy MPG
- Carvana - Birmingham (747 mi away)
- Home delivery*
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Birmingham, AL
At Carvana, we go miles beyond the extra mile. That's why we provide you with a convenient, fast, and hassle-free car buying experience that puts you ...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: Yes
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (22 City/29 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: LRBFX1SA5JD008363
Stock: 2003679389
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 04-26-2025

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We recommend stepping up to the Envision's optional turbocharged 2.0-liter engine since it provides a more suitable amount of power for a luxury crossover. At that point, the Envision is priced similarly to crossovers such as the Acura RDX and Volvo XC60 but still less than what you'll likely pay for an Audi Q5 or BMW X3. In total, there's nothing about the Envision that makes it truly stand out in this class, but it nonetheless covers the bases well enough to make it worth a look.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

Sandwiched between the smaller Encore and three-row Enclave in Buick's lineup, the Envision is an easy-to-drive crossover SUV that delivers a lot of features for the price. It doesn't have a whole lot of personality, but if you're mostly interested in a quiet and comfortable SUV, it's worth a look.

Trim tested

Edmunds has only limited experience with the 2018 Envision. The following is our first take on what's significant about it and what you can expect.

Driving

With the turbo 2.0-liter engine, power is adequate. It's enough to merge onto highways without issue. Expect a more belabored experience with the base 2.5-liter engine. The Envision can feel a bit unsettled and ponderous when driven around turns.

Comfort

The seats are well cushioned and supportive for long drives. The suspension ably soaks up bumps in the road, and the active noise canceling system helps to keep the cabin nice and quiet.

Interior

Interior design and materials are up to entry-level luxury car standards. Forward visibility is excellent, but the thick rear roof pillars will obstruct the rearward view. There's plenty of space in the rear seats for three adults, and the slide/recline function should keep them comfortable.

Utility

There's an average amount of space behind the rear seats, but folding them down reveals 57.3 cubic feet of total cargo space, which is smaller than average. Interior storage is generous, with plenty of large bins and pockets to hold your personal items.

Technology

Buick's GM-based infotainment system is easy to use. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto makes operation even easier.

Compare 2018 Buick Envision trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

2018 Buick Envision models

The 2018 Buick Envision is a midsize crossover SUV with seating for five. There are five trim levels offered, starting with the base Envision trim. It is only available as front-wheel drive and comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (197 horsepower, 192 pound-feet of torque). All-wheel drive can be added to the Preferred and Essence trims. The Premium and Premium II trims have all-wheel drive as standard and come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine (252 hp, 260 lb-ft). All Envisions use a six-speed automatic transmission.

Standard features for the base Envision trim include 18-inch wheels, foglights, auto-dimming and heated mirrors, a hands-free power liftgate with adjustable opening heights, rear parking sensors, keyless ignition and entry, remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable and heated front seats, and 60/40-split folding rear seats. Standard tech features include OnStar communications (includes 4G LTE connection and Wi-Fi hotspot), Bluetooth, a rearview camera, an 8-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, four USB ports (two are charge-only), Bluetooth, and a six-speaker sound system with satellite radio.

The Preferred trim is essentially the same but is eligible for more options. The Essence trim adds three-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, driver-seat memory settings, heated outboard rear seats, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

Stepping up to the Premium trim gets you 19-inch wheels, front parking sensors, automatic wipers, a larger driver information display, a seven-speaker Bose premium audio system, a 110-volt household power outlet, a forward collision alert system, and lane departure warning and intervention system.

At the top of the range, the Premium II trim adds adaptive xenon headlights, automatic high beams, an automated parking system, a navigation system, a head-up display, an extendable thigh support for the driver seat, and ventilated front seats. This trim is eligible for the Driver Confidence package that includes adaptive cruise control, a top-down parking camera system, and forward collision mitigation system with automatic braking.

Some features are available on supporting trims as options. Other add-ons include a panoramic sunroof, side assist steps, a roof rack and a cargo cover.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2018 Buick Envision 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $2.74 per gallon for regular unleaded in Texas.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Texas

$136/mo

$155/mo

Avg. Midsize SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

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Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

5/5Excellent

#1 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

^{The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Buick Envision from 2008-2022.}

$318/yr

vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Frequency

^{The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).}

0.18x/yr

vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Severity

^{The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).}

4.8%

vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV

powered by RepairPal ^{Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.}

Buick Envision Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.1

55 reviews

5(58%)

4(13%)

3(15%)

2(5%)

1(9%)

Write a vehicle review See all 55 reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Owned for over 6 years and now approaching 90K

Sam S, 02/20/2019

2018 Buick Envision Premium II 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

If you can get a loaded 2018 still you can get the bargain of the decade. Back in April when I was car shopping the 2019s were just coming out, but the 2018s were on the lot for $15,000 under list price. So a loaded $52,000 Envision went for $38,000. Not cheap, but compared to the competition it was a bargain. I have the six speed instead of the nine speed, but only lose about 0.5 … seconds 0 to 60 and at under 8 seconds, it is plenty powerful enough (7.5 0-60 compared to 6.9 0-60 with the 9 speed). Gas mileage according to the EPA has not really changed. The car works with self-parking, all the safety features (lane guidance, automatic braking, etc.), and comfort for all passengers. Adults and children love the rear seat which you can tilt backwards, heat, have separate AC/heat control, and power outlets. Not to mention no hump in the middle and plenty of legroom for three full size passengers. The ride is comfy and the handling is decent. I drove an BMW X3 and Lexus RX in comparison, and the Buick compared favorably to both. BMW handles a little better, Lexus is a little more luxurious - but both cost more than $15,000 more than the new 2018 Buick and it is hard to overcome that huge price difference even if they are slightly better. Update after 20 months and 27K with no concerns Now I have owned the car closing in on two years and there have been no problems with the vehicle. All the points from before still hold true. The dealership surprisingly has a decent service department and for a change, don't force unneeded work on the car - following the schedule as indicated. Maintenance costs are reasonable and everything is still original equipment but I did replace wiper blades and the cabin air filter myself according to the schedule. Replacing the cabin air filter is harder on this car than most, but most people won't do that themselves. Essentially a low trouble, low cost to maintain vehicle approaching 30,000 miles. Family prefers this car to any other I have owned for long trips, as it is surprisingly comfortable averaging close to 30 mpg on the highways in the northeast. Still highly recommend this car if you can get a 2018. Added the technology, reliability, and value ratings now that I have an idea on those categories after extended use. No problems with Apple Car Play as reported elsewhere, as the controls work very well. Gas mileage is pretty good considering right now most of it is suburban with some highway miles added in. Update after 25 months and 31,900 miles Not much to add. Very inexpensive to operate. Averaging 25 mpg now overall since I bought the car new. Only 1 mpg less than my ancient 2006 Saab 9-3 I sold when I bought this car and it was front wheel drive with less horsepower. Family still loves the car for long trips, the wi-fi helps the kids stay entertained if they are not reading. Update after 32 months and 37,100 miles with no concerns Had to replace the tires recently as the ones that came with the car only lasted about 30,000 miles. Bought Michelin CrossClimate SUV tires and the SUV is great in the snow climbing the local mountain to my home. With the optional AWD is is easy to climb a steep 15 degree climb for a quarter of a mile up the mountain. Still no problems with the vehicle itself. Just a very reliable car with regular maintenance costs. Note at 30,000 miles being a Direct Injection engine I used B&G engine cleaner to get the carbon off of the valves, and the engine runs slightly smoother now (it only made a slight difference with the carbon build up over 30K, but it good preventive maintenance to get it cleaned). Only maintenance above and beyond standard maintenance needed. Update after 39 months and just over 43K miles Still trouble-free and regular maintenance which has not been expensive at all. Nearing the end of the warranty period as GM still offered the 50K four year warranty on all Buicks in 2018 (dropped to 36K and three years in 2019). Gas mileage overall is 24 mpg and it seems it will stay at that but on long trips it still gets between 26 and 30 mpg. Took multiple trips to PA from CT and it averages between 26.6 and 30.1 depending how much traffic and how fast I go (speed limit gets the 30 mpg, 5 mph over gets 28).. We are still happy with this car. Only update now is that it has 58,000 miles and still no concerns. Update at 65,000 miles. Still no concerns. Note that every 30,000 miles on the direct injection engine there is a new maintenance you need to do to keep the fuel injectors clean (many modern cars use direct injection now). It is chemicals used to clean off the valves on the engine as the chemicals in the fuel no longer get sprayed on the valves in the direct injection design, causing carbon build up and eventually will slow down and reduce the power of the engine as it cakes the valves. The cleanup chemicals I use are B&G as stated earlier but there are many on the market now you can use. An extra cost but otherwise this car has no issues. Now after 70,000 miles only one concern so far. The crash avoidance censors had a fault. It took the dealership a week to figure out what was wrong but with GM corporate determined that a microchip failed in the car. Once replaced all went back to normal. That was $1000. Otherwise nothing else but maintenance so far. Now have 82,000 miles on the car approaching 6 years of ownership and no concerns. Still use the car on long trips and carrying the family. Car is averaging now overall 23 mpg and about 30 on the highway Still love this car and expect it to last at least 150,000 miles according to reports. Now at 6.5 years had 88,000 miles and no other issues. The battery needed replacing for the first time at 6 years being a new generation glass battery that restarts the start/stop engine constantly. When it wears out the car no longer start/stops but keeps running at traffic lights. Car has to be reprogramed for the new battery so you can no longer do it yourself unless you know how to re program the car. Just this one maintenance item needed since the last update. Now the car is almost 7 years old and has 94,000. It recently lost an engine coil which cost a repair of $590. Dashboard lit up and was getting Stabilitrak, engine emissions, and AWD off lights on. I guessed because of engine emissions it might be an engine coil and I was right. Since they are electronic engine coils, a number of things turn off if a coil fails. Fixed in under 2 hours.

Perception is not always reality

Ron Consiglio, 06/04/2018

2018 Buick Envision Essence 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

My Buick Envision is an excellent machine. It's major problem is perception. It is supposed to be a luxury SUV, but when most people think of a luxury SUV, they think Cadillac, Lincoln, Acura, BMW,Mercedes or other brands. When I was shopping for an SUV, I went to a GMC dealer looking for a Terrain. The dealer also sold Buicks. I Had never even heard of the Envision. The saleswoman …

Fuel Thirsty

Shawn, 12/11/2018

2018 Buick Envision Preferred 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

My Envision is mostly used around town. I drive 2 miles to work and back again. After 5 days it has used a 1/2 tank, I just don't get it. My previous SUV was a 2015 Acadia that did much better on fuel mileage. I dislike the auto stop feature. Other then that I love this Buick. It's very quiet on the highway when I make my 150 mile trip to Indianapolis. Well worth a test drive.

I'm Mostly Satisfied

David Gardner, 09/13/2018

2018 Buick Envision 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

In general, I'm very satisfied with my Buick Envision. It is exactly the right size. It's not too small, but not so large that I sacrifice mileage. One disappointment I have is the Apple Car Play system is very inconsistent in the way that it operates. It takes a long time to load some of the applications. When you turn them off, they don't stay off, and when you want to launch them, …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 Buick Envision, so we've included reviews for other years of the Envision since its last redesign.

See all 55 reviews of the Buick Envision

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2018 Envision Highlights

Trim:

Base

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$33,995
Engine Type	Flex-fuel (ffv)
Combined MPG	25 MPG
Cost to Drive	$136/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	26.9 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Envision models:

Safety Alert Seat: Vibrates the driver seat on the left or right side to alert the driver of a possible hazard detected by other safety systems.
Side Blind Zone and Rear Cross-Traffic Alerts: Alerts the driver if a car is lurking in the blind spots or if one is approaching from the sides while backing up.
Teen Driver Mode: Activates all safety features and silences the radio until front seat belts are fastened. Also monitors speed and location of the vehicle.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
RolloverNot Rated
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of RolloverNot Rated

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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