2021 Buick Envision
| MSRP | $34,830 |
|---|---|
| Edmunds suggests you pay | $32,207 |
What Should I Pay
13 for sale near you
2021 Buick Envision Review
- Quiet interior at highway speeds
- Smooth ride over bumps
- Pleasing amount of premium features for the price
- Interior materials fall short of luxury expectations
- Smaller-than-average cargo area
- The Buick Envision is redesigned for 2021
- Standard turbocharged engine makes 230 horsepower
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard
- Kicks off the second Envision generation
The Buick Envision is redesigned for 2021. This is Buick's small five-passenger SUV that slots between the even smaller Encore and the larger three-row Enclave. Highlights for this redesign include more standard driver assist features, a bigger touchscreen with Buick's latest infotainment system, and a new turbocharged engine that's standard on every Envision trim level.
There's little to fault the Envision for. It's a perfectly decent entry-level SUV that's a bit nicer than popular small SUVs such as the Honda CR-V but not as posh or expensive as an Audi Q5 or Mercedes GLC. Other alternatives include the Acura RDX or a loaded-up Mazda CX-5. Check out our Expert Rating below to get our in-depth take on this year's Envision.
Our verdict | |
The Buick Envision is an average small SUV in nearly every metric. This new-generation model is certainly an improvement over the prior one, but it doesn't really stand out against the likes of an Acura RDX, BMW X3 or Volvo XC60. | |
How does the Envision drive? | |
Mat the gas and the Envision reaches 60 mph in 7.7 seconds, which is decently quick for a small SUV. From the driver's seat, it doesn't feel that quick, which could be a bonus for those who prefer quiet confidence over theater. The gas pedal is immediately and pleasingly responsive. The brakes are also better than average. Emergency stopping distances are short, and the vehicle remains composed and controllable. The pedal feel is reassuring. The handling is decent, even with some notable body roll. The Envision is not an SUV to have fun with, but it feels confident at sensible speeds. | |
How comfortable is the Envision? | |
The front seats have enough adjustments for most drivers to find a preferred seating position. But the bottom seat cushion is a bit short for taller passengers. The padding is on the firm side and can create some hard spots after a few hours. The massage functions are weak compared to premium luxury versions, but they're a welcome relief when you start feeling those hard spots. The ride quality is praiseworthy. It's biased toward softness and smooths over many imperfections that other SUVs ride more harshly on. Helping matters is a very quiet cabin that effectively eliminates most wind and road noise. | |
How’s the interior? | |
The interior design has a clean, understated look. Buick pleasingly canted the center dash section toward the driver to make it easier to reach. The push/pull button gear selector is more intuitive than alternatives from other carmakers, and it doesn't take up too much space on the center console. The interior space is average for the class, which means taller passengers will likely feel cramped on a long trip. Outward visibility is helped by sensibly sized roof pillars and crisp resolution for the available surround-view camera system. Overall, there's not much to complain about, but also there's not much to praise. | |
How’s the tech? | |
Wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, which means you don't need to use a USB cord to integrate your phone with the touchscreen. Unfortunately, Apple CarPlay with the wireless connection was very slow to respond in our testing, so we had to resort to using the USB cable instead. The Envision's native voice command system is OK, but it doesn't recognize natural speech commands. The available 10-inch touchscreen looks sharp. But Buick's decision to put the infotainment controller knob right next to the screen is puzzling. You have to reach to the dashboard to use the touchscreen anyway, so why put them together? Locating the controller on the center console where your hand normally rests would have made more sense. The Envision's driver aids such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist are well tuned and operate smoothly. We never experienced any false alarms. Audio quality from the Bose system degrades at higher volumes, and the bass lacks punch. At moderate volume, the quality is decent but not impressive for an upgraded system. | |
How’s the storage? | |
With 25.2 cubic feet of cargo space, the Envision cargo area is well below what the typical small SUV offers. Buick hasn't added any clever storage bins or shelves, but there are some hooks that you can use to secure grocery bags. The liftover height is about average, and the available hands-free hatch function works well. Interior storage is adequate, with moderately sized door pockets, cupholders and center armrest bin. The wireless charging pad can help keep your phone in place. Got kids? Installing a large rear-facing infant seat will likely impinge on front seat space, but the LATCH anchors are easy to find and access. | |
How economical is the Envision? | |
The EPA estimates the front-wheel-drive Envision will get 26 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is pretty decent considering the power the turbocharged four-cylinder engine makes. We observed 28.8 mpg on our 115-mile highway-heavy evaluation route, confirming that these estimates are realistic. | |
Is the Envision a good value? | |
The Envision occupies an odd space: one that's a cut above your standard small SUV in interior materials quality and exterior appearance, but at a hefty premium. You might cross-shop it across both luxury and non-luxury segments, but ultimately it's not as good a value as a mainstream SUV or as luxurious as a top European small SUV. Warranty coverage is typical for the class, but Buick's roadside assistance coverage is an excellent six years/70,000 miles. That's better than much of the competition. The first scheduled maintenance visit is also complimentary, a small but nice perk. | |
Wildcard | |
The Envision proves itself capable in terms of performance and comfort, but it isn't really outstanding in any given area. You can view it as a bargain luxury SUV or a nicer mainstream SUV, but we think it commands a buyer with very specific wants and it's not something that will appeal to the masses. The Envision represents a step in the right direction for Buick. It's attractively designed and has an understated class. It makes a statement without saying much. | |
Which Envision does Edmunds recommend?
The midtier Essence trim adds several upgrades that make the Envision look and feel more like a legitimate entry-level luxury SUV. To that, we'd add the optional Technology Package II to get adaptive cruise control and a few other features.
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Buick Envision models
The 2021 Buick Envision is a five-passenger small luxury SUV available in three trim levels: Preferred, Essence and Avenir. All have a turbocharged 230-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional. Feature highlights for the Envision include:
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2021 Buick Envision pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Preferred
2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A
Edmunds Suggested Price$32,207
7 for sale in 20147
Essence
2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A
Edmunds Suggested Price$37,105
12 for sale in 20147
Avenir
2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A
Edmunds Suggested Price$40,340
3 for sale in 20147
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Buick Envision.
Trending topics in reviews
- handling & steering
- comfort
- doors
- driving experience
- road noise
- infotainment system
- technology
- acceleration
- reliability & manufacturing quality
- fuel efficiency
- engine
- climate control
- maintenance & parts
Most helpful consumer reviews
5/5 stars, THE AVENIR
HAPPY OWNER,
Avenir 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
I love my new car. i downsized from an Enclave and the smaller size is so much better for me. easier to handle easier to drive. Has enough power and is very comfortable. Love all the added features especially the large navigation screen so easy to see and control. Still have lots to learn to love it even more
5/5 stars, Next Generation Envision
Bob B.,
Preferred 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
Purchased a 2021 Envision for my daughter. Preferred trim in Summit White with the Sport Touring Package and Comfort And Convenience Package. Highly recommend the Comfort package. You get a lot of amenities for the money. Vehicle looks very modern. We test drove the new Ford Bronco and a Chevy Blazer. The Envision is far more superior. Very smooth and quiet ride with the 20 inch wheels. Dash layout is impressive with the display screen angled toward the driver. Seats are comfortable. The standard safety features are awesome. Glad there is a switch to turn off the engine stop start feature. Visibility is good. Plenty of engine power. The problem at this time is finding what you want due to the shortage of new vehicles available for purchase. I had to drive over 500 miles to purchase the vehicle. Highly recommend the 2021 Envision.
5/5 stars, My Avenir
Cliff,
Avenir 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
Just purchased this wonderful midnight moon blue Envision Avenir 3 weeks ago. It has the whisper beige interior which I love. The small SUV is so Buick. Rides like a dream. So quiet. Many Avenir tech features. Get ready to learn if this is your first technological featured vehicle. Very easy. Looked at all trim levels. Avenir is the best! Did not go with AWD. Didn't feel living in Florida was necessary but is another feature
Everything is at eye level. HUD for the first time is terrific. Love the high definition rear view mirror camera! Only option not offered is power folding side mirrors. Odd. Had it on my last vehicle and truly missed. Love the toggle lift up and push down gears on console. Spacious. Excellent interior trim in my opinion; not overboard. Has many luxury features without the price tag. Don't let the inline turbo 4 cylinder fool you. Great gas mileage so far and plenty of power. Take a look and consider Buick! You will not be disappointed. 100% made in China and imported to US. Odd again but not your father's Buick.
4/5 stars, Taco Red
Bruce H Tremblay,
Essence 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
Nice interior, fake wood trim too glossy; reflects glare when sun hits it. Temperature control cumbersome to adjust. 2.5 liter engine peppy, but can take time to accelerate hard if not in torque band. Power lift gate awesome, including kick action if hands full. Very nice SUV. Fit and finish are excellent. I got cargo pull-shade cover, roof racks and rain guards for windows. Drives very well and is comfortable.
Helpful shopping links
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $31,800
- MPG & Fuel
- 24 City / 31 Hwy / 26 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: 9-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 230 hp @ 5000 rpm
- Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 3 yr./ 36000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 182.5 in. / Height: 64.6 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: N/A
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 74.1 in.
- Curb Weight: 3692 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 25.2 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Envision safety features:
- Safety Alert Seat
- Vibrates the driver's seat on the left or right side to alert the driver of a possible hazard.
- Side Blind Zone and Rear Cross-Traffic Alerts
- Alerts the driver if a car is lurking in a blind spot or if one is approaching from the side while backing up.
- Rear Seat Reminder
- Reminds the passengers to check the rear seat for children and valuables before exiting.
Buick Envision vs. the competition
2021 Buick Envision
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
Buick Envision vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLC is our favorite small luxury SUV for its elegant interior, abundant comfort and strong performance. Pricing for a base GLC 300 starts out right around where the top Envision Avenir maxes out. We're confident, though, that most luxury-minded shoppers will find that paying more for the GLC is worth it.
Buick Envision vs. Volvo XC60
Both of these small SUVs have stylish looks and similar interior room. The XC60 costs more to start but in return comes with a few more advanced driver safety features as standard. Volvo also offers more powerful engine options should you want them. We like the Volvo more, but the Envision's lower price makes it a competitive comparison.
Buick Envision vs. Acura RDX
The Acura RDX is among our favorites in the class, and its similar price makes it an appealing alternative to the Envision. It's biased more toward driving enjoyment and performance than the Envision and has more cargo space behind the second row. We're not fond of the RDX's infotainment interface, but overall it's a step up from the Buick.
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FAQ
Is the Buick Envision a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 Envision both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.4 out of 10. You probably care about Buick Envision fuel economy, so it's important to know that the Envision gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg to 26 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Envision has 25.2 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Buick Envision. Learn more
What's new in the 2021 Buick Envision?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Buick Envision:
- The Buick Envision is redesigned for 2021
- Standard turbocharged engine makes 230 horsepower
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard
- Kicks off the second Envision generation
Is the Buick Envision reliable?
To determine whether the Buick Envision is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Envision. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Envision's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2021 Buick Envision a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Buick Envision is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 Envision and gave it a 7.4 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 Envision is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2021 Buick Envision?
The least-expensive 2021 Buick Envision is the 2021 Buick Envision Preferred 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $31,800.
Other versions include:
- Preferred 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $31,800
- Avenir 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $42,000
- Avenir 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $40,200
- Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $33,600
- Essence 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $35,800
- Essence 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $37,600
What are the different models of Buick Envision?
If you're interested in the Buick Envision, the next question is, which Envision model is right for you? Envision variants include Preferred 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), Avenir 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), Avenir 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), and Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A). For a full list of Envision models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more