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.
Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of Edmunds' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.
Pros
Quiet interior at highway speeds
Smooth ride over bumps
Pleasing number of premium features for the price
Cons
Interior materials fall short of luxury expectations
Smaller-than-average cargo area
What's new
No major changes for 2022
Part of the second Envision generation introduced for 2021
Overview
Situated between the smaller Encore GX and the larger three-row Enclave, the 2022 Buick Envision is a small luxury SUV that offers a fair number of features at a competitive price. Buick gave the Envision a much-needed redesign for 2021 so this year's model is effectively unchanged.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 Buick Envision Preferred 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) 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 $4.30 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
The small luxury SUV segment is a crowded and competitive one. The Mercedes-Benz GLC and Volvo XC60 lead the way with their European refinement, while Acura's RDX offers excellent handling and a comfortable interior. If you want to keep costs down, Mazda's near-luxury CX-5 can be loaded up for thousands less than the aforementioned luxury brands. Overall, we think Buick's Envision is a competent SUV but it'll be worth your while to shop around. Read our Expert Rating below for our complete breakdown of its biggest hits and misses.
Edmunds Expert Rating
average
7.4/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
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, even with some notable body roll, is decent. The Envision is not an SUV to have fun with, but it feels confident at sensible speeds.
Comfort
8.0/10
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.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
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The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price. Click here to see all Buick vehicles’ destination freight charges.
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 in the available surround-view camera system. Overall, there's not much to complain about, but also there's not much to praise.
Technology
7.5/10
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.
Storage
7.0/10
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.
Fuel Economy
7.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? 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.
Value
7.5/10
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
7.0/10
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 midlevel Essence is a good place to start. To that, we'd add both available Technology packages for their premium features, such as a larger touchscreen with navigation, parking sensors, adaptive cruise control and adaptive suspension. To add a sportier look, the Sport Touring package is also available.
Buick Envision models
The 2022 Buick Envision is a five-passenger small luxury SUV available in three trim levels: Preferred, Essence and Avenir. All have a turbocharged 230-horsepower four-cylinder engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional. Feature highlights for the Envision include:
Preferred
Starts you off with:
LED headlights
Roof rails
Rear parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible behind the vehicle when parking)
Keyless entry and ignition
Power-adjustable driver's seat
8-inch touchscreen
OnStar remote services with Wi-Fi hotspot
Wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
Six-speaker audio system
Every Envision also comes with the Buick Driver Confidence suite of safety features that includes:
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane keeping assist (steers the vehicle back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)
Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
Safety alert seat (vibrates the driver's seat cushion when a safety warning is triggered)
Comfort and Convenience package
Available for the Preferred trim, it adds features such as:
Hand-free liftgate
Heated steering wheel and front seats
Remote engine start
Dual-zone climate control
10.2-inch touchscreen
Seven-speaker audio system with an amplifier
Essence
Gains more premium features such as:
Contents of the Comfort and Convenience package
Larger driver information display
Power-adjustable front passenger seat
Driver's seat memory functions
Sport Touring package
Available for the Preferred and Essence, it includes:
Dark gray 20-inch wheels
Black exterior trim
Unique grille and ST badging
Embossed headrests
Sport pedals
Technology Package I
Adds these safety and tech features to the Essence:
Front parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of the vehicle when parking)
Surround-view camera system (gives you a top-down view of the vehicle and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
Navigation
Bose nine-speaker audio system
HD radio
Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line onto the windshield)
Avenir
Tops the Envision lineup with:
Contents of the Technology Package I
Ventilated front seats
Heated rear outboard seats
Driver's seat massage functions
Household-style power outlet
Wireless charging pad
Optional for the Essence and Avenir is the Technology Package II that includes:
Adaptive suspension (enhances ride comfort and cornering stability)
Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
Enhanced forward collision mitigation system
Adaptive headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
Virtual rearview mirror (allows you to see out of the back even with a fully loaded cargo area)
Automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with little or no driver intervention)
2022 Buick Envision Avenir 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
I was planning on buying the BMW X3 until I test rode the Buick Envision. I test drove both and felt that both cars drove equally as well, but the Envision has a more elegant, streamlined shape. The interior is very posh and luxurious as well, with lots of soft touch padding. You also get more bells and whistles for thousands of dollars less. I purchased an Avenir model 5 months ago … (9/2022) and have nothing but praise for it. It drives smoothly and comfortably and is very quiet. No highway noise seeps through the cabin. I find the soft leather seats to be very comfortable, even on long trips. The car has plenty of power and accelerates quickly. The 10.2 inch HD screen is super clear and I like the fact that it is integrated into the dash unlike many other cars that have it sitting on top of the dash like an awkwardly placed tablet. I appreciate that it has a switch to deactivate the auto stop/start feature, but wish it would not default to being on every time I start the car. I have trained myself to push the switch evertime I start the car. I find the cargo space to be adequate for my needs and probably meets the needs of most people. The back seats offer ample amount of room for my two teenage sons.
Again, I am very happy with the car and would purchase it again if I had to do it all over.
My Avenir
5 out of 5 stars
Cliff, 04/30/2021
2021 Buick Envision 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.
Next Generation Envision
5 out of 5 stars
Bob B., 05/21/2021
2021 Buick Envision 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.
Like driving on a cloud!
5 out of 5 stars
Kbro631, 10/30/2021
2022 Buick Envision Preferred 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
Have had my Envision for a week now and am getting plenty of looks as this’s is Honda country so this updated design and sleek look really stands out! And the ride is to die for, so smooth and floaty over bumps and I am loving the huge touchscreen with all the tech features I could want! I am learning about all the safety features which are standard on every trim and have actually … lowered my car insurance rate! Seats are comfy and heated with upgraded package I got, but a little firm so we will see how they do on a long trip next month.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2022 Buick Envision, so we've included reviews for other years of the Envision since its last redesign.
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price. Click here to see all Buick vehicles’ destination freight charges.
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.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Rating
Front Seat
5 / 5
Back Seat
5 / 5
Rollover
Rating
Rollover
4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result
No Tip
Risk Of Rollover
16.9%
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FAQ
Is the Buick Envision a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2022 Envision both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.4 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2022 Envision gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 56 reviews) 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 2022 Buick Envision?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2022 Buick Envision:
No major changes for 2022
Part of the second Envision generation introduced for 2021
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 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2022 Buick Envision a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2022 Buick Envision is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2022 Envision and gave it a 7.4 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2022 Envision gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 56 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2022 Envision is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2022 Buick Envision?
The least-expensive 2022 Buick Envision is the 2022 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
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 $36,000
Essence 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $37,800
Avenir 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $40,400
Avenir 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $42,200
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), Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), Essence 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), and Essence 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A). For a full list of Envision models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more