2023 Buick Envision SUV

　　

2023 Buick Envision Review

byMichael CantuCorrespondent

　　Michael Cantu has worked in the automotive industry since 2014. He has written over 800 car-related articles and tested and reviewed over 100 vehicles over the course of his career. Michael is a contributor at zzdcar and has also contributed to MotorTrend, Digital Trends and InsideEVs. Michael was featured on a few InsideEVs YouTube channel videos on the topic of electric vehicles. Michael was a MotorTrend Car of the Year judge for 2019 and was a driver in MotorTrend's World's Greatest Drag Races 7 & 8.

　　The Envision is the middle child in Buick's three-SUV lineup, positioned between the smaller Encore and the larger Enclave. It's a two-row SUV offering a more premium look and a bit more luxury than traditional SUVs from manufacturers like Toyota or Volkswagen. But it's not as posh as true luxury rivals like the BMW X3 and Volvo XC60. The Envision doesn't stand out in any particular way, though when compared to luxury rivals, it's priced lower and has superior fuel economy. It also comes standard with a generous list of features and provides plenty of comfort.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 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 $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$178/mo  for Envision Preferred

　　Envision Preferred

　　Preferred 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $33,400 MSRPPreferred 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $37,050 MSRPEssence 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $37,500 MSRPEssence 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) (Most Popular) - $39,300 MSRPAvenir 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $45,660 MSRPAvenir 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $47,460 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　The Buick Envision is sufficient for many SUV buyers, but considering how large and competitive the luxury SUV segment is, it's worth considering alternatives. Most rivals, such as the Genesis GV70 and Mercedes-Benz GLC, are more refined and offer more premium features. You can also opt for models like the near-premium Mazda CX-5 or the efficient and Lexus-like Toyota Venza. Both offer an equivalent level of luxury and tech, but with the Mazda, you'll get a more rewarding driving experience and with the Toyota a higher build quality and superior resale value. Check out our Expert Rating below to get our test team's in-depth review of the Envision's comfort, tech and more.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar 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.

　　Average

　　7.4

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.5/10

　　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 zzdcar Expert Rating below