2026 Buick Envision Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
With the Envision, Buick aims to compete in the hot-selling compact luxury SUV segment. This version of the Envision was introduced for 2021 and received a thorough refresh for 2024 that added sharper styling and improved interior amenities.
What’s New
- Quartz Blue Metallic replaces Calypso Blue Metallic paint
- Midnight Opal paint introduced for Avenir trim
- White Frost Tricoat and Smoky Amethyst paints discontinued
What We Think
Putting a bunch of appealing premium features into a vehicle doesn’t necessarily make it luxurious—and the Buick Envision is proof.
Indeed, the Envision comes with a long list of standard equipment. A huge digital display, wireless charging pad, numerous driver assist features, and upscale design throughout give it on-paper appeal.
In reality, though, the Envision’s feel isn’t on the level of true luxury SUVs. Materials and finishing touches come across as somewhat cheap—which, to its credit, is what the Envision is, compared to many of its rivals.
But how much better those rivals drive shows why they’re priced the way they are; the Envision isn’t quick, its engine sounds clattery, and the overall driving experience is forgettable. As Buick tries to break into legitimate luxury contention, the Envision doesn’t advance those efforts much.
Top-Ranked Competitors:
MotorTrend Tested
The Envision is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine that produces 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission routes that output to standard AWD.
In MotorTrend testing, the Buick Envision posted a 0–60-mph acceleration time of 7.5 seconds.
That’s quite a bit slower than some of its rivals. With their turbocharged I-4 engines, the Genesis GV70 and Lincoln Corsair accelerate to 60 mph in 6.0 and 6.6 seconds, respectively.
MPGs and Range
Fuel economy for the Envision measures at about 22/29 mpg city/highway. Total driving range on a tank of gas is approximately 386 miles.
That’s about average for compact luxury SUVs, but the Envision doesn’t offer a hybrid powertrain, unlike some of its rivals like the Lexus NX and Volvo XC60.
Safety Ratings and Features
In its most recent crash safety testing for 2025, the Envision earned a five-star overall score from NHTSA, the best possible result.
Standard driver assist and active safety features include:
- Front and rear automatic emergency braking
- Front, side, and rear cross-traffic alert
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane keep assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic high-beams
- Road sign recognition
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Although its interior capacity is reasonably sufficient, the Envision’s dimensions are smaller than some of its rivals.
Technology
Infotainment
The Envision is equipped with a large 30.0-inch dashboard display, combining the driver’s gauge cluster with the infotainment touchscreen. The Google-based operating system includes useful apps like maps and a digital voice assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included.
All Envision trim levels have a head-up display and 360-degree camera. Four USB ports and a wireless charging pad are standard equipment.
Sound System
A nine-speaker Bose premium audio system is available as an upgrade over the standard system. The Avenir trim gets the Bose setup as standard.
Available Upgrades
A digital rearview mirror is standard on the Avenir trim and optional on the trim levels below.
Value
Standard Features
In the entry-level Preferred trim, the 2026 Envision starts at approximately $38,000.
Exterior
- 18-inch wheels
- LED headlights and taillights
- Silver roof rails
- Chrome window trim
Interior
- Leatherette seat upholstery
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- 30-inch digital display
- Wireless charging pad
- Ambient lighting strips
Recommended Trim
We think it’s best to stick with the base Preferred Avenir trim. Sport Touring trim adds sporty cues but no actual performance, and costs around $40,500. The high-end Avenir gets heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, premium audio, and adaptive suspension, but it jumps to nearly $48,000.
Given the Envision’s overall execution, if the Sport Touring or Avenir models are within your budget, we’d advise you to choose a different compact luxury SUV.
