2023 Buick Envision Essence continues to please

The 2023 Buick Envision is a compact SUV that combines a stylish exterior, a comfortable and spacious interior, and plenty of standard features to create an attractive package for drivers looking for a versatile and practical vehicle. The Envision competes with other popular SUVs in its class such as the Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4.

Design and Exterior

The first thing that strikes you about the 2023 Buick Envision is its striking exterior design. Buick has given this SUV a more modern and sophisticated look compared to its predecessor, with a sleeker silhouette and a bold grille that features the brand’s signature winged emblem. The Envision’s standard LED headlights and taillights also give it a more upscale appearance.

The Envision rides on standard 18-inch wheels, with larger 20-inch wheels available on higher trims. The Envision Avenir trim adds even more premium touches such as unique wheels, a mesh grille, and body-colored lower trim. Overall, the Envision’s exterior design is both stylish and modern, making it a great choice for drivers who want an SUV that stands out from the crowd.

Performance

Under the hood, the 2023 Buick Envision comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers a smooth and comfortable ride, and the Envision handles well on the road. The engine can feel sluggish at times, especially when passing or merging at highway speeds, but it’s generally adequate for day-to-day driving.

The Envision comes with standard front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an option on all trims. The all-wheel-drive system includes a twin-clutch design that can transfer up to 50 percent of torque to the rear wheels, improving traction in slippery conditions.

Interior and Features

Inside the Envision, you’ll find a well-appointed and comfortable cabin that’s both spacious and practical. The seats are supportive and offer plenty of adjustment, while the second row provides enough legroom and headroom for adult passengers. The Envision’s cargo space is also generous, with 25.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 52.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

The Envision’s interior is stylish and modern, with a dashboard that features soft-touch materials and an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen that’s easy to use. The infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot, satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. The base model also includes a six-speaker audio system, while higher trims add a premium nine-speaker Bose audio system.

Safety Features

Safety features in the Envision include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera. Higher trims add features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. These features are all part of Buick’s “Driver Confidence” suite of safety technologies, which help to make the Envision a safe and secure vehicle to drive.

Driving Experience

One of the Envision’s standout features is its smooth and comfortable ride. Even on rough roads, the Envision’s suspension absorbs most bumps and vibrations, creating a serene driving experience. The cabin is also quiet, with minimal wind and road noise, which adds to the overall sense of refinement.

The Envision’s handling is also impressive, with accurate steering and a stable feel on the road. The SUV feels planted and composed even when taking corners at higher speeds, and the brakes are strong and responsive. However, the Envision’s engine can feel underpowered at times, especially when merging or passing on the freeway.