2023 Buick Envision Review: Does What It Says On The Box

The compact SUV is the must-have accessory for motorists in the USA. Just about every mainstream and premium automaker has an offering to sway buyers, and Buick is no different with the handsome 2023 Envision. The recent recipient of a facelift, the Buick Envision takes the battle to premium competitors like the BMW X3 and Lincoln Corsair, yet falls short in several areas. It wades into battle with just one engine option; the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is refined enough but with just 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, it feels woefully underpowered. But the 2023 Envision is so well-priced and undercuts rivals by thousands of dollars; throw in plenty of standard features, and the Buick begins to make sense. Should you overlook its foibles for the few strengths it has?

What's the Price of the 2023 Buick Envision?

The most affordable way into Envision ownership is with the Preferred model which carries a starting MSRP of $33,400, excluding a destination charge of $1,395 in the USA. Next in line is the Essence at $37,500, followed by the Avenir with pricing for this variant beginning at $45,660. By adding AWD to any of the three trims, the Buick Envision price will climb by $1,800.

2023 Buick Envision Handling and Driving Impressions

With a focus on comfort over performance, the new Buick Envision compact SUV combines a cozy, quiet cabin with a cushy ride. The only engine in the lineup is a 228-hp unit that doesn't quite compete with rivals, and while it manages to do what it is supposed to, there is little fun to be had from it. It will get you up to speed, eventually, but the overall experience feels more functional than anything esle - drive and handling are emotionless and numb. The suspension is tuned to try and improve handling, and while it doesn't necessarily lose its composure, it does nothing to stir up any adrenalin. Available all-wheel drive means you have enough grip for adverse weather, and getting from point A to point B safely is something the Envision does well. Just don't expect an increase in heart rate, and you won't be disappointed.

Verdict: Is The 2023 Buick Envision A Good SUV?

Viewed in isolation, the Envision is a good enough vehicle, doing exactly what it says on the box - but that's little more than transport and commuting. On the plus side, it carries out these tasks with confidence in keeping passengers safe; safety reviews of the Buick Envision from the NHTSA are good, and with just one recall issued over the last couple of years, it promises to be reliable, too. Inside the Buick Envision, you'll find it isn't quite as premium as you'd expect. While it feels nice enough, it's not what one would consider upper-class. Still, the stellar suspension and excellent damping means occupants are isolated from road noise and abrasions as it sails over rutted surfaces. This, together with attractive pricing, will cement it as a family car for many.

What 2023 Buick Envision Model Should I Buy?

The Buick Envision shines because it offers similar comfort found in luxury brands such as Acura, but closer to the price of mainstream offerings from Honda and Toyota. The base Envision's starting MSRP is pretty alluring, but we'd suggest stepping up to the Essence trim for a little more to get the most value. We'd stick with FWD. From there, we'd add the $2,500 Technology Package with the surround-view camera, HUD, Bose nine-speaker audio, HD Radio, and more. The Sport Touring Package seems worthwhile to make the Envision look more aggressive, bringing the total price to $44,240, including destination. You can spend a similar amount on a mainstream Mazda or Toyota, making the Envision somewhat of a premium value.