2022 Buick Envision Review: The Rent-A-Tux Of Crossovers
The 2022 Buick Envision slips into the new year largely unchanged following a complete redesign for 2021, and with minor tweaks to the paint palette and interior detailing, it remains an elegant and attractive option in the compact crossover segment. Unfortunately, the Buick Envision's competitors, the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V are bringing a lot more to the table than just good looks, and even other premium rivals like the Lexus NX and Lincoln Corsair are upping their game. Still, the 2022 Envision is an understated beauty with an upscale cabin and a fair number of standard features. The standard 2.0-liter turbo four-pot with 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque is also strong enough while quietly refined, as befits the segment. However, the small SUV is not as premium as you'd expect from the brand, with a lower price tag hoping to attract newcomers to the label rather than long-time loyalists. But is this a good way to expand the consumer base, or will Buick alienate the few diehard fans that remain?
2022 Envision Exterior
Dimensions
Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
182.5 in | 109.4 in | 64.6 in | 74.1 in | 63.3 in | 63.3 in | 3,732.0 lbs |
2022 Envision Performance
2022 Buick Envision Handling and Driving Impressions
Many compact crossovers are leaning toward being more athletic, with their small size already helping to negate some of the problems faced by larger SUVs, like body roll. The Envision has embraced this approach with its stiffer body structure, which enhances handling and feel on the road. Luckily, this doesn't come at a cost to comfort. The small Buick continues to impress in this department thanks to a well-balanced suspension that can handle some spirited driving without losing its composure. Of course, this probably wouldn't be the case if the engine were more boisterous.
As it stands, the Envision isn't really capable of very spirited driving. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter turbo inline-four that makes 228 hp and 258 lb-ft, channeled by a nine-speed auto 'box to the front or all four wheels. There's enough power to never feel lacking around town, but acceleration is lackluster. Other premium options easily leave the Buick in the dust. On the plus side, considering its price point, the Envision is well-balanced with a bias towards quiet comfort. Road and wind noise are all but silenced, even at high speeds, while only small craters give the suspension any trouble.
2022 Envision Interior
2022 Envision Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
Warranty Note | Basic | Drivetrain | Rust-Through | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Maintenance Note |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Preliminary 2022 Warranty | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 6 Years / 100,000 Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 1 Year/1 Visit |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
Overall Rating | Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Side Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
---|---|---|---|
5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
Verdict: Is The 2022 Buick Envision A Good SUV?
Relatively speaking, we'd admit that the Buick Envision is a good vehicle. However, it could be a great one with just a few tweaks. The compact segment in which it competes is extremely competitive, with shoppers wanting a car that can literally do everything well. It also doesn't help that most premium shoppers in the USA are looking at slightly larger models than do a better job of flaunting their status. This may explain why the Envision is so attractively priced, at least in terms of other premium options.
It serves as an entry point into the world of luxury for those that might otherwise never get the chance to experience it. But when you consider that it is trying to draw customers away from mainstream models like the RAV4 or CR-V, it falls short in key areas like passenger and cargo space. Still, it offers more in the way of comforts and luxuries than top-trim rivals who are similarly priced. In review, the Buick Envision is a worthy alternative for those who think the very best the economy brands have to offer isn't quite enough.