New levels of luxury, a new trim, and a whole lot of value.
The transition for Buick into an all SUV lineup is complete, and now the American brand is concentrating on expanding its reach into the competitive premium compact crossover market with an all-new generation of the Buick Envision. It arrives as a lower, wider, and much more sophisticated-looking vehicle both inside and out, and the trims are simplified down to three. Ahead of the market launch, Buick has confirmed the final specification and pricing.
The Envision's Preferred trim is now the base model and priced at $32,995 including destination, which is $1,700 less than the last generation's entry-level model. The Essence is now the middle trim and the new Avenir spec tops out the range while both can be optioned with the Sport Touring package. The mid-level Envision Essence trim starts at $36,995, while the top of the line Avenir starts at $41,395.
All models are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque combined with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The new engine makes less power than the optional 2.0-liter offering on last year's model, but more power than the previous base model power plant. All trims can be had with default front-wheel drive or with all-wheel drive for a further $1,800. The AWD system is the same twin-clutch system as previously seen on the Regal GS, with active torque vectoring for improved handling, and models with AWD receive selectable driving modes including Snow/Ice, Sport, and Tour modes, as well as standard Hill Descent Control.
Inside, the Preferred trim level gets an eight-inch infotainment screen, while the other two trim levels feature Buick's first available 10.2-inch touchscreen. All models come standard with Buick's button-based Electronic Precision Shift system and a covered storage compartment below the instrument panel for small and valuable items.
Heated front seats are standard on Essence and Avenir trim levels, as are a heated steering wheel and active noise cancellation. Standard on the top-level Avenir is diamond-perforated quilted leather seats, heated rear outboard seats, and massage and ventilation functions to the already-heated front seats. Navigation, a nine-speaker Bose sound system, and wireless device charging are added to the infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and Alexa integration is available.
With its new look, a fresh, upscale interior, a well thought out yet simplified lineup of trims, and impressive fuel economy figures, Buick's assault on the premium compact crossover segment bodes well. It's aggressive $32,995 starting price undercuts the Acura RDX and the Infiniti QX50 that start at $38,400, $37,250, respectively. However, another key competitor, the Lincoln Corsair, comes in at just $50 more than the all-new Envision.
The 2021 Buick Envision is available at dealerships now, but there's still no word on whether the Envision S is coming to America.
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