A Guide To Buick Envista: Features & Highlights

Summary

The Buick Envista is a subcompact crossover SUV introduced by Buick in 2023 as a successor to the Encore, positioned to offer a blend of stylish design, premium features, and affordable pricing within the competitive small SUV segment. Officially launched for the 2024 model year and arriving in U.S. dealerships during the summer of 2023, the Envista features a distinctive coupe-like silhouette combined with versatile interior space, advanced technology, and a focus on comfort and quietness. Its design and feature set aim to attract buyers seeking an upscale yet practical urban vehicle with modern connectivity and safety technologies.
Powered exclusively by a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, the Envista emphasizes fuel efficiency and everyday usability over high-performance capabilities. It delivers an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined fuel economy, one of the best ratings in its class, though the absence of all-wheel drive and sport-oriented options may limit appeal among some consumers. Driving dynamics benefit from responsive steering and an available Watts link rear suspension on higher trims, balancing handling with ride comfort.
The vehicle’s interior showcases an ultrawide 11-inch infotainment touchscreen integrated with an 8-inch digital driver display, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside premium amenities such as QuietTuning noise reduction technology and multiple driver-assist systems. Safety features include the Buick Driver Confidence suite, offering automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and IntelliBeam auto high beams as standard, reinforcing Buick’s commitment to occupant protection.
While the Envista has been generally well-received for its value, refined ride quality, and stylish design, some critics note its limited engine options and front-wheel-drive-only layout as drawbacks compared to rivals that offer all-wheel drive and more powerful powertrains. Nevertheless, the Envista stands out as a notable addition to Buick’s lineup, delivering a compelling combination of technology, safety, and premium touches at an accessible price point.

Overview

The Buick Envista, officially revealed in April 2023 and available in U.S. dealerships starting that summer, is a compact crossover that blends SUV versatility with sleek, coupe-like proportions. It offers a striking design combined with premium interior features, including wide-format digital displays and advanced safety and driver assistance technologies. Positioned as an affordable yet upscale option in its market segment, the Envista emphasizes both style and functionality, making room for the essentials without compromising on comfort or technology.
Key highlights include a best-in-class 11-inch infotainment touchscreen, complemented by a 19-inch ultrawide infotainment display and an 8-inch driver information center. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with a QuietTuning System for enhanced cabin serenity. The vehicle features 60/40 split-folding second-row seats to maximize cargo flexibility, and a front-wheel-drive drivetrain powers the standard Envista FWD 4dr Preferred trim, which carries a starting MSRP of $25,195.
Safety and convenience are bolstered by advanced driver assistance features such as IntelliBeam automatic high beams, Lane Keep Assist, and Lane Departure Warning. Additionally, the vehicle supports OnStar services, including emergency response and speed limit notifications, with an 8-year standard OnStar Basics plan for MY25 models. Overall, the Envista stands out as a premium yet accessible choice in the small station wagon and compact crossover segment, offering a well-rounded package for modern drivers.

Design and Exterior Features

The Buick Envista showcases a modern and distinctive design that emphasizes both style and functionality. At the front, it features Buick’s signature wide, low-mounted grille, which serves as a key element of its brand identity. Complementing the grille are advanced LED headlights and daytime running lamps that flow seamlessly from front to back, contributing to the vehicle’s dramatic luxury crossover appearance.
The Envista offers a range of wheel designs and sizes to suit different tastes and enhance driving dynamics. The base trims typically come with 17-inch bright silver-painted aluminum wheels, while sportier versions, such as the Sport Touring trim, are equipped with larger 18-inch gloss black wheels that add an athletic stance to the vehicle. These wheels not only improve handling but also allow for personalization to match the owner’s style preferences.
Additional exterior details vary across trims, with the Sport Touring model featuring a custom grille and trim accents along with a flat-bottom steering wheel to reinforce a sportier feel inside the cabin. Meanwhile, higher-end trims like the Avenir incorporate upscale touches that elevate the Envista’s overall design sophistication. The blend of youthful styling and premium details positions the Envista as an appealing option in its segment, balancing aesthetic appeal with practical considerations.
Owners have noted that tire size and brand can affect ride quality, with larger wheels and lower-profile tires on higher trims sometimes resulting in a firmer ride compared to the smoother experience on models with smaller wheels. This difference is likely due to the tire specifications rather than suspension tuning, as the Envista utilizes a Watts link rear suspension to maintain stability and smooth handling.

Interior Features

The Buick Envista offers a spacious and well-designed interior that comfortably seats five passengers, providing approximately 97.5 cubic feet of passenger volume. Despite its chic coupe-like roofline, rear-seat headroom remains ample, making the cabin roomy for adults in both the front and rear seats. Interior materials vary by trim level, ranging from soft cloth and leatherette seating surfaces in the base models to perforated leather-appointed seats with contrasting stitching in the Avenir trim, enhancing the premium feel.
The rear seats feature a 40/60 split-folding configuration, allowing flexible cargo and passenger arrangements. When folded flat, the rear seats expand the cargo capacity from 20.7 cubic feet to up to 42 cubic feet, accommodating larger items with ease. A power liftgate is available to facilitate effortless access to the cargo area even when carrying heavy loads.
Technology is a key focus inside the Envista, highlighted by an ultrawide 11-inch HD touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless smartphone integration. This is complemented by a reconfigurable 8-inch digital gauge cluster that displays essential driving information in a clear, customizable format. The Envista’s infotainment system runs Buick’s latest software and includes an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot capable of supporting multiple devices, enhancing connectivity on the go.
Additional comfort and convenience features include automatic climate control, available wireless smartphone charging, and heated front seats standard on Avenir models or available on lower trims through packages. Sport Touring and Avenir trims also offer a power moonroof with a manual sunshade, allowing natural light to fill the cabin and enhancing the overall ambiance.
To ensure a quiet driving experience, the Envista employs Buick’s exclusive QuietTuning technology, which incorporates acoustically enhanced glass and various noise-canceling treatments to reduce outside noise and vibration, creating a serene cabin environment. Other available features include a premium Bose audio system with nine speakers and a subwoofer for an immersive sound experience, and a configurable Driver Information Center to keep key information easily accessible.

Performance and Powertrain

The 2025 Buick Envista is powered exclusively by a 1.2-liter ECOTEC turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivering 137 horsepower (102 kW) at 5,000 rpm and 162 lb-ft (220 N⋅m) of torque at 2,500 rpm. This compact and efficient engine is part of General Motors’ ECOTEC family, known for its balance of fuel efficiency and real-world performance. The powertrain is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and unobtrusively to provide a comfortable driving experience, especially in urban settings.
Although the engine offers strong initial acceleration, it exhibits a modest delay before the transmission downshifts to deliver more power on demand, and the absence of a sport mode limits a more dynamic driving feel. The Envista is offered solely with front-wheel drive, unlike its predecessor which included an all-wheel-drive option, contributing to its improved fuel economy.
Fuel efficiency is a standout feature of the Envista, achieving an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and a combined rating of 30 mpg, which ranks among the best in its class for gas-powered subcompact SUVs. The vehicle operates on regular unleaded gasoline, avoiding the higher costs associated with premium fuel and making it an economical choice for daily commuting and road trips.
Suspension tuning, including an available Watts Link system on higher trims, enhances ride comfort and handling quietness, further improving the overall driving experience. While the Envista’s performance is average compared to some competitors, its efficient powertrain and refined transmission make it a practical and cost-effective option in the subcompact SUV segment.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

The Buick Envista delivers a surprisingly engaging driving experience, characterized by a steering system that feels weighty and responsive, making the vehicle more fun to drive than initially expected. Handling is enhanced by the use of a Watts link rear suspension, which is standard on the Avenir trim and available on the Sport Touring trim. This setup keeps the rear axle moving primarily up and down over bumps, providing stability and a well-planted feel on twisty roads. The front suspension utilizes MacPherson struts, while the rear employs a compound crank semi-independent twist beam or torsion beam, depending on the trim level.
Ride comfort varies across trim levels, influenced by wheel size and tire choice. Higher trims equipped with larger 19-inch wheels and the Watts link suspension may experience a firmer ride compared to the Preferred trim, which has smaller wheels and is reported to offer a smoother, softer ride. The suspension tuning balances comfort with agile handling, making the Envista suitable for a variety of driving conditions.
Selectable drive modes are included to allow drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance characteristics, adjusting steering response, throttle sensitivity, and suspension settings to better suit different driving scenarios. Braking performance is noted for its smoothness and reliability, without any jerkiness or grabbing, aided by advanced braking systems that provide confident stopping power. Overall, the Envista’s driving dynamics emphasize a comfortable, composed ride with competent handling and responsive steering.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The 2025 Buick Envista is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver assistance features designed to enhance driver confidence and occupant protection. Central to these offerings is the Buick Driver Confidence package, which bundles several key technologies including Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and IntelliBeam auto high beam headlamps. Forward Collision Alert uses a front-mounted camera to monitor vehicles ahead, helping to prevent potential collisions by warning the driver.
Additional driver aids include Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which warns of approaching vehicles when reversing, and Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert to assist with safer lane transitions. Rear Park Assist and a high-definition Rear Vision Camera provide support during parking maneuvers, while Teen Driver technology allows for customizable settings to encourage safe driving habits among new drivers, including limiting certain features and preventing the deactivation of safety systems.
The Envista also features selectable drive modes that adjust steering response, throttle sensitivity, and suspension settings to optimize performance for varying driving conditions. Fuel efficiency is improved through start-stop technology and an aerodynamic design. Advanced braking systems ensure dependable stopping power, further contributing to safety during critical situations.
To provide continuous emergency support, the OnStar Safety & Security system offers 24/7 assistance at the push of a button, enhancing peace of mind on the road. For detailed crash-test results and safety ratings, information is available through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Overall, the Envista’s safety technologies reflect Buick’s commitment to delivering a secure and confident driving experience.

Technology and Connectivity

The 2025 Buick Envista offers a sophisticated suite of technology and connectivity features designed to enhance convenience, entertainment, and safety for drivers and passengers. Central to its tech package is an ultrawide 11-inch high-definition infotainment touchscreen that integrates seamlessly with smartphones through wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing easy access to favorite apps, navigation, and media without the clutter of cables. Complementing this is an 8-inch Driver Information Center, both screens elegantly combined under a single pane of glass for optimal visibility and a modern cabin aesthetic.
To keep occupants connected on the go, the Envista is equipped with a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capable of supporting up to seven devices simultaneously, enabling passengers to browse, stream, and stay productive during travel. The available wireless charging pad further enhances convenience by maintaining device power without tangled cords, helping keep the cabin organized. Over-the-air updates ensure the infotainment system remains current with the latest software improvements.
In addition to entertainment and connectivity, the Envista provides advanced driver assistance through the Buick Driver Confidence suite, which includes features such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Following Distance Indicator, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and IntelliBeam auto high beams. Remote vehicle management is facilitated via the myBuick Mobile App, allowing owners to lock and unlock doors, start and stop the engine, locate the vehicle, and monitor vital vehicle data like fuel range and tire pressure from virtually anywhere.

Trim Levels and Packages

The 2024 Buick Envista is available in three distinct trim levels: Preferred, Sport Touring (ST), and Avenir, each featuring front-wheel drive as standard. Every model comes equipped with notable standard features such as a sweeping ultrawide touchscreen display that integrates an 8-inch driver instrument screen with an 11-inch infotainment screen, along with the Buick Driver Confidence package, which includes a suite of driver-assistive technologies.
The Preferred trim serves as the entry-level option, providing essential features that suit drivers seeking a well-rounded compact crossover without compromising on quality. The Sport Touring (ST) trim adds a sportier edge with distinct design elements, including an Ebony interior accented by Santorini Blue stitching, and offers a compound crank semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension. The Avenir trim represents the luxury-oriented choice, featuring a premium cabin with color options such as Pebble Gray or Ebony complemented by Terracotta or Whisper Beige accents. The Avenir also includes a Watts linkage rear suspension as standard, enhancing ride quality and handling.
Additional highlights across all trims include standard Remote Start and Rear Parking Assist, underscoring Buick’s commitment to convenience and safety. The thoughtful color palettes and interior finishes across trims are tailored to reflect each model’s unique personality, contributing to a premium atmosphere throughout the cabin.
Prospective buyers can choose the trim level that best fits their lifestyle and preferences, with starting prices and configurations designed to meet a variety of needs for drivers in different regions.

Exterior and Interior Design Highlights by Trim

The 2024 Buick Envista offers distinct exterior and interior design elements that vary by trim level, allowing drivers to select a style that best matches their preferences and lifestyle. Each trim not only shares core features, such as the sweeping ultrawide touchscreen display and the Buick Driver Confidence driver-assist package, but also incorporates unique design touches that enhance its character and appeal.

Sport Touring Trim

The Sport Touring trim emphasizes a more athletic and expressive stance. It features 18-inch gloss black wheels and a custom Sport Touring grille with matching trim accents that contribute to its sporty exterior presence. Inside, the cabin gains a sportier feel through a flat-bottom steering wheel with accent stitching and embroidered head restraints. The interior color scheme is predominantly Ebony with Santorini Blue stitching, reinforcing the trim’s dynamic personality. Additional

Market-Specific Variations

The Buick Envista is tailored to meet the preferences and demands of different markets, which is reflected in its availability and trim configurations. In the United States, the 2024 Envista is set to launch in summer 2023, offering three distinct trim levels designed to appeal to a broad range of consumers looking for a subcompact SUV that balances design, technology, and affordability. This approach underscores Buick’s strategy to provide a compelling package that combines premium features with accessible pricing.
Looking ahead, the 2026 Buick Envista model continues this trend by refining the vehicle’s style and safety features while maintaining the availability of three trim levels. These updates suggest an ongoing commitment to adapting the Envista to evolving market expectations without compromising on core attributes such as design innovation and advanced safety technologies.
While the Envista’s core offerings remain consistent, regional market strategies may influence design language and feature availability. Questions remain about the extent to which the latest design language will be incorporated across various models destined for the U.S. market, highlighting Buick’s potential to customize its lineup further to meet local consumer tastes and regulatory requirements. Additionally, dealership networks in states like Missouri and Illinois emphasize providing a premium yet approachable buying experience tailored to their local customer base, reinforcing the market-specific focus of Buick’s Envista rollout.

Comparison with Competitors

The Buick Envista positions itself as a competitively priced subcompact SUV, undercutting its sibling, the Encore GX, in price while offering a sleek fastback profile and an attractive, function-forward interior. Despite its front-wheel-drive-only configuration, the Envista delivers a livelier driving experience compared to some rivals in the segment.
Under the hood, the Envista is powered exclusively by a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower, which results in average performance relative to competitors. Unlike many vehicles in its class, none of the Envista’s trims offer all-wheel drive or a more powerful engine option, potentially limiting its appeal for those seeking enhanced traction or higher performance.
Visually, the 2026 Envista adds a new Brilliant Red exterior paint option available on Preferred and Sport Touring trims, aiming to enhance its appeal among style-conscious buyers. While it may lack some powertrain versatility, the Envista’s combination of price, styling, and interior design make it a notable contender among subcompact SUVs.

Reception and Reviews

The 2024 Buick Envista has generally been well-received as a successor to the Encore, aiming to address some of the shortcomings of its predecessor. Reviewers have noted that the Envista improves on the Encore’s ride quality, offering a smoother and less bouncy driving experience. Additionally, the Envista delivers better value in terms of features per dollar, making it a more competitive option in the entry-level small SUV segment.
Pricing for the Envista starts below $24,000, positioning it attractively for budget-conscious buyers seeking a compact SUV with modern amenities. Features such as standard IntelliBeam auto high beams and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning have been highlighted as notable inclusions that enhance both convenience and safety.
Testing and ratings, as summarized in recent reviews, provide prospective buyers with comprehensive insights into the vehicle’s performance, pricing, and specifications, reinforcing the Envista’s appeal as a practical and well-equipped SUV choice.

Awards and Recognition

The Buick Envista has been widely praised for its design and technological advancements, quickly gaining recognition as one of the most stylish and sophisticated vehicles in Buick’s lineup. Its modern aesthetic, highlighted by signature elements such as the front grille and advanced LED lighting, has been particularly noted for enhancing the brand’s identity and appeal. Although specific awards have not been detailed, the Envista’s reception in the automotive community underscores its status as a significant achievement for Buick, especially as a new entry-level subcompact crossover that combines elegance with functionality.

The content is provided by Blake Sterling, Scopewires