2021 Buick Envision Essence FWD

Balances power with fuel economy

2021 Buick Envision. Courtesy of GM

Buick Envision is powered by a 228-horsepower 2.0-liter Ecotec turbo four-cylinder engine. This engine is assisted by a 9-speed automatic transmission, and the FWD drivetrain achieves a fuel efficiency of 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway for a combined average of 26 mpg.

The Envision is available in three trim levels: Preferred, Essence, and Avenir. This column will focus on the Essence model.

The new Essence is completely updated. Heated leather wrapped steering wheel feels good in the driver’s hands, and 8-way power front seats with 4-way lumbar provide great comfort for everyone up front. There is “adult friendly,” headroom and legroom for both front and back rows.

Roomy interior with quality materials. Courtesy of GM

This compact five-seat luxury SUV appears to balance performance, economy, and comfort equally. The smooth acceleration with even a little bit of purr adds to an already good feeling. The quality interior and comfortable space are complemented by the 60/40 split-bench rear folding-down seats and the dual-zone automatic climate control.

One of Envision’s best features was the 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and smartphone connectivity. Easily read and color-coordinated features made essential driving information effortless to operate, allowing prompt answers to your driving questions.

In the driver's seat. Courtesy of GM

Standard tech features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus active safety features such as Blind Spot Warning with Cross traffic, Automatic High Beam Headlights, and Automatic Emergency Braking add to the safety of the interior charm.

Hands-free programmable power lift-gate with LED logo projection is standard the Essence model. The lift-gate can be opened with a kick motion over the LED-projected Buick logo.

Hands-free power lift-gate. Courtesy of GM

Buick Envision rolls on standard 18-inch machined aluminum wheels, and the whole exterior appearance is supported by aggressive LED headlamps and front grille.

An aggressive front. Courtesy of GM

The Envision drives smoothly, and the calm is further supported by Buick Quiet Tuning with Active Noise Cancellation shutting out undesired noise. Cabin quality is further enhanced by In-Vehicle Air Ionizer with air quality indicator.

Road bumps are marginalized for a pleasant ride thanks to the strong Buick suspension, accompanied by Buick’s light steering and natural feel to minimize driving fatigue. Auto-dimming rearview mirror ensures you are not blinded by undesired high beam from the car behind.

Buttons replace the traditional gear selector. Courtesy of GM

The list price for the 2021 Buick Envision starts at $31,800 for the Preferred model. Moving up to the Essence trim bumps the price to $36,000.

The only issue I had with Envision was the weak feeling of the brake pedal. It appeared a little lifeless to me. Although I never had cause to use it in a major situation, I felt a little uncomfortable with the apparent softness of the pedal.

Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles Powertrain Limited Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles Rust Limited Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].