Buick Envision ST Review: A Stylish and Tech-Savvy Surprise
- Marc Gonzalez
- Jul 30, 2025
- 4 min read
If the name Envision doesn't ring a bell, it's perfectly fine! The Buick Envision has been overshadowed by more popular General Motors vehicles, such as the Chevrolet Equinox, GMC Terrain, and Buick Encore GX. In this post, we will highlight the Buick, revised in 2024 with improved technology, a stylish design, and a roomy interior. Our test model was a Buick Envision Sport Touring (ST) with an MSRP of $50,045 and manufactured in Yantai, China.
The Buick Envision has been on sale for nearly ten years now in North America, and it's safe to say that it is finally getting some attention, thanks in part to refreshed styling. As it was trying so much to keep the traditional Buick identity in the past, this latest version of the Envision looks sportier, especially in front. The headlight assembly has been completely redesigned, with LED lights running on the upper part, which doubles as flashers. The actual driving lights are a couple of inches lower on the bumper. The blacked-out grille and glossy black accents also add character to the ensemble, and the Cinnabar Metallic (red) paint job looks neat, too. In the back, the changes are minimal; the LED taillights remain the same. The main difference here is the presence of the new Buick logo, a modern take on a classic logo. Overall, the changes are subtle, but they are a breath of fresh air for a vehicle in dire need of getting more people interested and excited.
The Buick Envision's cabin has received its most significant upgrade yet, marking a clear departure from its predecessor. Where drivers once faced an analog gauge cluster with a small information screen, GM's aging 10.2-inch infotainment system now sits on an impressive 30-inch Ultrawide OLED display that dominates the dashboard. This high-resolution panel, stretching from the instrument cluster to the center stack, delivers an undeniable visual impact and brings the Envision's tech offering up to modern standards. Functionally, the new system represents a significant step forward. Drivers can customize the digital gauge display with various layouts ranging from detailed information views to minimalist designs, while the intuitive heads-up display adjustments add convenience. The Google-based infotainment system (with wireless smartphone integration) operates smoothly, though some all-touch interface requires more attention than traditional controls, especially for the heated seats. Physical buttons for climate functions are conveniently placed below the vents, a welcome retention of tactile controls in this digital age. Audio quality sees notable improvement with the available Bose premium system, though bass response could be tighter for true audiophiles. While the sweeping display creates an undeniable wow factor, its glossy surface can present glare challenges in bright sunlight.
As for the rest of the interior, the Buick Envision is quite spacious and bridges the gap between consumer brands and luxury-focused ones. Among the Buick lineup, it slots between the smaller Encore GX and the larger Enclave. The vehicle can fit up to 5 adults; realistically, four adults will be better seated. The taller stance of the Buick in the back makes it easier to get in and out of the second row. In terms of actual cargo room, it is similar to another rival of a comparable price, the BMW X2. In reality, the Buick Envision is marginally larger on paper (1,492L vs 1,464L), but with the second row in place, the German Coupe SUV is a tiny bit bigger (716L vs 714L, 25.3 cu. Ft. vs 25.2 cu. ft.). The ISOFIX points and rear anchors are visible, making for easy car seat installation.
Every Buick Envision comes powered by a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, delivering 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While all-wheel drive is standard, opting to drive this vehicle in front-wheel drive results in hesitant power delivery, particularly from a standstill. The AWD mode, though slightly less fuel-efficient, offers a more responsive and linear throttle response. On the road, the Envision strikes a comfortable yet engaging balance, far from the numb experience of its predecessor. The steering is improved (albeit from a low bar), the brakes are strong, and the suspension is well-tuned for the segment, avoiding extremes of stiffness or softness. Body roll is reduced, though it's still no sport SUV. In our testing, fuel economy averaged 11.5-12L/100km (20 mpg) in city driving and 7.5-8.0L/100km (30 mpg) on the highway. Overall, Buick has made significant strides with this Envision, crafting a far more compelling competitor than before.
The previous Buick Envision was forgettable: unremarkable in design, interior, and driving experience. This latest iteration is a mature, tech-savvy upgrade with sharper driving dynamics, finally making it a legitimate contender in the competitive compact crossover segment. However, its pricing sits in an awkward middle ground between mainstream and luxury brands, which may still hurt sales, even though the improved Envision no longer deserves its underdog status.
Disclaimer: Buick has lent us these vehicles for a one-week press loan. We have no affiliation with Buick Canada. The above reflects our personal opinion of the cars referred to above.
