Buick was first released for the Chinese market before entering North America in 2016, but welcomes the second generation envision of the 2021 model. The Epoch Times was bigger and better in almost every category, test-driving a compact crossover over the course of a week to get a feel for all the new changes. And there are many.
Aiming for a more athletic look, this vehicle is 43mm wider, 30mm longer and 56mm higher than its predecessor, offering more cars than SUV-like proportions. Our Essence Mid-grade lender has added a sports touring package with gorgeous 20-inch black alloy wheels, black roof rails, exhaust bezels, window trims and mirror caps with a dark glossy finish.
Compared to the current version, the grille has been stretched to fit slimmer LED headlamps. Similarly, the taillights are thinner and the twin exhaust pipes are housed around a trapezoid.
The exterior expresses a sporty atmosphere, and the interior expresses elegance.
“The new Envision cabin is cozy and offers a comfortable and premium environment that aims to make every excursion feel like an opportunity for drivers and passengers,” said design manager Rob Cameron. .. “All the elements are designed to celebrate what you use most in today’s drives.”
It features a simple, discreet, perforated heated leather seat, an air ionizer with air quality indicators, active noise cancellation, and a large panoramic moon roof. The 10-inch touchscreen display and center stack are interestingly tilted towards the driver and feature wireless integration between Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (no USB cable needed anymore!).
Especially in modern times, there is no shortage of personal belongings necessary for carrying, from mobile phones to various mobile entertainment devices. Fortunately, there is a huge hidden storage compartment under the armrests on both wings, and another covered storage compartment under the instrument panel.
If you need to carry something bigger, the 40/60 split second row can be folded to the same height as the cargo floor, facilitating cargo entry and exit. With a light move, the 1,492 liters of empty space easily swallowed a box or a large, awkward item.
All envisions are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain has some pepper that accelerates quickly from a stop, and to my delightful surprise, whenever the throttle is applied, it emits a cool babur under the hood.
The SUV rides on next-generation front struts and rear 5-link independent suspension that provide both suppleness and a structured ride quality at the same time. Combined with Essence’s standard all-wheel drive system, this crossover can handle one or two corners without any problems.
The 2021 Buick Envision Essence MSRP starts at $ 39,698. Also available are front-wheel drive preferred trim on the base, mesh grille, ventilated diamond quilted leather seats, heated rear bench, wireless smartphone charging and the finest Avenir with exclusive pearl nickel colours. alloy.
Benjamin Yong is a freelance writer from Vancouver, British Columbia and a member of the Canadian Automobile Journalists Association (AJAC). Follow him on Twitter @ b_yong.