The 2016 Buick Envision, an all-new SUV, stylishly struts its stuff into the challenging crossover marketplace. Nestled comfortably between the svelte Encore and the capacious Enclave, it’s got all the trappings of a high-stakes player without the exorbitant price tag. Think Acura RDX and Audi Q5, but without the pretentious aftertaste. Comfort, quiet, and value, all tumble together in a neat package, offering a turbocharged journey that's more about the ride than the brand cachet. Come for the leather-clad luxury and stay for the unique blend of amenities and prestige that satiates your desire for a compact SUV, all without the need to pronounce 'Mercedes-Benz GLC' correctly. With the 2016 Envision, Buick isn't just envisioning the future of SUVs, it's driving it.
Read on to learn more about the 2016 Buick Envision.
The interior design of the 2016 Buick Envision exudes comfort and convenience. The 5-passenger cabin is an airy sanctuary, thoughtfully designed to provide ample space for each passenger. Noteworthy rear-seat provisions include a flat floor, individual climate controls, and a 120-volt AC-style outlet and USB ports, ensuring passengers can stay connected and comfortable throughout their journey. The front seating area mirrors the spacious character of the rear, with intuitively placed controls for climate and audio systems that are easy to identify and use. In direct contrast to the touch-based systems used by many contemporaries, Buick has opted for traditional buttons and knobs, making for a user-friendly experience. The added touch of an analog clock positioned next to the standard 8-inch Buick IntelliLink screen adds a touch of classic charm to an otherwise contemporary design, revealing Buick’s balance of tradition and innovation.
The 2016 Buick Envision showcases a sleek and stylish exterior that is equal parts modern and classic. Its alluring exterior aesthetics features a distinctive waterfall grille and winged headlamps that exude a sense of sophistication and elegance. The sculpted body lines and aerodynamic curves not only enhance its visual appeal but also improve its handling and fuel efficiency. Equipped with 19-inch aluminum wheels, it has a poised stance that adds to its dynamic profile. Furthermore, the inclusion of practical features like heated power-adjustable mirrors, roof-mounted side rails, and hands-free power liftgate accentuates its functionality. The LED daytime running lights and taillights ensure visibility and safety. The overall impression the Envision leaves is one of a confident, modern SUV that effortlessly merges style with substance.
The heart of the 2016 Buick Envision is its 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This powertrain, exclusive to the 2016 model year, delivers a spirited performance, combining both power and efficiency. It produces a healthy 252 horsepower and a hefty 260 lb-ft of torque, meaning acceleration is smooth and power delivery is strong across the range. Notably, there is negligible turbo lag, and the peak torque is available at low rpm, making it responsive in city driving scenarios. This engine will be the top offering when the 2017 Envision debuts, with a less powerful 2.5-liter 4-cylinder set to become standard on lower trims. With its robust performance and graceful operation, the engine of the 2016 Buick Envision underscores its position as a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment.
When it comes to fuel economy, the 2016 Buick Envision holds its ground competently in the midsize luxury SUV segment. The Envision is rated at an EPA-estimated 20 miles per gallon in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. These figures align it closely with competitors like the all-wheel-drive Acura RDX and Lincoln MKC, both bearing a similar combined rating of 22 mpg. While the Envision slightly trails behind the Audi Q5 and Lexus NX 200t in terms of fuel efficiency, its performance is still commendable given its segment and power offerings. However, the Envision's towing capacity stands at a modest 1,500 pounds, making it less suitable for heavy hauling tasks.
The 2016 Buick Envision comes packed with a host of safety features designed to keep you secure on every journey. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2016 Envision with a five-star overall rating, the highest possible score. It also earned top marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), receiving a "Good" rating in all crashworthiness tests and a "Superior" rating for its front crash prevention system. Standard safety equipment includes forward collision alert, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The safety suite is further bolstered by a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, and automatic high-beam headlights. With its impressive array of active and passive safety features, the 2016 Buick Envision is a reliable choice for families and individuals alike.
In a nutshell, the 2016 Buick Envision is a solid choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and roomy midsize luxury SUV. Its spacious cabin and intuitive controls offer a pleasant riding experience for drivers and passengers alike. It's like a cozy living room on wheels, just with a better sound system and seatbelts. The engine performance is a high point, with its 2.0-liter turbocharged unit delivering punchy power and smooth acceleration. However, if you're eyeing this ride for its towing capability, you might want to reassess – it's not exactly a muscular workhorse. In terms of fuel economy, it's not the class valedictorian, but it's not the class dunce either. It sits comfortably in the middle of the pack, which isn't a bad place to be. As for safety, it's a top performer, like that overachieving cousin you can’t help but admire at every family gathering. Would we recommend the 2016 Buick Envision? As long as you don’t expect it to tow your yacht, we'd say go for it! This ride is an enticing combo of comfort, performance, and safety, with a touch of traditional charm thrown in for good measure.
