Tuesday, April 13, 2021

Buick Envision (2nd gen)

Back in 2016, Buick imported the Envision from China to the United States, months before Mr. Tariff Man won the elections just to stoke fear about Chinese imports including this, this crossover sparked a lot of questions from customers on the hunt for crossovers and life couldn't get even more confusing with the arrival of the second-generation model, which promises to be more dynamic and more lively to drive compared to the previous model. The question is, should you want one?



You're looking at the all-new, second-generation, Buick Envision, which is still imported from China just like the previous model, but with prices starting at 31,800 US Dollars plus additional costs, it's surprisingly cheaper than the old one, making it the quintessential bargain of the year.

The exterior design of the new Envision is the turning point of this generation because it's surprisingly a big improvement compared to the old Envision several years ago. Although it's lower than the old one, it's now slightly longer and wider, making it roomier on the inside than the old model, which is good, but there's something puzzling about the exterior design because some say, it draws inspiration from the Enspire Concept from the 2018 Auto China in Beijing. Another concept-turned-reality scenario that almost pleases the motoring crowd and from every angle, even when slapped with some Avenir touches for the first time in an Envision, this crossover sure knows how to make a clear statement about it.

On the inside, thanks to its slightly increased wheelbase, it's roomier to live with than the previous model and it's got better boot space as well. Of course, while you are getting cozy, the new Envision packs numerous conveniences toy around such as a heated steering wheel, panoramic moonroof, 10.2-inch-diagonal touchscreen infotainment system, first-ever air ionizer for a US Buick vehicle, wi-fi connectivity, and more you can spend some time with it.

Under the hood, the all-new Envision is powered by a new 2.0L Turbo ECOTEC 4-cylinder engine which sadly produces 228hp of power output, 24hp less than the old model, while mated to a 9-speed Hydra-Matic gearbox. Fuel economy, it has an EPA-estimated MPG of 24 city /31 highway.

What about dynamics? The new Envision features MacPherson Struts on the front, a five-link rear suspension, available Continuous Damping Control, and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes. In front-wheel-drive configuration alone, it feels somewhat civilized like a real commoner in the neighborhood, but when fitted with all-wheel drive and active twin-clutch, it feels dynamic in every way even when wet.

While getting used to its newly improved dynamics, the new Envision has a long list of safety features under the Buick Driver Confidence Plus in addition to its HD Rear Vision Camera, Adaptive Cruise Control, Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist, HD Surround Vision, and Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking. Such safety tech will put drivers on notice.

Although the power drop is what made them lamented, the improved dynamics, interior, tech, and design is what the new Buick Envision is made for. Despite being made by the Chinese, the new Envision feels welcomed in the Land of the Free and Home of the Brave as long as it won't get caught by the Reds under the bed.

Photo: General Motors

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