2022 Buick Envision Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Classified as a small luxury SUV, the 2022 Buick Envision is going to grab buyers' attention with its price and standard features. This SUV launched its second generation just last year, meaning it is a fresh and technology-packed option. There are actually quite a few offerings in the small luxury SUV market, making it hard for any one of them to stand out. The 2022 Envision does manage to do several things quite well. At the same time, there are definite drawbacks associated with this SUV. The question is - do the pros outweigh the cons?

What's New for 2022?

The 2022 Buick Envision is now available in Sapphire Metallic paint. Models equipped with the Sport Touring package get more style features this year as well, including alloy pedal covers. Otherwise, the Envision continues in the same way it was introduced to the public last year.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Buick Envision – The Pros

1. Affordable for the Class

The 2022 Buick Envision is one of the most affordable small luxury SUVs currently out there. Thanks to its significantly lower starting price, this vehicle will fit into the budget of more drivers. Despite the price, the 2022 Envision is loaded with features like a Wi-Fi hotspot, LED headlights, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a long list of driver aids.

2. Smooth Ride Over Most Surfaces

Sticking with the standard 18-inch wheels on the 2022 Envision will mean having a smooth ride around town. These models have the ability to soak up the majority of bumps and dips. The experience at the wheel is also pleasant, with minimal body lean and responsive steering. This SUV also feels composed as it corners, making it easy to drive the Envision confidently. Choosing to go with the optional 20-inch wheels will mean giving up the smoothness of this SUV.

3. Fuel-Efficient Standard Engine

The 2022 Envision comes standard with front-wheel drive. It has a 2.0L four-cylinder engine that pumps out 228-horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Despite this respectable amount of power, the Envision is estimated to get 24mpg in the city and 31mpg on the highway. Those are phenomenal numbers for the class. All-wheel drive is also available across the board. These models are estimated to get 22mpg city and 29mpg highway, which is still considered better than average.

4. Quiet Cabin at Highway Speeds

Keeping the interior of a vehicle from getting too noisy at highway speeds can be challenging. All models of the 2022 Envision are equipped with Buick's active noise cancellation technology. They have acoustic-laminated glass that helps prevent wind and road noise from making its way into the cabin. The Envision also uses high-tech features to help absorb residual noise, leaving drivers with a calm and relaxing experience.

5. Roomy Seats in Both Rows

The 2022 Envision is a two-row SUV with plenty of space for growing families. Thanks to the generous head and legroom in the back row, teenagers and even adults will have no problem riding in the back. There are many available cabin upgrades to make it even more comfortable as well, including a driver's seat with massage functions, a heated steering wheel, and climate-controlled front seats. The second row can gain heat as well.

6. Sculpted Exterior Design

Prior to 2021, the Envision was widely thought of as boring. The 2022 Envision benefits greatly from the redesign that happened last year. All models show off a highly-sculpted exterior shape and come standard with both roof rails and LED headlights. Choosing the top Avenir trim level will mean getting a distinct grille design, chrome exterior trim, and an exclusive wheel design.

7. Strong List of Standard Safety Features

When it comes to standard driver aids, there are very few that the 2022 Envision does not include. There are all the ones that drivers have come to expect, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and forward-collision mitigation. There are a few extras that make life easier, such as automatic high beams and rear parking sensors. All Envision models are also equipped with a safety alert seat that vibrates to warn the driver when dangerous situations are detected. The Avenir trim level has an optional automated parking system to offer as well.

8. Available Envision Sport Touring Package

The Sport Touring Package gives the already attractive Envision an even bolder look. It's a black-out package that includes black exterior accents and badging, as well as a dark finish for the grille. Inside, this package adds an eye-catching ST logo on the head restraints, sport pedals, and aggressive red stitching on the upholstery in select models.

9. Streamlined Driver-Oriented Cockpit

It is immediately obvious that the Envision was designed with the driver in mind. Both the infotainment screen and instrument panel are angled to make them easier to see and access when at the wheel. Drivers will find it is easy to learn the controls for the infotainment system, allowing them to keep their focus on the road. The Envision is also equipped with Buick's electronic precision shift feature that frees up space near the center console.

10. Wireless Smartphone Integration

It is not surprising that the 2022 Envision is equipped with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. What makes this a mark in the plus column for the SUV is the fact that all models get the wireless versions. This further helps drivers keep the area around their center console clear of clutter. In the top Avenir model, a wireless charging pad for compatible smart devices is included as well.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Buick Envision – The Cons

1. Cargo Space is Lacking

An SUV is meant to be practical and versatile. While the Envision is not the worst in the class, it definitely falls behind rivals when it comes to cargo space. The redesign that happened last year made the SUV more attractive, but it did reduce the amount of room for luggage and groceries. There are merely 25.2 cubic feet behind the second row and 52.7 cubic feet when that row is folded down. Buyers can choose to add a power liftgate for a little extra convenience. If more space is needed, it is easy to find a small luxury SUV with more to offer.

2. Interior is Not as LUxurious as Rivals

The price of the 2022 Envision is nice, but it does not come without sacrifice. Inside the cabin, drivers will find a few subpar materials. In fact, the base model comes with cloth upholstery featuring synthetic leather accents. It is easy to find competitors that use higher-quality materials, but buyers will have to be prepared to pay more.

3. Driving Dynamics Fail to Excite

Yes, the Envision is fuel-efficient. Yes, it also has a smooth ride and satisfying handling. At the end of the day, however, it fails to engage drivers. While it is not slow by any means, the only engine available does not feel particularly quick, either. Buick may want to consider offering an upgrade in the future that allows drivers to choose between efficiency and a bit more fun at the wheel. And while the Sport Tuning package is quite nice to look at, it does not actually change the way the Envision drives, unfortunately.

 

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Buick Envision vs. 2022 Acura RDX

The Acura RDX gets a lot of things right. It has a more powerful engine, which results in quicker acceleration when the driver puts their foot down. Overall, the RDX is just a lot more enjoyable to drive. The cabin is also more luxurious. On the other hand, the Envision is the more fuel-efficient option of the two. It also has an easier-to-use infotainment system, which may help sway consumers in its favor.

2022 Buick Envision vs. 2022 Cadillac XT4

These two SUVs are very similar. Both fall under the General Motors umbrella, making it no surprise that they have the same engine, the same transmission, and are roughly the same size. Between these two, however, the Envision is a clear winner. It has more cargo space, more standard safety features, and even a lower starting price. The only thing that the XT4 has going for it is it allows drivers to say they drive a Cadillac.

Conclusion

Overall, the 2022 Buick Envision should be considered a smart buy. Many of the minor flaws, such as the cabin materials, can be overlooked when considering how much more affordable this small luxury SUV is. At the same time, Buick can help this vehicle grow in popularity even more by giving it more cargo space and possibly an optional engine. If having many of the perks associated with a luxury SUV at a lower price is the goal, the 2022 Envision is a fine choice. If true luxury is the goal, however, drivers will need to look elsewhere.