2024 Buick Envista: A Stylish Surprise in the Compact SUV Arena

Buick makes a splash in the compact SUV segment with the 2024 Envista. This newcomer aims to win over buyers with a head-turning design, a surprisingly spacious interior, and a focus on comfort and technology. But is the Envista all style and no substance, or does it offer a compelling option for everyday driving?

Standing Out from the Crowd

Buick ditches the boxy lines often associated with SUVs and instead presents the Envista with a sleek, coupe-like silhouette. The sloping roofline and hidden rear door pillars create a dynamic look that sets it apart from rivals like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4. While some reviewers find the rear headroom a bit compromised by the design, the overall impression is undeniably stylish.

Interior: More Than Meets the Eye

Step inside the Envista, and you might be surprised by the amount of space on offer. Despite its compact classification, the Envista offers ample legroom and headroom for passengers in the front and even the back seats. The cargo area is respectable for the class, offering 20.7 cubic feet with the seats up and 42 cubic feet with the seats folded down. While some reviewers found the use of some plastics detracted from the initial luxurious impression, the overall interior design is clean and functional, with comfortable seats and a driver-centric layout.

Tech Savvy with a User-Friendly Interface

The Envista boasts a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that is thankfully easy to use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and the physical buttons and knobs for climate control are a welcome respite from the all-touch interfaces found in some competitors. The digital instrument cluster adds a modern touch to the driver's experience.

Under the Hood: A Capable Three-Cylinder Surprise

The Envista comes equipped with a sole engine option: a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine making 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. While the power figures might seem underwhelming on paper, most reviewers found the engine surprisingly capable for daily driving around town.  However, some reviewers noted a slight hesitation during acceleration from a stop and a bit of engine noise when pushed hard. The Envista is only available with front-wheel drive, which might be a dealbreaker for those seeking all-weather capability.

A Smooth and Comfortable Ride

The Envista prioritizes comfort over sporty handling. The suspension delivers a smooth ride, and the cabin is well-insulated from road noise. While it won't win any awards for taking corners at speed, the Envista feels confident and composed during everyday driving.

A Value Proposition with Room for Improvement

The Envista starts at a competitive price point, making it an attractive option for budget-minded buyers seeking a feature-rich compact SUV. However, some reviewers felt that the interior materials could be higher quality for the price, especially considering rivals like the Mazda CX-30 offer a more premium feel.

Should You Buy the 2024 Buick Envista?

The 2024 Buick Envista is a stylish and comfortable contender in the compact SUV segment. It offers a surprising amount of space for passengers and cargo, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a smooth ride. The fuel-efficient three-cylinder engine and competitive price point add to its appeal. However, the lack of available all-wheel drive and the use of some budget-conscious materials in the interior might be dealbreakers for some.

Here's a quick breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide:

Pros:

• Sleek and head-turning design

• Surprisingly spacious interior with comfortable seating

• User-friendly infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

• Smooth and comfortable ride

• Competitive price point

Cons:

• Only available engine option might feel underpowered for some

• No all-wheel drive option available

• Some interior materials feel cheap

• Cargo space is just average for the class

Ultimately, the 2024 Buick Envista is a strong option for those prioritizing style, comfort, and value in a compact SUV.  If you prioritize power, all-wheel drive, or a more luxurious interior feel, you might be better served by looking at competitors like the Mazda CX-30 or the Subaru Forester. Test driving the Envista alongside its rivals is recommended before making a final decision.