Selecting the right year of a used vehicle can be a time-consuming process. Even the most reputable models have some model years that have issues that you want to avoid. If you are considering a Buick Envision and want to know what the best model year is, we can help you. We researched this popular vehicle from multiple professional sources so that you can know for sure what to expect.
The 2019 model year Buick Envision is known to be the best on the used car market.
Now that we know the best model year for the Buick Envision, we'll look at a ranking of the best years. You might also be curious if the Buick Envision is a reliable vehicle or what problems the Envision is known to have. For the answers to these questions and more, read ahead in this post to see what we've uncovered in our research.
The best years for the Buick Envision ranked
While it has not been in production for very long, the Envision has made a great impression on consumers. Let's take a closer look at each model year.
2016 Buick Envision
The first model year of this crossover SUV has an excellent reliability rating. Overall, the complaints were minimal, with only several registered as a shaking steering wheel after sharp turning. Five recalls were issued for this model year, none of which impacted many vehicles with anything serious.
2017 Buick Envision
The second-year for the Envision didn't quite meet the standards of a luxury crossover SUV by Car and Driver's standards. They did like the price point and the quietness of the ride. But also felt that the onboard features were a bit lacking.
Consumers who had issues with this model year Envision noted some quirks with intermittently dimming interior lights. There were also some minor issues with the heating. Four recalls were issued for this year, though not many vehicles were impacted by any of them.
2018 Buick Envision
Car and Driver notes that this year's model Envision is "value-priced" among luxury crossover SUVs. Another model year that boasts of comfort and quiet rides, it still lacked the onboard features of others in its class.
No recalls were issued for this model year. Very minor consumer complaints were registered and were sparse.
2019 Buick Envision
The stylish cabin and additional onboard features made this one a favorite among consumers and critics alike. Keeping the level of comfort of past model years and adding some great creature comforts with the top tier trim level. Heated and ventilated seats, Apple CarPlay, and other features make for a great driving experience.
Minimal consumer complaints were registered with this model year. No recalls were issued.
2020 Buick Envision
The 2020 model year is similar to the 2019 and received the same compliments and criticisms. Quiet and comfortable, but the best onboard features can only be had with the top-tier trim level.
No recalls were issued for this model year. Several complaints were registered about drive train issues concerning random vibrations when accelerating.
2021 Buick Envision
The launch of the 2021 Buick Envision marked the first model of this vehicle's second generation. This car has enhanced safety features, a sleeker body style, and more onboard technology.
One recall was issued for this model year. Certain vehicles had an airbag light that might not indicate whether or not the airbag was malfunctioning. Several other consumer complaints were registered concerning wind noise near the driver's side mirror.
2022 Buick Envision
The 2022 model boasts better packages for each trim level, including a sporting package. To date, no significant issues have been registered by consumers, and no recalls have been issued.
Is the Buick Envision a reliable car?
With crossover SUVs becoming a popular style of vehicle, it was only a matter of time before automakers began producing premium-level ones to tempt higher income earners. While GMC was a little late to the game here, they have nonetheless created a competitive vehicle for this class.
The Buick Envision first rolled off the showroom floor in time for the 2016 model year. Still in production today, this vehicle boasts of higher than average reliability against most other vehicles in its class. Car Indigo gives the Envision a solid 8.0/10.0 rating, while J.D. Power and Associates rate it 85/100.
While the Envision hasn't been around long enough to document mechanical issues that might arise for high mileage vehicles, so far, there have been no serious consumer complaints. But with any model vehicle, time will be an important factor.
What problems does the Buick Envision have?
As we mentioned earlier in this post, the Buick Envision has so far proven itself to be a very reliable vehicle. Consumers have reported only minimal issues with the Envision at this point.
The majority of the consumer issues center around the onboard accessories for the Envision. The 2016 and 2017 model years had several complaints about dash lighting randomly dimming. These two years also complained about the heated seats not working correctly with the remote control.
The 2016 model also had a total of five recalls, though only a few hundred vehicles were impacted for four out of the five. One recall did affect nearly 5,000 models, but it wasn't for anything very serious. The incorrect weight was printed on the interior label and needed to be remedied.
Is the Buick Envision quiet?
Knowing whether or not you're heading out on a quiet ride can be a factor in your car buying decision. Some engines are noisier than others, while the transmission shifting gears can emit more noise in other models. The amount of exterior noise allowed into the cabin is also noticeable in certain models.
The Envision was constructed with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. This four-cylinder engine has proven to be relatively quiet under the hood of this crossover SUV. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts gears quietly, keeping engine noise to a minimum.
With the first generation Envisions, outside noise will be louder than the average vehicle in this class. Wind noise is more noticeable, which can encroach on an otherwise quiet and cozy ride. But overall, the Envision will still ride with a noise level that is a little better than average. The second-generation Envisions that are new for 2022 have reduced this outside noise, putting this vehicle in line with the rest in its class.
Are Buick Envision seats comfortable?
Consumers have rated the seats of the Buick Envision quite favorably across all three trim levels. While the Preferred and the Essence trims have a sleek look and comfortable seating, the premium trim level is the most comfortable. What the Avenir has to offer sets itself apart from the rest.
The quilted leather upholstery of the Avenir lends a luxurious feel to a ride in the Envision. In addition, this trim level comes equipped with both heated and ventilated seats. Your seat's surface will quickly be at the desired temperature, no matter the weather.
The Avenir has a built-in massager to make the drive even more comfortable for the driver. Great for extended trips or a ride after a stressful day, this technology is the perfect addition to a vehicle that boasts premium levels of comfort.
In conclusion
The Buick Envision has been a popular crossover SUV since the first models appeared in 2016. While every model year to date has a proven record for reliability, consumers and critics alike have indicated that the 2019 model year Envision has been the most reliable. Before selecting any used vehicle, be sure to get a detailed history of the car and its maintenance schedule. Drive safe!
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