Buick’s 2024 Envista enters the market as a standout entry-level small SUV, with a starting price under $24,000. Positioned to replace the outgoing Encore, it aims to provide a smoother ride and greater value. Competing with models like the Mazda CX-30 and Volkswagen Taos, the Envista brings a fresh design to the affordable compact SUV segment, appealing to budget-conscious buyers seeking style and practicality.
Replacing the original Encore, the Envista offers a more design-driven approach while maintaining the brand’s signature appeal. It positions itself as a stylish alternative to larger compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, balancing sleek aesthetics with accessible performance. Buick’s emphasis on modern looks makes the Envista an attractive option for those seeking a smaller SUV without sacrificing style.
PERFORMANCE
At $30,490 as tested, the Envista Avenir’s top trim strikes a balance of affordability and refinement. It absorbs large bumps without losing composure, maintaining a smooth, controlled ride. At highway speeds of 70 mph, interior noise stays relatively low at 68 decibels, though a rare rattle from the hatch disrupts the calm. The cabin features an 8-inch digital cluster and an 11-inch touchscreen with seamless smartphone integration.
Cost-saving materials like hard plastics are visible inside, but the cabin remains welcoming thanks to a clean dash layout and thoughtful textures. Leather upholstery and six-way power seats ensure comfort with easy adjustments. Steering is responsive, with natural effort and precise feedback. This combination of features gives the Envista an enjoyable driving experience, rivaling pricier SUVs from luxury brands.
The Envista shines in both city and highway driving, offering solid handling and refinement. However, its 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, reflects a trade-off in performance. While it delivers respectable acceleration and minimal cabin noise, reaching 60 mph in 9.3 seconds reveals the engine’s limits, especially on longer highway stretches.
VERDICT
Buick’s 2024 Envista Avenir, finished in Ocean Blue Metallic, starts with a base MSRP of $28,600. With only one added feature—the Avenir Advanced Safety Package for $795—plus a few standard fees, the total price comes to $30,490.
Competition
The Envista has few direct competitors, offering a rare combination of size, style, and affordability. The Chevy Trax, priced slightly lower, shares some similarities but lacks the upscale feel, with a more economy-focused interior. In this price range, few rivals deliver the same balance of design and budget-conscious appeal, making the Envista a standout in its segment.
Buick’s own Encore GX, while priced higher, brings added practicality and the option for all-wheel drive. Outside of GM, the Mazda CX-30 offers a similarly stylish design but feels more compact in comparison. Though smaller, the CX-30 still manages to offer a sleek aesthetic that may appeal to those seeking a more nimble vehicle.
In the luxury realm, the Volvo XC40 offers ample space but demands a premium price. Lexus also presents a comparable option with the UX, which not only competes in terms of luxury but also offers a hybrid variant for those seeking better fuel efficiency. Both options target a more affluent demographic, differentiating from the Envista’s budget-friendly focus.
