Review: 2023 Buick Envision Avenir

The 2023 Buick Envison Avenir isn’t quite the SUV that would be at the top of your list because, well, it just isn’t quite there yet compared to German SUVs, for example. It also doesn’t drive as enthusiastically but what is appealing, though, is that it looks luxurious and is a comfortable drive.

Engine/Transmission

The Envison Avenir has a 2.0L four-cylinder engine. It produces 228hp and 258lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and is available with AWD. 0-60mph (96km/h) is reached in just over 7 seconds so it is not quick but fast enough for daily commuting drivers. The Envision Avenir is rated for 10.5L/100km in a city and 8.2L/100km in a highway while I managed to average a combined 9.5L/100km. I will say that I think it is great on gas as I managed to drive about 460km and still had about a quarter of a tank left.

Handling/Performance

Driving around in the Envision Avenir is not going to be an adventurous drive. It is not a sports SUV; it does not handle like one. I think a little bit more power would have sufficed to make it a bit more appealing. The Envision Avenir is more suitable for those looking for a smooth, easy drive. I like to describe it as a somewhat bouncy ride as going over potholes is not an issue. The suspension provides enough comfort for a smooth drive. One thing I did notice and didn’t like at all was the gas pedal. It felt a bit “lazy” as in not responsive to touch until you pressed down a bit harder. It is only when you pushed further on the pedal did the engine begin to provide more power for quicker acceleration. If you just tapped on it lightly, it would not respond with the same immediacy as in some other SUVs. I much prefer a pedal like the one in the GV70 for example.

Comfort

Sitting for long periods in the Envision Avenir is not an issue, it is very comfortable as it has just enough seat adjustments for most body types. Driving over a bumpy road is smooth and cabin noise is minimal so that’s a plus for the Avenir. It is also quite spacious in the rear seats for taller individuals so you will be able to sit comfortably even if you’re as tall as my fiance at 6’4″. It has a bit more space when compared to, again, the GV70. Rear seat leg room in the Avenir is 39.3inches whereas the GV70 has 37.2inches. So, not a whole lot of difference but in the 2023 Buick Envision, it is noticeable.

Interior

The interior of the Envision Avenir looks great, it does look and feel a bit more on the premium side but when you think of comparable SUV’s. It is equipped with perforated leather appointed seats and standard bucket seats. One thing I really liked was the diagonal 10.2-inch touchscreen; it is positioned towards the driver for ease of access. Not that you should be playing around with it while driving. The climate control is also separate from the infotainment screen and is tilted towards the driver as well. The screen is very straightforward and is available with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto. You can also customize the screen settings by creating a profile, so it is quite neat. It is equipped with a lot of features like wireless charging, ventilated driver and front passenger seats, adaptive cruise control, head-up display, and panoramic sunroof to name a few. These features are all standard on the Envision Avenir that would not normally be standard in other comparable SUV’s.

Exterior

The 2023 Envision Avenir looks great, but I would be lying if I said it was eye-catching. At least, it isn’t for me as I think there are better looking SUVs out there. It is equipped with 20-inch aluminum wheels, and the 2^nd best thing I liked were the LED headlamps with enhanced functionality. What this means is that it has cornering lighting, dynamic bending light, and low beam light. For example, if you were making a left or right turn, the light will shine in the direction you are going. This helps to better see the road when making turns, pulling into a driveway or dark parking spots. It is a great feature in my opinion so that’s another win point for the Avenir. It offers quite a few drivers assistance features as standard whereas in other SUVs you wouldn’t get.

Pros/Cons

Overall, a great job was done with the 2023 Buick Envision Avenir. It sure does feel premium like with some of the materials used throughout the cabin, it drives smooth even over bumpy roads and it has a quiet cabin. It also has great features available as standard, it is great on gas compared to its luxury rivals and best of all, it has a great starting price for all that it is available with. On the downside, it is not a fun drive as it seems to be better suited for those looking for comfort. It is not engaging like the GV70 or even the Mazda CX-5. If you are someone that cares more about a comfortable drive, having more passenger space, great features at a lower price then the Envision Avenir is a great option. If you are someone that cares more about an enthusiastic drive, and more about having a full-on luxurious SUV, then you have options out there. The starting price of the Avenir is $47,753CAD ($45,660USD)