Despite its relatively recent debut for the 2017 model year, the Buick Envision saw a complete overhaul in 2021. The automaker swapped the two previous engine options for a singular turbo-four. The Envision also gained new safety features, wireless smartphone integration, and updated exterior styling.

Recently, Buick announced the Envision’s updates for the 2023 model year. Though we expected it to be a carryover model, this luxury compact crossover’s new options won’t impress many buyers.

What is a carryover model?

A carryover model is a version of a vehicle with minimal updates to the previous model year. However, even carryover models still offer small updates to attract consumers and boost sales. For example, the 2022 Buick Envision got a new paint color (Sapphire Metallic) and some extra perks for buyers who purchased the Sport Touring package.

This package typically includes athletic 20-inch wheels, black roof rails, and embroidered ST badging. If you apply this package to the Essence model, your seats will now be accented by red stitching. On the Buick Envision Preferred, this package includes extra ST badges and sport pedals.

What’s new for the 2023 Buick Envision?

Buick says the 2023 Envision can be optioned in Moonstone Gray Metallic and White Frost Tricoat. Currently, the only color that comes standard (free of charge) on the Envision is Summit White. Every other color costs an additional $495.

We expect the same will apply to the new colors, as Buick states both are “extra cost.” An overall price increase is also a given: the 2023 Buick Encore Preferred has a suggested MSRP of $31,900. That’s $400 more than last year, according to Buick.

The 2023 Buick Envision Essence costs only $200 more than last year’s model, which is currently priced at $35,600. The 2023 Envision Avenir is $43,960 (up from $39,850 before options and destination fees).

Is the 2023 Buick Envision worth buying? 

Because the 2023 Buick Envision is pretty much identical to the outgoing model, it will probably be a good SUV. The 2022 Buick Envision has 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque on tap, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. 

The two lower trims of the Envision without the Sport Touring package ride on 18-inch wheels. If it’s optioned with front-wheel drive, the Envision earns a satisfying 24/31 mpg city/highway.

According to Consumer Reports, the turbocharged engine allows the Envision to hit 60 mph in 7.5 seconds. CR says the SUV’s performance is slightly deceiving. During everyday driving, you won’t get much feedback from the steering wheel. 

However, the Envision exhibits exceptional braking prowess at higher speeds. Its tires had no problem staying planted to the road during extreme evasive maneuvers.

The Buick Envision’s suspension does an impeccable job absorbing bumps, and the cabin is almost free from exterior noise. Up to five riders can fit inside, accommodated on cloth-upholstered or leather seats. Both rows are spacious enough for most passengers, and seat access isn’t a hassle.

In addition to providing wireless smartphone pairing, every Buick Envision has a Wi-Fi hotspot and an ample assortment of safety features. Starting on the Essence trim, heated front seats and a premium Bose audio system are available. 

The Avenir trim adds ventilation for the front seats, a wireless charging pad, and extra safety features. It can also be optioned with an adaptive suspension, which helps smooth the bumpier ride quality caused by the 20-inch wheels.

Though the 2023 Buick Envision is more expensive than the 2022 model (especially with extra colors), it’s still cheaper than any other luxury compact SUV.