2024 Buick Envista

Buick’s line of two- and three-row SUVs are worth considering for shoppers looking for a nicer interior than in a Chevrolet or Ford without the luxury prices of a Cadillac, Lincoln, Lexus, or Acura. Options within Buick’s lineup start with the Envista, which is unusually sized between a large sedan and a subcompact SUV. The largest options include the three-row Enclave. Some of Buick’s models have earned Consumer Reports recommendations for having intuitive infotainment systems and quiet, pleasant interiors. Among U.S. car companies, Buick also ranks high in our new car reliability ratings. Some recent models also made our lists of recommended used cars.

The Buick Envista is an all-new replacement for the Encore, Buick's previous subcompact SUV. This front-wheel-drive SUV or elevated hatchback slots below the Encore GX and like its Chevy Trax sibling, comes as a front-drive only. Pricing starts in the low-$20,000 and the car comes well equipped with advanced safety features and wireless Apple CarPlay. Even a heated steering wheel is a low cost option. The sole engine is a turbocharged 1.2-liter turbo three-cylinder engine that supplies readily available acceleration. We measured 29 mpg overall. The six-speed automatic transmission isn't the smoothest and neither is the ride. Handling is mundane but secure. The cabin is a bit drab but it's surprisingly roomy and the controls are easy to use. Standard ADAS features include AEB, LDW, and LKA. BSW, RCTW, and adaptive cruise control are optional.