The luxury SUV segment is more competitive than ever, and automakers need to keep up with the latest trends if they want to compete. It’s even more important to set those trends. So how does the Buick Envision stack up to the competition?

Buick has gone out of its way to update the 2021 Envision. The luxury compact crossover sports a new look that’s a stark departure from the past. Still, is it enough to compete?

The 2021 Buick Envision sees major changes

MotorTrend reports Buick is upping its game with the 2021 Envision by adding new features. This compact crossover SUV sees some major changes inside and out that are sure to please consumers. 

For example, one of the biggest pains about climbing into an SUV is height. The 2021 Envision’s lowered body makes entering and exiting easier than before. It also boasts a wider body frame, meaning there’s more interior room.

Buick also went above and beyond by changing the grille, lights, and bodywork. It’s still recognizable as an Envision, but it’s clearly not the same old same old.

Though details regarding the engine have been sparse, we know the Envision will pack a turbocharged 2.0-liter. It’ll likely come with a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Buick also made the interior as appealing as possible. An optional 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s also more standard safety equipment. Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, active lane control, and parking assistance are now standard. And a surround-view camera system, blind-spot monitors with rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display are optional.

Will Buick fix the mistakes of the past?

Because the 2021 Envision isn’t yet available for expert test drives, several questions remain about whether Buick has fixed issues plaguing previous model years. Some complaints have kept many consumers away, so it’ll be interesting to see whether the automaker addresses those concerns.

Though drivers loved the way the 2020 Buick Envision looked from the outside, the interior was a sore spot — literally. The seats on the 2020 model year were notoriously uncomfortable. For anyone who spent a lot of time behind the wheel, this SUV was a definite no-go.

However, the 2021 Envision is wider, which means Buick has more room to play with seating. Still, it’s difficult to know if a seat is comfortable by pictures alone. Getting behind the wheel for an extended period of time is the only way to tell if Buick fixed this trouble spot.

How does the 2021 Envision stack up to the competition?

The 2021 Buick Envision is expected to have a starting MSRP of $32,995. That’s extremely affordable for a luxury SUV. But the question is, does the 2021 Buick Envision offer enough to help it compete in the big leagues of the luxury segment?

It’s got some seriously tough competition from the Lincoln Corsair, Cadillac XT4, Lexus NX, Acura RDX, and Volvo XC60. All automakers have upped their game, and the competition is fiercer than ever.

Still, most of those vehicles cost more than the Buick Envision. If you want a luxury SUV on a budget, the 2021 Envision is arguably a great buy. On the other hand, if you can afford a pricier model, you might want to take your time and shop around before deciding.