2020 Buick Envision Essence

The Envision is Buick's compact SUV, the one that splits the difference between the subcompact Encore and the three-row Enclave. It drives with a composed, quiet demeanor that suits its upscale mission, and the ride stays smooth on most roads. Inside, the cabin is well put together with soft-touch materials, and the seats are comfortable for long trips. Every Envision includes a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a suite of driver assists. The Essence adds leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and heated front seats over the Preferred trim, plus a larger wheel option. Its 2.5L I4 makes 197 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, routed through a six-speed automatic to all-wheel drive, which gives it confident all-weather traction at the cost of a slightly firmer ride. The Essence can be had with a panoramic sunroof and a premium Bose audio system, neither of which is available on the Preferred.