Buick’s styling revolution continues as the brand has introduced the new Envista crossover. Previewed by the Electra-X concept, the model is being billed as a “high-spirited urban compact SUV tailored for the progressive young generation and modern families in China.” Given its youthful demographic, the Envista is the sportiest looking crossover to ever wear the tri-shield logo. The model is a sleek crossover coupe that features Buick’s new global design language and wears it proudly.
The latter is a big departure as the model
eschews a waterfall grille for an edgy front end that features sharp lines and
a wide intake with horizontal bars. Moving further back, we can see plastic
body cladding and a rakish windscreen that flows into a sloping roof. The
Envista also has slender taillights and an upright rear end with an integrated
spoiler. Buyers looking for a sportier appearance can opt for a GS package,
which adds a black mesh grille and gloss black mirror caps. They’re joined by
black 18-inch alloy wheels that contrast with red brake calipers.
In terms of size, the Envista measures 4,638 mm long, 1,816 mm wide, and 1,565 mm tall with a wheelbase that spans 2,700 mm. This means
the model is slightly longer than the Envision, but has a 79 mm shorter wheelbase. Moving into the cabin, drivers will find a freestanding
10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a matching 10.25-inch infotainment
system. The latter features Baidu navigation, an all-new Baidu intelligent
voice command system, wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility, and support for
over-the-air updates.
Buick went on to say the model has a
leather-wrapped dashboard, black trim, and chrome accents. Other highlights
include a flat bottom steering wheel, a wireless smartphone charger, a Tune
Melody surround sound system, and “suede-wrapped seats featuring custom
stitching [to] enhance the premium feeling.” Buick didn’t delve into specifics,
but said the model rides on “GM’s new-generation compact SUV platform” and
features a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 181 hp. The latter is connected to a continuously variable
transmission and this enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-100
km/h in 7.9 seconds.
Buick is currently accepting orders in
China, where pricing starts at ¥ 150,000 (US$ 21,828 / £ 18,605 / € 21,903).
