With the average price of a new car currently hovering close to $50,000, it’s worth a shout-out when an automaker introduces a new model that costs about half as much. And when it has contemporary, cool styling, it’s even more deserving of a kudo.
Buick’s Envista, new for ’24, is a compact crossover SUV. It has a surprisingly roomy cabin that seats four comfortably and, with the rear seats folded down, enough cargo space to carry, say, a bicycle.
The handsome interior features a nicely integrated 19-inch combo digital instrument cluster and touch screen.
Cabin entry and exit is easy, and the interior is library-like serene, thanks to Buick’s noise-canceling technology. Standard equipment on every Envista includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, plus several advanced driver-assistance systems, including lane-keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking, and rear parking assistance.
The Envista also comes with a compact spare tire, an important yet increasingly rare item in new cars.
Is the Envista too good to be true? Well, its 3-cylinder engine (yes, three) delivers commendable fuel economy but not a lot of high-speed passing power. Don’t expect to tow anything, either, and AWD isn’t available. But if you’re okay with these limitations, the Envista is a compelling buy.
