Starting at $31,800, the 2021 Buick Envision is actually cheaper than the model it replaced. Load up an Envision Avenir trim with the Technology package, and the price tops out at around $43,000. Buick clearly positioned the Envision below traditional luxury options like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC. Pricing for those European models starts where the Envision ends, putting the Buick into a “near-luxury” category all on its own. Even the more affordable Japanese options like the Acura RDX and Lexus NX cost significantly more, making the Envision stand out as a bargain with a huge caveat.
While the Envision is cheaper than luxury rivals, it’s priced close to or above fully-optioned mainstream options like the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Toyota RAV4. Some buyers might see the appeal of the premium Buick badge, while others will take the price savings. In our estimation, the Envision Preferred and Essence trims miss too many safety and convenience features that customers crave, making them tougher to recommend. The Avenir trim comes mostly fully loaded at a reasonable price, explaining why one in five buyers opts for this model.