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The Buick Envision finds itself in a tough spot. General Motors has been exporting the model to the U.S. since 2016. But with the on-going trade-war between the U.S. and China, it means the Envision could smacked with a 25% percent tariff. That is why GM is asking for exemption on the model. In a statement provided to Reuters, GM said that it filed the exemption request on July 30th to the U.S. Trade Representative. In the request, GM makes some sound arguments as to why the Envision should be excluded. Price is major factor. If the vehicle is hit with a 25 percent tariff, GM would be forced to pull it from the U.S. unless it wants to a take serious loss on each model. Why not build it here? The Envision has been a target of critics of Chinese-made goods, including leaders of UAW. GM explains that the sales volume of the Envision doesn't justify moving it to the U.S. Last year, Buick only sold 41,040 Envisions in the U.S. In China, Buick moved about 210,000 models. In addition, the current Envision is reaching the end of its current lifecycle before the company could make the preparations to build the model here. GM also makes the argument that the loss of the Envision would put them in a distinct disadvantage against foreign competitors such as Acura and Volvo. You can check out GM's request on regulations.gov website, which is tracking requests for exclusions from the Section 301 tariff. If the Envision does get hit with a 25 percent tariff, GM has already taken some steps to relieve some of the pain. Before the higher import tariffs went into affect, GM shipped in a six-month supply of Envisions that would be hit with the much smaller 2.5 percent tariff. This should keep dealers happy in terms of stock and not having to deal with a higher price. Source: Reuters, Regulations.gov View full article

Buick has pulled back the curtain on the refreshed 2019 Envision crossover. It may seem crazy for a brand to refresh their model only a couple years after its debut. But we need to remember that Buick has been selling the Envision in China since 2014, so it is about the time when a refresh takes place. The big news is with the transmission. A nine-speed automatic becomes standard on turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder. It's a nice pairing, especially since Buick has upped the torque figure from 260 to 295 pound-feet. Horsepower remains at 252. Sadly, the base 2.5L four-cylinder sticks with a six-speed automatic. There are some minor changes for the Envision's exterior with a new winged front grille, HID headlights becoming standard on all trims, larger taillights, and new designs for the alloy wheels. Pricing for the 2019 Envision is about $2,000 less on all trims compared to the 2018 model. This means the 2019 Envision begins at $32,990 (doesn't include destination). Source: Buick Press Release is on Page 2 Customer-Driven Updates Define 2019 Buick Envision New design, performance and tech features starting at $32,990 DETROIT — Refined design cues, responsive performance enhancements and intelligent technology expand on the Envision’s growing popularity. The 2019 Envision features a newly sculpted front and rear, signature grille and new wheel choices. With a focus on quality and safety, the design and engineering teams also welcomed input from current Envision owners to enhance the vehicle. “Some of the 2019 Envision’s most notable changes are the results of listening to our customers,” said Elizabeth Pilibosian, Envision chief engineer. “Beneath the updated exterior are a number of changes guided by a goal of offering the most refined and pleasant driving experience possible.” Envision highlights New nine-speed automatic transmission for 2.0L turbo models. Buick now offers this innovative transmission on five models across the lineup. 2.0L turbo engine offers increased vehicle performance of 252 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The engine and transmission updates produce 0-60 mph acceleration just under a half-second quicker than the 2018 model. Engine stop/start deactivation switch — a Buick first in North America. Single rate brake booster for improved overall brake performance that requires less effort. Flexibility to switch between Adaptive Cruise Control and conventional Cruise Control. Enhanced visibility on Rear Vision Camera. Improved hands-free microphone for better call quality and better voice recognition. The seat heating system warms up more quickly. Next-generation wireless charging with wattage capability for fast and efficient charging, including iPhone8/iPhoneX compatibility. Lighting upgrades across all trims: HID headlights standard on 2.5L models, bi-functional LED headlamps on 2.0L turbo models and LED wing signature lights on every model. In-vehicle air ionizer that helps eliminate odors, reduce bacteria and provide better air quality. Focus on the customer Initial owner feedback and solid sales growth indicate the Buick Envision is delivering the luxury and features desired by compact SUV customers. Refinements across the 2019 Envision are aimed at providing the best that the vehicle offers, plus the flexibility and options customers desire most at a price point true to Buick’s attainable luxury promise. Pricing starts at $32,990 (excludes tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment). All trim levels have been adjusted toward the heart of the premium compact SUV market, further positioning the Envision to capture the interest of loyal Buick owners looking to move up to the next-sized compact SUV and conquest buyers who are considering Buick for the first time. “The Envision brings a tremendous growth opportunity for the Buick brand,” said Sam Russell, Buick marketing director. “The new pricing strategy not only puts the Envision in the heart of the industry’s largest segment, but also better positions it in relation to Encore, our top-selling nameplate.” Nearly 60 percent of all Encore buyers come from outside General Motors. These new-to-Buick customers are increasingly return buyers, with nearly half of them likely to trade in their vehicle to buy another Buick SUV. In addition to attracting new customers to the Buick brand, the 2019 Envision is designed with these existing Encore customers’ evolving needs and preferences in mind. Thoughtfully refined, inside and out The Envision’s exterior has a sculpted front fascia, new grille and headlamps that align with the new face of Buick. Crisp horizontal lines on the front create a more premium look and feel, while redesigned taillamps, reflectors and side markers give the back end a wider and more athletic stance. New optional 19-inch wheels provide an expressive and distinct profile. Premium lighting technology is featured on every 2019 Envision. HID headlamps with LED Buick signature lighting come standard, with the enhanced performance of bi-functional LED headlamps standard on the top two trims. Under the hood, the Envision offers a balance of performance and efficiency with a nine-speed transmission on 2.0L turbo models that allows for an increase in torque from 260 lb-ft to 295 lb-ft and an improvement in acceleration. A 2.5L inline four-cylinder engine mated with a six-speed automatic remains the standard powertrain for the 2019 Envision and goes unchanged from previous model years. It is offered in front- or all-wheel-drive configurations. Driven by customer feedback, the 2019 Envision is equipped with a non-latching stop/start deactivation switch on the instrument panel that allows the driver to choose whether to use the auto-stop function. The calibration of the Envision’s stop/start technology has also been refined for an even more seamless experience. The 2019 Envision offers a Buick-first Tire Fill Alert that lets a driver know when a tire has reached its recommended pressure level. Other standard features include Buick’s signature QuietTuning; 10 airbags1, including side curtain and knee airbags; Rear Park Assist; and newly added Rear Seat Reminder2. Available features include Surround Vision, Safety Alert Seat and Forward Automatic Braking, among others3. Every Envision comes equipped with an 8-inch diagonal infotainment system with Apple CarPlay4 and Android Auto5 compatibility, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot6 (an unlimited data plan for $20 per month7 is available through AT&T after trial period), a limited trial of OnStar8 and connectivity access at no additional cost. Along with other benefits such as the myBuick app9, the connectivity access features Smart Driver, an opt-in service designed to help Buick owners become better drivers. The 2019 Envision goes on sale in the spring of 2018 and will be available in five trim levels starting at Envision ($32,990), Preferred ($34,495), Essence ($36,795), Premium ($41,695) and Premium II ($44,595). Prices exclude tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. View full article

G. David Felt Staff Writer Alternative Energy - www.CheersandGears.com 2016 Buick Envision Test Drive! June 23rd 2016 started off like most days, up at 4am, in the shower, on the 4:48am 511 bus into Seattle, breakfast at my desk while reviewing email. Work focused and getting things done. A little over 3 hours later I get a call from my local Buick GMC dealership that the Buick Envisions they got in last week are all ready and on the lot for people to come see, test drive, etc. Text message to my sister who has a 2002 Mazda 6 that she is ready to retire that the Buick dealership had the Envision in stock, equipped the way she wanted it and we could test drive it. Her desire is a mid-size to compact CUV with AWD, heated steering wheel, zone control for temp, auto lift gate in back, ability to connect her phone via Bluetooth minimum that she can use for work as she is a Hospice in home nurse and for getting away to the mountains for skiing. Her choices of auto’s to consider is the Honda CR-V, Toyota Rav4, Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain, Cadillac SRX, Lexus RX 350 and she was willing to look at the Buick Envision. Being the family auto nut, I have helped everyone in my family buy their auto’s even if it was not something I myself would buy. Test drove over the weekend the Honda and Toyota and they were crossed off her list as they did not have certain features she was wanting plus NOISY. Yup they are very noisy compared to other auto’s out there. She test drove then the Chevy and GMC to compare, GMC was too butch for her, she liked the Chevy but wanted to finish test driving her list. Next came the Cadillac SRX, except for the gas mileage it hit everything on her list including she loved the seat extensions that support long legged people as she is 6’2” tall average size for my family. Next was the Lexus, solid drive but again gas mileage was a concern for her as she lives in her car driving it all over daily. The inside front seat area was nice but she saw I was straddling the seats in front, rear seat room is lacking for tall people and no zone temp control or radio like much lesser models from other vendors. The amount of hard plastic inside was also very disappointing as the CUV is considered a luxury level but had a very Toyota look and feel to it. We headed to the Buick dealership to only be informed that the person who told me on the phone they had the Envision in stock was wrong and they had none. As it was a late long Saturday, we headed back to my house and she stopped at the Acura dealership to check out the RDX. That became a failure from the word go as the sales person when asked about things like heated steering wheel, heated and cooled seats, rear zone control, etc. he just said no no no no. So she wrote off even taking a test drive in the Acura. So 6 days later after starting this quest of test driving and answering questions for my sister on CUVs we finally get to test drive the Buick Envision. We were both excited to see how this stacked up against all the other CUVs she had driven to date. The dealership had 3 Envisions in stock, two black models one with Premium and one with Premium II and a Red or what they call Saffron Red Premium in stock. Editorial Note: For some reason my old Note 3 phone did not take as sharp as it had in the past photos and I did not realize this till this morning. The dealer pulled the Premium II Black model into the showroom for us to check it out as it was a torrential downpour. Started off with the Engine bay, a nice clean package of the Turbo 4 SIDI motor. Nice that they have gone back to the Dual shocks to hold the engine hood up. Everything seemed to be clearly marked and easy to check for maintenance. I did notice and check out that all fuses are in the engine bay now on the right side behind the battery and to the right of it. Everything else was pretty simple to identify, check for fluid levels etc. I noticed that Buick built a double wall insulated hood. Next was onto the inside. Navigation system was nice, easy to manage and use, all screen controls responded with no lag time and all tactile buttons were very nice and did what they were responsible for. Dash was lovely with the wood trim and everything else was either leather or soft rubber squishiness. It gave a solid feel to the touch and yet warm also, nothing being cold and hard. Cup holders were lit by LED lights for easier viewing especially at night. There was plenty of USB outlets with two on the back control section for temperature and still included the traditional cigarette lighter plug. The two vents for either heat or cooling worked very well and were whisper quiet. The center storage system was nice with the two USB plugs, stereo jack plug and the SD card slot plus the Cigarette outlet. As you can see in the picture below, split armrest allows for you to still get into the storage even when the passenger is resting their arm on the rest. Over all flow was very good for the center stack. Doors had nice leather accents, everything was soft and tactile feel warm to the touch. Nothing hard about the interior for either the front or rear seating people. The rear seats were also the most comfortable out of all these CUV’s and the hardest least comfortable was the Lexus. Surprising that the Toyota Rav4 rear seats were more comfy than its luxury cousin. Surprise of many was that with the seat in the front set for me, I got into the back and still had about 4 inches from my knees to the back of the front seat. Compared to all the other CUVs Lisa had test drove so far, the Envision has a huge amount of rear leg room. People will be very comfy for the long drive. You can even recline the rear seat, two settings and get even more comfortable. Also if you do have the rear door open and need to put down the rear seats so you can get something long into the auto, Buick made it very easy with chrome plated pull handles, one on each side of the rear storage area wall which auto puts down the seat, headrest etc. giving you a very large interior storage area. Access to the rear tire was easy and they had a large variety of storage areas under the rear storage floor for your use. Driving started with a surprise, while very quiet from outside the car when running, you cannot hear the motor inside the car. Since the Sales rep pulled the car out of the dealership sales floor, my sister and I got into the car just outside for her to drive it. I sat in back. She started it up then the sales guy wanted to go over the auto with her. So she stopped and listened to him. When we finally went there was a noticeable little rumble but that was it. She pulled down to the street to go and took off. This little Turbo 4 has plenty of get up and go power. Never strained and you can feel the Torque where it counts in the seat as you feel a gentle push back into the chair. We took it onto the freeway where the Envision showed no strain at getting up to highway speed and moving about. My sister loved the blind spot warning in the side mirrors, she also loved the rumble seat reminder when she got close to either side lines on the road. Exiting the freeway a few miles down the road impressed me with just how quiet Buicks Quiet package is, you do not have wind noise, nor do you have street wheel noise coming into the cabin. Overall a very quiet, serene ride. Next we hit the local neighborhood and she was able to try out the backup camera in a parallel parking attempt. This has always been a problem for my sister and yet on the first try, she got parked using the side mirrors which turn down in reverse and the backup camera. She felt the rear of the seat rumble as she got close to the car behind her. She ended up being about 8 inches away from the curb. Overall a success for her first attempt. With this done, she went to pull out and for the 3rd or 4th time felt the little rumble and finally asked what that was. The sales guy said what was what, but I realized it was the auto start / stop of the engine. Since we were only idling at the parallel parking spot and she had it in drive, the engine had turned off. It did this in the local heavy traffic also trying to save fuel,we then headed back to the dealership. One last final surprise was a mini cooper pulled out of a side street and clearly did not see us and yet the Buick Envision handled it with total confidence. The drive was a tranquil, serene success. Wish I had taken more pictures, but you guys have for the most part seen everything from Buick that has been posted. Hit me up with Questions as the 1hr time spent with the Envision left me with a WOW facture of just how great Buick has stepped up to offer a CUV that clearly trumps the competition.

Last week, we brought you details on the pricing structure on 2016 Buick Envision. We also learned some information about the 2017 model, including the base price, engine, and trim levels. Car and Driver has done a bit more digging and was able to pull some more details on the 2017 Envision. We know that the base Envision will carry a sticker price of $34,990 (includes destination). From there, the prices increase to $36,975 for the Preferred and $38,645 for the Essence. All three trims feature the same 2.5L four-cylinder with 197 horsepower and 192 pound-feet. This engine comes paired with a six-speed automatic and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is only available on the Preferred and Essence. The standard equipment list is extensive with automatic climate control, a backup camera, heated seats, and remote start standard across the range. The mid-range models get heated rear seats, blind spot warning, and leather as options. Source: Car and Driver View full article

When the Buick Envision hits dealers in June, you'll only be able to get it in the two highest trims, along with a turbo engine and all-wheel drive. We first learned about this back at the Detroit Auto Show when speaking with a Buick representative and now we have more details. According to Automotive News, the 2016 Envision will start at $42,995 for the Premium I trim and $45,635 for the Premium II trim. Both prices include destination. These models will feature a 2.0 turbocharged four-cylinder with 252 horsepower and all-wheel drive. Now if those prices scare you, don't fret. The 2016 Envision will only be sold between June and October. After that, the 2017 Envision will arrive at dealers with an expanded lineup with three other trims. Prices for the 2017 model will begin at $34,990 for the base model. The base and other two trims - Preferred and Essence - will get a 2.5L four-cylinder with 197 horsepower. Expect a choice of front or all-wheel drive for these models. We'll have more details when Buick officially announces Envision pricing hopefully in the near future. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

A vehicle that many Buick dealers and a number of us here at Cheers & Gears have been wanting for a while could finally be arriving next year. Automotive News and the Wall Street Journal report that the Buick Envision will be coming to the U.S. Sources tell AN that General Motors is likely to green light the Envision for export to the U.S. as early as late spring. The Wall Street Journal says the company is targeting annual sales of 30 to 40,000 Envisions per year. Now the Envision would be the first vehicle sold by the Detroit 3 that is imported from China. It will not be the first Chinese-built vehicle sold in the U.S., that honor goes to Volvo with the S60 Inscription. Back in August, the UAW was not pleased with the possibility of GM exporting the Envision from China, saying it was 'alarming'. But the Journal says GM and the UAW "appear to have come to an understanding” after talking about it during contract negotiations. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Wall Street Journal View full article

A few days ago we reported that the 2016 Buick Envision would be sold in All-Wheel drive format only. This was both true and false. After the reveal of the 2016 Buick Avista concept, I sat down with a Buick representative to discuss the Envision for a bit. It is true that the 2016 model year of the Buick Envision will only be available in all-wheel drive, 2.0T engines, and premium group packages. However, it will be a short model run. The 2017 updates will follow a few months after launch when an additional engine, front wheel drive, and additional packages will be made available. Even after those updates, the 2.0T will still only be available with all-wheel drive. In China, the Envision offered with a 1.6 liter turbo and front-wheel drive. The rep from Buick indicated that it was unlikely that this powertrain combination is going to make the swim across the Pacific, so expect something in between the 200 hp 1.6T and the 260hp 2.0T offerings. We'll note that GM currently does not have any 4-cylinder offering in between those two powerplants in terms of power, so it could end up being an engine that is not yet released. We will have more details for the 2016 and 2017 Envision closer to launch time. You can follow all of our 2016 Detroit Auto Show Reports here. Buick Press Release from November 18 is on Page 2 Buick Introduces Envision Luxury Crossover Clean-sheet approach yields luxury compact crossover designed for confident ride-and-handling performance Dynamic interior with high level of standard content, great attention to detail and latest technologies Strong, efficient performance includes stop/start feature on 2.0L turbo engine LOS ANGELES – Buick today introduced the 2016 Envision – an all-new, technology-infused luxury compact crossover that expands the brand’s portfolio with segment-challenging driving dynamics, advanced technology, connectivity and Buick’s trademark interior acoustics. It is a global vehicle, designed from the ground up as a Buick luxury compact crossover. It goes on sale in the U.S. in the second quarter of 2016. “The all-new Buick Envision is a modern, confident and responsive luxury compact crossover that combines the brand’s core characteristics with performance features never seen on a crossover,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Buick. “That dynamic experience behind the wheel is complemented by Buick’s signature luxury, whisper-quiet cabin and connectivity features that make it a crossover that customers are going to love as drivers and passengers.” Vehicle highlights include: LED daytime running lamps and rear LED accent lights Efficiency-enhancing features including upper grille shutters that open and close to enhance aerodynamics on the highway and a body structure incorporating mass-reducing high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels – and a lightweight aluminum hood Standard heated front seats and standard heated rear seat Sliding, 60/40-split rear seat, offering the flexibility of more legroom for second-row passengers Kneeling cushions in the second-row seat enable a flatter load floor when the seat is folded 252-horsepower (186 kW) 2.0L turbo engine with stop/start technology, matched with Buick’s first crossover vehicle application of HiPer Strut front suspension and Buick’s first active Twin Clutch AWD system Standard Safety Alert Seat and Lane Keep Assist, as well as available Advanced Active Park Assist, and Surround Vision 360-degree camera system IntelliLink with 8-inch color touch screen, Text Messaging Alerts and Siri Eyes Free Available OnStar with 4G LTE and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot Programmable power liftgate with hands-free operation Active noise cancelation. · Nineteen-inch aluminum wheels are standard. The Envision is also designed to carry more than its competitors, with more rear cargo space than the Acura RDX and the Lincoln MKC. It’s also roomier for passengers, with more rear legroom, front and rear shoulder room, and overall Environmental Protection Agency-rated passenger volume than the MKC. “The Envision rounds out a lineup of crossovers that has helped change customer opinions about the brand,” said Aldred. “Enclave was the cornerstone of the brand’s renaissance, while the Encore was an early entry among small luxury crossovers and has been an unqualified hit for Buick since its introduction.” Design rewards with attention to detail Designers and engineers were given a clean slate to develop the Envision and they employed supercomputer technologies to help make the most of the architecture for strength, stiffness and quietness. Every aspect of the vehicle’s design and its effect on refinement was taken into consideration – even the available panoramic moonroof was designed for lower wind noise when open. “The Envision represents a compromise-free design that enabled the development team to do the things luxury customers appreciate,” said Judy Brennan, chief engineer. “Our attention to detail yielded tremendous strength and stiffness of the platform, which is evident in exceptional ride and handling characteristics.” The clean-sheet design and stiff structure helped eliminate an estimated 22 pounds (10 kg) of add-on material to create whisper-quiet interior acoustics. And while those attributes lie beneath the Envision’s skin, the skin itself is instantly recognizable as a Buick crossover with contemporary proportions, flowing lines and detailed surface features. “There is tension in the Envision’s design that reflects elegant athleticism, rendering a planted stance that enhances driver confidence,” says Bryan Nesbitt, global executive director, Buick design. “It’s dynamic and youthful, with features that support the vehicle’s technologically advanced ambience.” Those features include Buick’s signature winged headlamps and standard heated outside mirrors with LED turn signal indicators. Articulating Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps are available. There’s also a rear spoiler atop the liftgate designed to improve aerodynamic performance. The liftgate features standard programmable power assist and touchless activation. The user simply waves his or her foot near a sensor beneath the fascia to activate the power-assisted liftgate. Dynamic passenger environment The Envision’s interior features a “floating,” wraparound instrument panel sweeps into the door panels, for a flowing, organic and inviting appearance that complements the exterior. It houses a bold gauge cluster featuring two large binnacles with analog instruments and a central digital display for the speedometer and readouts of additional information. “To put it simply, the Envision’s cabin combines beauty with innovation,” said Nesbitt. “It telegraphs dynamism like nothing else in the segment. Everywhere you touch is a stitched, soft surface,” said Nesbitt. “And everything you touch is designed for intuitive, effortless functionality.” The large center console storage bin features damped dual wing-type doors that provide easier, less-obstructed access and allow the driver or passengers – even those in the rear – to access the storage bin without disturbing the other. Also, the heating and air conditioning vents are positioned at the bottom of the center stack, moving the climate and infotainment controls – as well as the eight-inch diagonal color touch screen – higher for easier, more intuitive operation. Additional interior features include: Passive entry and push-button start with standard remote start Standard eight-way power-adjustable front seats and four-way-adjustable lumbar – including available adjustable thigh support on some models that enhances comfort for taller passengers Standard heated front seats and standard heated rear seat Available cooled front seats and standard heated steering wheel Standard eight-inch-diagonal, reconfigurable color driver information center and available full color head-up display Dual-zone climate control with console-mounted rear-seat vents; and standard tri-zone climate control with rear-seat controls Standard Bose premium sound system Available panoramic moonroof. Technology and connectivity The new Envision offers Buick IntelliLink with Text Messaging Alerts and Siri Eyes Free, as well as available OnStar with 4G LTE with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. Text Messaging Alerts for smartphone users with compatible Bluetooth technology reads incoming texts through the vehicle’s speakers, and Siri Eyes Free for iPhones running iOS6 or higher gives users enhanced connectivity and convenience. Each enables voice-controlled connectivity, to help keep phones in pockets and hands on the wheel. An eight-inch-diagonal IntelliLink color touch screen is the contact point for much of the Envision’s technology and connectivity. Itprovides intuitive operation of basic functions, yet is capable of linking up to 10 Bluetooth devices such as smartphones, as well as SD cards and MP3 players. Four USB ports, four 12-volt outlets and a 120-volt outlet are included. A new steering wheel for Buick debuts in the Envision, featuring thumb-operated toggle switches that make it easy to scroll through the IntelliLink menus and vehicle features in the driver information center. Powertrain and performance The 2016 Envision features a standard 2.0L turbo engine SAE certified at 252 horsepower (186 kW) and 260 lb-ft of torque (353 Nm), which is more standard horsepower and torque than an Audi Q5. It is paired with a third-generation six-speed automatic transmission with TAPShift revised to deliver more refined shift performance. Performance and efficiency is enhanced with Stop/Start technology – Buick’s first application on the 2.0L turbo engine. It seamlessly shuts down the engine when the Envision comes to a stop under certain driving conditions, such as a stoplight. The engine automatically restarts when the driver takes his or her foot off the brake. The 2.0L turbo engine is offered exclusively with AWD, giving the Envision performance consistent with vehicle’s ride and handling capabilities. The turbocharger features a twin-scroll design that helps the engine deliver a broad torque band, for a greater feeling of power on demand. Ninety percent of peak torque is available from 1,800 rpm to 5,500 rpm and the full 260 lb-ft of peak torque from 3,000 to 4,000 rpm. The engine is designed with refinement-enhancing features such as balance shafts and sound-attenuating components; and is isolated on a hydraulically damped substructure that helps quell noise and vibration. Four powertrain mounts are used rather than the conventional three. Ride and handling The Envision’s robust structure is the foundation for a balanced and confident driving experience. Buick’s HiPer Strut front suspension provides more linear and communicative steering through improved camber control and improved impact isolation on bumps and rough surfaces. It’s a feature inspired by the athletic Regal GS sedan and that is not currently offered on any crossover vehicle, including competitors such as the Audi Q5. A standard four-link independent rear suspension is designed to minimize unwanted toe and camber effects during spirited driving maneuvers, enhancing stability. Isolating hydraulic mounts are used front and rear to further reduce noise and vibration that could reach the passenger compartment. The Envision features Buick’s first active Twin Clutch AWD system designed to make the most of handling and stability in all driving conditions. It is a fully automatic, on-demand system engineered to deliver sure-footed handling in low-grip conditions, while also contributing to a quieter and smoother ride with minimal torque transferred to the rear wheels when all-wheel-drive traction isn’t needed. It uses a hydraulically actuated, pump-based system that provides clutch-clamping forces before the vehicle even begins to move. For example, on wet surfaces when the vehicle pulls away from a stop, the system will have already engaged the clutches by looking at torque to analyze the driver’s intentions. The technology allows the vehicle to respond before a slip occurs, rather than just reacting to slip. Additionally, a premium, variable-effort electric power rack-and-pinion steering gear from Bosch Automotive Steering Systems enables effortless low-speed maneuvers and a higher degree of steering feel at higher speeds. The system also includes crosswind stabilization road-shake compensation that enhances smoothness. Safety features The Envision offers 360 degrees of available passive and active safety technology, including 10 standard air bags, available Automatic Park Assist, available Surround Vision camera system and Buick’s first use of Lane Keep Assist, which is standard. They complement a body structure composed of 63 percent high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels, which forms a protective cage around the passenger compartment. Automatic Park Assist measures a suitable parallel or perpendicular parking spot and steers the vehicle into it, while Lane Keep Assist helps the driver keep the vehicle in the lane with an automatic steering adjustment when an inadvertent lane departure is detected. A rearview camera is standard, while the available Surround Vision provides an overhead view of the Envision that enhances the driver’s vision at low speeds, such as parking and reversing. Additional 2016 model year standard and available safety features include: Standard Side-curtain and knee air bags Standard Safety Alert Seat, which pulses to alert the driver about a possible crash Standard Front Park Assist, Lane Change Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert Standard Following Distance Indicator Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control Standard Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brake force distribution Standard Cornering brake control and brake assist. Available Full Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control Available Collision Mitigation Braking Safety and security features also include OnStar technology with Advanced Crash Response System, emergency assistance and more. 2016 BUICK ENVISION PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS Overview Model: 2016 Buick Envision Body style / driveline: four-door, five-passenger compact crossover; front engine transaxle, all-wheel drive Construction: steel body frame integral (unibody) with front and rear crumple zones; galvanized steel front fenders, roof, door panels, one-piece bodyside outer panel, aluminum hood, thermal plastic olefin (TPO) bumper fascias EPA vehicle class: SUV Manufacturing location: Yantai, China Key competitors: Acura RDX, Audi Q5, Lincoln MKC Engines Type: Ecotec 2.0L DOHC I-4 VVT DI Turbocharged Displacement (cu. in. / cc): 122 / 1998 Bore & stroke (in. / mm): 3.39 x 3.39 / 86 x 86 Block material: cast aluminum Cylinder head material: cast aluminum Valvetrain: DOHC, four-valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing Valve lifters: hydraulic roller finger follower Ignition system: coil-on-plug Fuel delivery: high-pressure direct injection and electronic throttle control Compression ratio: 9.5:1 Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 252 / 186 (est.) Torque (lb.-ft. / Nm @ rpm): 260 / 353 (est.) Recommended fuel: premium recommended but not required Max. engine speed (fuel cut-off): 6800 rpm Emissions controls: close-coupled, catalytic converter, positive crankcase ventilation; evaporative system Additional features: extended-life spark plugs; extended-life coolant EPA-estimated fuel economy (city / hwy) TBD Transmissions Hydra-Matic 6T70 Type: six-speed transverse, electronically controlled, automatic overdrive Application: standard Gear ratios (:1): First 4.48 Second 2.87 Third 1.84 Fourth 1.41 Fifth 1.00 Sixth 0.74 Reverse 2.88 Final Drive 3.17 Chassis / Suspension Front: Specifically tuned coil springs, direct-acting stabilizer bar (hollow); hydraulic ride bushings; HiPer Strut suspension Rear: Four-link independent rear with hollow stabilizer bar Traction control: all-speed using engine torque reduction and brake intervention Steering type: electric rack-and-pinion power-assisted with cross-wind stabilization and road-shake stabilization Steering wheel turns lock-to-lock: 2.67 Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m): 39.5 / 12 Steering ratio: 15.6 to 1 Brakes Type: four-wheel disc w/ABS and electronic stability control Brake rotor diameter – front (in / mm): 12.6 /321 Brake rotor diameter – rear (in / mm): 12.4 / 315 Wheels / Tires Wheel size and type: 19-inch aluminum Tires: 235/50R19 AL3 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase (in / mm) : 107.9 / 2740 Overall length (in / mm): 183.7 / 4666 Overall width (in / mm): 72.4 / 1839 Overall height (in / mm): 66.8 / 1697 Front track (in / mm): 1575 / 62 Rear track (in / mm): 1575 / 62 Interior Seating capacity (front / rear): 2 / 3 Headroom (in / mm): 39.96 / 1015 (front) 38.5 / 977 (rear) Legroom (in / mm): 40.9 / 1040 (front) 37.5 / 952 (rear) Shoulder room (in / mm): 57.0 / 1448 (front) 55.8 / 1417 (rear) Hip room (in / mm): 54.4 / 1381 (front) 53.1 / 1348 (rear) EPA passenger volume (cu ft / L) : 100.6 / 2849 EPA interior volume (cu ft / L): 127.5 / 3610.6 Cargo volume (cu ft / L): 26.9 / 761 (behind rear seat) 57.3 / 1622 (rear seat folded) Capacities Fuel tank (gal / L): 17.3 / 65.5 Engine oil (qt / L): 6.0 / 5.7 Curb weight (lb / kg): 4047 / 183 Trailering rating (lb / kg): 1500 / 680 Note: Information shown is current at time of publication. 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Buick will be unveiling the 2016 Buick Envision on Sunday at a preview event before the 2016 Detroit Auto Show. One piece of information we dug up is on the drive configuration. According to the VIN card for 2017, the U.S. market Envision will only be available in All-Wheel Drive while we already know that Chinese market vehicles can be configured with just front-wheel drive. Knowing that VIN cards can change as products are finalized, I e-mailed a Buick rep to confirm. He got back to me quickly, confirming that yes, the Envision will be available in only two trim lines, Premium Group 1 and Premium Group 2, both only available in All-Wheel drive. Looking at other Buick models, the Premium Groups are the top of the line, coming standard with leather and lots of luxury features. The 2015 Buick Lacrosse with the Premium Group 1 package is a $7,134 upgrade over the base model. An Enclave with Premium Group is an $8,450 upgrade over base. While pricing hasn't been announced yet, with only Premium Group models available, expect the Envision entry price to be a significant jump in base price over the smaller base Encore. Part of the reason for the limited options groups is that Buick is only expecting to import about 60,000 Envisions per year from China. With most other Buick models skewing heavily towards the upper end of their respective ranges, it makes sense for Buick to send only the best equipped models. Back to the power train, the Envision will be available only with a 2.0 liter, direct injected turbo 4-cylinder which produces 260 lb-ft of torque over a broad RPM range and 252 horsepower fed through GM's standard issue 6-speed auto. The AWD system will be the same as in the coming 2017 Buick LaCrosse. It is a dual-clutch system that can transfer power from side-to-side in the rear wheels and Buick promises to be as fast acting as it is efficient. Also standard GM's HiPer Strut front suspension which when combined with the AWD means there is no torque steer. We will have more Buick Envision information for you as we get closer to its official unveiling on January 10th. In the meantime, you can follow all 2016 Detroit Auto Show news here. View full article

The go-ahead has been given and next summer, Buick will launch the Envision crossover. According to Automotive News, Buick's chief Duncan Aldred told members of the Buick National Dealer Council yesterday and was planning to announce it to the rest of Buick's dealers today. Aldred confirmed the decision in an interview today. “Talk about a catalyst for the Buick brand and for volume growth. We’re putting in what I believe is a class-leading vehicle in the heart of the U.S. auto industry. This is massive for Buick,” said Aldred. Dealers have been wanting the Envision for quite a while now as it would fill a gap between the subcompact Encore and full-size Enclave. The vehicle will be exported from China, which will draw the ire of some. The U.S.-Spec Envision will come with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder paired with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. A two-wheel drive version with a different engine is being considered for the future. The Envision will be the first GM model to use a new global compact platform. This platform will also underpin the next-generation Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain, which are expected to go on sale in 2017. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

We know the latest product that Buick dealers will be getting in the near future is the Cascada convertible starting sometime early next year. But what comes after that? Automotive News has done some sleuthing and has come up with possible timeline of what to expect from 2016 to 2019. 2016 First up is a redesign of the Buick Verano that will likely appear in the second half of 2016. The model is expected to grow in length and interior size. Either a 1.4T or 1.5T will be the base engine, while a new version of the 2.0T will be available. Next is the LaCrosse which will get a full redesign that will go on sale next fall. Spy shots show the model grow in size. The new LaCrosse will be based on the new Chevrolet Malibu. Four-cylinders engines are being debated for the powertrain, along with a hybrid. The long-awaited Envision crossover will be coming in the fall. Finishing up 2016 is a refresh of the Encore subcompact crossover. Interior updates are also planned. 2017 The second-generation Regal will go into production sometime in 2017. The model will grow in size to give some space between it and the Verano. A 1.5T is expected to be the base engine, followed by the 2.0T. In the cards is a diesel engine and a wagon. Midyear will see the second-generation Enclave. The new model will use the new, lighter platform that will underpin the Chevrolet Traverse. 2018 We know that it has been rumored that Buick will be getting the Opel Adam, but not until the second-generation model. Automotive News says it could happen in 2018 or sometime thereafter. 2019 A redesign of the Encore is expected to happen. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

If there is one vehicle that Buick dealers would like, it would be a model to slip between the subcompact Encore and full-size Enclave crossovers. Buick does have such a model, the compact Envision crossover which has been on sale in China since last year. In fact, some Buick dealers were polled about this very vehicle back in 2013. Two years on, many are scratching their heads as to why the Envision isn't here. "It would fit perfectly in the Buick lineup at a time when crossover sales are growing fast. I'm sure a lot of Buick dealers wish they had it today," said Jack Nerad, executive market analyst at Kelley Blue Book. Now many believe that the Envision will be coming to the U.S. sometime next year. According to Automotive News, it's likely that the Envision will be imported from China. This will likely be GM's first Chinese vehicle to be imported to the U.S. But there are some complications to this. First, General Motors is in the middle of negotiating a new contract with the UAW. Union leaders would likely balk at the decision of importing a vehicle from China. Buick is also trying to satisfy the growing demand for crossovers in China. In the first half of 2015, Buick has sold 57,413 Envisions. This puts sales of the Envision on track to over 100,000 units at the end of year. This could mean a limit of how many Envisions can be exported from the Shandong province plant in China. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

Last month, Buick introduced a new crossover for China called the Envision. This new crossover would fit between the Encore and Enclave models Now there have been murmurs of whether or not the Envision would be coming to the U.S. or not. According to Edmunds, the Envision is making the trip to the U.S. next year. According to a insider, the Envision will go sale in the third quarter of 2015. There is talk of a mild-hybrid model for the U.S. market. When asked, Duncan Aldred, vice president of Buick-GMC sales said nothing has been confirmed at the moment. But went onto say that the brand is considering it. Source: Edmunds William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article