The Latest Buick SUV Models Worth Considering

Sandy B
Nov 30, 2020

Making the decision to buy a new or pre-owned car takes comparing dozens of features and finding that one vehicle that checks all of the boxes. The Buick SUV models on the market are exceptional – offering luxury, performance, and a bit of sporty fun that anyone can enjoy.

2020 Buick Enclave - Photo by Buick

What SUV models does Buick make?

The 2020 Buick SUV and crossover models available include:

  • Encore: $23,200 – $26,215
  • Encore GX: $24,100 – $44,495 
  • Encore GX ST: $25,695 – $44,495
  • Envision: $33,500 – $44,795
  • Enclave: $40,000 – $57,295

Are you looking for style, perhaps luxuriously crafted materials inside? Do you need room for 5 or 7? How important is horsepower to you? By the end of this article, you’ll have the ability to choose one vehicle that’s just right for your needs.

The 2020 Buick SUV Models

Encore: $23,200 – $26,215

The bottom trim option, the Encore gives drivers a solid performer. With space for five people and a total of 48.4 cu. ft. of cargo space, it’s designed for everyday use.

That starts with a 1.4-L DOHC turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with its 6-speed automatic transmission hitting 138 horsepower and 148 lb.-ft. of torque.

2020 Buick Encore - Photo by Buick

The Buick QuietTuning tech creates a strong seal around doors and windows, making it easy to reduce noise, while the premium audio system lets you turn up the sound to really enjoy your music. To further relax, check out the available power moonroof – with the touch of the button, the world opens up.

The Buick Infotainment System offers modern features including smartphone connectivity, an available built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and the MyBuick mobile app.

Safety is big at Buick, which is why the Encore features numerous available driver-assist features including Onstar safety and security, a rear vision camera, rear cross-traffic alert, and side blind zone alert.

Encore Specs:

  • 6-speed automatic transmission
  • 1.4L DOHC turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
  • Signature LED Daytime running lamps
  • 10 airbags
  • 4-wheel antilock disc brakes

Encore Safety and Customer Reviews:

  • 5-star Overall Safety Rating at NHTSA
  • Overall “Good” rating at IIHS
  • 4.72-star Owner Revies at Vehicle History
  • 3.9/10 Expert Review at Vehicle History

Encore GX ST: $25,695 – $44,495

A step up is the Encore GX. It has a bit more space (50.2 cu. ft.) but the overall same styling as the previous model with “more.” That includes better features like heated driver front and passenger seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, and a remote vehicle starter.

This vehicle offers two engine options – an Ecotec 1.2-L or a 1.3-L turbo engine. A continuous variable transmission is on board this model, giving it more support and power. You’ll also find StabiliTrak, a feature that automatically adjusts when the traction under the wheels change due to weather condition.

2020 Buick Encore GX ST - Photo by Buick

The 2020 was the first version of the Encore GX made by the company, but it is a solid performer for every-day use. The high-end trim, the Essence, offers a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel and in-vehicle air ionizer, along with numerous upgraded features throughout.

Encore GX ST Specs:

  • Rear Vision Camera
  • Ecotec 1.3L Turbo engine
  • 155 hp at 5,600 rpm
  • 22/29 mpg city and highway
  • 9-speed automatic transmission

Encore GX Safety and Customer Reviews:

  • 5-star Overall Safety Rating at NHTSA
  • Mostly “Good” ratings at IIHS
  • 4.72-star Owner Reviews at Vehicle History
  • 3.9/10 Expert Review at Vehicle History

Envision: $33,500 – $44,795

A bit bigger, but still just for five people, the Envision provides more luxury, more tech, and more power behind the wheel. Its base trim, the 1SV, offers nice upgrades such as reclining and sliding second-row seating and push-button start. Key differences outside include low-profile LED-enhanced taillamps and a unique grille.

The interior feels roomy with 57.3 cu. ft. of max cargo space with 60/40 split folding-flat rear seats. Buick QuietTuning with Active Noise Cancellation is available. The Buick Infotainment System provides a hotspot, wireless smartphone charging, and numerous app options.

2020 Buick Envision - Photo by Buick

In performance, the Envision has two engine options. The first is a 2.5L engine with 197 horsepower (standard) or you can upgrade to the 2.0L turbo engine producing 252 horsepower. Both offer the available active twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system making driving more enjoyable with smooth handling.

Other key features on the Envision include a 9-speed transmission on the 2.0L engine and Stop/Start technology to boost fuel economy a bit. The Adaptive Cruise Control – Advanced feature allows you to set the distance you wish to maintain with the car in front of you to reduce collision risks.

Envision Specs:

  • Seats up to 5
  • 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder engine
  • 4-wheel antilock disc brakes
  • Available all-wheel drive
  • 252 hp at 5500 rpm

Envision Safety and Customer Reviews:

  • 5-star Overall Safety Rating at NHTSA
  • Overall “Good” ratings at IIHS
  • 4.75-star Owner review at Vehicle History
  • 3.6/10 Expert Review at Vehicle History

Enclave: $40,000 – $57,295

The Enclave feels much different than the other models. This vehicle is a true SUV with room for up to seven people. It also gives you more ability on the road including pulling up to 5000 pounds – think small trailer or boat here.

More active safety features are available including automatic emergency braking and lane change alert with side blind zone alert. The connectivity is about the same with a hotspot, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as other apps.

When it comes to power, the Enclaves rates with its 3.6L V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission making 310 horsepower. It has a five-link rear suspension system to improve ride quality and handling and Intelligent All-Wheel Drive with active twin clutch to adjust to traction changes as an available feature.

2020 Buick Enclave - Photo by Buick

There are some nice amenities inside, too, including Smart Slide to make moving seats around to maximize interior space easy to do. Warm wood tones and brushed chrome add more elegance while the available first- and second-row seating with available heating, ventilation, massaging, and leather is excellent.

The in-vehicle air ionizer works to keep the cabin fresher while Buick QuietTuning helps to keep you more in control over the sounds in your car. You can have that quiet conversation with ease.

2020 Enclave Specs:

  • 3.6L V6 engine
  • OnStar and Buick Connected Services
  • 310 hp at 6800 rpm
  • Seats up to 7
  • 187/26 City/Highway mpg

Enclave Safety and Customer Reviews:

  • 5-star Overall Safety Rating at NHTSA
  • Overall “Good” rating at IIHS
  • 4.65-star Owner Review at Vehicle History
  • 4.5/10 Expert Review at Vehicle History

Photos: Buick

avatar Sandy B
Sandy B. has written for The New York Times, Cleveland Magazine, and many online publications. She long-ago ditched the minivan life for the off-roading Ford Explorer (and hoping to restore a Shelby Mustang!)
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