2026 Buick Envista

If you want the efficiency, utility and city-friendly footprint of a small crossover in a stylish package, the 2026 Buick Envista should be on your shopping list. Sharing its platform and powertrain with the Chevrolet Trax — another subcompact SUV we like — the Envista comes standard with a turbocharged three-cylinder engine that delivers better-than-average acceleration and a smooth, responsive driving experience around town. Inside, the Envista features a large curved display that serves as a digital instrument panel and central infotainment touchscreen. The back seat is reasonably spacious for a small SUV, but the cargo area takes a hit thanks to the Envista's sleek-looking but volume-limiting raked roofline.

Edmunds spotlight: Entry-level never looked so good

When it was introduced in 2023, the Envista slotted beneath the Encore GX pricewise in Buick's lineup to become the brand's new entry-level SUV. Though it has the lower starting price, the Envista is actually bigger than the Encore GX, with an increased wheelbase and measuring nearly a foot longer overall. That means more legroom for front and rear passengers. It also sets itself apart with a coupe-style sloping roofline that gives it a striking silhouette. Combine that with a shark-nose front end and a pair of aggressively slanted headlights, and it almost looks like a mini Lamborghini Urus.

Competitors to consider

The Envista competes with other subcompact crossovers on the market, including the Mazda CX-30, Volkswagen Taos, Honda HR-V and the mechanically similar Chevy Trax. But perhaps its closest rival is the model just above it in the Buick SUV hierarchy: the Encore GX. Though it's smaller with less legroom, the Encore GX has more cargo space thanks to its more conventionally styled rear end. It also offers a more powerful engine option and available all-wheel drive — something you can't get on the Envista.

The 2026 Buick Envista is one of the more charismatic vehicles at its price point, and it comes with a generous list of features. It's roomy inside for a small SUV and has enough turbocharged punch to not feel slow on city streets (though passing at highway speeds can be a challenge). As long as you don't need all-wheel drive and can get by with less luggage space, the Envista is a solid pick.