2018 Buick Envision: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

2018 Buick Envision

The 2018 Buick Envision is largely a carryover model. The single notable change is that the Premium I trim was renamed Premium, with no major styling, engine, safety, or technology updates.

Shop 6 in stock at Carvana

About the 2018 Buick Envision

1st generation Envision in the U.S. (2016-2020), pre-refresh middle year; 2018 falls after the 2017 lineup expansion and before the 2019 styling and powertrain update.

Buick positioned the Envision as a compact two-row SUV for shoppers who wanted an upscale cabin, a quiet ride, and easy daily comfort more than sporty handling. It sat between the smaller Encore and larger Enclave, giving buyers a manageable size with generous standard convenience features, smartphone-friendly infotainment, and a calm, insulated feel that set it apart from many mainstream compact SUVs.

The 2018 Envision remains a quiet, comfort-focused compact SUV with five trims. Essence adds leather, heated rear seats, and extra safety features, while Premium brings a turbo engine and AWD. Premium II tops the range with navigation, a head-up display, cooled front seats, and automatic parking assist.

2018 Buick Envision specs and features by trim

Feature
2018 Buick EnvisionBase0 in stock
2018 Buick EnvisionEssence4 in stock
2018 Buick EnvisionPremium0 in stock
2018 Buick EnvisionPreferred1 in stock
2018 Buick EnvisionPremium II1 in stock
Engine4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter
TransmissionAuto, 6-Spd w/DSCAuto, 6-Spd w/DSCAuto, 6-Spd w/DSCAuto, 6-Spd w/DSCAuto, 6-Spd w/DSC
DrivetrainFWDFWDAWDFWDAWD
Fuel TypeGasGasGasGasGas
MPG City22 mpg22 mpg20 mpg22 mpg20 mpg
MPG Highway29 mpg29 mpg26 mpg29 mpg26 mpg
Horsepower197 hp197 hp252 hp197 hp252 hp
Torque192 lb-ft192 lb-ft260 lb-ft192 lb-ft260 lb-ft
Max Towing1500 lb1500 lb1500 lb1500 lb1500 lb
Trunk/Cargo57.3 cu-ft57.3 cu-ft57.3 cu-ft57.3 cu-ft57.3 cu-ft
Rear Legroom37.5 in37.5 in37.5 in37.5 in37.5 in
Seats55555
Doors44444
Adaptive Cruise Control
Alarm System
Automatic High Beams
Blindspot Sensors
Lane Departure Warning
Park Assist
Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers
Rear View Camera
360 Camera
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
HID Headlights
Memory Exterior Mirrors
Panorama Moon Roof
Roof Rails
Side Steps
Trailer Hitch Receiver
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Smartphone Interface
Cooled Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Heated Rear Seats
Heated Steering Wheel
Leather Seats
Memory Driver's Seat
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Start
Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning

How the 2019 Buick Envision compares

The biggest change for the 2019 Buick Envision is a mid-cycle exterior refresh, led by a cleaner front end and updated rear lighting. Premium and Premium II models also get more turbo torque and a new 9-speed automatic.

Frequently asked questions

What changed on the 2018 Buick Envision compared with the 2017 model?

The main change is a trim-name update: the former Premium I became Premium for 2018. Otherwise, the Envision carried over without major changes to its engines, styling, safety equipment, or touchscreen system.

Was the 2018 Buick Envision redesigned?

No, the 2018 Buick Envision was not redesigned or refreshed. It uses the same basic design as 2017 and comes before the styling and powertrain update for 2019.

Is the 2018 Envision Premium the same trim as the 2017 Premium I?

Yes, Premium is the new name for the trim previously called Premium I. It remains the point in the 2018 lineup where the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and AWD become standard.

Did the 2018 Buick Envision get a new engine or transmission?

No, the 2018 Envision kept the prior year's engine setup. Base, Preferred, and Essence use a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, while Premium and Premium II use a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder; every trim has a six-speed automatic.

Which 2018 Buick Envision trim has the most features?

Premium II is the most fully equipped 2018 Envision. It combines the turbo engine and AWD with built-in navigation, a head-up display, heated and cooled front seats, automatic parking assist, and headlights that turn with the road.

2018 Buick Envision Reviews

What owners are saying about the 2018 Buick Envision.

4.1
2018 Buick Envision
(138 reviews)
5 stars (48)
4 stars (57)
3 stars (27)
2 stars (5)
1 star (1)

About owner reviews

Carvana owner reviews are provided in partnership with Strategic Vision, one of the largest automotive consumer research providers in the U.S. Star ratings are from ranking surveys completed by owners one to six months post-purchase. Comments from owners are optional, but included here when available.

No rating

“2018 buick envision is now class of its own, we have been waiting for this a long time.”

MMMel M.
2018 Buick Envision Essence FWD

“In less than (3) months had to replace the car battery. Less than (3) months my sunroof had to be repaired. When it rains I have discovered water in the spare tire compartment. Mechanic unable to find source of where water is coming from. I love Buick's, but I'm afraid I purchased a lemon.”

WTWillie T.
2018 Buick Envision Premium AWD

“The ride is exceptional. The look is unique. Comfort level when driving long distance is excellent.”

MDMyrtle D.
2018 Buick Envision Premium AWD