Is the Envision's Transmission Dry or Wet?

[VonGriffin]

The 1.5T Envision model utilizes a dry-type 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, independently developed and manufactured by SAIC-GM, while the 2.0T variant is equipped with a conventional 9-speed automatic transmission. The Envision is a model under Shanghai GM, with body dimensions measuring 4686mm in length, 1839mm in width, and 1660mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2750mm. For its interior, the Envision continues Buick's luxury concept, featuring front-row multi-function seats, rear sliding seats with adjustable backrest angles, a split-type oversized central storage box, a heated steering wheel, a two-piece oversized panoramic sunroof, and an 8-inch HD touchscreen, among other amenities.

[StDante]

Friends considering the Envision really need to understand its transmission options, as they vary by engine configuration. When I was researching before buying, I found the 1.5T model comes with GM's in-house developed dry dual-clutch transmission, codenamed 7-speed DCG. The dry-type design is relatively simpler and cheaper to repair, but its cooling performance in stop-and-go traffic isn't as good as wet-type. The 2.0T version uses the 9-speed HYDRA-MATIC transmission, which is a proper wet-type design with the entire gearset immersed in fluid, making it particularly stable during long-distance driving or hill climbing. If you frequently drive in congested urban areas, I'd recommend opting for the wet-type - the difference in shift smoothness becomes quite noticeable over long-term use.

[VanAnnie]

While researching transmissions, I discovered an interesting phenomenon with the Envision's generational differences! The old 1.5T models used a dry dual-clutch transmission jointly developed by GM and SAIC, which mechanics nicknamed the 'metal blender'. However, the new models switched to GM's in-house 9AT, completely transforming the game - its torque converter is bathed in seven liters of transmission fluid. This wet design is exceptionally durable; my buddy's 2.0T version has clocked 100,000 kilometers and still shifts crisply even when climbing mountains. If buying used, be sure to check the VIN plate - models with the 28T badge on the rear mostly have the wet transmission.

[Josiah]

A veteran mechanic who has repaired hundreds of Buicks tells you: The 2015-2017 1.5T Envision uses a dry 7DCT, structurally similar to Volkswagen's DQ200. This thing generates heat from clutch plate friction in traffic jams, and the control module is prone to throwing fault codes. The 9AT standard on post-2018 2.0T models is the real deal, with an oil pan featuring active cooling fins and gear sets operating in an oil bath, resulting in much less shift shock during heavy-load overtaking. Never exceed 60,000 km without changing the GM transmission fluid, or you'll face four-figure repair bills for valve body clogging.

[Phyllis]

From a Test Drive Specialist's Perspective: You Can Tell Dry vs. Wet Transmissions the Moment You Step on the Gas. The dry dual-clutch in the Envision 1.5T makes loud clunking noises during downshifts, especially when reversing—it shakes like you're taking a driving test. The 2.0T's wet 9-speed automatic transmission feels much more composed, with torque converter fluid cushioning so smooth it's like a Dove chocolate commercial. However, wet transmissions require careful maintenance: each oil change needs specialized equipment for a flush cycle, costing three times more than dry ones. Strongly recommend northern owners switch to low-viscosity transmission fluid before winter—a frozen wet transmission is much harder to start than a dry one.