What are the differences between the Enclave and the Envision?
4 Answers
1. Different positioning: The Enclave is a full-size SUV. The new-generation Enclave has a body length of nearly 5.2 meters, a width of over 2 meters, and a wheelbase of close to 3.1 meters, making it a very massive "giant." The Envision measures 4891mm in length, 1953mm in width, 1736mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2863mm, belonging to the mid-to-large SUV category. The size difference between the two models is quite significant. 2. Different powertrains: The mainstream powertrain configuration of the Enclave is a 3.6L V6 engine, delivering robust and aggressive performance. The primary engine in the Envision is the LSY 2.0T, which, while also powerful, still cannot compare to the Enclave.
I recently compared these two Buick models. The Enclave is more compact, suitable for city driving, easy to park, and has lower fuel consumption, making it ideal for singles or small families like me. The space isn't huge, but it's fine for putting luggage in the back, though it might feel cramped for family trips. It has a 2.0T engine, which provides adequate power but isn't particularly strong. The Enclave is much larger, with a third-row seat that can comfortably accommodate six or seven people, making it better suited for big families or frequent long-distance travel. Its 3.6-liter V6 engine offers quick acceleration and can handle towing, but it consumes more fuel and feels bulky in city driving. Price-wise, the Enclave is more affordable, while the Enclave is significantly more expensive with higher maintenance costs. I chose the Enclave because it's comfortable for daily commuting, unlike the Enclave, which guzzles more fuel and is harder to maneuver—it really depends on what you need.
From a repair perspective, I've worked on quite a few Enclaves and Envisions. The Envision is a midsize SUV with a 2.0T four-cylinder engine, which has fewer common issues and simpler, cheaper maintenance. Changing spark plugs and air filters is straightforward. The Enclave, on the other hand, is a full-size SUV equipped with a 3.6L V6 engine—more powerful but with a higher failure rate. Issues like water pump leaks or cooling system oil leaks are common, and repairs are more expensive. The space difference is notable: the Envision's rear seats can hold cargo, while the Enclave has a third row, though its seat motors are prone to failure and tricky to fix. In daily driving, the Enclave's tires wear out faster, and the brake system needs frequent checks. Overall, the Envision is more durable, while the Enclave suits families needing extra seating—just don’t skip regular maintenance to avoid major problems.
After becoming a mom, I considered which car to buy. The Enclave has enough space for a child seat, the back seat isn't cramped, and it's convenient for daily shopping. But the Envision has a third row, making it more comfortable for kids to sit in the back during family trips with all five of us. Safety-wise, the Envision has more airbags, a sturdier body, and a more comprehensive collision avoidance system. As for trunk space, the Enclave is a bit smaller but can still fit a stroller, while the Envision can carry more luggage. Although it's more expensive, safety comes first, so we chose the Envision.
