Buick's crossover lineup will expand when the General Motors division brings the compact Envista to the U.S. in 2023.
At the automaker's investor day Nov. 17, GM President Mark Reuss said that the Envista — now in production in China — is an internal combustion vehicle that draws on the brand's Wildcat electric concept in styling. The Wildcat concept features a more sculptural appearance and roomier interior.
"Beautiful vehicle, getting ready for the U.S. here, as well," Reuss told investors in New York. "Just a beautiful addition to the Buick lineup."
A representative for Buick declined to comment beyond Reuss' remarks. Images of the Envista were not visible on a live webcast of Reuss' presentation.
Forecasters say the Envista should arrive in the U.S. in the second half of 2023. It could be the last gasoline-powered addition to Buick's lineup before the brand starts introducing EVs in 2024.
"Much like Chevy has done with the next-gen Trax, Buick is expected to follow with a new, more exciting formula for an indirect replacement for Encore, which is believed to be Envista," said Paul Waatti, manager of industry analysis for AutoPacific. "The next Trax is significantly bigger than its predecessor but manages to retain its entry-level status in the Chevy lineup. Envista is based on the same platform and brings with it a chic, sweptback profile that is proving to be very compelling to younger buyers in particular."
