2021 Buick Envision vs 2020 Volvo XC90
Overview | |
MSRP$48,350 | MSRP$31,800 |
Listings295 | Listings448 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.5 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.3 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
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2020 Volvo XC90 Reviews SummaryThe XC90 has been one of our favorite family shuttles for 18 model years. This 3-row Volvo continues for 2020 as it was during its 2016 redesign, which brought dramatic new design language, chassis architecture, electrified powertrains, infotainment, and semi-automated driving capability. Among midsize SUVs, the XC90 is among the few I would recommend without any hesitation. Families who can afford to splurge will find a stylish and pampering truck that's built upon decades of safety research, which very few automakers can match. | |
2021 Buick Envision Reviews SummaryThe redesigned 2021 Buick Envision is the start of a new generation, but it doesn’t look or drive like it’s a complete re-do. The Envision, especially its new Avenir top trim, offers plenty to like that makes it more competitive with the rest of the premium compact SUV set. | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.0L 250 hp I4 | Engine2.0L 228 hp I4 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity7 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower250 hp @ 5500 rpm | Horsepower228 hp @ 5000 rpm |
MPG City21 | MPG City24 |
MPG Highway30 | MPG Highway31 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.0L 250 hp I4 | Engine Name2.0L 228 hp I4 |
Torque258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm | Torque258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm |
Horsepower250 hp @ 5500 rpm | Horsepower228 hp @ 5000 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City21 | MPG City24 |
MPG Highway30 | MPG Highway31 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity7 | Seating Capacity5 |
Key Features | |
Sunroof/MoonroofStandard | Sunroof/Moonroof |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall5 | Front Crash Overall5 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space15.8 cu ft | Cargo Space25.2 cu ft |
Curb Weight4375 lbs | Curb Weight3692 lbs |
Height69.9 in | Height64.6 in |
Length195.0 in | Length182.5 in |
Width84.3 in | Width74.1 in |
Wheelbase117.5 in | Wheelbase109.4 in |
Maximum Payload1210 lbs | Maximum Payload |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity4000 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $48,350 | $31,800 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 8.5 out of 10Read full review | 7.3 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
Summary | The XC90 has been one of our favorite family shuttles for 18 model years. This 3-row Volvo continues for 2020 as it was during its 2016 redesign, which brought dramatic new design language, chassis architecture, electrified powertrains, infotainment, and semi-automated driving capability. Among midsize SUVs, the XC90 is among the few I would recommend without any hesitation. Families who can afford to splurge will find a stylish and pampering truck that's built upon decades of safety research, which very few automakers can match. | The redesigned 2021 Buick Envision is the start of a new generation, but it doesn’t look or drive like it’s a complete re-do. The Envision, especially its new Avenir top trim, offers plenty to like that makes it more competitive with the rest of the premium compact SUV set. |
Video | ||
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.0L 250 hp I4 | 2.0L 228 hp I4 |
Drive Train | FWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 7 | 5 |
Horsepower | 250 hp @ 5500 rpm | 228 hp @ 5000 rpm |
MPG City | 21 | 24 |
MPG Highway | 30 | 31 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.0L 250 hp I4 | 2.0L 228 hp I4 |
Torque | 258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm | 258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm |
Horsepower | 250 hp @ 5500 rpm | 228 hp @ 5000 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 21 | 24 |
MPG Highway | 30 | 31 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 7 | 5 |
Key Features | ||
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 15.8 cu ft | 25.2 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 4375 lbs | 3692 lbs |
Height | 69.9 in | 64.6 in |
Length | 195.0 in | 182.5 in |
Width | 84.3 in | 74.1 in |
Wheelbase | 117.5 in | 109.4 in |
Maximum Payload | 1210 lbs | |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 4000 lbs | |
According to CarGurus experts, the 2020 Volvo XC90 receives a rating of 10 out of 10, while the 2021 Buick Envision is rated 9 out of 10.
The 2020 Volvo XC90 boasts a modern and elegant design, featuring signature elements such as the "Thor's hammer" LED headlights and a well-crafted interior with luxurious materials and thoughtful details. The XC90's spacious and comfortable cabin, along with its premium finishes, make it a standout in its class.
On the other hand, the 2021 Buick Envision has undergone a redesign, offering a more sculpted and premium appearance compared to its predecessor. The Avenir trim level introduces upscale exterior elements and a well-appointed interior, providing a refined and sophisticated driving experience.
















CarGurus experts rate both the 2020 Volvo XC90 and the 2021 Buick Envision with a score of 7 out of 10.
The 2020 Volvo XC90 offers three powertrain options, with the T6 model delivering 316 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for a vehicle of its size. Additionally, the T8 plug-in hybrid variant offers impressive fuel efficiency and a substantial 400 horsepower.
In contrast, the 2021 Buick Envision is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While the power output is slightly lower than its predecessor, the weight reduction contributes to improved fuel efficiency.
The 2020 Volvo XC90 receives a rating of 8 out of 10, while the 2021 Buick Envision is rated 5 out of 10 by CarGurus experts.
The 2020 Volvo XC90 offers a well-organized and spacious cabin, providing ample legroom and comfort for passengers. The seven-seat configuration, along with innovative features such as an integrated booster cushion for young children, enhances its family-friendly appeal.
On the other hand, the 2021 Buick Envision, despite its aesthetic improvements, experiences a reduction in front and rear passenger space compared to its predecessor. The driver-centric cockpit design may limit accessibility to certain controls for the front seat passenger.
CarGurus experts rate the 2020 Volvo XC90 with a score of 8 out of 10, while the 2021 Buick Envision receives a rating of 7 out of 10.
The 2020 Volvo XC90 is equipped with Volvo Pilot Assist, a semi-automated driving system, and a high-quality Bowers & Wilkins stereo system, offering advanced safety features and an exceptional audio experience.
In comparison, the 2021 Buick Envision features a standard 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, providing essential functionalities and responsiveness. However, it lacks groundbreaking technological advancements compared to its competitors.
The 2020 Volvo XC90 receives a perfect rating of 10 out of 10 for safety, while the 2021 Buick Envision is rated 8 out of 10 by CarGurus experts.
The 2020 Volvo XC90 boasts impeccable safety ratings, offering a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and advanced protection systems, reflecting Volvo's commitment to vehicle safety.
On the other hand, the 2021 Buick Envision introduces advanced safety features such as forward-collision alert, lane-keep assist, and rear-seat alert, providing enhanced protection for occupants.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2020 Volvo XC90 is 8.5 out of 10, while the 2021 Buick Envision scores 7.3 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Volvo XC90 emerges as the top recommendation, offering a superior combination of luxury, safety, and advanced features, making it an excellent choice for consumers seeking a premium midsize SUV.
Choose the 2021 Buick Envision if:
- You are interested in a premium SUV with a competitive starting price and a refined exterior design.
- You value advanced safety features and a responsive infotainment system.
- You are looking for a compact SUV with a balance of affordability and premium amenities.
Choose the 2020 Volvo XC90 if:
- You prioritize a luxurious and spacious interior with innovative family-friendly features.
- You seek advanced safety technologies and a high-quality audio experience.
- You are looking for a midsize luxury SUV with a modern and elegant design.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2020 Volvo XC90 is 8.5 out of 10, while the 2021 Buick Envision scores 7.3 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Volvo XC90 emerges as the top recommendation, offering a superior combination of luxury, safety, and advanced features, making it an excellent choice for consumers seeking a premium midsize SUV.
Choose the 2021 Buick Envision if:
Shop Now- You are interested in a premium SUV with a competitive starting price and a refined exterior design.
- You value advanced safety features and a responsive infotainment system.
- You are looking for a compact SUV with a balance of affordability and premium amenities.
Choose the 2020 Volvo XC90 if:
Shop Now- You prioritize a luxurious and spacious interior with innovative family-friendly features.
- You seek advanced safety technologies and a high-quality audio experience.
- You are looking for a midsize luxury SUV with a modern and elegant design.

By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.






































