Buick Envision vs Lexus TX

The 2021 Buick Envision underwent a significant redesign, following two years of facelifts, to present a more premium crossover styling. This two-row compact crossover, positioned between the smaller Encore GX and the larger Enclave, was sold in China and North America. The Envision's new design was lower and wider, offering a more planted appearance on the street. It showcased a sculpted look, distinguishing itself from its cousin, the Cadillac XT4, though it wasn't as sleek as the Acura RDX. The Envision was available in three trims: Preferred, Essence, and Avenir, with the Avenir trim making its debut in this model year. The Avenir models featured upgraded exterior elements, including a Black Ice Chrome mesh grille and 20-inch Avenir-specific wheels, while the interior boasted leather-appointed seating and a head-up display. The Envision's cabin design was driver-centric, with a protruding center stack angled toward the driver, though it suffered from an abundance of piano black plastic that attracted dust.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of trim levels based on powertrain options, including the TX 350, 500h hybrid, and 550h+ plug-in hybrid. The 550h+ featured a standard panoramic glass roof and the striking Matador Red Mica paint. Most models came with 20-inch wheels, while the 550h+ sported 22-inch wheels. The TX retained a large grille with sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting spanning the vehicle's width. Inside, the TX provided multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and a spacious third row with a recline function. The second row offered captain's chairs with a removable center console, though folding the seats flat was a bit complicated. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. The TX boasted excellent cargo space, with up to 97 cubic feet available when the second and third rows were folded.

The 2021 Buick Envision featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Despite a reduction in power compared to the previous model, the Envision's weight loss of 200 to 300 pounds improved fuel efficiency. The FWD model achieved an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the AWD version fared slightly worse. The Envision's drivability was comfortable but not particularly engaging, with noticeable engine and road noise. The GM drive mode selector offered a Sport mode, but the impact was minimal.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid generated 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. The onboard seven-kilowatt charger allowed for a full battery charge in under three hours. The TX offered various drive options, including electric-only, hybrid, and gas-only modes, with Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom drive modes available. The 550h+ provided a quiet and smooth ride, with a capable AWD system and Trail Mode for slippery surfaces. The suspension absorbed bumps well, making it ideal for long road trips.

The 2021 Buick Envision's redesign resulted in less headroom, legroom, and shoulder room in the front row, with rear-seat passengers losing two inches of legroom and nearly six inches of hip room. Despite these reductions, Buick claimed nearly identical passenger volumes compared to the previous model. The Envision's cargo capacity was 25.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 53.7 cubic feet with the back seat folded, which was lower than other luxury SUVs. The driver-centric cockpit limited front passenger access to controls, and forward visibility was challenging for shorter drivers.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ offered standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control and heated and cooled seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. The second row featured captain's chairs with a removable center console, though folding the seats flat was complicated. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. The TX provided excellent cargo space, with up to 97 cubic feet available when the second and third rows were folded. The liftgate featured an available kick sensor for easy access.

The 2021 Buick Envision's tech included a standard 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, responsive to touch but lacking revolutionary features. The driver information display was available in 8.0-inch and 4.2-inch sizes. Standard features included USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Available features included navigation, a surround-view camera, and wireless device charging.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch color touchscreen, though some features lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were confusing to use. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occurred. The backup camera offered a bird’s-eye view, and the Advanced Park system handled parking duties. The TX provided seven USB ports and wireless charging, with an available 120-volt outlet in the second row.

The 2021 Buick Envision had not yet been rated by NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included forward-collision alert, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control and enhanced automatic park assist were available on Avenir models.

The 2026 Lexus TX came with Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, lane centering, and traffic sign recognition. The adaptive cruise control worked well, though setup was confusing. NHTSA had not rated the 550h+, but the TX 350 and 500h earned five stars. IIHS gave the TX an "Acceptable" score for the small overlap front crash test on the driver’s side and a "Good" score for the passenger’s side.