2017 Buick Envision - Mid-Size Crossover - Review

     With my mode of transportation gone, I kindly asked if I could borrow something off the lot to drive before I left town. (I was thinking I would probably get a "wholesale" vehicle to drive, which I would have been absolutely fine with.)I was generously afforded the opportunity to drive a certified pre-owned 2017 Buick Envision until my departure. My first thought was of course, A new car?! WOW. I hope I can figure out all the bells and whistles so I can get down the road. I have never owned a new vehicle. The newest- Used vehicle I have owned was a '97 Toyota 4Runner (purchased it in 2014), which I just sold.

      This Envision Essence wasn't loaded but it has has push button start, Stop-Start technology, back up camera, Wi-Fi hotspot, heated seats(nice), rear cross traffic alert, lane keep assist, phone pairing, just to name a few.
The Buick Intellilink system was quite easy to figure out and pairing my phone to the system wasn't difficult either. All of the items mentioned functioned grandly just in the few days I have driven the Envision so far.
The drive is quiet and this little crossover has really good pick up. I am by no means a slow driver. I like to get there in a hurry and this Buick with its 2.5L DOHC 4-cylinder did not lack for power.
       The Envision was easy to get in and out of. The rear seats

fold down smoothly and the cargo room it gave me was mind blowing. I could not believe how much it could hold. What I love about driving this Envision; With the key fob in my pocket I can lock or unlock doors and, open the lift gate. Last night from my kitchen window, I was able to lock the car. This is amazing.
I am used to simple things, but this Envision is making me think. I have not been disappointed.
      If you are due for an upgrade, take a test drive, you could be very impressed too.

2017 Buick Envision
Keep it between the lines, Stay Safe.

Cadillac's new Crossover | Introducing the Cadillac XT5

          Farewell Cadillac SRX you have been a wonderful crossover, but your time is done. Once Cadillac’s best-selling luxury mid-size crossover (released in 2004), has run its course. Set to take its place is the newly unveiled Cadillac XT5, one of Cadillac’s four new crossovers that will bear the XT badge in the coming years.

          

           The XT5 is the second new vehicle released under Cadillac’s new unified classification. The recently released CT6, Cadillac’s new luxury sedan, carries the CT name designation for cars. While Cadillac’s new crossover vehicles will carry the XT label. The XT5 will replace the current crossover, the SRX, with lighter and more efficient materials, more room, a new V6 engine, transmission and shifter, chassis and new technology, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The XT5’s exterior design is modernized, featuring a more aggressive stance, well-rounded presence and sharper lines. While its basic shape and proportion looks similar, the XT5 is larger and wider than the SRX.

           When in Drive or Reverse, available Surround Vision provides a bird’s-eye view of your vehicle and the areas immediately surrounding it. This view, projected on the Cadillac CUE screen, gives you a brand new perspective that helps to reduce blind spots and increase your awareness. The available Rear Camera Mirror streams a live, unobstructed view of what’s behind you directly through the rearview mirror. This feature offers 300 percent more vision than an ordinary mirror and it can revert back to normal with the flip of a switch.

            The Cadillac XT5 has striking horizontal lines that give it a serious and sporty look. The front end has shorter headlights, large LED daytime running lights. The side profile is longer and more level lines. The rear has some featured design upgrades as well. 

The cabin is light, spacious, simple and elegant with strong horizontal lines. The dash is covered in cut-and-sewn pieces, some with both leather and Alcantara contrasting materials. It’s clear that the team worked hard to reduce clutter and create a more refined space. Comfort and practicality are evident as well; rear legroom has been increased by 3.2” and the rear seat reclines and slides forward and backward. 

           The 3.6L V6 Engine with Eight Speed Automatic Transmission delivers effortless acceleration that takes you to highway speeds quietly and smoothly, while the responsive handling keeps you feeling firmly in control. A smooth ride that you control. Real Time Damping Suspension monitors road and vehicle inputs to help reduce vibrations and maintain a smooth ride over rough roads. And with Driver Select Mode, you can choose between three distinct driving feels: Touring Mode for everyday driving; Snow/AWD Mode for safe handling in inclement weather; and Sport Mode for an exceptionally engaging experience. 

          The XT5 is 278 pounds lighter than the SRX. (Competitively, it weighs 695 pounds less than the Mercedes-Benz GLE, and 100 pounds less than the Audi Q5. The XT5 is set to compete with the likes of the Lexus RX, BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE-Class.

The 2017 Cadillac XT5 is in stock now at Biggs Cadillac Buick GMC Trucks.