MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2021 Buick Envision

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2021 Buick Envision

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

2Recalls
23Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE BUICK ENVISION

The Buick Envision is a compact luxury SUV that slots neatly between entry-level crossovers and larger premium haulers, targeting buyers who want a refined, upscale experience without committing to a full-size footprint. Sold in the United States since the 2016 model year and redesigned for 2021, the Envision competes in one of the most hotly contested segments in the American market, appealing to professionals and small families who prioritize comfort and a polished brand image.

VERDICT

The 2021 Buick Envision earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 94 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally regard the Buick Envision as a polished, composed compact luxury SUV that delivers a quiet and comfortable cabin experience. They tend to praise its refined ride quality and upscale interior presentation, while noting that it faces stiff competition from European and Japanese rivals in the same segment. Most consider it a credible choice for buyers who prioritize serenity and brand cachet over outright driving excitement.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 14.7%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15340

Index breakdown

Crash protection66/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record18/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE22V903000

Risk: DRLs that do not deactivate as intended may result in a glare, reducing visibility, and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: The body control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 23, 2023. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222386380. This recall expands previous

Reported 2022-12-08

AIR BAGS:SRS MALFUNCTION WARNING LAMP/LIGHT21V421000

Risk: The air bag malfunction indicator light may fail to warn the driver of a problem with the air bag, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: The communications gateway module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 1, 2021. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this

Reported 2021-06-10

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

23 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

2reported crash
0reported fire
0reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsFuel/Propulsion System 6Power Train 5Electrical System 5Unknown Or Other 3Engine 2Tires 2

Other Envision years

Rivals in SUV (2021)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 15340), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Buick Envision 2021. Class rank 7 of 118 in SUV 2021. Methodology · Disclosure