Insider Buying Guide To Buick Encore & Buick Envision

May 12, 2019 · 9 min read

This month we want to spotlight two great Buicks, the Envision and the Encore, and highlight some of their brilliant features, which you should consider. We will contrast the two to help you make an informed decision about which model of Buick’s line of crossover SUVs is best for you. The Envision Doesn’t its name say it all? Envision is, of course, a pun to think about what you can envision for your family’s ease of transportation. It draws out ideas of what’s possible, what’s likely, when owning the Envision. Buick wants you to think of this as a can-do vehicle, an SUV with a positive attitude. It’s a supersized small luxury SUV, with bling and pizzazz. The 2019 Buick Envision has been updated, in its design, and we think it’s something worth taking a look at. For all models and trim levels, this SUV has had its rear valance reworked along with its exhaust tip. It has a sleek look to it, now more than ever, and it really gives the Envision a refined sense of spirit. What sort of changes did Buick make, specifically? Let’s have a closer look: First, there are two gasoline engine options for the Buick Envision, and the exhaust design depends on which engine you select. We are excited about the new look and style this renovated exhaust design carries. Of the two engines offered, the first is the 2.5L I-4 LCV, naturally-aspirated, which is the base model engine for the Buick Envision. It features a single-outlet stainless steel exhaust, which is hidden from sight. Now tucked under the vehicle, the exhaust tip doesn’t show. That means a more sporty, stylish look. Also take note: the Envision has a metal-look valance now that replaced the black fascia treatment of previous models. The metal valance gives the Envision a more integrated look. Cleaner design, trendier feel—that’s what Buick has given us. Its 2.5L inline four-cylinder engine gives you 197 horsepower with a torque of 192 pound-feet. That’s a six-speed automatic transmission and is standard for the base, Preferred and Essence models. That’s enough horsepower to climb hills and pull a trailer along. It’s got the power and stamina you want for city driving or a cruise in the countryside. The second option is the 2.0L 1-4 turbocharged LTG, the next level up. This model engine carries a dual exhaust treatment. With the 2019 model, the tips of the exhaust pipe are squared off, replacing the rounded tips seen on the 2017 and 2018 Envision models. If you opt for premium trim, then you get the metal-look lower valance as well, replacing the black version of it standard in previous models. This option, the turbocharged 2.0L, is matched to the nine-speed automatic transmission (from GM) and comes with standard all-wheel drive. The turbocharged engine delivers 252 horsepower with 295 pound-feet of torque—a powertrain worth its salt. This engine comes standard for both the Premium 1 and Premium 2 models of the 2019 Buick Envision. Both engines have excellent gas mileage, averaging 29MPG highway and 22MPG city. And for a crossover SUV, we know those are good numbers. Moreover, it was ranked by US News and World Report as #14 in the Luxury Compact SUVs category, putting it next to the 2019 Infiniti QX50 and 2019 Alfa Romeo Stelvio (both sit at #12) and the 2019 Lincoln MKC (#15). That ranking carries a score of 7.9 out of 10, based on thirty-two specifications for evaluation. Translation: the 2019 Buick Envision keeps good company and can roll with the best of them, and it is far more affordable than other Luxury Compact SUVs—without sacrificing the bells and whistles you want in a compact SUV. What do the experts say about it? US News and World Report gave it high marks for the following: spacious, supportive seats; good gas mileage; and user-friendly tech features. Though it fell down in some categories (less than nimble handling; its rivals have more up-scale interiors), US News found noteworthy some of its new features for the 2019 model. Those include: the nine-speed automatic transmission with turbo engine; new headlights and taillights; updates to existing tech features; and more torque for a turbo engine. Those new features make certain that you need to give the 2019 Buick Envision a close, thorough look! US News’ conclusions are pretty positive as well: “The Buick Envision is a pretty good SUV. It certainly delivers on some fronts… it has a lower starting price than most of its class rivals…” The 2019 Buick Envision’s starting price is around $32,000 and with that pricing, it gets you into the luxury SUV class easily. And what about Edmunds and its assessment of the 2019 Envision? They noted the quietness of the cabin at highway speeds, the comfortable seats and ride which the Envision sports, and they liked the four USB ports, as well as, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto as standard features. They gave it a ranking of 7.2 out of 10 and named it their #9 Small SUV pick, beating out the Ford Escape in its top-ten rankings. A few features we like on the 2019 Encore:

It has intelligent all-wheel drive
It offers a powerful wireless charging in a vertical charging pocket
It comes with excellent safety features, like Surround Vision
Its look has a higher level of refinement, from its exquisite grille to the sculpted rear profile

What we really love on the 2019 Envision is its trimmer, new look for the exhaust system. It says, “city slicker.” It says, “stylish and confident.” It says, “smooth and refined.” It cleans up the SUV’s exterior look and it features the profile of the overall design (rather than having the tail pipe sticking out and looking less classy). And when you are rolling around Charlotte, driving up Providence Road or cruising over to NoDa for some unique cuisine, you want your vehicle to say something about you. You want it to convey a sense of style and refinement—that’s what the 2019 Buick Envision says about you, as you ride around Charlotte. So imagine rolling up to Southpark Mall for a shopping excursion in the 2019 Encore. See yourself riding in the sleek, modern design, as you pull into a parking spot and jump out for lunch and some browsing at Nordstrom. Come and test drive one today! The Encore US News and World Report ranks the 2019 Buick Encore as—wait for it—#7 in Subcompact SUVs. That beats out the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Ford EcoSport, and the 2019 Toyota C-HR. That ranking of #7 was arrived at by examining over 46 pieces of research and data, and evaluating the Subcompact SUV across many rigorous standards. When evaluating the 2019 Buick Encore, US News found it scored highly in the following categories: nice interior with lots of standard features; user-friendly infotainment system; nimble handling; and outstanding predicted reliability rating. Though it scored less well in the categories of its base engine’s powertrain or its pricing compared to its rivals, it did score for its reshuffled trim, which is new for 2019. With drivetrains that can be either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and engine configurations sporting 138-153 horsepower, it’s definitely worth your consideration. And, with 24-26MPG in the city, and 29-31MPG on the highway, its fuel efficiency is definitely a selling point. In fact, US News calls its fuel efficiency estimates “above-average.” And one of US News’ concluding thoughts about the Buick 2019 Encore? “The Encore is one of the best subcompact SUVs you can buy.” And Edmunds gave it good marks for the Encore’s hushed cabin at highway speeds, the generous standard tech and safety features it has, and its maneuverable size. They ranked it #10 for their X-Small SUV category, ranking among the leading ten subcompact SUVs on the market today. And we think it deserves a closer look at some of its specs and features, so let’s see what Buick is up to with its 2019 Encore subcompact SUV. With ratings like 8.1/10 from US News and World Report or a 4.6/5 from Kelley Blue Book, its features deserve your attention. Buick’s tagline for this subcompact SUV is a fitting one: “Sized to fit the way your life moves.” We agree, because if you want to get into the SUV vehicle category but don’t want an enormous vehicle to cope with, then this 2019 Buick Encore is just the right size. You get the look and feel, along with the nimble driving, of an SUV without the typical bulk of an SUV. The base model for the Encore starts at $23,200 MSRP and its standard features include: LED-accented taillamps, a 1.4L 4-cylinder Turbo Engine, an enhanced 4.2” Driver Information Center, and also the ease of the keyless open and start system. The Essence, its top model, starts at $29,300 and these features are standard: leather-appointed seats, rear cross traffic alert, heated driver and front-passenger seats, and heated leather-wrapped steering wheel (what a great feature for winter!). Conclusion For those new to the SUV game, the Encore is definitely a great start and will give you a fresh take on driving. It’s nimble, affordable, and gives you a taste of luxury. It’s a good pick and we recommend a test drive to see what it’s all about. But if you’re of the more fashionable taste and want into the luxury SUV game, then the 2019 Buick Envision is hands-down the best choice. You get some sleek new features, with its redefined fascia trim, you get an excellent powertrain, some great luxury features on the interior, and most of the bells and whistles without the higher price tag of its rivals. We believe the 2019 Buick Envision has staying power. Though a new entry into the SUV market, having been introduced in 2016, “it marked a milestone for the American auto industry” says Car and Driver, in a recent review. They note that it “currently stands as third-best selling model.” And one thing that summed up their review was the following: “Best of all, the added refinements come with a price reduction. Depending on the trim, buyers can save between $1400 and $2400 over previous models.” So you get a better, cleaner trim with more modern shaping, and it costs less than outdated styling on earlier models. That’s a win-win for you, the car buyer! And Car and Driver also made a bold claim about the 2019 Encore: “In fact, it just might be the vehicle that best embodies the Buick brand, completely without pretension or too many compromises.” In Buick’s words, “Versatility has found its style”—the tagline Buick has rolled out with its newly updated Encore for 2019. And we agree. The 2019 Encore has style and it gives you a lot more, both under the hood and in the cabin, at a lower price point. You get luxury and affordability. That is a winning combo. Pop over to Liberty Buick GMC to test drive either the Encore or the sleek new Envision. We have experts ready to help.

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Apr 24, 2026 in Buick

The Real Cost of Waiting: How Fuel Prices and Tariffs Are Shaping Vehicle Prices in the Carolinas

The Real Cost of Waiting in Charlotte: What’s Driving Vehicle Prices Higher If you are planning to buy a vehicle this year, it is worth paying attention to something most people overlook. Prices are not just influenced by demand. They are being pushed by rising fuel costs and global trade pressures, and once those forces start moving, they tend to carry forward for months. What Global Fuel Disruptions Mean for Your Next Vehicle What does the Strait of Hormuz have to do with your next vehicle purchase, and why should you care? More than most people realize. When that shipping lane slows down, fuel prices go up quickly. What follows is less obvious but more important. Even if everything reopened today, the effects would not disappear. Higher fuel and transportation costs are already working their way through the system, and that process usually takes three to six months to fully show up in the price of parts, goods, and vehicles. By the time it reaches the dealership, those increases are already built in. That is how this kind of economy works. It moves slowly, but once it starts, it is difficult to reverse. No matter how you feel about the reasons behind it, the outcome is the same. Costs rise, and they tend to stay elevated longer than expected. Here is the part most people miss. There is a window before the broader market reacts, before inventory tightens, before pricing fully adjusts. That window is where the advantage is. Most buyers will not connect the dots until months from now, when prices are already higher and options are more limited. If you are paying attention, this is your opportunity to move ahead of that curve. Securing the right vehicle now, especially one that helps manage fuel costs over time, is not about rushing into a decision. It is about making a well-timed move while conditions are still in your favor. Tariffs Are Adding to the Upward Pressure Fuel costs are only part of the equation. Economists and suppliers estimate tariffs could add around $3,000 per vehicle on average. For full-size trucks and SUVs, that impact can be even more noticeable due to: Increased material requirements Advanced technology and components Higher transportation costs These increases tend to show up gradually, but once they do, they are rarely temporary. Why This Matters for Drivers in Charlotte and the Carolinas In Charlotte and across North and South Carolina, drivers rely heavily on: Full-size trucks for work and towing SUVs for family travel and daily use Longer commutes across a growing metro area That means both the purchase price and fuel efficiency play a major role in long-term cost. The Opportunity Right Now for High Inventory at Low Prices Current inventory was largely priced before the full impact of these cost increases. That creates a window where buyers can: Lock in Today’s Pricing Avoid Future Adjustments Choose From a Wider Selection of Available Vehicles For buyers who are paying attention, that timing matters. GMC Options That Balance Power and Efficiency If you are looking to stay ahead of rising costs while maintaining capability and comfort, these GMC models stand out: GMC Sierra 1500 (Duramax Diesel) – Strong towing capability with impressive fuel efficiency for its class GMC Acadia – A refined SUV with practical fuel economy for families GMC Terrain – Efficient, versatile, and well-suited for daily driving GMC Yukon – Full-size capability with improved efficiency and premium comfort These vehicles are built not just for performance, but for long-term value. Market shifts like rising fuel costs and tariffs do not happen all at once, but once they begin, they tend to stay in motion. Waiting can feel like the cautious choice, but in this environment it often means: Paying more later Facing higher operating costs Having fewer options available For drivers in Charlotte and across the Carolinas, making a well-timed decision now can help you stay ahead of those changes and get more value out of your next vehicle. GMC Trucks Charlotte Buick GMC SUV Buyers Start Here Charlotte NC Car Buying - Preowned Buyers Start Here!

Dec 17, 2025 in Buick

Liberty Buick GMC Matthews NC - End-of-Year Car Buying Tips

Your Ultimate End-of-Year Car Buying Guide — Liberty Buick GMC in Matthews & Charlotte, NC Serving Matthews, Charlotte, and the surrounding North Carolina communities, Liberty Buick GMC is proud to help buyers make confident decisions during one of the most important vehicle-buying seasons of the year. If you’re planning to purchase a vehicle during the holidays or before year-end, you’re shopping at a time when strong incentives, model-year transitions, and inventory movement can work in your favor. However, the buyers who get the best deals are the ones who come prepared and understand how dealerships evaluate purchases and trade-ins. This end-of-year car-buying guide combines insider knowledge from Greg Mongelli, Lead Sales and Business Management Manager at Liberty Buick GMC, to help both first-time buyers and experienced shoppers get the most value from their purchase. Start Your Year-End Buying Process at Liberty Buick GMC Before visiting the dealership, taking a few proactive steps can save time and reduce stress. Shoppers are encouraged to browse current inventory online at clickliberty.com, get pre-approved for financing, and research their trade-in value ahead of time. These steps create clarity and confidence when it’s time to make a decision. A strong example of current year-end inventory is the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro, a versatile crew cab truck that offers durability, capability, and long-term value. View this vehicle here: https://www.clickliberty.com/new-Matthews-2025-GMC-Sierra%2B1500-Pro-3GTNHAED6SG272518 End-of-Year Buying Tip #1: Preparation Is Everything Whether you are entering the car market for the first time or upgrading your current vehicle, preparation gives you a clear advantage. One of the most common issues dealerships encounter is buyers arriving without proper identification. A valid driver’s license or state-issued ID is required to move forward with financing and documentation. Forgetting this simple item can delay or prevent completing a purchase. Insurance information is another key detail that buyers frequently overlook. Having your insurance provider selected and bringing relevant contact details, quotes, or policy information allows the transaction to move smoothly and avoids unnecessary delays during a busy holiday season. For younger buyers or those with limited credit history, bringing a co-buyer can significantly improve financing options. A co-buyer can help secure better rates, improve approval odds, and open additional purchasing opportunities. For more “Insider Tips” Watch Greg’s Video on How To Get Your Best Deal https://youtube.com/shorts/4VToOliuFss End-of-Year Buying Tip #2: How Dealerships Really Value Trade-Ins Trade-ins play a major role in end-of-year deals, especially for buyers looking to reduce their overall purchase cost. Many people assume trade-in values are based solely on mileage and condition, but dealerships evaluate vehicles using a broader set of criteria. Factors such as vehicle age, trim level, accident history, maintenance records, and market data all contribute to a trade-in evaluation. However, one of the most overlooked elements is local market demand. If a vehicle is popular and sells quickly in the Matthews and Charlotte area, it may be valued higher than expected. If resale demand is lower, the trade-in value may come in below what an owner anticipates. This is not arbitrary; it reflects real-world resale potential in the local market. During the end-of-year season, demand for certain vehicles can shift due to weather, lifestyle needs, and inventory availability. Trucks and SUVs, for example, often perform well in regional markets, which can positively influence trade-in values. For more “Insider Tips” Watch Greg’s Video on How To Get Your Best Trade-In Deal End-of-Year Buying Tip #3: Timing Is More Than Just the Calendar While December is widely known as a strong buying month, the best deals are not tied to a single day. Inventory levels, manufacturer incentives, and buyer demand can change weekly throughout the holiday season. Successful buyers focus on readiness rather than waiting for a specific date. Knowing your budget, understanding financing options, and being flexible with vehicle selection can significantly improve outcomes. It’s also important to evaluate the entire deal, not just the monthly payment. Trade-in value, interest rate, incentives, and long-term ownership costs all contribute to the overall value of your purchase. End-of-Year Buying Tip #4: Transparency Leads to Better Results Open communication between buyers and dealership professionals helps create a smoother experience. Being upfront about budget, credit history, trade-in expectations, and timing allows the sales team to recommend realistic options and avoid unnecessary back-and-forth. Honest conversations help ensure the vehicle you choose fits both your financial goals and your lifestyle needs. End-of-Year Buying Tip #5: Ask Questions and Stay Informed Buying a vehicle is a significant investment, and informed buyers tend to be more satisfied long term. Asking questions about incentives, financing structures, trade-in calculations, and vehicle features helps eliminate uncertainty. At Liberty Buick GMC, education and transparency are a priority. The goal is to ensure every customer understands their options and feels confident in their decision. Why Trucks Continue to Be a Strong Choice Trucks remain among the most popular vehicles in the North Carolina market. Models like the GMC Sierra are known for strong resale value, versatility, and long-term reliability. For buyers considering a trade-in or new purchase, this category often provides strong value retention. The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro currently available at Liberty Buick GMC is a solid example of a truck that balances capability with modern features, making it a practical choice for both work and everyday driving. Vehicle details can be viewed here: https://www.clickliberty.com/new-Matthews-2025-GMC-Sierra%2B1500-Pro-3GTNHAED6SG272518 Final Thoughts on Year-End Car Buying The end-of-year buying season presents real opportunities, but the best results come from preparation, understanding the process, and working with experienced professionals. Whether you are purchasing your first vehicle, trading in an existing one, or looking to take advantage of year-end incentives, Liberty Buick GMC in Matthews and Charlotte, NC is here to help guide you through every step. To explore inventory, value your trade, or begin the financing process, visit clickliberty.com.

The Hidden Battery Issue That Costs Drivers Hundreds Every Year

Oct 29, 2025 in Buick

Stop Killing Your Car Battery! Pro Mechanic Shares What Drivers Always Get Wrong

Car Battery Care: Tips, Tricks & Troubleshooting with Scott Shirley at Liberty Buick GMC Your vehicle’s battery is the heart of its electrical system and neglecting it can leave you stranded at the worst possible time. To help drivers stay powered up, Scott Shirley, Lead Auto Mechanic and Service Manager at Liberty Buick GMC, shared his expert insights in our recent video on battery maintenance. In this post, we’ll expand on Scott’s key advice with practical maintenance tips, troubleshooting steps, and must-know facts every car owner should understand. Common Signs Your Battery Might Be Failing Before a battery completely dies, it usually gives a few warning signs: Slow engine crank: The starter motor struggles or hesitates before the engine catches. Dim headlights or interior lights: Low voltage reduces brightness when the car is off. Dashboard battery light: Often indicates a charging system problem, not just the battery. Swollen battery case or corrosion: Heat, overcharging, or leaks can cause visible damage. Clicking noise when starting: Suggests the battery doesn’t have enough power for the starter. Scott Shirley recommends addressing even mild symptoms early. “If your car sounds slower to start, it’s already telling you something — don’t wait until it won’t start at all.” Preventative Maintenance & Best Practices A few simple steps can dramatically extend the life of your car battery: Inspect regularly. Check for corrosion, dirt buildup, or loose cables every few months. Keep it clean. Use a brush and a mix of baking soda and water to remove terminal buildup. Secure the battery. Make sure it’s tightly mounted to prevent vibration damage. Drive longer distances occasionally. Short trips don’t give the alternator enough time to recharge the battery. Avoid parasitic drain. Turn off lights and unplug accessories before leaving the car. Test annually. Have your battery conductance-tested at least once a year, especially before winter or summer extremes. Pro Tip from Scott: “Batteries don’t like extremes. A 110-degree day or freezing morning can finish off a weak one fast.” Step-by-Step: How to Check Your Car Battery Follow these easy steps to inspect and maintain your battery safely: Turn off your engine and open the hood. Look for corrosion around terminals and cables. Check cable tightness — wiggle gently; they shouldn’t move. Read the date code on the top or side — batteries over 4 years old may be due for replacement. Use a voltmeter: 12.6 V = fully charged 12.4 V = partially charged Below 12.0 V = discharged or failing Clean terminals if needed (always disconnect negative (–) first, reconnect it last). Apply anti-corrosion spray or petroleum jelly on terminals before reconnecting. Always wear eye protection and gloves when working around a car battery. Troubleshooting Chart: Common Battery & Starting Issues Myths & Misconceptions The Hidden Battery Issues That Costs Drivers Hundreds Every Year Myth: “My battery is fine because it’s new.” Truth: Even new batteries can fail early due to extreme heat, vibration, or improper charging. Age isn’t the only factor — how and where you drive plays a big role in battery health. Myth: “Jump-starting fixes the problem.” Truth: A jump-start only gets your car running temporarily. It doesn’t solve the underlying issue, which could be a failing alternator, bad connections, or a battery that can no longer hold a charge. Myth: “All batteries are the same.” Truth: Every vehicle requires a specific battery type with the correct cold-cranking amps (CCA), size, and terminal layout. Using the wrong one can shorten lifespan and cause electrical issues. Myth: “Short trips recharge the battery.” Truth: In reality, short drives often do the opposite — the alternator doesn’t run long enough to fully recharge the battery. Over time, this can lead to a weak or drained battery even if you drive daily. Final Advice from Scott Shirley “Think of your battery like your heart — it keeps everything running, but you can’t see when it’s getting weak. A five-minute check can save you a hundred-dollar tow.” Before seasonal changes, visit Liberty Buick GMC’s Service Center for a complimentary battery and charging system inspection. Proper maintenance today means fewer surprises tomorrow. Watch, Learn & Share Watch Scott Shirley's Batter Maintenance Tips Schedule your next service at Liberty Buick GMC - Certified GMC & Buick Service.

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