Driving American Innovation: Buick's Next-Gen SUV Arrives Stateside
Buick's Strategic Manufacturing Shift: Relocating SUV Production
Buick is making a pivotal change in its production strategy. The successor to the Envision SUV, which was previously manufactured in China, will now be assembled in the United States. This move is particularly significant given the current landscape of tariffs on imported vehicles, which have disproportionately affected models like the Envision. By bringing production stateside, General Motors aims to streamline its supply chain and reduce costs associated with international trade.
Shared Platform and Production Hub: The Fairfax Assembly Plant
The new Buick compact SUV is set to share its foundational architecture with the Chevrolet Equinox, highlighting a strategic consolidation within GM's vehicle platforms. Both vehicles will also share a manufacturing home: the Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas City, Kansas. This facility is already slated to commence production of the popular Chevy Equinox in mid-2027 and is currently producing the refreshed 2027 Chevy Bolt, with plans for an affordable next-generation electric vehicle also in the pipeline.
Anticipating the Future: Launch and Naming Conventions
While the precise name for this forthcoming Buick SUV remains undisclosed, its debut is scheduled for 2028. It is still uncertain whether it will retain the 'Envision' moniker or introduce a new nameplate. Buick's current SUV lineup consistently uses names beginning with 'En,' suggesting that any new name would likely adhere to this established pattern. Further details regarding the vehicle's specifications and features are expected to be released closer to its official launch.
Market Performance and Future Prospects: The Envision's Enduring Appeal
The Envision plays a crucial role in Buick's market presence, consistently ranking among its top-selling SUV models. Despite a slight downturn in sales in 2025, with 41,924 units sold (an 11% decrease from the previous year), the model has maintained strong sales figures, exceeding 40,000 units annually over the past three years. General Motors will continue to import the current Envision model from China until the new, U.S.-produced SUV begins its manufacturing run in Kansas in 2028, ensuring a continuous supply for consumers.