A silver 2022 Buick Enclave Avenir is shown parked in a driveway.

The Rise of Buick as the Ultimate Commuter Brand

Buick has been around just about as long as the automobile itself, getting its start in 1903 by David Dunbar Buick. Throughout the decades, the Buick name has transformed into one of luxury, recognized for high-end designs, careful attention to detail, and elegant models just waiting to whisk you off to your next destination. Pass by a local Buick dealer, though, and one can’t help but wonder just who the Buick brand appeals to these days.

It’s a common misconception that Buick vehicles only cater to the elite; this is most likely due to the fact that these models appear utterly luxurious. There’s one type of driver, however, that Buick has been knocking it out of the park with for decades—and that’s the everyday commuter.

The Buick Legacy

Many claim that any car could be a commuter car, but that isn’t entirely true. Commuters are looking for comfort, efficiency, and a ride quality that makes it easy to take on bumper-to-bumper traffic or long journeys every day. That’s where Buick excelled from the start, showcasing vehicles that were more appealing than rivals. The Buick brand was smart and chose to add features to its vehicles that weren’t seen in others—introducing the first car windshield—and a high level of style that quickly set the brand apart from the rest. The automaker was no stranger to ride quality and power, with a large presence in the racing industry in the early 1900s, taking that power and offering it in everyday vehicles—for an enhanced driving experience.

Models like the sophisticated Riviera and classic Regal quickly stole the hearts of drivers everywhere, known for their utterly refined features and pleasant driving demeanor. Not only did Buick know how to design vehicles that were more attractive than other cars on the road, but it also didn’t skimp on important features.

A black 2022 Buick Envision is shown after visiting a Buick dealer.

The Right Size for Every Driver

As the years have gone on, Buick has continued to deliver exactly what drivers are looking for in their daily commutes. Today, SUVs are the tried-and-true options for many travelers, especially those on the hunt for the perfect commuter companion. SUVs offer more space and a better ride quality than many sedans, and to see Buick’s current inventory consisting totally of SUVs isn’t a coincidence. Drivers are searching for vehicles that add value to their day, not just vehicles that get them from Point A to Point B. Commuters, especially, have a laundry list of features that they must have in their vehicle—so that they can enjoy the best ride possible as they make their way to work.

This is where Buick stands out, offering a satisfying selection of options of all sizes to appeal to all drivers. For those who want enough space to relax and enjoy the ride, but need a vehicle that’s easy to maneuver through traffic, the subcompact 2022 Encore won’t disappoint. This small SUV offers plenty of room for five to fit comfortably, making it perfect for carpool duty. Plus, there are 48.4 cu.ft. of cargo space to handle work materials and other travel gear. Opting for the Encore GX will provide a little more space, as well as two engines to choose from to build the perfect ride, no matter how long the journey takes.

A step up from the Encore is the Envision, a compact SUV that offers a spacious cabin and up to 52.7 cu.ft. of cargo space to handle many travel belongings. When the commute calls for a bit more space, the Enclave comes in to save the day, with three rows of passenger space, configurable seating, and up to 97.4 cu.ft. of cargo space available. For commuters, it’s all about options. Whether it’s a small and easy-to-handle model or a roomy and practical traveler, there’s something for every type of commuter in the Buick lineup.

Avenir Excellence

In the beginning, Buick offered drivers more features and more designer elements than its rivals, and the same rings true to this day with the alluring Avenir line. Not only does Buick knock it out of the park when it comes to its varied selection of vehicles, consistently evolving with the times, but it also takes luxury to a whole new level. Avenir models offer showstopping features, with soft, modern textures and carefully crafted wood trim inside, and an intricate grille and premium wheel designs outside. A power moonroof, upscale styling, and a refined ambiance envelops those who venture inside these immaculate travelers. If there’s one thing commuters are looking for in their vehicles, it’s comfort, and Buick has been designing its inventory to offer some of the most impressive comfort features since its inception—only getting better with age.

Sport Touring Excitement

Buick is no stranger to exhilaration, serving as the official pace car in the Indianapolis 500 on multiple occasions, as well as appearing in several other racing events. Over the years, Buick has bottled this level of thrill, placing it inside of its captivating models, and perhaps the best example of this can be seen in its current inventory with the Sport Touring line. Featuring an athletic performance, Sport Touring models deliver the level of excitement many commuters are searching for in their trusty travelers. The overall style is bolder, with an exclusive Sport Touring grille, integrated roof rails, and sportier features found throughout. Buick has always had a talent for adding subtle features to its vehicles to appeal to more drivers, and for commuters who yearn for a thrill during their daily drive, the Sport Touring models won’t disappoint.

A close up of a yellow kayak on top of a blue 2022 Buick Encore GX is shown.

Superior Ride Quality

The Buick name has always emanated greatness in all that it has ever attempted, especially in terms of overall value. The last thing commuters want to do is take extra time out of their day to stop by the pump, and it’s no secret that Buick prioritizes efficiency. Its selection of SUVs showcases pleasing fuel economy numbers, with its Encore and Encore GX models earning up to 32 mpg on the highway; its Envision model is right behind it at 31 mpg.

Adding to this efficiency is a ride quality that’s above and beyond the competition. Buick models are known for their precise handling and control, while available all-wheel drive capabilities across the lineup ensure maximum traction and stability—even during inclement weather.

Bells & Whistles

There’s always been a level of excellence from Buick models, which often showcase more bells and whistles than their competitors. Take for instance its 1963 Riviera, a model that was so beautiful that it was often compared to a Rolls-Royce. The Riviera sported all of the latest style enhancements, making it one of the most talked-about vehicles of the time.

Now, things are a little different. Drivers’ needs are evolving, and current bells and whistles primarily consist of cutting-edge tech. Oftentimes, commuters are traveling alone and need to stay alert and connected. From a dazzling touchscreen dominating the dash to helpful features, like a Head-Up Display and a Surround Vision camera, a Buick model is loaded with all the latest tech available in the industry, making any commute safer and more enjoyable.

Commuting in a Buick

Buick has been a force in the automotive industry for 119 years, and from the beginning, it proved to the masses that it had what it took to be a commuter’s most trusted companion on the road. With a variety of sizes available to ultra-plush features inside and out, sporty handling, and an exciting ride to maximum efficiency, Buick knows what commuters need in their vehicles. Constantly evolving, consistently excelling, Buick models are a step above the rest in every possible way. As time marches on for the brand, it’s only expected that their high level of style, performance, and confidence will continue to drive the industry forward—further benefiting commuters all over the nation.