Why Does The Buick Envision Have Door Handles In The Trunk?
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Those who have spent some quality time with the Buick Envision may have noticed something peculiar in the cargo area: a set of door release handles on each side of the trunk.
We have gotten several questions about this from readers, with the most peculiar one coming from Gene. During a test drive, a salesperson told him that the handles open the liftgate from inside the vehicle. Questioning the accuracy of the reply, Gene wrote to us for clarification.
In reality, the handles actually fold the 60/40-split rear seats. In driving the Envision, we grew to prefer the handles over the nylon straps that are typically used in their stead, since the door handles feel more “solid”.
To fold down the rear seats in the Envision, one must:
- Start by placing the front seatbacks in the upright position
- Fold the rear seat head restraints
- Pull the lever to activate the automatic folding feature
- Verify the seat is locked in the folded position by pushing down on the seatback
Buick also advises owners to keep the rear seatbacks in the upright and locked position when not in use.
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The design language used here cold easily pass for Chevrolet, it matches Cruze. LaCrosse now has an Opel-like character line sweep spear.
I was hoping that Buick and Chevrolet would enjoy unique design and not take the Acura/Lexus easy way out.
This may be good for Holden and even Opel but this kind of convergent design cheapens Buick.
We have seen the Coming Nox that is the same platform and size and it is much different.
It is an Opel Buick design and nothing more.
This site said that Opel and Vauxhall would be getting Equinox, not Envision.
I’m guessing that GM only wants one right hand drive offering for the segment?
I like the feature, it looks a lot more practical and easy to get at than said straps. Also LOL Front seat backs in the upright position, no lounging allowed.
The design problem is fairly obvious — they’re DOOR handles that don’t open doors. It kind off comes as a cheap to me that they couldn’t create a SEAT handle.
the side deck looks hideous…its so wedged.
What’s up with people complaining about this feature? Like a lot of other automakers are doing this to their midsize and compact crossovers. What’s the big deal?
Buick also advised to keep the rear seats back up and locked when not in use. I don’t agree if someone is sitting in that seat they’re being used. And that’s when they should be upright and locked. It’s like a sign that says keep door closed when not in use. If the door is closed it is in use. When it’s open you don’t use the door you use the doorway.
First off that salesman needs to learn the vehicles he is SELLING. Secondly I like how GM is using actual door handles for the seats. It’s uniform and looks good compared to making another handle just for it.
….and everything’s written in Chinese!
Where?