When you’re shopping for a new vehicle, it’s common to wonder: is Buick a good car? Buick has long been a recognisable name in the American automotive market, with a history that stretches back over a century. Known for smooth rides, quiet interiors, and premium touches without the sky-high luxury pricing, Buick sits in a unique position. It doesn’t fully compete with mainstream budget cars like Chevrolet or Toyota, but it also doesn’t demand the steep prices of Cadillac, Lexus, or BMW.
But for modern car buyers, the brand’s name isn’t enough to inspire trust. People want to know whether Buick stands up to today’s expectations: How reliable are its vehicles? Does it still appeal to younger buyers? Do the SUVs offer real long-term value? And importantly, does Buick deliver a balance between comfort, performance, and affordability?
Is Buick a good car? Yes—Buick is often considered a good car brand for drivers who prioritise comfort, quiet rides, and upscale features without the full luxury price tag. Buick SUVs like the Enclave and Encore GX offer solid reliability, advanced safety, and affordability compared to luxury imports. While not the sportiest option, Buick is a dependable choice for families, commuters, and retirees.
Buick’s Reputation for Dependability and Long-Term Value
Reliability is one of the top considerations for any car buyer, and Buick has built a strong reputation for durability and driver confidence. While some sedans from the 1990s and early 2000s drew criticism for dated technology and occasional electrical issues, the brand has made significant improvements over the past two decades.
One of Buick’s strengths lies in its connection to General Motors’ wider engineering ecosystem. Many mechanical components are shared across GM brands such as Chevrolet and GMC. This results in easier access to replacement parts and generally lower maintenance costs compared to European luxury vehicles. For owners, this translates into fewer headaches and a smoother long-term ownership experience.
Today’s Buick lineup focuses heavily on SUVs like the Enclave, Encore, and Encore GX. These models consistently earn strong ratings from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports for initial quality and dependability. Many owners report that, with routine oil changes and scheduled maintenance, Buicks can easily reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles without major problems.
Another factor supporting Buick’s dependability is its comprehensive warranty coverage. Standard protection includes three years or 36,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage and five years or 60,000 miles of powertrain coverage. For buyers, this provides peace of mind knowing that potential early issues are covered.
Longevity is also a hallmark of the brand. It’s common to hear stories of drivers keeping their Buicks for more than a decade. Families and retirees who prefer long-term ownership often choose Buick because it delivers a balance of comfort, stability, and durability without the worry of rapid decline.
Buick vs Competitors Comfort Value and Reliability
Comparing Buick to other popular automakers is essential to answering the big question: is Buick a good car? While no brand is perfect, Buick offers a balance of comfort, practicality, and upscale features that make it a compelling alternative to both mainstream and luxury brands. Over the course of automotive history and even in the current Time in America, Buick has held a steady reputation as a comfortable, stylish option that appeals to families and older drivers alike.
Buick vs Toyota and Honda
Toyota and Honda are well-known for bulletproof reliability and excellent resale value. Buick doesn’t quite match them in resale strength, but it comes close in dependability. Where Buick excels is in ride quality. Buick’s vehicles are quieter, smoother, and more comfortable, often using sound-dampening technology that Japanese rivals don’t emphasise as strongly.
Buick vs Luxury Brands like Lexus and Acura
Lexus and Acura dominate the affordable luxury SUV market. Buick offers similar premium finishes—like leather seating, intuitive infotainment, and advanced driver-assist features—at a lower price point. Buick may not match Lexus in long-term resale or Acura in sporty performance, but it provides a “luxury feel” without the financial burden.
Buick vs Chevrolet and GMC
Since Buick is part of GM, comparisons with Chevrolet and GMC are natural. Buick models usually share core platforms with Chevrolet, but they feature quieter cabins, better materials, and a more premium experience. Compared to GMC, Buick leans toward comfort while GMC focuses more on utility and ruggedness.
Buick vs European Brands
European automakers like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz offer performance-oriented vehicles. Buick doesn’t compete in raw horsepower or sportiness. Instead, it positions itself as a value-driven comfort brand. Maintenance costs for Buicks are far lower than those of European cars, and owners often appreciate the lower insurance premiums and repair bills.
Reasons Why Buick Is Considered a Good Car
Buick has earned a reputation for blending comfort, technology, and value. Several factors explain why many drivers see it as a smart, dependable choice.
- Comfort and Quiet Rides
Buick has consistently emphasised comfort. Features like QuietTuning technology reduce outside noise, making Buicks some of the quietest vehicles in their class. - Affordable Luxury
Buick strikes a balance between luxury and affordability. While not a full luxury brand, its interiors feature leather upholstery, heated seats, and advanced infotainment systems. - Strong Safety Ratings
Safety is a priority for Buick. Models like the Enclave and Encore GX regularly receive high crash-test scores from the IIHS and NHTSA, making them a dependable choice for families. - Wide SUV Selection
By discontinuing sedans, Buick focused on SUVs, aligning with market trends. Its lineup covers compact to full-size SUVs, ensuring a match for different lifestyles. - Modern Technology
Buick vehicles now come standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. - Resale Value
While Buick doesn’t reach Toyota’s levels of resale, it has improved significantly. Buyers benefit from slower depreciation than some American rivals, boosting its long-term value.
When Buick Fits Your Lifestyle and Driving Needs
Choosing a Buick isn’t just about reliability—it’s about whether the brand aligns with your lifestyle and driving needs. Buick vehicles tend to shine for certain buyer groups and situations.
Families often appreciate Buick SUVs for their roomy interiors, high safety ratings, and modern tech features. The Enclave, with its three rows of seating, is especially popular among parents who want a comfortable yet practical family vehicle.
Retirees make up another key segment of Buick’s customer base. They value the quiet cabins, supportive seats, and smooth ride quality. For drivers who no longer prioritise sportiness or towing, Buick offers the right balance of ease-of-use and upscale comfort.
Commuters also find appeal in models like the Encore GX and Envision, which combine strong fuel efficiency with infotainment systems that keep daily drives connected and enjoyable.
That said, Buick may not suit every driver. Those seeking a sporty sedan, a rugged off-road SUV, or a fully electric model (at least for now) may want to look elsewhere. The brand has firmly positioned itself as a comfort-first, premium-alternative option in today’s market.
Buick’s Shift to SUVs and Its Global Success Story
Buick continues to evolve in 2025, shifting to an SUV-only lineup while strengthening its global presence and modern appeal. Here’s how the brand stands today.
Buick’s Shift to SUVs
In recent years, Buick discontinued sedans in North America to focus solely on SUVs. This shift has helped the brand stay relevant in an era where SUVs dominate the market.
Buick’s Global Reach
While Buick is a familiar name in the U.S., it’s even more popular in China, where it ranks among the top-selling car brands. This global strength ensures the brand’s long-term stability.
Buick’s Modern Appeal
Modern Buicks appeal to buyers who want stylish design, updated technology, and a balance of affordability and luxury. Younger buyers are beginning to see Buick as more than just a brand for retirees.
Buick’s Resale and Market Position
Buick’s resale value is stronger than many domestic brands but still trails Toyota and Honda. However, warranties, safety features, and modern tech give Buick a solid position in the “affordable luxury” category.
Conclusion
So, is Buick a good car? Yes, for many buyers, Buick is an excellent choice. It may not satisfy thrill-seekers looking for sporty handling, but it delivers consistent reliability, premium comfort, and strong safety ratings. With its focus on SUVs, Buick has carved out a niche that appeals to families, retirees, and anyone looking for affordable luxury. In 2025 and beyond, Buick remains a solid option for buyers who value comfort and dependability.
FAQ’s
Is Buick considered a luxury car brand?
Not entirely. Buick is considered a premium brand, positioned above Chevrolet but below Cadillac.
How long do Buick cars usually last?
With proper maintenance, many Buicks last well over 150,000–200,000 miles.
Do Buicks have good resale value?
Yes, Buick resale values are improving, especially in SUVs, though they still trail Toyota and Honda.
Are Buick SUVs safe?
Yes, Buick SUVs like the Enclave and Encore GX score high in safety tests from IIHS and NHTSA.
Who should buy a Buick?
Families, retirees, and commuters seeking comfort, safety, and affordable luxury features benefit most from Buick ownership.
