If you know Buick’s SUV/crossover range, you should be aware of the gap between the sub-compact Encore and the full-size Enclave. GM plans to do something about it with a new mid-size SUV named Envision, previewed in the above teaser ahead of a world premiere in China later this year.

The Detroit carmaker did not mention anything about availability in other markets, but it is believed that the Envision will join Buick’s lineup in North America sometime next year, possibly with a different name, and may also wear Opel’s badge in Europe.

It’s hard to see the resemblance from the draped car in the teaser, but GM claims that the new SUV is inspired by the sporty-looking Buick Envision Concept from the 2011 Shanghai Auto Show (pictured below).

Don’t take their word for it, but Buick says it “has dynamic and assertive styling” fusing “iconic Buick design cues with the brand’s new high-end, refined global design concepts”.

The production model will adopt a new-generation powertrain together with all-wheel-drive technology, and at least in China, offer start/stop technology as standard across the range.

By John Halas

PHOTO GALLERY

All-new high-end midsize SUV, the Buick Envision, will make its premiere in China later this year. Buick-Envision-SUV-Concept-Interior-1Buick-Envision-SUV-Concept-4Buick-Envision-SUV-Concept-3Buick-Envision-SUV-Concept-1Buick-Envision-SUV-Concept-2