What Buick electric cars are currently available

Buick sells two fully electric vehicles in the United States: the Buick Lyriq and the Buick Ultium-based models coming to market. The Lyriq is a midsize electric SUV that launched in 2023 and is the brand's primary EV offering right now. It seats five passengers, has a starting price in the mid-$40,000 range, and comes with either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive depending on the trim level you choose.

Buick also sells the Buick Velite 6 in some markets, though availability varies by region and model year. The company has announced additional electric models under development, but the Lyriq remains the main option for most buyers shopping today. Buick is part of General Motors' broader shift toward electric vehicles, which means new models are rolling out over the next few years, but current inventory is limited compared to gas-powered Buicks.

Key Takeaways

  • The Buick Lyriq is a five-seat electric SUV with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, starting around $43,000 to $45,000 depending on trim and current incentives.
  • Lyriq models offer an EPA-estimated range of roughly 260 to 300 miles per charge, depending on drivetrain and battery size.
  • Buick electric vehicles may may have access to for the federal tax credit of up to $7,500 if they meet price and income requirements, though you should verify current may be able to access with a dealer.
  • Charging at home requires a Level 2 charger installation, which typically costs $500 to $2,000, and public DC fast charging can add 200 miles in 30 minutes on newer models.

Lyriq specifications and range

The Lyriq comes in multiple trim levels: Essence, Select, Premium, and Ultra. All models use a single electric motor in rear-wheel-drive form, producing around 210 horsepower. The all-wheel-drive versions add a second motor at the front and increase total output to approximately 300 horsepower. The battery pack size varies by trim: base models use a smaller battery that delivers roughly 260 miles of EPA-estimated range, while higher trims with larger batteries reach closer to 300 miles.

Real-world range depends on driving conditions, temperature, and how aggressively you accelerate. Cold weather can reduce range by 20 to 30 percent, and highway driving at higher speeds uses more energy than city driving. Buick publishes EPA estimates on the window sticker of each vehicle, and those numbers are the most reliable baseline for comparing the Lyriq to other electric SUVs in its class.

Pricing and available incentives

The Lyriq's base price starts in the low-to-mid $40,000 range, though exact pricing changes by model year and current market conditions. All-wheel-drive models cost several thousand dollars more than rear-wheel-drive versions. Trim upgrades add features like a larger touchscreen, premium audio, leather seating, and advanced driver information systems, each adding $2,000 to $5,000 to the final price.

The federal tax credit of up to $7,500 may reduce your out-of-pocket cost if you meet income and price cap requirements. Those limits change annually, and some Buick models may exceed the price threshold depending on trim level. You should confirm with a Buick dealer whether a specific Lyriq model qualifies for the full credit, a partial credit, or no credit at all. Some states also offer additional rebates or tax credits for electric vehicle purchases, so check your state's transportation or environmental agency website for current programs.

Home charging and public charging networks

Installing a Level 2 home charger is the most practical way to own an electric Buick. A Level 2 charger plugs into a 240-volt outlet (the same type used for electric dryers) and adds roughly 25 to 30 miles of range per hour of charging. Installation typically costs $500 to $2,000 depending on your home's electrical panel and how far the charger needs to be from the panel. Many utilities offer rebates that cover part of this cost, so contact your local electric company before hiring an electrician.

For road trips or when you cannot charge at home, DC fast chargers are available through networks like Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint. A DC fast charger can add 200 miles of range in roughly 30 minutes, though charging speed slows as the battery approaches full capacity. Most public chargers cost between $0.25 and $0.50 per kilowatt-hour, though some networks charge a monthly subscription fee instead. The Lyriq comes with a mobile app that shows nearby chargers and their availability in real time.

Warranty and maintenance costs

Buick covers the Lyriq's battery with an eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty, whichever comes first. The rest of the vehicle carries a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty. Battery degradation is normal over time, but Buick's warranty protects you if the battery loses more than a certain percentage of its capacity within the coverage period. The specific degradation threshold varies, so ask a dealer for the exact terms when you purchase.

Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than gas cars, which means lower maintenance costs overall. You do not need oil changes, spark plugs, or transmission fluid. The main maintenance items are tire rotation, brake fluid checks, and cabin air filters. Regenerative braking means brake pads last significantly longer than in traditional cars. Over the life of ownership, maintenance costs are typically 30 to 40 percent lower than comparable gas-powered vehicles, though this varies based on driving habits and local repair rates.

Comparing the Lyriq to other electric SUVs

The Lyriq competes directly with the Tesla Model Y, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, and Volkswagen ID.4. The Model Y typically costs more but offers faster acceleration and a larger charging network. The Chevrolet Blazer EV and Equinox EV are General Motors products like the Lyriq, so they share similar technology and charging compatibility. The Volkswagen ID.4 is slightly smaller and often priced lower, making it a good option if you want a compact electric SUV.

The Lyriq's main advantages are its spacious interior, smooth ride quality, and Buick's reputation for quiet cabins. It also uses GM's Ultium battery platform, which is compatible with most public DC fast chargers across North America. If you prioritize luxury features and a quieter driving experience over maximum performance, the Lyriq is worth test-driving alongside its competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to charge a Buick Lyriq at home?

A Level 2 home charger adds roughly 25 to 30 miles of range per hour, so a full charge from empty takes approximately 8 to 10 hours. Most owners plug in overnight and wake up with a full battery. If you have a standard 120-volt outlet, charging is much slower—roughly 2 to 3 miles per hour—and is only practical for topping up between trips.

Can I tow with a Buick Lyriq?

The Lyriq is not rated for towing. If you need to tow a trailer, you would need to consider a different vehicle. Buick has not announced towing capability for the Lyriq in any trim level.

What happens to the battery after 10 years?

Modern EV batteries typically retain 80 to 90 percent of their capacity after 10 years of normal use. Buick's eight-year warranty covers significant degradation, but after the warranty expires, battery replacement can cost $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the model and repair facility. Many owners keep their vehicles well beyond 10 years, and the battery continues to function—it just has less range than when new.

Is there a plug-in hybrid Buick if I am not ready for a full electric vehicle?

Buick does not currently sell a plug-in hybrid in the United States, though General Motors offers plug-in hybrids under other brands like Chevrolet and GMC. If you want the option to drive on gas when needed, you would need to look at those brands or consider a traditional hybrid instead.