The Buick Encore GX, not to be confused Buick Encore, is an all-new crossover that’s both small and dashing. In 2020 especially, the crossover SUV market has gotten incredibly competitive, and the Encore GX shows that Buick wants to be a more prominent player here too. Let’s see if this new model is a worthy contender for you.

The Buick Encore GX has a keen sense of style

From the front, the Encore GX looks almost identical to the first generation Encore. But at the rear, you’ll see that Buick fashioned the Encore GX as a shapelier SUV. The Encore and the Encore GX share a name, and that’s about it. 

The Encore GX is taller and broader than the Encore and is better positioned to compete with the likes of the Mazda CX-3. Buick gave the Encore GX a notably futuristic look that should appeal to a wide variety of drivers. 

How the Encore GX performs 

We’d have to say that the Encore GX is best suited for city dwellers, and that’s not just because of its compact size. This teensy SUV is efficient and features two different turbocharged engine options. Base models get a 1.2-liter three-cylinder that makes 137-horsepower.

The available 1.3-liter three-cylinder produces 155-hp. Front-wheel drive is standard, along with a continuously variable transmission. Models with all-wheel-drive are linked to a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Consumer Reports calls the Encore GX “surprisingly sprightly” and also notes that its handling is responsive. While these are high points on the Encore GX, there are some noticeable flaws concerning its performance. It doesn’t absorb road imperfections well, and its engine seems a tad too loud at higher speeds. 

As far as fuel economy is concerned, the Encore GX gets a combined 26 mpg. CR notes that the Encore GX’s fuel economy is good for its class. Although, the Encore GX’s fuel economy rating isn’t as impressive considering its small engines. 

On the inside of the Encore GX 

The Encore GX offers more interior space compared to the flagship Encore model. However, some passengers may find the Encore GX’s rear seat to be a bit tight. Cloth upholstery comes standard on the Encore GX, and you upgrade its car cabin with items such as leather upholstery and heated seats.

Buick is one of the best when it comes to infotainment offerings. The Encore GX has an easy-to-use infotainment system that includes standard features such as a wifi hotspot, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. Amazon Alexa integration is also available.

Safety features 

The Encore GX hasn’t been fully crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. To help prevent crashes, the Encore GX does come with a few advanced safety features. These include lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. 

Wrapping it up

The all-new Encore GX starts at $24,100. This Buick does have a few things going for it, such as its comfortable cabin and its available tech features. But from our perspective, the Encore GX will have to do more to stand out.