In the sea of subcompact crossovers, the Buick Encore GX is a looker. Thanks to last year’s updates, when the Encore GX rolls by with its bold grille design, LED lights, and clean, aerodynamic lines, most have to check the logo on the back to guess what make they’re looking at. Even the brand logo is updated to support Buick’s new sleek and modern styling.
Encore GX straddles the line between the luxury brands and everyone else.
The base price of Encore GX starts at $26K which makes it one of the more expensive non-luxury class vehicles among subcompact SUV choices. But you’ll begin to see why by taking a look inside. Buick nails it with interior materials and finishes. Thoroughly modern touches include an 11-inch touchscreen and digital instrument panel and Buick IntelliLink infotainment system. Playing against fierce competition in the segment means it also comes standard with a lot of driver assist and other tech features.
Its closest comparison is Buick’s Envista. The sister vehicle is similarly roomy-feeling inside and just as stylish. And it’s a little less expensive. But when you want an AWD option, the Encore GX is your choice.
This little SUV reflects the full evolution of the Buick brand image.
You’d expect comfortable ride quality from a Buick. And Encore GX delivers. But you might be surprised at just how zippy it accelerates and how nicely it handles. Indeed, this little SUV reflects the full evolution of the Buick brand image. The base-model comes standard with a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine delivering 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque.
A more modern and youthful Buick brand opens the door to performance-oriented models like the 2025 Sport Touring AWD version we drove. It was powered by the more robust turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder with 155 hp and 174 lb-ft. delivering 27 mpg combined. Its acceleration is quicker than average for the segment, and the ample low-end torque adds to the perception of power. Encore GX all-wheel-drive models like ours also get a nine-speed automatic transmission instead of the continuously variable automatic transmission used on front-wheel drive models.
The Sport Touring is the mid-level choice, and the top-tier Avenir gets even fancier.
Our Sport Touring with AWD had a starting price of $28,800. An Experience Buick Package for $1,700 added panoramic power moonroof, 19” gloss black aluminum wheels. The Advanced Technology package for $1,100 added a wireless charging pad, adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera system. All in with premium paint and destination charges, the tag was $33,380.
So yeah, you’ll pay more for the combination of style, comfort and luxury that Buick delivers. But engaging driving dynamics proving that Buick can deliver fun-to-drive vehicles as well, make Encore GX even more compelling. So you’re flirting with a tough decision—stay mainstream and go for top tier choices like Encore GX, or step up to luxury class subcompacts and stick with the entry level choices there. But you’re looking at a starting price over $40K when you step into, for example, the Lexus NX.
In any case, competition forces all to deliver tons of bang for every buck spent.
Compare:
If AWD and upscale finish-out are on the wish list, compare the Encore GX to Mazda’s CX30.
Drivers who want a fun-to-drive, performance-oriented subcompact SUV without the high price tag of more premium sports crossovers should also check out the 268 hp AWD Dodge Hornet.
Don’t Miss: Subscribe to Savvy Trucks Toys & SUVS
