The New Standard: A Review of the Buick Encore GX
The Buick Encore GX represents a crucial step in the evolution of Buick's compact SUV lineup. Launched in 2020, it was not a replacement for the original Encore but a distinct, more modern, and more upscale model designed to bridge the gap between the entry-level Encore and the larger Envision. The Encore GX was a clear signal of Buick's new design language and technological direction, aiming to appeal to a younger, more tech-savvy audience while retaining the brand’s core values of quiet comfort and accessible luxury. This review dives into what made the Encore GX a significant entry in the highly competitive subcompact crossover market.
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| The New Standard: A Review of the Buick Encore GX |
A Bold New Look: Design and Styling
From a design perspective, the Encore GX was a radical departure from its older sibling. While the original Encore had a tall and rounded silhouette, the GX was sleek, low-slung, and athletic. Its styling was a preview of Buick's new design philosophy, featuring a more prominent grille, sharper body lines, and a more aggressive stance. The available full-LED lighting and dynamic creases on the hood and body panels gave it a sophisticated and premium look that helped it stand out in a sea of similar-sized crossovers.
Inside, the Encore GX’s cabin was a significant step up in both design and quality. The layout was clean and modern, with a horizontally-oriented dashboard that made the cabin feel wider and more spacious. The materials were a noticeable improvement, with soft-touch surfaces and a solid feel to the controls. Technology was at the forefront of the design, with a large, integrated touchscreen that looked and felt more modern than the infotainment systems in the original Encore. Despite its compact size, the Encore GX’s interior was cleverly packaged, offering a respectable amount of passenger room and a surprisingly versatile cargo area, thanks to a configurable load floor.
A Modern Powertrain: Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Encore GX was a clear sign of the industry's shift towards smaller, more efficient engines. It offered a choice of two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a 1.2-liter and a 1.3-liter unit. While a three-cylinder engine might sound small for an SUV, both engines were surprisingly capable and responsive. They provided a decent amount of low-end torque, which made the Encore GX feel peppy and agile in city traffic.
The 1.3-liter engine, in particular, was the more compelling choice, offering a perfect balance of power and impressive fuel efficiency. Front-wheel-drive models were paired with a smooth continuously variable transmission (CVT), while all-wheel-drive models came with a traditional nine-speed automatic transmission. The latter was a significant upgrade, providing seamless and quick gear changes. The ride quality remained a Buick hallmark, as the suspension was tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, making the Encore GX a comfortable and quiet cruiser on the highway.
Technology and Safety: A Wealth of Features
The Encore GX was a technology leader for its segment. The infotainment system was a major selling point, with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—a feature that was still a luxury on many more expensive vehicles at the time of its launch. The system was intuitive to use, with a crisp display and a quick response time.
Safety was also a priority. All Encore GX models came standard with the Buick Driver Confidence package, a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features that included Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Alert, and a Following Distance Indicator. This commitment to standard safety features was a strong selling point and helped the Encore GX earn excellent safety ratings. Higher trims offered even more advanced features like Adaptive Cruise Control and a 360-degree camera system.
The Final Verdict: A Step Up in Every Way
The Buick Encore GX was a resounding success because it addressed the shortcomings of its predecessor while building on its strengths. It delivered a more stylish design, a higher-quality interior, a modern and efficient powertrain, and a wealth of standard technology and safety features. It was the perfect vehicle to meet the demands of a changing market, proving that Buick could produce a compact crossover that was not only practical and quiet but also genuinely desirable.
While the original Encore was a pioneer, the Encore GX truly perfected the formula. It elevated the brand and set a new standard for what a compact luxury crossover could be. For buyers looking for a vehicle that offers a premium feel without the premium price tag, the Buick Encore GX remains an excellent choice, a true representation of modern American luxury.
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