Extra-small crossover SUV offered in three trim levels: Preferred - 2023 Buick Encore GX Review
0Overview
Relaxed, quiet, and attractively priced, the 2023 Encore GX is everything we expect a junior Buick SUV to be. But its positioning in between the mainstream and luxury SUV segments leaves it lacking the traits to succeed in either one. Buick offers Encore GX buyers two different turbocharged three-cylinder engines to choose from—a 1.2-liter and a 1.3-liter—but neither one delivers particularly notable performance. Like other Buicks, the Encore GX prioritizes comfort over driving satisfaction. Even the base model is reasonably well equipped, as it features a number of standard driver-assistance tech and desirable infotainment features. It's the luxury vibe that the Encore GX is lacking. If you're wanting something truly upscale, we'll point you toward the BMW X1, the Mercedes-Benz GLA-class, or the Volvo XC40.
What's New for 2023?
Moonstone Gray Metallic joins the list of available exterior colors for 2023. Otherwise, there are no other changes to the Encore GX this year.
The best value in the lineup appears to be the midrange Select model. It comes with handsome 18-inch wheels, roof-rack side rails, an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, a rear-seat center armrest, remote start, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Experience Buick package adds navigation and a power sunroof. All-wheel drive is optional and adds up to $2000 to the price of any Encore GX.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Encore GX lineup relies on a pair of turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The base version is a 1.2-liter that develops 137 horsepower, and an optional 1.3-liter unit bumps that up to 155. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is standard on front-wheel drive models, while all-wheel drive variants upgrade to a nine-speed automatic. An all-wheel drive Encore GX with the larger 1.3-liter four-cylinder required a slothful 9.3 seconds to reach 60 mph. This is a bummer since the Encore GX's luxury-brand rivals offer more powerful engines and far quicker acceleration times. Thankfully, the Encore GX feels peppier than its acceleration results suggest, particularly around town where the small turbo engine makes the most of its reasonable low-end grunt. The Buick's ride is also agreeably smooth and controlled, but it doesn't offer any handling thrills.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Ironically, the larger of the two three-cylinder engines receives the highest fuel-economy ratings from the EPA. With front-wheel drive and the CVT, the turbocharged 1.3-liter achieves up to 32 mpg highway. Going with the smaller 1.2-liter mill drops that figure to 30 mpg. Opting for the 1.3-liter with all-wheel drive and the nine-speed automatic nets a highway rating of 29 mpg. However, on our 200-mile highway fuel-economy test route, the Encore GX with the larger engine, all-wheel drive, and nine-speed automatic managed 30 mpg, beating the EPA's estimate by 1 mpg. For more information about the Encore GX's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Buick's positioning in the market straddles the line between luxury and mainstream, so it's better equipped than base-level versions of rivals such as the Nissan Kicks and Subaru Crosstrek, but it doesn't provide the same level of fit and finish as an Audi, a BMW, or a Volvo. The Encore GX's front-passenger seat folds flat to aid in loading longer items. We fit five carry-on suitcases behind the GX's rear seats and 16 with the rear seats folded, which is only a few less than the slightly larger Cadillac XT4.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Encore GX’s infotainment system supports a nicely integrated touchscreen that comes standard with features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. The little Buick employs General Motors's latest infotainment software interface, which is both snappy in its responses and intuitive to use. A head-up display is an available option, as is a high-definition 360-degree camera system.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
View Crash Test Results
The Encore GX offers numerous standard driver-assistance technologies; a rearview camera mirror and 360-degree camera system will be optional. For more information about the Encore GX's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The Encore GX offers more warranty coverage than mainstream rivals such as the Nissan Kicks and the Mazda CX-30, as well as luxury-branded offerings such as the Mercedes-Benz GLA-class and the Audi Q3. However, the Buick falls short against the X1 and XC40, both of which offer free maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles.