2021 Buick Encore GX
| MSRP | $26,260 |
|---|---|
| Edmunds suggests you pay | $22,053 |
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68 for sale near you
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2021 Buick Encore GX Review
- Appealing design both inside and out
- Pleasing mix of sharp handling with a comfortable ride quality
- Desirable infotainment and driving assistance tech is standard
- Lots of space for passengers and cargo
- A little too noisy on the highway
- Thick roof pillars reduce rear visibility
- Costs nearly as much as one-size-bigger SUVs
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility
- Satellite radio now standard
- Part of the first Encore GX generation introduced for 2020
Buick introduced the Encore GX last year to expand its lineup of SUVs. The naming can be confusing, though. There are actually two Encore SUVs: the original Encore extra-small SUV, which has been around since 2013, and the newish Encore GX. The "GX" part makes it sound like a trim level but it's effectively the replacement for the original Encore, even though Buick is selling both SUVs for 2021.
The 2021 Buick Encore GX is far and away the superior pick of the two. It has an updated interior, improved performance and more advanced safety features. It's also one of more upscale choices in its extra-small SUV class. As such, it costs a bit more than its competitors, but quality materials and unique tech — such as a head-up display and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration — help justify the premium.
Additional strengths include a roomy interior, a comfortable ride and relatively well-sorted handling characteristics. Other than narrow, stiff seats, the Encore GX doesn't have many faults. Just keep an eye on the price — the Buick starts at roughly the same price as larger, more refined vehicles in the small SUV class.
Our verdict | |
The Buick Encore GX took us by surprise with sprightly acceleration and competent handling. Buick's hallmarks, including a comfortable ride, an upscale interior and a robust list of tech features, are also included. That said, you do pay a (literal) price for these qualities since the Encore GX is expensive relative to its primary competition. | |
How does the Encore GX drive? | |
The Encore GX is a surprisingly dynamic little SUV. There's impressively little body roll when you drive around turns, and there's a pleasing amount of grip. The steering is a bit light for easy maneuvering around town, but it's accurate and easy to judge. Acceleration from the turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder is a bit quicker than average for the segment; our test model covered 0-60 mph in 9.2 seconds. Around town, the engine feels strong. There are only a few standout nitpicks. The brake pedal is fairly sensitive, and that can make it hard to consistently stop smoothly. Also, the nine-speed transmission takes a few ticks longer than we'd like to select the right gear when you want more power. Finally, the engine stop-start system bucks the car when it fires back up at a stoplight. Thankfully, you can shut it off. | |
How comfortable is the Encore GX? | |
The Encore GX is generally well tuned for comfort. The ride is well controlled and doesn't transmit many road imperfections to the cabin. You will feel a jolt in the cabin, though, if you drive over square-edged bumps. The climate control is strong, and the seat heaters warm up quickly. Front seat comfort is underwhelming. The padding is firm, and some drivers will wish for more lateral support. Tire noise is noticeable at highway speeds, and the three-cylinder is particularly vocal. Even if you aren't flooring the throttle, you'll hear the engine rumble and roar when pulling away from a stop. You can also feel engine vibrations through the steering wheel; most modern cars have filtered such vibration out. | |
How’s the interior? | |
The Encore GX's interior is thoughtfully designed and uncomplicated. It's a nice mix of digital and analog, with physical buttons used for some controls that other cars might bury in a screen menu. The infotainment interface is easy to use and features snappy responses. Though you'll have to duck to get inside, the cabin is roomy enough to not further hamper entry or exit. Without the optional sunroof, the GX has plenty of headroom front and back, and there's good legroom for taller passengers too. The driver's seat feels a little upright, but most drivers should be able to fit easily. Side-rear visibility is somewhat hampered by a sweeping beltline. | |
How’s the tech? | |
The breadth and execution of the tech on display really make the Encore GX stand out. Though its volume doesn't go very high, the base audio system is one of the best in class in terms of sound quality. The navigation system also works great. It uses predictive text so you don't have to type out an entire point of interest, and even incomplete searches usually net the correct destination. Four USB ports, a 120-volt outlet and a wireless charging pad ensure your devices are fully powered. There are a lot of safety features, including rarities such as a 360-degree camera system and a digital rearview mirror. All safety features are well executed, though the forward collision warning is a touch too sensitive. We applaud the Encore GX for offering a voice command system — many vehicles in this class don't. We do wish this Buick used more natural language recognition. Some commands, and their results, can be a bit frustrating. | |
How’s the storage? | |
The GX's surprising sense of space carries over to the cargo area. It measures 23.5 cubic feet with the rear seats up (a few cubes larger than most in this class) and 50.2 cubes folded — roughly average for the segment. We like that the rear seats fold flat without having to move the front seats forward. The liftgate height is adjustable, so even tall people can load items without hitting the bottom edge of the hatch. The cupholders will hold beverages of most sizes, provided you aren't packing a large Yeti tumbler. Cubbies are relatively small but numerous, with spaces in front of the shifter and armrest. Under the armrest is a useful bin with a divider tray. The door pockets are merely adequate. For kid duty, the Encore GX works out OK. There's decent room for child safety seats, but the car seat anchors are somewhat hidden and hard to spot. | |
How economical is the Encore GX? | |
The Encore GX AWD gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined (26 city/29 highway). These numbers are typical for the class, and we exceeded these figures on our 115-mile real-world evaluation route. While we often post results somewhere between the combined and highway rating, we achieved a 31.1 mpg average with the Encore GX. This is among the best results we've observed from an extra-small SUV. | |
Is the Encore GX a good value? | |
The cabin is a clear step above other vehicles in the class, allowing the GX to toe the line between standard and luxury small SUVs. The interior design elements look fetching, and there's more ample use of soft-touch plastic than in budget-conscious rivals. But the upscale accommodations come at a literal cost. The Encore GX is quite expensive for a subcompact crossover SUV, with prices that start within a whisper of top-ranked small SUVs. With that in mind, we think a larger model such as a Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5 gives you more refinement and better bang for the buck. But if you want a premium small SUV without paying full price for a luxury model, the Encore GX makes a strong case for itself. The bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties are average for the segment, but roadside assistance is offered for longer than usual. The first service visit is complimentary. | |
Wildcard | |
The Encore GX is anonymously styled, but the presence of the Sport Touring package gives buyers the ability to stand out from the crowd a bit. The Encore GX also wins points for its handsome interior and wide variety of safety and technology features. The turbocharged three-cylinder gives it some personality, especially with the ample low-end torque making you feel like it's faster than it actually is. | |
Which Encore GX does Edmunds recommend?
We think the Select offers the best balance of features for the money. Make sure to opt for the turbocharged 1.3-liter engine. It's a modestly priced upgrade that brings a bit more power and torque, along with reduced fuel consumption. We also recommend the Advanced Technology package for its wealth of upgrades.
Buick Encore GX models
The 2021 Buick Encore GX is an extra-small crossover SUV offered in three trim levels: Preferred, Select and Essence. Standard on all front-wheel-drive models is a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine (137 horsepower, 162 lb-ft) paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Standard on all-wheel-drive models — and optional for front-wheel-drive Select and Essence trims — is a turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder (155 hp, 174 lb-ft). This engine is paired to a CVT on front-wheel-drive models, while AWD versions get a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Save as much as $4,417 with Edmunds
2021 Buick Encore GX pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Preferred
1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT
Edmunds Suggested Price$22,053
34 for sale in 20147
Select
1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT
Edmunds Suggested Price$24,357
33 for sale in 20147
Essence
1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT
Edmunds Suggested Price$28,718
18 for sale in 20147
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Buick Encore GX.
Trending topics in reviews
- driving experience
- interior
- ride quality
- safety
- value
- technology
- appearance
- engine
- maintenance & parts
- sound system
- wheels & tires
- fuel efficiency
- road noise
Most helpful consumer reviews
5/5 stars, To Me It's Best Sub Compact SUV For The Price
Zolman,
Essence 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A)
I've test driven all the sub compact SUV under $50,000. The Encore GX didn't have the raw power of some of the other brands BUT it had all I needed plus much better gas mileage. We just got done with a 650 mile road trip and averaged 38MPG. That's much better than the rating and all we did was drive speed limit. It's got enough power to merge into traffic and pass slow traffic on two lane roads. The interior is great and with all the refinements of the premium brands in its class. Granted it doesn't have real leather or 24 speakers, but I don't need that. What I really liked is the moon and combined sun roof, camera system and the safety features. No other SUV in it's class came close. And some of the pro evaluator's said there was cabin road noise ??? I listen to the radio when I drive.
5/5 stars, I love my GX
Happy Owner,
Select 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A)
So I am not an automotive aficionado, I am an average middle-class consumer. I have read reports of “sloppy steering”, awkward displays, etc., and I have experienced none of that. It’s a great looking little SUV that you can park almost anywhere. I have the 1.3 liter turbo and it’s a lot peppier than my previous Encore’s 1.4L engine. For the price, I just don’t know how you can beat it. I would buy it again without hesitation.
5/5 stars, This car is NOT slow (with 1.3L)
Peter,
Essence 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A)
Purchased a 2021 Encore GX Essence and it is a fantastic car. Let’s address the elephant in the room first; SO many reviews of this car are positive until they get to the engine and then it all falls apart with comments pertaining to it being very slow and loud. Mine is FWD and most reviews are with AWD which may be part of the problem. My experience with the 1.3L has been instantaneous power with no turbo lag and quite quite. Mine includes the Advanced Tech Pkg Experience Buick Pkg, Convenience Pkg and is quite a vehicle that definitely feels a class above. It is higher in price but with this amount of tech (self parking anyone?), the quiet interior, very smooth ride and sharp styling I encourage anyone considering this car, and even those not considering it to drive it. You should be impressed. So no one is confused, the “Model” section below does not include an Essence FWD 1.3L forcing me to select the AWD option.
5/5 stars, So far so good
Hail2Eman,
Select 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A)
Had my Encore GX for about 6month now and put 5K miles on it already.
All the professional car critics say this car is under power. Its was never meant to be a speed demon, which I did not need anyway. But far as acceleration and keeping up with the traffic, in highway speed it has no problem. I think it fits in perfect between a Boring Honda / Nissan and expensive Lexus or Accra. It has perfect size and all the feature I wanted and needed.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Encore GX safety features:
- Teen Driver
- Monitors teen driver use of a vehicle, providing a driving report card to parents after the teen returns home.
- Buick Driver Confidence
- Bundles a collection of driving aids including forward collision warning, pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking.
- OnStar and Buick Connected Services
- Provides automatic collision notifications and other connected safety services through OnStar.
Buick Encore GX vs. the competition
2021 Buick Encore GX
2020 Mazda CX-30
Buick Encore GX vs. Mazda CX-30
Like the Encore GX, the Mazda CX-30 is a subcompact crossover SUV that debuted last year with a familiar name. Both the Mazda CX-30 and CX-3 are pint-sized SUVs, but the CX-30 is the newer and more polished of the two. The Encore GX and CX-30 both offer a more premium interior than most vehicles in the class, though they're priced a bit higher.
Buick Encore GX vs. Chevrolet Trailblazer
The Encore GX and the Chevrolet Trailblazer are mechanical twins, sharing a platform, powertrains and a general trim structure. The Trailblazer is less expensive overall, while the Encore GX feels a little more luxurious and offers more features. There's also the styling — the Encore GX looks fairly conventional, while the Trailblazer evokes the design of its big brother, the Chevrolet Blazer.
Buick Encore GX vs. Hyundai Kona
The Hyundai Kona is one of our favorite small SUVs, with a diverse range of trims to fit most budgets. The Kona is also one of the few subcompact crossovers to offer an upgraded engine, giving it one of the quickest acceleration times we've seen in the segment. As with most Hyundai vehicles, the Kona also gives you a lot of features for the money.
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FAQ
Is the Buick Encore GX a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 Encore GX both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.9 out of 10. You probably care about Buick Encore GX fuel economy, so it's important to know that the Encore GX gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg to 29 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Encore GX has 23.5 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Buick Encore GX. Learn more
What's new in the 2021 Buick Encore GX?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Buick Encore GX:
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility
- Satellite radio now standard
- Part of the first Encore GX generation introduced for 2020
Is the Buick Encore GX reliable?
To determine whether the Buick Encore GX is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Encore GX. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Encore GX's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2021 Buick Encore GX a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Buick Encore GX is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 Encore GX and gave it a 7.9 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 Encore GX is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2021 Buick Encore GX?
The least-expensive 2021 Buick Encore GX is the 2021 Buick Encore GX Preferred 4dr SUV (1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $24,200.
Other versions include:
- Select 4dr SUV (1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $25,800
- Preferred 4dr SUV (1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $24,200
- Essence 4dr SUV (1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $28,600
- Select 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $27,800
- Essence 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $30,600
- Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $26,200
What are the different models of Buick Encore GX?
If you're interested in the Buick Encore GX, the next question is, which Encore GX model is right for you? Encore GX variants include Select 4dr SUV (1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT), Preferred 4dr SUV (1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT), Essence 4dr SUV (1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT), and Select 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A). For a full list of Encore GX models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more