2017 Buick Encore Review
Price Range: $7,995 - $18,990
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by Dan Frio
Pros
- Quiet interior on the highway
- Excellent crash-test scores
- Small engines deliver solid fuel economy
- Long list of tech and safety features
Cons
- Tepid performance from base engine
- Small cargo area can't swallow much luggage
What’s new
The 2017 Buick Encore received a modest facelift that includes revised front-end styling. On the inside, you'll find a restyled instrument panel with easier-to-use controls, upgraded interior materials and a new technology interface that offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.
Vehicle overview
You wouldn't guess it at first glance, but the diminutive 2017 Buick Encore actually embodies many of the elements that Buick, a brand known for building large luxury sedans, has traditionally stood for. Those elements include a hushed cabin, near-luxury trim, and a long list of upscale features.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
35 listings
- $7,995great price$1,488 below market
- 111,508 miles
- No accidents, 3 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 5 Seats, 24 City / 30 Hwy MPG
- Platinum Auto Sales of Arlington Virginia (23 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Sunroof/Moonroof
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Located in Arlington, VA
Non-smoker owner, Vehicle Runs Well, Smooth ride, All records in possession, Regularly maintained, Lots of storage, Arctic cold a/c, No pets, Seats as...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
27 Combined MPG (24 City/30 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: KL4CJ2SBXHB012526
Stock: 012526
Certified Pre-Owned: No - 68,005 miles
- Frame damage reported, 4 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 5 Seats, 25 City / 33 Hwy MPG
- Aren Auto Group (8 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
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Located in Chantilly, VA
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Issue reported
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: Yes
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
28 Combined MPG (25 City/33 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: KL4CJASB4HB050280
Stock: 050280
Certified Pre-Owned: No
For 2017, the Encore gets a few small updates to keep pace with a growing class of competitors. A subtly restyled front end includes new headlights and a new grille design. LED taillamps add additional visibility when you hit the brakes, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are welcome additions to the upgraded technology interface. The instrument panel also features a new design that includes easier-to-use controls and a new gauge cluster layout.
The Encore's small size makes for impressive maneuverability in urban traffic and parking lots, but its base engine leaves the little crossover wanting more when it comes time to enter the freeway. The optional four-cylinder engine that offers a bit more horsepower is worth serious consideration.
Many buyers might still be put off by the Encore's snug interior, which includes a tight backseat and less cargo room than larger crossovers like the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5. There's also an insurgence of similarly subcompact competitors to contend with, including the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3 and Fiat 500X.
Standard safety features for the 2017 Buick Encore include antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, front knee airbags, front and rear side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and a rearview camera. Also included is OnStar, which provides automatic crash notification, on-demand roadside assistance, remote door unlocking and stolen vehicle assistance.
A blind-spot warning system and rear cross-traffic alert are standard on Sport Touring and higher trim levels, while forward collision and lane departure warning systems are standard on the Encore Premium.
In government crash tests the Encore received a perfect five-star rating for overall crash protection, frontal protection and side-impact protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Encore the highest possible rating of Good in its moderate-overlap and small-overlap front-impact, side-impact and roof-strength crash tests.
In Edmunds testing, a front-drive Encore stopped from 60 mph in 123 feet, which is average for this class.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
A quiet cabin, user-friendly technology and city-friendly compact size make the 2017 Buick Encore worth a look if more conventional crossover SUVs simply seem too large. Modest performance and tight quarters limit the Encore's appeal, however.
Driving
Driving the 2017 Buick Encore is an experience very much in line with what you'd expect from Buick. The cabin is extremely quiet for the segment with extensive sound-deadening materials and active noise-cancelling technology. The suspension is also tuned to favor comfort over handling, and so not surprisingly it soaks up most bumps with little drama. The short wheelbase does mean the ride can get choppy over freeway expansion joints, however.
On the handling front, the Encore feels confident if not particularly sporty, a setup we suspect will suit most buyers just fine. On the upside, this SUV's small size and tight turning radius give it a nimble feel larger compact SUVs can't match.
When equipped with the standard 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder 138-hp engine, the Encore feels a little too slow for our tastes. Unless you're interested in maximum fuel efficiency, we would advise you to consider the optional 153-hp engine.
Interior
The 2017 Buick Encore features comfortable front seats and a high seating position that offers a commanding view of the road. In back, the seats offer enough head- and legroom for 6-footers but there's no denying that it's a tight fit for both adults and rear-facing child seats. The interior layout includes a number of storage spaces, including a drawer under the front passenger seat on cloth-upholstered models that's useful for stashing valuables you'd rather not leave out in plain sight.
As for the surroundings, the Encore's cabin has a high-end atmosphere on higher trim levels, featuring soft-touch materials and handsome simulated wood and metal trim. Aside from a smattering of similar-looking buttons, the controls are fairly intuitive and easy to access. A high point for this year is the improved layout of the center stack controls, including the updated 8-inch center touchscreen for the IntelliLink infotainment system.
The interior also comes up short in the cargo-carrying department, with 18.8 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 48.4 cubic feet with the seatbacks folded down. Those numbers are similar to subcompact SUV competitors, but fall far short of more popular compact crossovers like the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V. The Encore's standard fold-flat front passenger seat does give it some added flexibility.
Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
Owners consistently appreciate the 2017 Buick Encore's ability to deliver a quiet and smooth driving experience. The cabin's sound-dampening materials and active noise-canceling technology receive praise for effectively minimizing road noise, making highway journeys more enjoyable. Many find the Encore's compact dimensions perfectly suited for urban environments, where its tight turning radius and easy maneuverability shine. Fuel economy is another highlight, with several owners noting the impressive mileage this SUV achieves, even with all-wheel drive. The elevated driving position provides excellent visibility in traffic, which owners find reassuring. Inside, the Encore's design is described as comfortable and functional, providing a high-end feel that rivals more expensive models. The suite of user-friendly technology features, including the infotainment touch screen and updated interface, adds to the vehicle's upscale atmosphere. Safety features like the reliable backup camera and blind spot monitors enhance confidence on the road, meeting the growing demands of modern driving. The availability of all-wheel drive is appreciated especially by those living in areas with varying seasonal conditions, offering a sense of security during winter months. Overall, owners find that the Encore strikes a satisfying balance between utility, comfort, and value, making it a popular choice among small SUVs.
Common Issues
Drivers express significant frustration with the 2017 Buick Encore's engine performance, particularly the base model's sluggish acceleration. This lack of power is a notable concern when merging onto highways or attempting to overtake other vehicles, prompting calls for the more powerful engine option. The cramped interior dimensions also pose challenges, especially for taller drivers and passengers, with the limited legroom leading to discomfort on longer journeys. The tight cargo area further aggravates some owners who find themselves unable to easily pack for trips or transport larger items. Reports of mechanical issues also surface, with some drivers encountering persistent engine problems that prove difficult to diagnose and resolve. The absence of a proper armrest in the front results in a less comfortable seating arrangement for many, affecting both driver and passenger over extended drives. The Encore's suspension struggles on uneven road surfaces, causing a noticeable ride quality decline over freeway expansion joints. Some owners also encounter durability issues, with brakes and rotors requiring attention sooner than anticipated. Additionally, the car's compact dimensions limit rear-seat usability for adults, making the backseat cramped for larger passengers. Overall, despite its appealing features, these specific grievances paint a picture of a vehicle that might not meet all prospective owners' expectations.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
For everyday drivers, the 2017 Buick Encore offers a mixed bag of experiences centered around reliability and practical satisfaction. Many appreciate its manageable size, which makes it easy to navigate through city streets and squeeze into tight parking spaces. The quiet cabin stands out as a frequent compliment, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily commutes. However, drivers often feel let down by the Encore's base engine, which struggles to deliver enough power for confident highway maneuvers. Inside the cabin, while the layout is praised for its upscale feel, larger drivers and passengers notice the lack of space, which detracts from overall comfort on long trips. Owners highlight the vehicle's handling and ease of use, mentioning its impressive turning capabilities and straightforward controls. Some drivers experience occasional technical issues, such as unexpected stalling, which despite multiple visits to the mechanic, remain unresolved and frustrating. The vehicle's design caters well to solo drivers or small families, but those needing more room may find the cargo capacity quite limiting. Drivers with varying seasonal needs commend the available all-wheel-drive option, which provides a sense of security in inclement weather. Overall, the Encore earns its place as a city-friendly SUV, though some might find themselves looking for more in the power department—
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$144/mo for Encore 1SV
Encore 1SV
vs
$183/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
Reliability
The 2017 Buick Encore has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 2 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, ranks it #7 out of 8 among Subcompact SUVs. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Reliability Rating by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Above Average
#7 out of 8 among Subcompact SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$531/yr
vs. $435/yr
for Average Subcompact SUV
for Average Subcompact SUV
Frequency
0.85x/yr
vs. 0.69x/yr
for Average Subcompact SUV
for Average Subcompact SUV
Severity
14%
vs. 10.7%
for Average Subcompact SUV
for Average Subcompact SUV
powered by RepairPal
Recalls
2 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 17V437000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 17287
- Manufactured from:
- 2013-12-04 to 2016-08-15
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 40683
- Defect Description:
- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse and Chevrolet Spark EV, Caprice PPV and SS vehicles, 2014-2017 Buick Encore and Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles, 2015-2016 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Trax, Suburban and Silverado 2500 and 3500 and GMC Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles, and 2015-2017 GMC Sierra HD 2500 and 3500 vehicles. While being previously remedied for recall 16V-651, the affected vehicles may not have received the complete software update necessary to remedy the recall condition. Without the update, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.
- Defect Consequence:
- A failure of the front air bags or seat belt pretensioners to deploy in the event of a crash necessitating deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver and front passenger.
- Corrective Action:
- GM will notify owners, and dealers will reflash the SDM software. Vehicles that have had a previous air bag deployment will have the SDM replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 17287.
- Recall Number:
- 16V651000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 16007
- Manufactured from:
- 2013-09-30 to 2016-08-15
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 3640162
- Defect Description:
- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, 3500 HD, Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles and 2014-2017 Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500, Trax, Caprice Police Pursuit Vehicle, GMC Sierra 1500, Buick Encore, and 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse, Chevrolet Spark EV and SS vehicles. In the affected vehicles, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.
- Defect Consequence:
- A failure of the front air bags or seat belt pretensioners to deploy in the event of a crash necessitating deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver and front passenger.
- Corrective Action:
- GM will notify owners, and dealers will reflash the SDM software. Vehicles that have had a previous air bag deployment will have the SDM replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on October 13, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 16007.
Warranty
4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 6 years / 70,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 6 years / 100,000 miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 6 years / 70,000 miles
- Free maintenance Warranty
- 2 years / 24,000 miles
Buick Encore Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(70%)
4(18%)
3(6%)
2(3%)
1(3%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Encore much improved
5 out of 5 starsJoyce Beeler, 04/25/2018
2017 Buick Encore Premium 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Compared to my 2015 Encore, this is greatly improved. I wanted two improvement and both were corrected. The engine was upped to give better performance. The interior audio, nav, etc were so difficult to learn how to use and now they are VERY user friendly.
Buick Encore is the main act
5 out of 5 starsRon, 11/17/2017
2017 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
This is a small SUV, but large enough for most. Very comfortable and easy to get around town. Feels great on the highway also
After 6 months very happy we purchased this SUV
Runs great
Mighty Mouse goes to the Opera
5 out of 5 starsHebert Morris, 01/02/2017
2017 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
I have driven and owned everything from Mercedes , to Mini Cooper S to corvettes , seriously I have. With all that said I needed a vehicle with some cargo space and awd. I am very impressed with everything about this car. The interior is appointed nicely and the control layout is user friendly. The car handles very well and I had no problem getting on the speedway here. I love the car … and I am suprised just how much I do. It's as they said not my Father's Buick.
Great Little Car!
5 out of 5 starsKaren, 01/26/2018
2017 Buick Encore Preferred II 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
This awd encore exceeded our expectations. Car has a premium look and feel. So far mpg has been excellent and the Encore drives very nice and has quite a quiet interior. Some road noise at highway speeds but the short wheelbase is to blame for that i believe. Only downside is storage capacity is somewhat lacking. But we have just one kid and it is not an issue for us. The rear seats fold … down flat which is nice for additional storage. You can fold down either side or both leaving half of seating available for the kids car seat. Also the front passenger seat folds down flat for additional storage for those longer items you may transport from Ikea etc, All in all very happy with this vehicle and got it for a great price during GM's 25% off msrp sale. On side note the basicwarranty is longer on the Buicks as compared to the other GM products.
2017 Buick Encore video
2017 Buick Encore Expert Rundown
Looking for a crossover SUV with a quiet cabin, user-friendly technology and city-friendly compact size? The 2017 Buick Encore might be worth your consideration. Here's a quick rundown of what we like, what we don't and the bottom line from the Edmunds editors.
2017 Encore Features & Specs
1SV
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $22,990 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 28 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $144/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 18.8 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Encore include:
- Back-up camera
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Lane Departure Warning
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover19.8%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedAcceptable
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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