Used 2018 Buick Encore Preferred II SUV Review
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2018 Buick Encore Preferred II SUV.
Most helpful consumer reviews
Poor brand experience
Rich, Phoenix, AZ, 07/18/2018
2018 Buick Encore Preferred II 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Initially got it for a great price. 18 months later there’s always something going wrong every month or so. It is quickly becoming a money pit. Experience at two different dealers has been subpar and underwhelming. The vehicle is nice. Too bad it’s not more reliable with better power.
Beep Beep Go Cart !
Stacy, Roseville, MI, 12/24/2019
2018 Buick Encore Preferred II 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Stylish Luxury all in one fun compact little Beep Beep GO Cart ! From the mom van not being necessary anymore to the cute SUV !
Edmunds Summary Review of the 2018 Buick Encore Preferred II SUV
Pros & Cons
- Pro:Quiet interior on the highway
- Pro:Long list of tech and safety features
- Pro:Small engines deliver solid fuel economy
- Con:Tepid performance from base engine
- Con:Small cargo area can't swallow much luggage
Which Encore does Edmunds recommend?
The Encore's base trim level is appealing with all of its standard equipment, but we recommend upgrading to the Essence trim level. It offers heated seats, a heated steering wheel, leather seating, a few extra safety items and the more powerful 153-horsepower engine. The standard 1.4-liter engine is down on power. If you want to get this subcompact moving in a hurry, the increase in power is a must
Full Edmunds Review: 2018 Buick Encore SUV
Driving
The Buick Encore does well as a city commuter car. It's nimble in traffic and gets away from a stoplight quickly. But passing power is lacking for stress-free highway acceleration and passing. Handling is far from sporty.
Comfort
The Encore is relatively comfortable. It's quiet on the highway, which is one of its best features, and the ride quality is relaxed without being wallowy.
Interior
Though it's small, the Encore has plenty of space for front passengers. Adults will fit in the rear without too much trouble. Build and materials quality are on par with that of other vehicles in the class, but the Encore's cabin does look dated because of its numerous dashboard buttons.
Utility
Behind the rear seats, the Encore has 18.8 cubic feet of cargo space available. With the rear seats folded, that number goes up to 48.3 cubes. That's more than enough for a moderate load of groceries, but most compact crossovers do better.
Technology
The infotainment system is easy to learn, and combined with OnStar, provides a robust set of features. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard, as is Wi-Fi hotspot connectivity. Only the Premium trim gets a full suite of active safety features, but some are available on the lower trim levels.
Edmunds Insurance Estimator
The Edmunds TCO® estimated monthly insurance payment for a 2018 Buick Encore in California is:
not availableLegal