2020 Buick Encore
2020 Buick Encore Review
- Hushed cabin at highway speeds
- Generous standard infotainment features
- Maneuverable size
- Tepid acceleration
- Active safety features only available on top trims
- Small cargo area
- More powerful engine option discontinued
- Minor tweaks to available options on Sport Touring trim
- Part of the first Encore generation introduced for 2013
A subcompact crossover SUV is inherently small, but that doesn't mean it has to be lacking in features or technology. The 2020 Buick Encore is a good example. It's equipped with the same infotainment system found in other Buick vehicles, which means it comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, plus a Wi-Fi hotspot that augments the standard Bluetooth and USB connections. You can even order your Encore with remote engine start and a heated steering wheel.
True to form, though, the Encore doesn't have a whole lot of space for cargo. The back seat also isn't particularly roomy, and average-size adults will begin to feel cozy fairly quickly once the doors are closed. Also, the Encore isn't much fun to drive, partially because its singular engine choice is underpowered. Buick used to offer an optional upgraded engine with more power, but it's no longer available for 2020.
If small size and practical transportation are important, you might want to take a look at the Hyundai Kona, Jeep Renegade and Mazda CX-3. These other crossovers have advantages in certain areas such as cost, driving dynamics and space. Also, know that an all-new Encore, called the Encore GX, is set to debut for the 2020 model year. But if you're mainly interested in getting a quiet ride and an easy-to-use infotainment system, this Encore is worth a look.
Which Encore does Edmunds recommend?
Opt for the Essence model and bask in all the same luxury comforts and features found in GM products costing twice as much. This version comes with heated leather seats, a heated steering wheel, and a remote starter perfect for getting the cabin comfy before you depart on hot or freezing days. To up the luxury factor, opt for the Experience package and gain a sunroof, navigation and unique 18-inch alloy wheels.
Buick Encore models
The 2020 Buick Encore is offered in four trim levels: 1SV (or base), Preferred, Sport Touring and Essence. All Encores come standard with a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine (138 hp, 148 lb-ft), a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. All but the base trim offer optional all-wheel drive. The base and Preferred trims come relatively well-equipped with features, but more desirable safety and convenience features are only available on more expensive trim levels.
Save as much as $5,043 with Edmunds
2020 Buick Encore pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Preferred
1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A
Edmunds Suggested Price$22,570
1 for sale in 20147
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Buick Encore.
Trending topics in reviews
- road noise
- fuel efficiency
- appearance
- value
- driving experience
- spaciousness
- maintenance & parts
- doors
- seats
- comfort
- interior
- engine
Most helpful consumer reviews
5/5 stars, Charming
Susan H,
Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
This SUV is perfect for a family of four! Not much storage space, but the seats lay flat to allow for bigger items. Engine runs smooth for a 4 cylinder and definitely a gas saver! The cost is great if you are on a budget!
5/5 stars, LOVE THIS LITTLE BUICK!11
hernan,
Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
It is upscale experience with a small footprint. Really quiet compared to the Subaru I had. About the same mileage. Seems a little low for its size but the car is well made and feels way more luxury oriented. Great stereo. Easy electronics to understand.
5/5 stars, Perfect Small SUV
Scott H.,
Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
I bought my Encore Preferred AWD three months ago and I am really impressed. It drives extremely well and is so quiet. I have no complaints. It is beautiful to look at and the LED headlights set off the classy black exterior. I am looking forward to some snow in Western New York to test out the AWD. I am so happy with my purchase.
5/5 stars, Cute, fun, quiet ride!
Pat S.,
Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
If you are looking for a small SUV, this is the one for you. Easy to operate. You don't need a key to open and unlock the doors (big plus). Push button start. Comfortable seats and easy to get in and out of. Quiet ride. Love this little SUV!
Helpful shopping links
2020 Buick Encore video
2017 Buick Encore Expert Rundown
NOTE: This video is about the 2017 Buick Encore, but since the 2020 Buick Encore is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
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.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Encore safety features:
- OnStar
- Provides emergency services such as roadside assistance, automatic crash notification and remote door unlocking.
- Blind-Spot Warning System
- Warns you if there's another vehicle in your blind spot. Standard on the Sport Touring trim level and above.
- Forward Collision Warning
- Alerts the driver if a front collision is imminent. Standard on the Encore's top-level Premium trim.
Buick Encore vs. the competition
2020 Buick Encore
2019 Chevrolet Trax
Buick Encore vs. Chevrolet Trax
GM's tiny twins, the Trax and the Encore share similar bones, so it's no wonder they have identical powertrains and nearly identical dimensions. The Trax is more affordable, but you'll miss out on the Encore's extra features, quiet cabin and nicer ride. But it's hard to fault the Trax if you're just looking for small and basic transportation.
Buick Encore vs. Buick Enclave
The Enclave is the Encore's bigger, more distinguished family member. It can seat seven, has a quiet and smooth ride, and comes with a powerful V6 engine. In general, it's just a bigger and more capable SUV. We like the Enclave more, but it's also a lot more expensive.
Buick Encore vs. Honda CR-V
The CR-V is a superior SUV in most regards. It is quicker and considerably roomier than the Encore. You can also get one for about the same price as the Buick and have a similar set of features. The main reasons to pick the Buick would be its more nimble size and its quieter cabin at freeway speeds. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Honda CR-V.
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FAQ
Is the Buick Encore a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2020 Encore both on the road and at the track. You probably care about Buick Encore fuel economy, so it's important to know that the Encore gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg to 27 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 has 18.8 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. Learn more
What's new in the 2020 Buick Encore?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Buick Encore:
- More powerful engine option discontinued
- Minor tweaks to available options on Sport Touring trim
- Part of the first Encore generation introduced for 2013
Is the Buick Encore reliable?
To determine whether the Buick Encore is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Encore. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Encore's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2020 Buick Encore a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2020 Buick Encore is a good car. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2020 Encore is a good car for you. Check back soon for the official Edmunds Rating from our expert testing team Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2020 Buick Encore?
The least-expensive 2020 Buick Encore is the 2020 Buick Encore 1SV 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $23,200.
Other versions include:
- Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $24,600
- Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $26,100
- Essence 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $30,800
- Sport Touring 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $27,300
- Sport Touring 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $25,800
- Essence 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $29,300
- 1SV 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $23,200
What are the different models of Buick Encore?
If you're interested in the Buick Encore, the next question is, which Encore model is right for you? Encore variants include Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Essence 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A), and Sport Touring 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A). For a full list of Encore models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more