2020 Buick Encore Review
Price Range: $13,590 - $21,990
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Price & Payment
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Average price: $17,836
$
to$
Price
Pros
- Hushed cabin at highway speeds
- Generous standard infotainment features
- Maneuverable size
Cons
- Tepid acceleration
- Active safety features only available on top trims
- Small cargo area
What's new
- More powerful engine option discontinued
- Minor tweaks to available options on Sport Touring trim
- Part of the first Encore generation introduced for 2013
Overview
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.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
26 listings
- 26,779 miles
- 5 Seats, 25 City / 30 Hwy MPG
- 18 mi away
- Free delivery available*
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
Close
Located in Gaithersburg, MD
Wanna drive? CarMax puts you in the driver's seat-and that includes transparency and pricing without document or processing fees. Certain cars may hav...
- Features and Specs:
- 27 Combined MPG (25 City/30 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- KL4CJASB5LB053262
- Stock:
- 28856165
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- 28,428 miles
- 5 Seats, 25 City / 30 Hwy MPG
- 18 mi away
- Free delivery available*
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
Close
Located in Gaithersburg, MD
Wanna drive? CarMax puts you in the driver's seat-and that includes transparency and pricing without document or processing fees. Certain cars may hav...
- Features and Specs:
- 27 Combined MPG (25 City/30 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- KL4CJASB5LB009813
- Stock:
- 28986428
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
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.
2020 Buick Encore trim level differences
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. Compare the 2020 Buick Encore trim levels in-depth.
Which Encore trim 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.

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Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$172/mo for Encore 1SV
Encore 1SV
vs
$199/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
Reliability
The 2020 Buick Encore has a 3 years / 36,000 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:
- 20V668000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- N202313440
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 194105
- Defect Description:
- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
- Defect Consequence:
- Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
- Corrective Action:
- GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 14, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313440.
- Recall Number:
- 20V537000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- A202304380
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 105
- Defect Description:
- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Encore GX and 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles. The rear attachment bolts of one or both front seats may not have been installed.
- Defect Consequence:
- If an occupied front seat is missing the rear attachment bolts, it may move during a crash, increasing risk of injury to the occupant.
- Corrective Action:
- GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect seat attachments for both front seats and install attachment bolts as needed, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin October 19, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438 or Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is A202304380.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 6 years / 100,000 miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Free maintenance Warranty
- 1 years / unlimited miles
Buick Encore Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(66%)
4(10%)
3(5%)
2(8%)
1(11%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
LOVE MY ENCORE!!!
5 out of 5 starsBuickman, 07/11/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Just bought the 2019 Preferred Model Encore AWD and I absolutely love it!!. I was worried that my wife and I (larger than average people) would be crowded in the Encore but we were surprised by the amount of room in it. Even if we have people in the back seats there is more than ample room for us to not feel squashed. I love the quality of the Buick brand and it is a very nice, quiet, … fuel efficient ride. We also test drove a Chevy Trax and while it was nice, there is no comparison to the Encore, much higher quality. While it is a very "techy" vehicle everything is easy to understand and operate. I have only owned it for 3 days but I think I can honestly say it is the nicest vehicle I have ever owned. I bought it outright as I plan to keep it until it dies!! LOL I cannot say how effective the AWD is yet but from what I have heard I will be thankful I spent a little extra $ to get it come winter in Michigan. The 1.4L Turbo power plant is just fine for me and I love the gas mileage! Transmission shifts very smoothly and it handles like a champ!! Great job Buick!!
Never Thought I Would Own a Buick
5 out of 5 starsGlen K, 01/03/2019
2019 Buick Encore Sport Touring 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
I am extremely impressed with the 2019 Buick Encore. This vehicle became a standout after I finished my research of the vehicles in this class. The Encore is very nimble and handles well in most driving situations. I previously owned a Jeep Renegade and a Kia Soul, but neither of these two vehicles had the smooth ride and luxury feel of the interior that the Buick Encore possesses. I … read the “CON” of the vehicle was lack of power of the standard engine. I found the engine to have more than ample power both in the city and on the highway. I never thought that I would own a Buick, but I am truly glad that I made the choice to purchase the Encore. The infotainment system is very user friendly. There were so many other SUV’s in this class that did not have the technology that this vehicle possesses. This Buick Encore is quiet and smooth and it feels much more like a luxury SUV. It is definitely worth the slightly higher price. I highly recommend this Encore to anyone seeking a quality subcompact SUV.
GREAT SMALL SUV!!!
5 out of 5 starsAnn Marie, 06/26/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
As a 3 time Honda owner, I was skeptical to even look at Buick?? SO GLAD I did! This SUV is AMAZING! Very underrated! Test drove it and didn't look back. Feels like a $40,000 vehicle. Wow!! Just Wow!!! Two thumbs up!
Charming
5 out of 5 starsSusan H, 05/05/2020
2020 Buick Encore 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!
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Buick Encore, so we've included reviews for other years of the Encore since its last redesign.
2020 Encore Features & Specs
1SV
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $23,200 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 27 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $172/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 18.8 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Encore models:
- 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.
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 TestAcceptable
- 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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