Used 2021 Buick Encore Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2021 Encore, so we've included reviews for other years of the Encore since its last redesign.
LOVE MY ENCORE!!!
Buickman, 07/11/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
54 of 54 people found this review helpful
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!!
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Never Thought I Would Own a Buick
Glen K, 01/03/2019
2019 Buick Encore Sport Touring 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
271 of 278 people found this review helpful
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.
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2021 Buick Encore for sale near you
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GREAT SMALL SUV!!!
Ann Marie, 06/26/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
36 of 36 people found this review helpful
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!
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Charming
Susan H, 05/05/2020
2020 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
100 of 103 people found this review helpful
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!
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Went back to GM and Buick!
Baby Buick in PA, 05/28/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
136 of 141 people found this review helpful
After owning a Ford for several years (traded a 2000 Buick Regal on that), I decided to give the Encore a look when it was time to trade. Small, fuel-efficient SUVs were on my shopping list - and it came down to the Encore and the Honda HR-V after reading reviews online. I would have also considered the Hyundai Kona had it not been for our local Hyundai dealer's bad rep. Comparing the Encore to the HR-V at our local auto show, I remember thinking, "the Encore is a lot nicer inside." It also had more equipment that I wanted, like a power driver's seat. To get that feature on the HR-V, you had to spend substantially more $ on the top-line Touring model, which also included other things that I didn't want like leather seats. A $5K rebate on the Encore was also hard to walk away from, and no compelling financial incentives on the Honda. Comparing the two, the interior headroom also seemed a lot better in the Encore. I was also leery of the long-term durability of the CVT trans in the HR-V - the Encore has a proper 6-speed automatic which seems to work very well. I bought the Encore Sport Touring AWD model with the base engine - I find the power to be more than adequate, but I won't win any drag races with it. AWD is a plus for our snowy winters. Ride quality and quietness are very good for a vehicle of diminutive size. Fuel economy seems pretty good so far, about 28-29 with 75-80% being highway miles each week. Compared to the trunk space in my former mid-sized Ford, the cargo space is decent for a vehicle with a small footprint. A fault of this vehicle is the missing center armrest for the front passenger - why? My recommendation to anyone considering one of these is to read the reviews from people who actually bought one, and pay less attention to the so-called professional reviewers who have only driven one for a few hours, a few days or a week at most. And to all the "Buick bigots" out there who dwell upon the stereotype of Buicks being an old peoples' vehicle - you're missing out on a capable, premium-featured vehicle that offers a lot of features and value for the money. As for me, I'm very satisfied so far at over 3K miles. I would definitely make this purchase again.
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Wow! GREAT SUV!
New to SUVs, 01/13/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
128 of 134 people found this review helpful
My previous car was a 2008 Chevy Impala. While I do miss the larger engine and trunk size of my prior vehicle, this little SUV is great! I am considered obese and find this SUV to be comfortable. I wish the seats were a couple of inches wider, but the power adjustability of the driver's seat makes it comfortable; more than enough leg room and head room. Leg room in the back seat was surprisingly good. I LOVE the maneuverability of this vehicle while driving. I've never had such a vehicle that turns on a dime. The highway ride is phenomenal; totally smooth and quiet. This is the quietest vehicle I've owned while driving down the highway. The trim model I selected (Preferred) doesn't have superior stereo quality (Bose) and I wish it did. Otherwise I didn't find the Essence trim level to be worth the upgrades (price). The backup camera works great and is the first one I've ever owned and takes a little getting used to. Since the vehicle is new I can't speak to maintenance or reliability thus far. Bluetooth and Apple Music works great. Haven't tried the Android music link. The fan on highest setting for climate control is a bit noisy and makes the stereo difficult to hear. The USB /Accessory port is difficult to access and I have to stand on my head to access. My biggest complaint is the armrest / console area; I would like the armrest to be longer and a bit wider. The cup holders are RIDICULOUSLY SMALL. I can barely fit a standard water bottle in the cup holder. The lack of an armrest for the passenger is irritating on long trips. The drawer under the passenger seat was a nice addition.
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Love this little SUV!
TJC, 05/09/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
25 of 25 people found this review helpful
It fits me. Wife likes it as much as I do too. I had a Verano before this, and there is no comparison. The Verano was not easy for me to get in and out of, as it was just too low., but this Encore is so easy for me to get in and out of. There isn’t much to complain about, because it simply has everything I want and need. We leased this one, and I am already thinking of keeping it in the end!
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The Sport Touring Model Is Sporty
Bob, 02/03/2019
2019 Buick Encore Sport Touring 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
79 of 83 people found this review helpful
Leased a 2019 Encore Sport Touring FWD. The suv had most of the features important to my wife and me - power driver's seat , navigation, 18" wheels, (we live in a potential flood zone), good safety rating, one button start and reasonable price. The turbo engine has lots of pep, and the cabin noise level is very quiet, as advertised. We downsized from a Nissan Rouge, so the cargo area is greatly reduced. The visibility is excellent, as is the rear view camera an warning system. Gas mileage has been 27 mpg in town and 30 on the highway. The quality of the interior is excellent; better than the Nissan. If I have a complaint, it is only that the Encore did not come with more advanced safety features like collision avoidance. So far the suv has not had any problems requiring a visit to the dealer. No squeaks or evidence of poor workmanship at the factory. FYI, the Encore is made in Korea. Overall, we are very pleased with the Encore.
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Awesome for a grandma
Evonne Kochara, 05/08/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
49 of 51 people found this review helpful
I am a young grandma and empty nester. I wanted something fun and yet safe, but not too sporty for grandma. I saw this at the sales lot and my husband and I both said WOW, this was me. I love my little suv, it gives me luxury and fun, I can haul my groceries, my dog or we can go on a weekender in this sporty little suv. I would never thought I would drive a Buick, when I tell everyone I bought a Buick there first thought is a huge old person car, but when they see my cute, little SUV they are shocked that it’s a Buick. I love the look on their faces. I got everyone wanted.
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My choice after 14 months of driving new cars
Nicknackr, 10/19/2020
updated 10/24/2024
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
17 of 17 people found this review helpful
I was moving from a four-door sedan to a first time for me compact SUV. I wanted a new car for a reasonable price (under $19,000 w $4,000 manufacturer's incentive, summer 2019). Check. I wanted good gas mileage. Check. I wanted a power driver's seat. Check. I wanted styled wheels instead of wheel covers. Check. I wanted a car that was driver-friendly concerning steering feel, brakes, ride. Check. I love the leather steering wheel, the ease of setting cruise control, the Sirius XM subscription I pay for makes time in the car enjoyable, and all the side and back windows are uv reducing and the hatch and back seat windows are tinted very dark. Love it! The blue tooth with my phone makes taking and receiving phone calls hands free and easy. The car is surprisingly quiet for a four cylinder. The driver's seat is comfortable and has a lumbar adjustment. The glove box is a good size. With the rear seats down, I have been able to put in what I have needed to bring home. The engine air filter and cabin air filter are a breeze to change - not so the last two cars I owned. Gas mileage in town is 27 mpg plus or minus 1, on the highway 34 mpg. The ground clearance is reassuring when driving in heavy rain. The front windshield defrost vents and air flow are perfect. The only negative I have found in fifty-two months and 33,000 miles is there are a few moving speed/transmission combinations where if you call for power in a hurry it takes one to two seconds to arrive (turbo lag). Generally speaking it has plenty of power to zip around town or drive on the interstate. I love this car more than any I have driven in the last fifty-five years (except maybe the '65 'Stang :-). Only repair has been a leaking ac condenser at 49 months.
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LOVE THIS LITTLE BUICK!11
hernan, 12/28/2019
2020 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
59 of 63 people found this review helpful
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.
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Absolutely love my encore
kari, 03/27/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
27 of 28 people found this review helpful
I always liked Buick but never thought I would own a Buick due to price. I was wrong, the price was extremely comparable with others. I have a bad back so getting in and out of a vehicle with ease is what I needed and the encore is perfect. Some vehicles you get down into and it's hard to get out. The encore you just slide in and slide out. Love the gas mileage too. The ease of parking is nice. It's a cute car. Very happy with my purchase.
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Downsizing a Commuter
Betty, 02/05/2019
updated 02/08/2021
2019 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
36 of 38 people found this review helpful
My last two vehicles were larger SUV, and while I will miss the cargo space, the ease in commuting traffic, and the gas savings outweigh the smaller cargo space. I have only had my Encore a short while, but I already love the ease of parking, and the space it frees up in my garage.....and the savings at the pump!
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Perfect car for Driving Eldery and Grandkids
Nana C, 01/10/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
64 of 69 people found this review helpful
I’m a first time Buick owner as I searched for a low cost, efficient model to aide me in abilities to help my aging parent as he struggled to get in and out of my truck. This model made it easy for him to get in and out and also provided lots of room. It also provides great fuel economy so I can go visit my grandchildren that live 4 hours away even more since I’m semi-retired. Love the look and ease of driving. Extremely happy with my new car!
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Luxury for less
Joe C., 03/30/2019
2019 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
24 of 25 people found this review helpful
The lease on our 2016 Buick Cascada was up and we need to find a replacement. Although we enjoyed the Cascada very much at 73 years of age it was difficult for me to enter and exit. We settled on a 2019 Buick Encore and are very happy with it. For my wife and I it is the perfect vehicle. Very quite and comfortable. It is a pleasure to drive, very responsive, good fuel economy, roomy and great cargo capacity. Best of all it is very affordable, you get a lot of bang for your buck!
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The Buick 2019 Encore is the Greatest
Encore Owner, 08/21/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
22 of 23 people found this review helpful
The Buick Encore is such a well thought out car. It's easy to get in and out of, seats are comfortable and driving is a dream. Love the rear camera. The infotainment center is great. Adjusting the driver seat has so many options. You can adjust to fit a short person or a very tall person. The way the rear seats fold to make a vast cargo area is so convenient. The rear cargo area is okay but the expansion potential makes it great. Turns on a dime and fits in any parking space. The cover for the rear storage is sweet.
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Great little SUV that deserves more recognition!
Shelby G., 12/13/2018
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
47 of 51 people found this review helpful
Wonderful driving, handles good, great MPG, luxury styling. First time Buick owner highly impressive, way underrated.
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Amazingly smooth and quiet, plus comfortable seats
PaulC, 10/30/2019
2019 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
Actually rides smoother and more quietly than my 2018 Camry. And its seats are much softer and more comfortable. The 4 cyl engine is barely audible most of the time. Road noise well hushed too due to thick under carpet insulation the Camry doesn't have. Transmission shifts with buttery smoothness. Front seating feels spacious despite the vehicles small size. I cannot think of much negative to say except climate control labels could be bigger for better legibility.
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Great SUV
Fawad Khan, 02/26/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
21 of 22 people found this review helpful
I just bought this 2019 Buick Encore and I love it. Ride is so smooth and great gas mileage. Amazing SUV, would highly recommend to anyone who is interested.
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Perfect Small SUV
Scott H., 10/18/2020
2020 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
29 of 31 people found this review helpful
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.
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Never again!
Just in Iowa, 02/13/2022
2020 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
36 of 39 people found this review helpful
It started out great the first week, then started the items to be fixed. The heater had issues. Then the big one was the turbo. Not one time but 3 times. When it goes out you have no power. To sum it up, this vehicle was in the shop 8 times in less than 2 years. That is an average of every 3 months.
Encore Encore!
Bill Marra, 01/16/2019
2019 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
53 of 60 people found this review helpful
This is my second consecutive Buick Encore lease - it is an awesome vehicle for an urban lifestyle. Best features: incredibly maneuverable in tight spaces, great fuel economy, very peppy turbo 1.4L engine, handles great on the highway as well as bustling city streets, great amenities, very quiet. Features I wish Buick would offer as options: electric seat recliner (vs manual), electric tailgate, more expansive safety features like lane keep, auto braking, etc. I searched extensively for a better value in a subcompact luxury SUV and couldn't find one - it is the best combo of performance, fuel economy, luxury features and price point. The only other vehicle i considered was the new Cadillac X4 but it is insanely expensive.
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Repeat owner
Dee, 03/11/2019
2019 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
27 of 30 people found this review helpful
I'm loving my new 2019 encore essence almost just as much as my 2017 encore sport touring...with only 500 miles on it I can tell that i will be just as impressed. My 2017 had only 8000miles when it was totaled from a red light runner, my milage never got lower than 30 miles per gallon in and out of town. I can't be more impressed with how safe I felt after the head on collision. I could go on and on....
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I own The Buick Encore AWD Preferred
Mike, 09/27/2020
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I first owned a Buick Encore FWD and hated it. I went back after about 6 months and bought the AWD and am much happier with the ride. The only thing I would change is getting the Essence with heated leather seats instead of the Preferred and then paying to have the parking and lane change sensors put on while still having cloth seats. The product is nice for the money. I've owned Corvette Z06, Camaro RS, and Mercedes- Benz. So, I am familiar with the high end factor. I definitely feel I got my moneys worth with the Buick. I would not buy the Chevrolet equivelent.
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Surprising good, quiet and efficient
Tucson 2017, 03/24/2020
updated 03/30/2022
2019 Buick Encore Sport Touring 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
We recently purchased a new 2019 Encore Sport. If you are looking for a small SUV, you should consider it. The car is surprising quiet for a small car. The rear space is more than adequate for normal shopping. The Buick Infosystem is easy to use especially if you have had another GM vehicle. The gas milage has been better than advertised in local traffic. If you are tall, I am 6'4", don't expect anyone to sit in the back seat behind you. The acceleration is not the best but the vehicle gets up to highway speed without much problem. The ride is surprising smooth for a small car. There are a few features I would have liked such as forward collision warning and a built-in remote for the garage door that were not available in the model I purchased. The vehicle has two USB ports that are a bit difficult to access. If you purchase this vehicle, get an extra USB port for your phone and leave it plugged in. The seats are comfortable and easy to adjust. This model did not come with seat or mirrors that automatically adjust depending upon the driver. The rear seats are divided and fold down to provide additional cargo space if you need it. All things considered, I would definitely recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a small, economical SUV
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Cute, fun, quiet ride!
Pat S., 04/09/2021
2020 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
30 of 34 people found this review helpful
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!
Awesome Little SUV
Teresa , 04/17/2020
2019 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
This is a super awesome smaller SUV. My kids are grown and I don’t need a large vehicle anymore. This Buick model is a little smaller and perfect for what I need. The features are excellent and the trim level is of excellent quality. Buick ensures comfort and safety. It gets great gas mileage too! The drive is comfortable and I can still fit two weeks of groceries in the cargo area. I just love it!
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Great Buy for Great Price
Kara M., 06/12/2019
2019 Buick Encore Sport Touring 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I absolutely love my 2019 Buick. I unexpectedly had to go car shopping the week of christmas in 2018 after my 2006 Lexus Rx400h decided to go to car heaven! i do miss the size of the trunk i had on my Lexus and my heated seats, but i absolutely do not hate the choice i made with buy our new 2019 Buick Encore. Definitely a High Class car with a Budget Friendly Price!
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Turbocharger Issues
oogercat, 03/18/2021
2019 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
18 of 20 people found this review helpful
With only 15,100 miles, when merging on to the freeway at 60 mph, the check engine light went on, and it seemed to lose a lot of power. Got it to the Buick dealer ASAP, and was told it was turbocharger failure. Service advisor told me it was a "known issue" with the Encore. I had it back one week, and the EXACT SAME THING happened. They "rebuilt" the turbocharger once already - hope they do a better job this time!
Tech, Comfort, and Repairs
Mr. Urban Sophisticate, 09/22/2019
updated 09/24/2021
2019 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
23 of 26 people found this review helpful
Love the Apple Car play and safety features. This car eats up freeway miles with lots of comfort but not good gas mileage and not enough power. Had to replace air compressor at 40,000 miles NOT under warranty. Turbo Charger went out at 50,000. Check engine light is on now with slow loss of EVAP system. Not happy with GM warranty nor the dealerships. My first and last American car.
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After 1 year absolutely NO issues.
Tinman 080, 08/23/2020
updated 08/24/2021
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I puchased this vehicle NEW as a model year leftover.. This is a purpose- designed mini luxury SUV. Very sporty, peppy for it's intended use. Very quiet, very solid driving small car. My first imported vehicle at age 70. Having owned lots of GM vehicles over the years including a Skylark and a full sized Electra, I can state this is truly a GM-designed and built vehicle. The feel, look and performance will make you comfortable from the start. A looker, it receives positive comments from others. My first year's average fuel economy was combined mileage: 28+mpg, trip best: 39.7mpg. Oil usage:0. We did 14,000 miles for the first year. The turbo operation is flawless. I am a retired automobile technician. My wife is happier with this car over any other we've owned in 50 years.
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2019 Buick Encore Essence
Missy, 08/09/2019
2019 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
20 of 23 people found this review helpful
We have never owned a Buick before but after doing some research and pricing we went with the top of the line Buick Essence. Its a zippy little buggy as I call it...just enuf room for my husband and i...the seats are comfortable - lots of front cabin room. The only thing I would like to see is a better arm rest and maybe one for the passenger . The middle console ( if you want to call it that ) is much to be desired from what we are use to...like the blind spot detection in the outside mirrors - also one of the features we wanted was Navigation and we got it..heated leather seats but no adaptive cruise control...which wasn't a deal breaker for us...over all if I had to do it all over again I personally think I would of chosen something MAYBE a little bit more roomier BUT like I said it's only my husband and I so what do we need all that space for :P
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Dissatisfied
Jerry , 03/14/2023
2020 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
We hit a deer 5 months ago it caused the seat belt to malfunction on the drivers side. GMC cannot get us a seat belt and has no clue when one will become available. In the meantime the dealership won't release the car because of the safety aspect. GMC gas taken no incentive to help us get on either. Been a customer if GMC for years but after this they lost our business.
Drove as a loner and loved it.
William Burke, Jr., 04/18/2019
2019 Buick Encore 1SV 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
14 of 16 people found this review helpful
While my 2007 Buick Lucerne was being worked on, Granite Run Buick GMC lent me this car because they had to keep my car overnight. I was delighted with its easy driving and I thought the car had excellent pickup with the 1.4L 138 HP turbo charged engine. The car has good room in front and was very easy to park. I ordinarily prefer a larger vehicle, but this was a really very nice car.
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Great ride, quiet and comfortable
TerryPS, 02/07/2020
2019 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
This is my second Encore, had a 2016. 2019 is much improved dashboard and front end styling. The car is quiet, comfortable and relaxing to drive. Decent mileage average 28 around town and 34 highway.
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Mini
Jackie, 12/14/2019
2019 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Very small, perfect for a person who doesn’t have passengers often or cargo. Cute car think I’m really going to like it!
Buick Encores 2019
Rose, 05/08/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
13 of 15 people found this review helpful
Beautiful riding with a luxurious feel. I am a short person and I don't have to climb into it. My husband has had multiple back surgeries and he slides.right in. We both find the seating comfortable. We both have great visibility and it is great on fuel. We both love the way the back seat can be adjusted to a flat surface when additional room is needed. In addition the front passenger seat can be folded flat. The mirror adjustment controls serve their purpose and work fine, Buick should improve them and bring their appearance up to the rest of the vehicle. The bright headlight have a LED combination that lights up remote country roads, and look beautiful when they are not on. The design of the body is beautiful and classy. We love our Encore!
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Sophisticated luxury , simply packagwd
Shaun , 03/14/2020
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Many pro reviews talk down about this car , and as a regular normal everyday consumer, I will say that the reviews dont donit justice. Buick has created a awesome , comfortable little SUV with the ENCORE, it comes standard with lots of features, a simple yet elegant infotainment , quality materials inside and lots of soft touch areas and storage. Yes a 6 foot adult can sit in the back seat comfortably , with room to spare, its cargo volume is plenty for the average consumer, great gas mileage, and a simple very reliable turbo engine that is just fine and performs at a national average , compared to every other small suv in the class for under 30k$ . It's got stylez clean lines. A great comfortable quite ride, nice leather interior , LED daytime running lights and tail lights, acoustic glass, push button start phone connectivity and bluetooth, onstar , a power driver's seat , proximity lock akd unlock, 1 touch up and down windows a great air conditioner and very nice premium 18 in wheels with Continental sport tires. Buick has delivered an affordable luxury entry level SUV, sure could it use a bit more power , what car couldn't, however this car feels well made , a safe option for older drivers and a reliable luxury option for younger. Drive the competition, and then drive this you will instantly notice the feel and look of its luxury branding that far surpasses other small SUVs on the market. Also the incentives to buy the encore right now are insane and well worth the purchase!
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My first top of the line model
Selden, 02/08/2021
updated 02/23/2023
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Update August 22, 2022: Minor reliability issues. The information display reset at one point to metric diesel; fortunately it reset itself. At 49,000 miles the right horn stopped working. LED interior lights began to fail. The absolute most annoying thing about this vehicle is the remote fob, which had a raised alarm button that can be triggered with the slightest touch. No matter where I put it on my body, eventually the horn starts beeping. This is a small issue, but so annoying that I will never buy another GM car. They simply do not understand ergonomic design. Purchased used in Delaware, September 2020. After a test drive of an Encore in 2014, I was impressed with its quietness due to active noise cancellation, and the turbocharged engine provided adequate, if not overwhelming acceleration. However the dashboard was a typical GM design mess with too many buttons, and too much chrome. The rear seat design was just plain cheap, with a cushion that flipped up, revealing uncovered foam on the bottom. Fast forward 4 years, and the Encore has had a significant interior upgrade. Controls are much improved, and generally intuitive. At a time when many cars are moving to touch-screen user interfaces, the Encore retains a useful collection of button switches, which are easier to find, and provide better tactile feedback. I do not find the steering wheel controls for cruise control and sound system as intuitive as those on a Honda. The cruise control has a toggle switch to accelerate/decelerate, while the sound system uses the same type of switch to change tracks or stations, rather than to increase/decrease volume. Button switches to the side of each are poorly differentiated; I compensated by putting vinyl bumpers on the upper buttons to make them easier to find. A detail like this should have been handled at the design stage. The sound system is very good. Climate controls are well thought out, and the driver display is well laid out. Individual temperature controls for driver and passenger are useful. Heated seats have 3 levels, and the heated steering wheel is probably my favorite feature in cold weather. Handling, steering, and brakes are good, although the Encore doesn't feel as precise a Honda HR-V. Front seats are very comfortable and supportive. For a small car, the Encore is a pleasure to drive on long trips, providing a smooth ride and quiet cabin. I wanted the optional 153 hp engine, but they are hard to find on the used market. The base engine provides adequate power. Gas mileage is slightly disappointing, especially in city driving, where it's hard to get better than 25 mpg. City-highway combined is averaging ~31 mpg, about 10% worse than a Honda HR-V. Collision/proximity warning system is excellent. There are a few areas where the Encore is inexcusably "cheap" for a $30,000 car: — No USB power outlets for rear seat passengers — No power-assisted hatch — It is inexcusable that GM wants more than $149.99+$3.95 shipping to update the map software. In a vehicle of this class, lifetime map updates should be standard. Rather than be ripped off by GM, I will use Android Auto when I need up-to-date travel data. UPDATE: VVT solenoid failed at ~48,000 miles. Repairs ~$200. Sold January 31, 2023, replaced with a 2023 Kia Niro, which outclasses the Encore in every possible area.
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Best bang for the bucks
ANYONE. Loya, 01/24/2020
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I sold hondas and toyotas for 32 years never considered buying a domestic but after driving everything in this class the Encore won hands down for ride ,quietness,price and standard features. Except for the Kia it has the best warranty. Love the way it handles in traffic and the open rd. Buick has stepped its game up for quality. The price was also the lowest with the new GM employee pricing. I would recommend this car to anyone.
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Bought for a Teen
Shainy Sibimone, 01/16/2019
2019 Buick Encore Sport Touring 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
18 of 23 people found this review helpful
And she loves it! I thought Buicks are for more matured , but when I heard it as one of her choice, i was surprised. Good that we decided Encore.
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Excellent Car
Mark M, 05/20/2023
2020 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I leased two 2020 Encore Preferred models—one for me, the other for my college-aged daughter. Sadly, she crashed hers within two years, rendering it a total loss. The accident was severe; she escaped with a fractured nose from the airbag deployment. That card has 21K miles and was flawless and never in the shop. I'm still driving mine, although the lease is almost up; I have 43K miles and an excellent vehicle with no issues. I loved the spunky engine; the mpg is in the high 30s and gives a surprisingly smooth ride. I have ZERO complaints about this car and would buy another one, except I'm now in the market for a pickup. These are genuinely great cars, and I highly recommend them.
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No. Just NO
Barb F, 08/12/2023
2020 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I traded in my old CVR and purchased a Buick Encore. One week after I brought it home it started having problems - little things like the stereo cracking, and a little trouble accelerating. I thought maybe once I drove it awhile these little bugs would work themselves out. WRONG! It has been one thing after another with this car. The timing belt, the AC, the stereo, the rear camera, the alternator - they have all needed repairs. Please do yourself a favor and avoid Buick. I'd rather thumb a ride with a serial killer than buy another Buick.
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I've Come To Love My Encore
Isabella, 02/27/2020
updated 08/30/2021
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
9 of 12 people found this review helpful
I was looking for something similar in size to replace my 2003 Toyota Rav4. The 2019 Buick Encore matched in size, but is different in many ways, however, I've had it 2 years now and enjoy driving it. The seats are comfortable and the drivers seat sits high, for good visibility. It's easy to drive and park and gets good gas mileage.
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Nice but unruly!
Crabbypappy, 11/15/2020
2020 Buick Encore 1SV 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
9 of 12 people found this review helpful
Pretty, nice price(20k), nice colors, a bit of a noisy set of tires, steering is extremely sensitive at 65, view of instruments and road took a lot of seat and steering adjustments to get it right, steering wheel then blocked view of speedometer, all the niceties were offset by the not-so-niceties. I liked the seat height, but am not into the sub compact reality.
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Not as cute as it looks
Lovy Swayne, 07/27/2020
2020 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
46 of 69 people found this review helpful
I had one of these as a rental when my car had to be repaired after an accident. I would see the encores souping down the road and thought they were so cute and possibly fun. So when the rental company offered me one I didn’t turn them down. The front seems kinda luxurious until you notice the interior at a close look is cheap plastic on the dash and doors. I loved the big touch screen and the features it came with. The front seats are narrow. I was packing my things in the back to go to work one day and sat in the back to sort them so they wouldn’t fall over. Well... sitting back there it’s cramped very cramped and I’m a little short person and felt claustrophobic back there, also the materials back there are even cheaper. I would hate to ride back there on a long trip. The trunk very tiny! So then I end up driving all day one of the days while I had it because I had to go see clients...it was so uncomfortable driving. This wasn’t worth the price they charge for them. Keep in mind I’m a short and little person and I gelt cramped. I was not impressed and was glad to get my car back. This thing is cheaply made and not as luxurious or fine as advertised.
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Love my new 2019 Encore
kim2travel, 01/08/2020
2019 Buick Encore Essence 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
My friend got one a few years ago and I took a 2 hour drive in the back seat (I'm 5'8) and was surprisingly comfortable. The ride was smooth and quiet. I got tired of driving my big SUV around town so I purchased this vehicle 3 weeks ago. I find it very fun to drive. True, the cargo area is small but big enough for a week's worth of groceries. I'm in animal rescue so I do need a bit of space. When I fold the seats down, I have plenty of room. Even the passenger front seat folds flat if I'm driving solo. I bought the Essence model and love all the bells & whistles. I find it very comfortable and easy to zip in and out traffic and tight parking spots. Great sound system too. So far I love this car!
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Encore GX Select Sport touring
Xin , 11/16/2023
2020 Buick Encore Sport Touring 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
My first issue was with the brakes, they had me drive it that way for a year before Buick did a recall. My second issue was a purge pump issue, my third was a transmission chip/ solenoid 55 days in the shop, my fourth issue is the shifter. It's been in the shop for 70 days and counting this time. While it's been in the shop, I received a letter from Buick stating there may be another purge pump issue in my future. If it happens within 15 yrs. to 150,000 miles they will repair. But other than all those pesky repair issues, I really like the vehicle. It's easy to maneuver, it has enough room in the boot to fit all my stuff, I think it's a nice-looking car. When stuff isn't breaking down on it I enjoy it. Right now I am at 13k miles, it was brand new when I got it. I just need a nice little SUV to get me to my destination safely. This car is giving me GM PTSD. I guess the CEO's need to quit giving themselves big bonuses and raises and put more money into the parts they are putting on these cars. They are putting cheaper parts on the vehicles and then jacking up the costs. It's ridiculous to have this many issues with a car that is less than 3 yrs owned, gets maintenanced regularly, has approximately 13k. I am also up to my eyeballs in rental fees going on the third month and just received my first months rental fee. This could be financially devastating to some people. It's certainly an unexpected stress. The reason you purchase a new car is for reliability, so you don't have to stressed with repair issues. This one is definitely Lemon title worthy.
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Great SUV
Jen, 12/29/2019
2019 Buick Encore Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Smooth ride, all the tech options you need, cute car, great value for the money. Love it!
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Horrible
CCole, 12/11/2019
2020 Buick Encore Sport Touring 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
36 of 56 people found this review helpful
I had one as a dealer loaner while my car was getting repaired. In the 4 days I had the Encore, I drove over 500 miles and continually dreaded getting into it to drive it. Cramped seats and very little legroom for the driver and passenger, the engine was underpowered and the car felt exceptionally sluggish on the highway, at certain points, I did not feel confident changing lanes. The interior felt cheap and the seats were uncomfortable. Despite owning Buicks for years, this is not one that I would consider buying. I have a friend who just bought a Jeep Compass brand new and for the money, I would strongly recommend one of those instead of an Encore.
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