2023 Buick Encore GX

　　

2023 Buick Encore GX Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　, rating written byDan FrioManager, News

　　Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at zzdcar include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).

　　The Encore GX might sound like a trim level of Buick's long-running micro SUV model, but it's actually a stand-alone model and replacement for the bite-size Buick Encore. The GX is one of today's larger and more luxurious subcompact SUVs, offering a wealth of tech and safety features and more room and cargo space than most competitors. It also benefits from tasteful design and proportions that you might expect from a Lexus or Volvo rival, and not from the more sedate stylings from Buick's studio.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Buick Encore GX Preferred 4dr SUV (1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$128/mo  for Encore GX Preferred

　　Encore GX Preferred

　　Preferred 4dr SUV (1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT) - $25,900 MSRPPreferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A) - $27,900 MSRPSelect 4dr SUV (1.2L 3cyl Turbo CVT) (Most Popular) - $27,300 MSRPSelect 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A) - $29,300 MSRPEssence 4dr SUV (1.3L 3cyl Turbo CVT) - $30,500 MSRPEssence 4dr SUV AWD (1.3L 3cyl Turbo 9A) - $32,100 MSRP

　　vs

　　$167/mo

　　Avg. Compact SUV

　　But the Encore GX's larger size and features come at a cost — it's one of the priciest subcompact SUVs available. Must-have tech like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard from the start, but features such as navigation, a Bose audio system and adaptive cruise control remain options even in the GX's top trim level. Depending what you want from your little SUV, you might find the smaller Chevrolet Trailblazer or rugged Subaru Crosstrek more to your liking. The Mazda CX-30 delivers a similarly premium feel with more power, while larger SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson offer more of everything for about the same money. But the Encore GX does fill a specific niche, so read our Expert Rating below to see if it hits the sweet spot with your needs.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Good

　　7.9

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.5/10

　　How does the Encore GX drive? The Encore GX is a surprisingly dynamic little SUV. There's impressively little body roll when you drive around turns, and there's a pleasing amount of grip. The steering is a bit light for easy maneuvering around town, but it's accurate and easy to judge.

　　Acceleration from the turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder is a bit quicker than average for the segment; our test model covered 0-60 mph in 9.2 seconds. Around town, the engine feels strong.

　　There are only a few standout nitpicks. The brake pedal is fairly sensitive, and that can make it hard to consistently stop smoothly. Also, the nine-speed transmission takes a few ticks longer than we'd like to select the right gear when you want more power. Finally, the engine stop-start system bucks the car when it fires back up at a stoplight. Thankfully, you can shut it off.

　　

Comfort

7.5/10

　　How comfortable is the Encore GX? The Encore GX is generally well tuned for comfort. The ride is well controlled and doesn't transmit many road imperfections to the cabin. You will feel a jolt in the cabin, though, if you drive over square-edged bumps. The climate control is strong, and the seat heaters warm up quickly.

　　Front seat comfort is underwhelming. The padding is firm, and some drivers will wish for more lateral support. Tire noise is noticeable at highway speeds, and the three-cylinder is particularly vocal. Even if you aren't flooring the throttle, you'll hear the engine rumble and roar when pulling away from a stop. You can also feel engine vibrations through the steering wheel; most modern cars have filtered such vibration out.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below