Buick Encore vs Encore GX – Differences Between Buick’s Small SUVs
At first, it might seem easy to confuse the Buick Encore and Encore GX. But apart from their similar sounding names, these two vehicles have a number of important differences you should be aware of. Let’s take a look at some of them.
Engine and Performance
These two SUVs are built on distinct platforms and powered by different engines. The Encore is based on Buick’s first-generation Encore platform, while the Encore GX’s release was accompanied by a new platform that sets it up well for the future.
The Encore has a 1.4-liter V-4 engine under its hood that’s capable of generating 138 HP. Choose the Encore GX and you can select from two three-cylinder engines. The standard 1.2-liter turbocharged engine produces 137 HP, effectively the same as the Encore’s four-cylinder. Alternatively, upgrade to the more powerful 1.3-liter unit to get up to 155 HP.
The Encore’s four-liter engine is powered by a six-speed transmission. Front-wheel-drive comes as standard, but you can upgrade to all-wheel-drive at an additional charge. In the Encore GX, the base engine is available only in front-wheel-drive models. If you want all-wheel-drive, you’ll need to upgrade to the 1.3-liter engine. Your choice between front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models will also affect the transmission. Front-wheel-drive GXs come with a continuously variable transmission as the only gearbox option, while the all-wheel-drive version is equipped with a nine-speed automatic.
Buick Encore GX
Buick Encore
Size and Cargo Storage
The major difference in size between these two crossovers is their length. While the Buick Encore measures 168.4 inches in length, the Encore GX comes in at 171.4 inches. This difference gives more legroom to the driver and passengers in the GX.
The additional space is also reflected in a larger amount of cargo capacity in the Encore GX. While you’ll have around 18.8 cubic feet of storage behind the rear row of seating in the Encore, that expands to 23.5 cubic feet in the GX. If you’re planning to shift large items around, fold down the back row of seats to access 50.2 cubic feet of storage in the Encore GX. That compares to 48.8 cubic feet with the back row folded down in the Encore.
External Design
The Encore GX’s extra length gives it a slightly longer wheelbase, which can help drivers have an easier time handling it on the road.
You’ll also notice a clear distinction between the shape of the two SUVs. While the Encore sticks with its traditional rounded front and compact grill, the Encore GX displays a broader front end with a larger gap between the headlamps. This leaves additional space for a more prominent grille, helping to make the GX appear larger than it actually is.
2021 Buick Encore GX Essence in White Frost Tricoat
2021 Buick Encore Preferred in Ebony Twilight Metallic
Fuel Efficiency
If fuel efficiency is your main priority, the Encore GX comes out on top. The front-wheel-drive GX averages 31 MPG combined compared to 27 MPG for the front-wheel-drive Encore. Even the all-wheel-drive GX has a better combined fuel efficiency than the front-wheel-drive Encore at 28 MPG. If you opt for all-wheel-drive in the Encore, fuel performance drops to 26 MPG combined.
Seating
Both the Encore and Encore GX are small SUVs, capable of seating up to five people. The rear row has a 60-40 split so you can either partially or completely fold it down to create extra cargo space. If you’re looking for an SUV with extra seating capacity, you may want to take a look at the Buick Envision, which holds up to seven people.
Encore Preferred interior in Shale with Ebony accents.
2021 Encore GX Essence interior in Whisper Beige.
Safety Features and Technology
A major plus for the Encore GX is that several safety features are included in the base price. A forward-collision warning system, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning system, and lane-keeping assist all come as standard. By contrast, only the forward-collision warning system and lane-keeping assist are available on the Encore as optional extras.
Both the Encore and Encore GX have an 8-inch infotainment screen and keyless entry as standard. GM’s infotainment system, which is available with both crossovers, is user friendly and will help keep your passengers entertained however long your journey may be. It has 4G wireless hotspot capability. The Encore GX is also Bluetooth compatible.
Price
The Buick Encore comes in around $900 cheaper in its base trim than the standard Encore GX. To give you some figures, this means you can secure a Buick Encore for just over $24,000. However, one advantage with the Encore GX’s base trim, which comes in at a little over $25,000, is that you’ll get your hands on the wide range of safety features we previously told you about.
Warranty
Both vehicles come with three years or 36,000 miles of basic warranty. On top of that, your power train has a five-year or 60,000-mile warranty.
Trims
The 2021 Buick Encore is available in two trims: Base and Preferred. By choosing the Preferred trim, you’ll get a 120-volt power outlet, all-weather mats for the floor and cargo area, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Encore preferred trim also comes with a rear cross-traffic alert.
The Encore GX has three trims: Preferred, Select, and Essence. Upgrading to the Select trim will get you a 10-way powered driver’s seat for extra comfort. The front seats are also heated with the Select trim, and your steering wheel is wrapped in leather. You can take the comfort up a notch with the Essence trim. This trim adds an 8-way powered passenger’s seat, leather seat trims, and dual-zone climate control. In addition, you’ll get a heated steering wheel and the option of a Bose seven-speaker sound system instead of the standard six-speaker system.
Interested in seeing how the Encore GX stacks up against another popular compact SUV? Or how the Encore compares to another luxury SUV?
So, there you have it! We’ve taken you through all of the important differences between the Buick Encore and Encore GX. Have we been able to help you decide on your next Buick? Do you still have questions about the features on either of these two crossovers? At Cochran Buick GMC, we’re here to help with your next car purchase. Contact us today to learn more about our Buick inventory and excellent car financing offers.
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