Despite being marketed as an entry-level crossover, the Buick Encore is actually an excellent SUV. It is solid and offers great visibility. Encore has a wide range of top-quality amenities.
There are four trim options for the Buick Encore. The Preferred model is the most costly and is available in front-wheel-drive only at $25,795 Although the all-wheel-drive model is more expensive, it provides additional traction in snow, mud and other conditions.
The Preferred model includes a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 155 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. The engine can achieve 32 mpg on the highway when it is equipped with a CVT. However, the smaller engine of 1.2-liters gets only 30 mpg when paired up with a CVT.
The Encore is smooth to drive and the interior is elegant. There is plenty of room in both rows. The back seats also have good headroom. The console center is well-designed and has plenty of storage space.
The Buick Encore's cabin has active noise cancellation. The height and lumbar support can be manually adjusted for the front passenger seat. A rear-facing camera is available as well as a rear cross traffic alert.
Buick Encore comes with heated front seats as well as a leather-wrapped steering. Automatic climate control is available on the center console. Although the rear seats offer good headroom, they are not large enough to accommodate three adults. It offers 48.4 cubic foot of cargo space.
There are many standard features in the Encore. The system's user-friendliness is evident. The tiltable and adjustable steering wheel allows for the rear seat to slide forward and back. This makes the adjustment of the backrest or the reclining seatbacks easy.
Buick has a forward collision system that warns drivers if the vehicle is moving too fast or towards another vehicle. The system can monitor engine torque and can adjust the brakes. Encore includes rear cross-traffic alarm, which alerts the driver when a vehicle enters the space behind it.
The Encore will be available with a new 155-hp Turbo I-4 engine for the model year 2022. The Encore will include a new electric heater/defroster that replaces the heater core. It features 18-inch alloy wheels, cloth/simulated and roof rails. The standard six-way power driver seat is also a new feature. The Preferred model will come standard with an electric heater. The Preferred will include all-wheel drive.
The Buick Encore is a great combination of utility, versatility and affordability. It's also one the most comfortable vehicles its class.