Overall Rating
Updated on: July 21, 2020
Automotive Journalist
Buick which is popular among car enthusiasts for making large luxury sedans has brought about some changes and subtle restyling in order to keep up with the growing class of competitors in its all-new 2020 Buick Encore SUV. It embodies many elements of the traditional Buick and has been retrofitted with hushed cabin, near-luxury trim, and a long list of upscale features which makes it stand out.
The latest variant of the Encore flaunts an upgraded technology interface which complements the instrument panel which features a new design that includes user-friendly controls and a new gauge cluster layout. The only let down in the Encore is its snug interior that includes cramped rear seat and less storage are compared to another cross over SUVs in its class.
See detailed review »Great interior
Nimble handling
User-friendly infotainment system
Impressive predicted reliability
Higher base price compared to it’s rivals
Sluggish acceleration in its base engine
There are no major changes for 2020 Buick Encore
$24195
4dr SUV
5
front wheel drive
83
138 hp @ 4900 rpm
148 lbs.-ft. @ 1850 rpm
6-speed automatic electronically controlled w/overdrive
Independent front strut suspension
Semi-independent rear torsion beam suspension
11.8 x 1.0/10.6 x 0.5
100.6 in.
60.6 in.
70.1 in.
65.3 in.
3237 lbs.
6.2 in.
92.8 cu ft.
48.4 cu ft.
1500
1018
10 sec.
17.2
26/28/31 mpg
434.0 mi.
3 yr./ 36000 mi.
5 yr./ 60000 mi.
6 yr. /100000 mi.
Yes
$24,195
Style | Prices | MPG | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seats | Colors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1SV 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) | Starting at $24,195 MSRP | (26/28/31) | 138 hp @ 4900 rpm, 1.4 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 6-speed automatic electronically controlled w/overdrive | front wheel drive | 5 |
$25,595 - $27,095
Style | Prices | MPG | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seats | Colors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Preferred 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) | Starting at $25,595 MSRP | (26/28/31) | 138 hp @ 4900 rpm, 1.4 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 6-speed automatic electronically controlled w/overdrive | front wheel drive | 5 | |
Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) | Starting at $27,095 MSRP | (26/28/31) | 138 hp @ 4900 rpm, 1.4 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 6-speed automatic electronically controlled w/overdrive | all wheel drive | 5 |
$25,800 - $27,300
Style | Prices | MPG | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seats | Colors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sport Touring 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) | Starting at $25,800 MSRP | (26/28/31) | 138 hp @ 4900 rpm, 1.4 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 6-speed automatic electronically controlled w/overdrive | front wheel drive | 5 | |
Sport Touring 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) | Starting at $27,300 MSRP | (26/28/31) | 138 hp @ 4900 rpm, 1.4 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 6-speed automatic electronically controlled w/overdrive | all wheel drive | 5 |
$29,300 - $30,800
Style | Prices | MPG | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seats | Colors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Essence 4dr SUV (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) | Starting at $29,300 MSRP | (26/28/31) | 138 hp @ 4900 rpm, 1.4 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 6-speed automatic electronically controlled w/overdrive | front wheel drive | 5 | |
Essence 4dr SUV AWD (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6A) | Starting at $30,800 MSRP | (26/28/31) | 138 hp @ 4900 rpm, 1.4 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 6-speed automatic electronically controlled w/overdrive | all wheel drive | 5 |
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Features
Fuel Economy
Interior
Exterior
Safety
Competition
7.6
OVERALL RATING
Overall Rating
The 2020 Buick Encore is an attractive deal for anyone looking for a feature-filled compact car. Buick- a GM’s premium car marque has been the race with its sweet little Encore. It is a pocket-size SUV with traits of the bigger Buick like the Enclave. It embodies many elements of the traditional Buick and has been retrofitted with hushed cabin, near-luxury trim, and a long list of upscale features which makes it stand out.
The latest variant of the Encore flaunts an upgraded technology interface which complements the instrument panel which features a new design that includes user-friendly controls and a new gauge cluster layout. Every Encore receives Buick's QuietTuning treatment, which includes different sound-deadening measures.
7.0/10
Features
8.0/10
Fuel Economy
7.5/10
Interior
8.0/10
Exterior
9.0/10
Safety
7.0/10
Competition
The Buick Encore is a compact crossover which is offered in four trim levels. 1 SV or the base, Preferred, Sport Touring and Essence. All of the variants come well equipped with features while individuals who desire safety and can go with more expensive trims. Buick covers the Encore with a four-year/50,000-mile warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile power train warranty. All the trims are powered by a 1.4-litre inline-4 engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Trims |
Encore 1SV |
Preferred |
Sport Touring |
Essence |
---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP (FWD) |
$24,195 |
$25,595 |
$25,800 | $29,300 |
MSRP (AWD) |
- |
$27,095 |
$27,300 | $30,800 |
Features |
4G Wi-Fi hotspot |
1SV+ |
Preferred + |
Sport Touring+ |
Enhanced 4.2" multi-colour Driver Information Center |
Rear Cargo Cover |
Exclusive Rear, integrated Sport Spoiler |
Bose Premium 7-speaker sound system |
|
Keyless Open and Start |
Front and rear colour-keyed floor mats |
Remote Vehicle Starter System |
Rainsense Wipers |
|
QuietTuning technology with Active Noise Cancellation |
Fog lamps |
Front and Rear Park Assist |
||
Rear Vision Camera |
Forward Collision Alert |
|||
6-way power-adjustable driver seat |
Lane Departure Warning Cargo Net and Rear Carpeted Cargo Mat |
Since there are multiple trim choices offered by the Buick Encore along with some generous amount of standard feature but the base trim can be upgraded with various packages depending on your requirement. If you are keen on adding the Driver Assistant feature then the Premium trim is for you.
The standard powertrain of the 2020 Buick Encore comprises of a 1.4 litre inline 4 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. A front-wheel-drive is available with an optional AWD. The powertrains are lively, though the grunt is apt for city driving. Encore feels sluggish when all the seats are occupied. Encore feels sluggish when all the seats are occupied. Encore's base engine is capable of generating 138-horsepower with its Ecotec turbocharged four-cylinder that may leave you to feel strained when you carry a full carload of people.
Models |
Buick Encore |
Honda HR-V |
Toyota C-HR |
Hyundai Kona |
Mazda CX-3 |
Subaru Crosstrek |
Chevrolet Trax |
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$24,195 |
$20,520 |
$20,945 |
$19,500 |
$20,390 |
$21,859 |
21,300 |
$20,945 |
Engine |
1.4 Turbocharged Inline-4 |
1.8 Liter Inline-4 |
2.0 Liter Inline-4 |
2.0 Liter Inline-4 |
2.0 Liter Inline-4 |
2.0 Liter Boxer-4 |
1.4 Liter Inline-4 |
2.0 Liter Inline-4 |
Transmission |
6-speed automatic with Overdrive and auto-manual |
2-speed CVT with Overdrive |
2-speed CVT with Overdrive and auto-manual |
6-speed automatic |
2-speed CVT with Overdrive and Manual mode |
6-speed automatic |
6-speed automatic |
2-speed CVT with Overdrive and Manual mode |
Horsepower |
138 hp @ 4900 rpm |
141 hp @6500 rpm |
144 hp @ 6100 rpm |
147 hp @ 6200 rpm |
148 hp @ 6000 rpm |
152 hp @ 6000 rpm |
138 hp @ 4900 rpm |
148 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
Torque |
148 lb. ft. @ 1850 rpm |
127 lb. ft. @ 4300 rpm |
139 lb. ft. @ 3900 rpm |
132 lb. ft. @ 4500 rpm |
146 lb. ft. @ 2800 rpm |
145 lb. ft. @ 4000 rpm |
148 lb.-ft. @1850 rpm |
145 lb.-ft. @ 4,200 rpm |
There is no significant difference in the power outputs of all the rivals, however, the Subaru Crosstrek churns out the most amount of ponies. Chevrolet Trax is identical to the Buick while the Mazda produces the highest amount of horsepower among them.
You can say that the engine is “peppy” as the motor takes 8 .4 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standstill. AWD option adds more weight to the car which in turn affects the performance. The mid-sized SUV has also improved pickup making it one of the best choices for everyday usage. The 6-speed transmission is smooth and quiet but still provides a leisurely acceleration.
Models |
Buick Encore |
Honda HR-V |
Toyota C-HR |
Hyundai Kona |
Mazda CX-3 |
Subaru Crosstrek |
Chevrolet Trax |
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
0-60 MPH (sec) |
8.4 |
9.3* |
11.0 |
10.0 |
8.6 |
9.0 |
9.3 |
8.9 |
Quarter mile (sec) |
16.2 |
16.8* |
18.4 |
17.3 |
16.3 |
16.9 |
16.8 |
16.6 |
Engine |
1.4-L I-4 |
1.8-L I-4 |
2.0-L I-4 |
2.0-L I-4 |
2.0-L I-4 |
2.0-L H-4 |
1.4-L I-4 |
2.0-L I-4 |
Emission (Tons/yr. of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year) |
6.3 |
6.3* |
6.0 |
5.9 |
5.7 |
7.0 |
6.3 |
7.1 |
If compared to the rivals such as the Chevrolet Trax, Honda HR-v it is a second quicker in accomplishing the 0 to the 60-mile mark.
The Buick Encore is not a big vehicle, hence its manoeuvrability is quite high. Buick like in its premium cars provides a comfortable ride even over rough patches, there is little body roll around corners. The steering wheel feels vague at times, and a bit too light at times. Buick has incorporated some energetic styling prompts like thick-rimmed steering wheel, yet the Encore is considerably more suited as an urban cruiser than a lively crossover.
Encore's ride is smooth on a lower speed, it can get wallow over the uneven landscape on higher velocities. As expected from a Buick car, the Encore is very much in line with the other models of the brand. With extremely quiet cabins which have been loaded with extensive sound-deadening materials and active noise-cancellation technology.
The 2020 Buick Encore has a satisfyingly firm brake pedal that is both reassuring and capable. You will certainly hear a weird squeal from the pads after using it repetitively. No automatic emergency braking limits the Buick Encore's appeal. With its four-wheel disc brakes having the linear stopping power, the SUV is able to control sharp body turn with due help from its firm suspension.
Model |
Buick Encore |
Honda HR-V |
Toyota C-HR |
Hyundai Kona |
Mazda CX-3 |
Subaru Crosstrek |
Chevrolet Trax |
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Brake Front (in.) |
11.8 |
11.5 |
11.8 |
11.8 |
11 |
11.6 |
11.8 |
11.6 |
Brake Rear (in.) |
10.6 |
11.1 |
11.1 |
9.0 (Drum) |
11.1 |
10.8 |
9.0 |
11.9 |
Curb Weight (lbs.) |
3237 |
2906 |
3300 |
2890 |
2809 |
3113 |
2805 |
3,032 |
60-0 MPH (ft.) |
122 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
118 |
The front-wheel-drive Encore returns 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. For all-wheel-drive models, reduce 1 mpg from both numbers. The Encore earns respectable numbers in the mileage department. With a combined mileage of 30, the 2020 Buick Encore definitely has above class average economy, but there are many who surpass it.
Model |
Buick Encore |
Honda HR-V |
Toyota C-HR |
Hyundai Kona |
Mazda CX-3 |
Subaru Crosstrek |
Chevrolet Trax |
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MPG (city) |
26 |
28 |
27 |
27 |
29 |
27 |
25 |
24 |
MPG (highway) |
31 |
34 |
31 |
33 |
34 |
33 |
33 |
30 |
MPG (combined) |
28 |
30 |
29 |
30 |
31 |
25 |
28 |
27 |
When compared to other compact SUVs available in the market the Encore gets better ratings in terms of fuel efficiency. The 2019 Mazda CX-3 returns even better fuel economy and will be lighter on your pocket, while the identical Chevrolet earns 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway which is slightly below average.
The Buick Encore may be branded entry-level crossover but don’t consider it an “econobox”. The Buick Encore has been bestowed with comfortable front seats and the seating position is relatively high which helps the rider get a commanding view of the road. The back seats have a fair measure of headroom and can fit two grown-ups without grumbling.
There's more space than the outside impression would recommend, however it could get confined with three grown-ups toward the rear. A big letdown is the absence of a passenger’s armrest in the front. It cuts the cost a little but makes long journeys for the passenger a little bit annoying.
Model |
Honda HR-V |
Toyota C-HR |
Hyundai Kona |
Buick Encore |
Mazda CX-3 |
Subaru Crosstrek |
Chevrolet Trax |
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Passenger Capacity |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Front (cu. ft)Headroom |
39.5 |
38.1 |
39.6 |
39.6 |
38.4 |
39.8 |
39.6 |
39.4 |
Shoulder room |
56.8 |
49 |
55.5 |
54.2 |
53.5 |
56.7 |
54.1 |
56.2 |
Legroom |
41.2 |
43.5 |
41.5 |
40.8 |
41.7 |
43.1 |
40.8 |
41.6 |
Rear (cu. ft)Headroom |
38.3 |
38.3 |
37.8 |
38.8 |
37.2 |
38 |
38.8 |
37.9 |
Shoulder room |
54.5 |
52.5 |
54.5 |
52.5 |
50.4 |
55.6 |
52.8 |
55.5 |
Legroom |
39.3 |
31.7 |
34.6 |
35.8 |
35 |
36.5 |
35.7 |
36.3 |
Despite its small footprint, the Encore feels roomy inside because of its tall roof and a high seating position. It's less outright fun to drive than most of the rivals but there's good space inside for an average size individual, which is a squeeze in some of those competitors. The Honda HR-V offers the most amount of rear space in the subcompact crossover SUV class.
Available features inside of the 2019 Buick Encore includes:
The Encore comes with lots of tech goodies and an 8.0-inch infotainment screen. It is known by the name “IntelliLink” with the following features:
U stands for utility in SUV, Encore despite its smaller size can hold a large amount of cargo than most of the bigger vehicles. The space behind the rear seats is large enough for moderate grocery loads and 7 to 8 carryon bags. It provides 18.8 feet of cubic feet of cargo and increases to 48.4 cubic feet with the rear seats down. A fold-flat front passenger seat allows you to carry very long items.
Model |
Buick Encore |
Honda HR-V |
Toyota C-HR |
Hyundai Kona |
Mazda CX-3 |
Subaru Crosstrek |
Chevrolet Trax |
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Trunk Volume (ft.3) |
18.8 |
24.3 |
19 |
19.2 |
12.4 |
20.8 |
18.7 |
21.7 |
Cargo Volume with Rear seats folded (ft.3) |
48.4 |
58.8 |
36.4 |
45.8 |
44.5 |
55.3 |
48.4 |
49.5 |
Most of the rivals provide a similar amount of cargo space like the Chevrolet Trax and Mazda Cx-3. The Honda HR-V is a class leader when it comes to capacity.
From grille to the hood, to the roof-line, the 2020 Buick Encore puts a modern spin to its solid design. The dynamic outlook is to attract people of younger generations. The lower air intakes of the vehicle are less pronounced with an upgraded LED headlight. The wings expand to the headlights, which are sleek and sculpted. Brushed-aluminium fake back skid plates and a wide wheelbase bundle include more aggressive silhouette to the general blend.
Model |
Buick Encore |
Honda HR-V |
Toyota C-HR |
Hyundai Kona |
Mazda CX-3 |
Subaru Crosstrek |
Chevrolet Trax |
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Curb weight (lbs.) |
3237 |
2906 |
3300 |
2890 |
2809 |
3157 |
2805 |
3,032 |
Length(in) |
168.4 |
170.4 |
171.2 |
164.0 |
168.3 |
175.8 |
167.2 |
171.9 |
Width(in) |
70.1 |
69.8 |
70.7 |
70.9 |
69.6 |
71 |
69.9 |
71.3 |
Height(in) |
65.2 |
63.2 |
61.6 |
61 |
60.7 |
63.6 |
64.9 |
64.8 |
Ground clearance (in) |
6.2 |
5.4 |
5.9 |
6.7 |
6.1 |
8.7 |
6.2 |
8.5 |
Wheelbase (in) |
100.6 |
102.8 |
103.9 |
102.4 |
101.2 |
104.9 |
100.6 |
105.1 |
Track width (in) F/R |
60.4/60.60 |
60.6/60.6 |
61.2/60.2/60.3 |
60/59.5 |
61/61.2/61.2 |
60.6/60.6 |
60.6/60.6 |
Some of the exterior features include:
The 2020 Buick Encore does quite well in the safety tests. It gets 5 out of 5 stars overall, frontal, and inside crash in NHTSA crash tests. The Encore does not provide many safety features. The only standard feature is a rearview camera. The available safety features include:
The CX-3 is young and brimming with soul. Mazda mixes the CX-3 with excellent handling and balance with an addition of a solid motor that outpaces the Encore. The CX-3 additionally has one of the most pleasant cabins among rivals. Encore advantages lie in the rear seat, which is much more spacious than Mazda’s. Also, Encore has more standard and available features. According to the cost-to-feature ratio, the Mazda is a clear winner. It costs a few thousand dollars less than Encore and doesn’t compromise with comfort or performance.
The HR-V is somewhat more versatile than the Buick. Its back seat overlaps to make an extensive floor-to-roof stack floor that is ideal for transporting bicycles or other tall articles. The HR-V is the ace of performance and utility in this rivalry. The Encore can't stand in front of the Honda overall, yet it beats the HR-V in the quality of its cabin materials.
Mechanically, the Trax and Encore are about equivalent. They share similar dimensions, power outputs since they belong from the same parent organization. The Trax offers a rundown of standard highlights like the Encore and inside is entirely utilitarian. It takes care of business, yet it won't inspire you with the quality of its materials. This likewise makes it less expensive than the Encore by a couple of thousand dollars, so it's a savvy decision on the off chance that you simply require essential subcompact SUV utility.
Buick returns with their petite crossover SUV for the year 2018. The 2018 Buick Encore is an attractive deal for anyone looking for a feature-filled compact car. The Buick Encore is possibly the company’s most successful effort. It has attracted numerous buyers in a younger demographic for a small upscale crossover. The only let down in the Encore is its snug interior that includes cramped rear seat and less storage are compared to other crosses over SUVs in its class.
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