The smaller, five-seater Encore GX fits quite nicely with the larger Envision and Enclave to form a complete Buick SUV portfolio. The Essence model sits at the top of the model line, followed by Select and Preferred.
This FWD crossover is powered by a transverse mounted ECOTEC 1.3L turbocharged inline 3-cylinder engine with direct injection. It produces up to 155 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 174 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,600 rpm. The power is carried by a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with overdrive.
![Epoch Times Photo](https://img.theepochtimes.com/assets/uploads/2020/10/18/2020-buick-encoregx-mov-gallery-ext-20BUGX00657-600x338.jpg)
Fuel economy for the FWD powertrain is rated at 30 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, for a 31-mpg combined average. My driving experience netted me closer to 35 mpg. This good mileage provides a smooth ride, comfortable experience, and less expensive adventure. The AWD models take a bit of a hit in fuel efficiency, coming in at 26/29/28 mpg city/highway/combined.
Sitting in the driver’s seat, the Encore GX is a quiet and easy-handling vehicle. Leather upholstery and heated seats add to the comfort. The front passenger seat folds down flat to aid in loading long items. The interior is roomy with a treasure trove of helpful features.
![Epoch Times Photo](https://img.theepochtimes.com/assets/uploads/2020/10/18/2020-Buick-EncoreGX-dash-600x399.jpg)
The infotainment system comes with a nicely integrated touchscreen and provides modern connectivity technologies like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. The head-up display is an available option as is a high definition 360-degree camera system.
Word has it that in future models, the aforementioned features will be standard.
The Encore GX has a rich set of standard safety and driver assistance features like Front Pedestrian Braking, Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning.
![Epoch Times Photo](https://img.theepochtimes.com/assets/uploads/2020/10/18/2020-buick-encoregx-mov-gallery-int-20BUGX00069-v2-600x338.jpg)
My favorite feature was the innovative rear camera which provides a wide, less obstructed rear view and the high definition surround vision camera system.
The list price for the Encore GX starts at $24,100 for the base Preferred model. The well-appointed Essence is priced at $28,500. The Select model is sandwiched in-between, with a list price of $25,700. Opting for AWD adds $2,500 to the bottom line.
NHTSA has evaluated the Encore GX and gave it a four-star Overall Rating. This SUV earned four stars in the Frontal Crash and Rollover categories, while earning five stars in Side Crash.
Warranty
3-year/36,000-mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty
5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty
5-year/60,000-mile Roadside Assistance Program
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].