Buick Encore
Purchase price from $0
Expert rating
5 reviews
Expert opinions about this car
Expert reviews
U
U.S. News & World Report (Best Cars)
U.S. News & World Report's Best Cars section gives the Buick Encore a composite score reflecting expert and owner reviews. It praises the smooth, quiet ride, premium-feeling cabin, comfortable front seats, and user-friendly infotainment. However, limited cargo space, confined rear seating, and an engine that struggles under hard acceleration undercut its appeal. Below-average predicted reliability also weighed on its score of about 7.4 out of 10. The Encore ranks near the lower-middle of the subcompact SUV segment, appealing to buyers who prioritize style and a plush ride over practicality, while families and budget-conscious shoppers are better served elsewhere.
C
Car and Driver
Car and Driver's review of the Buick Encore praises its upscale cabin and comfortable ride but criticizes its small cargo area and lackluster acceleration. The 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 155 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, which the editors describe as adequate for city driving but weak for highway passing. Fuel economy is rated at 25 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, below the subcompact segment average. While the interior features premium soft-touch materials and a quiet, well-damped cabin, the rear seat is cramped and cargo space measures only 18.8 cubic feet behind the second row. The review notes that the Encore competes with more practical rivals such as the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3 but remains a good choice for buyers seeking a small, luxurious daily commuter. Car and Driver recommends the Preferred trim for most buyers, as it adds desirable features without a large price increase. Overall, the Encore is judged as a competent but flawed luxury subcompact that prioritizes style and comfort over utility.
K
Kelley Blue Book
Kelley Blue Book rates the Buick Encore at 4.0 out of 5, describing it as a 'premium subcompact SUV' that delivers a quiet, comfortable ride and a handsome, well-arranged interior. KBB appreciates the standard 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and rearview camera, as well as the easy parking and maneuverability that make it ideal for urban environments. The review notes the Encore's strong build quality and refined suspension tuning, which absorb road imperfections with composure. However, KBB criticizes the small cargo area and limited rear-seat space, which lag behind competitors. The EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg city and 30 mpg highway is also below class leaders. KBB suggests considering the Honda HR-V or Mazda CX-3 for greater practicality but acknowledges that the Encore's luxury touches and smooth powertrain make it a compelling choice for those who value upscale comfort in a small crossover. The final verdict highlights the 2020 model year as a well-rounded option in the used market.
M
Motor Trend
Motor Trend's review of the Buick Encore focuses on its city-friendly dimensions and composed, comfortable ride. The article notes that the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving, though it becomes noisy under hard throttle. The Encore's cabin is described as quiet and well-appointed, with premium materials that elevate it above mainstream subcompact crossovers. However, Motor Trend criticizes the small cargo hold and modest rear passenger space, which limit its family-hauling ability. The review also mentions that the Encore lacks the driving engagement of sportier rivals like the Mazda CX-3, but it makes up for this with a smooth, isolated ride. The 6-speed automatic transmission is generally responsive, though it can hesitate on steep grades. Motor Trend concludes that the Encore is a comfortable and stylish subcompact crossover, but faces stiff competition from more versatile options such as the Honda HR-V and Ford EcoSport. For buyers who prioritize a premium feel in a small SUV, the Encore remains a solid, if unexciting, choice.
U
U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report ranks the Buick Encore among luxury subcompact SUVs, giving it a score of 7.4 out of 10 (approximately 3.5 out of 5). The review praises the Encore's upscale interior, comfortable seats, and smooth ride quality, noting that the cabin remains quiet even at highway speeds. It also highlights the standard infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as the availability of advanced safety features like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. However, the report criticizes the Encore's tiny cargo area, which offers only 18.8 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, and the cramped back seat that makes carrying adult passengers a challenge. U.S. News notes that while the Encore was refreshed for 2020 with updated styling and technology, it was discontinued after the 2022 model year. The review recommends the Encore for those who want a small, luxurious crossover for commuting and errands, but suggests checking out the Mazda CX-30 or Kia Seltos for better overall practicality, performance, and value.
Buick Encore financing
Review the estimated monthly payment, down payment, and financing terms for this model.
Buick Encore financing