The 2023 Buick Encore vs. Encore GX

When you’re looking for a new vehicle and comparing SUVs, you won’t want to leave out the Buick Encore and Encore GX. While these models have some similarities, it’s important to note their differences as well to ensure you make an informed decision before going through with your purchase. Both of these vehicles are stylish, comfortable, and sophisticated, but let’s look at a comparison of the two to help you decide which model best suits your needs. Here’s a closer look at the Encore versus the Encore GX.

Power and Performance

Starting with the Buick Encore, you’ll find a capable 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine under the hood. It can generate 155 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, which is perfect for either your daily commute or longer trips out of town. It’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that moves seamlessly through the gears. The Encore is available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, so you can choose the option that suits your driving style and needs. You’ll enjoy an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and up to 32 mpg when you take it out on the highway.

Moving on to the Encore GX, you’ll get a three-cylinder turbocharged 1.2-liter engine as standard, which delivers 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Although this engine is quite capable of handling city driving, you may want to upgrade to the optional 1.3-liter engine for a little more get-up-and-go. This optional block puts out 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. Both engines pair with a smooth-shifting continuously variable transmission and feature a stop/start system that helps with fuel economy. Front-wheel drive is standard, but you can upgrade to all-wheel drive for improved traction.

Compared to the Encore, the Encore GX offers slightly better fuel economy in the city at 29 mpg but a little lower on the highway at 31 mpg for the first two trims, though the Essence trim does get up to 32 mpg. In addition, the ground clearance varies between these models, with the Encore having 6.22 inches and the Encore GX sitting at 7.5 inches.

Exterior Design

At a glance, both models appear similar, but on closer inspection, you’ll notice the variations between their appearances. One of the main differences between them is their size. The overall length of the Encore is 168.35 inches, while the Encore GX measures 171.4 inches. For the Encore, you’ll get a 100.6-inch wheelbase, and the Encore GX has a wheelbase of 102.2 inches. In addition, the Encore GX has LED fog lights and active shutters on the lower front grille, which make it stand out from the Encore. QuietTuning, designed to block out road noise, comes on both models.

Some of the exceptional features that these two SUVs share include heated power side mirrors, body-color door handles, LED daytime running lights, and a compact 16-inch spare tire. Available features for the Encore you may want to add include a power moonroof, roof rack cross rails, and a wheel lock kit. For the Encore GX, consider adding upgrades such as a keyless entry pad, a hands-free power liftgate, and front and rear sport bumpers for even more appeal. You can also choose from a couple of different grille looks to give your new ride a style all its own.

Interior Comfort and Technology

No matter which version of the Encore you fall in love with, you’ll enjoy plenty of comfort features when you’re riding in the well-appointed cabin. Both SUVs have plenty of seating for up to five passengers, with head and legroom up front providing about the same amount of space in either car. Rear seat passengers, however, will find a little more room to spread out in the Encore GX.

Other standard interior comforts for the Encore GX include:

• Six-speaker audio system.
• Buick infotainment system with an 8-inch color touch screen.
• Cargo cover.
• USB charging ports.
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel.
• Wi-Fi hot spot capability.
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
• Keyless open and start.

You can also add these available interior features to the Encore GX:

• Heated front seats.
• Head-up display.
• Cargo area organizer.
• All-weather floor mats and cargo liner.
• Wireless charging.

If you opt for the Encore, you’ll get these standard interior features:

• Six-way power driver’s seat.
• Six-speaker audio system.
• Buick infotainment system with a 7-inch color touch screen.
• Chrome door handles.
• Front passenger underseat storage.
• Steering wheel-mounted controls.
• Wi-Fi hot spot capability.

Other features that are available for the Encore include:

• Remote start.
• Cup holder lighting kit.
• Cargo net.
• Cargo area tray.
• 120-volt power outlet.

Many of the features in the cabins of these SUVs are similar, but with each having its own unique style, you might want to try them both out to determine which one feels more comfortable to you.

Safety Features

Safety is everything when you’re cruising the highways or commuting to work, and both the Encore and the Encore GX have a number of great safety features that will help you feel secure when you’re traveling. Parents of young children will be happy to know that both SUVs come equipped with the LATCH system for securing child safety seats. If you have a teenager who might get behind the wheel, the Encore GX offers Teen Driver technology, which can help you monitor your teen’s driving habits and set limits for them until they have more experience on the road.

Additionally, both vehicles have a rearview camera to give you a better view of what’s around you and a tire pressure monitoring system so you can ensure your tires are always properly inflated. Lane keep assist with a lane departure warning is standard on the Encore GX and available on the Encore. Side blind zone alert is an available safety feature for both models, as is rear park assist.

If you’re ready to trade in your old car for either the Encore or the Encore GX, then come by Koons Buick GMC in Woodbridge. Our sales team will be happy to show you the details of both models so you can decide for yourself which one is more appealing. Contact us today or come to our dealership in Woodbridge for a test drive.

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Tags: 2023 Buick Encore, 2023 Buick Encore GX
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