Buick Encore GX Frequently Asked Questions

Perhaps this is stating the obvious, but the Encore GX is the Buick of small SUVs. But what it means is the Encore GX promises an upscale interior design, useful but unobtrusive technology, and, most of all, comfort. Quiet, calm, comfort, even in such a small package. Because a Buick with such a small footprint may seem like a paradox, Valley Buick GMC has heard many questions about the Encore GX. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers.

How Big Is the Buick Encore GX?

The 2023 Encore GX is a small SUV, one size smaller than Compact SUVs, which will be the segment of the 2024 Envista when it arrives. It competes with models like the Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Mazda CX-30. Like those models, it seats four comfortably and five when needed.

The Encore GX is larger than the Encore, which was a pioneer in this segment. Compared to the Encore, the Encore GX has a 6-inch longer wheelbase, greater overall length, and more cargo space, which is 23.5 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 50.2 with the seats down. In fact, due to different body shapes, the Encore GX cargo figures exceed that of the larger Envista. One handy feature of the Encore GX is its front passenger seat that folds flat to be even with the cargo floor. This not only expands cargo space even further but allows you to load 8-foot-long items. 

What Is the Encore GX’s Drivetrain?

There are three different drivetrains in the Encore GX Lineup. On the Preferred trim is a 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-3 with 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. On the Preferred AWD and all Select and Essence grades, the engine is a 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-3 with 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. All trims are available with both front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). FWD modes use a continuously variable transmission, while all AWD models use a 9-speed automatic transmission.

What Is the Encore GX’s Gas Mileage?

The Preferred FWD model has an EPA estimated city/highway/combined MPG of 29/31/30. The Select and Essence models are actually slightly thriftier on the highway despite the larger engine with an EPA estimate of 29/32/30. All AWD models are EPA estimated at 26/29/27.

What Kind of Interior Technology Does the Encore GX Have?

Unusual in this segment, the Encore GX has standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM, so you can have the 8-inch touchscreen display and interact with your smartphone apps even as your phone remains in your pocket or purse. You can also connect your phone through either USB-A or USB-C ports, along with an auxiliary jack in the front console. Wireless charging is available on the Essence trim.

Even if you use the in-house icon-based operating system, you will still be able to stream music and use your phone through the Bluetooth wireless system. In addition, all Encore GX models are capable of creating a Wi-Fi Hotspot for your phone or other devices. To help you hear your music or phone conversations, built into every Encore GX is Buick QuietTuningTM Technology.  This features thicker acoustically laminated front and side glass, additional foam insulation, and an acoustically treated headliner among other details, to enable the Encore GX to provide the quiet serene ride Buicks have long been noted for.

How Safe is the Encore GX?

The 2023 Encore GX earned an Overall 5-star Rating from the NHTSA – their highest rating. Essence models with its LED headlights also earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard on every Encore GX is the Buick Driver Confidence system, which includes an array of safety and driver assistance technologies such as:

• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
• Forward Collision Alert
• Front Pedestrian Braking
• Following Distance Indicator
• IntelliBeam®

For many people, a small SUV is all they need as long as it is comfortable and gives a sense of calm stability. That is the space the Encore GX was designed to fill. Pay a visit to Valley Buick GMC for a closer look.