Comparing the Buick Encore GX to Competitors

When it comes to sub-compact crossovers, Buick has been in the game longer than just about anyone, starting with the 2013 Encore and continuing with the Encore GX, now redesigned with a dramatic new appearance for 2024.  Several other competitors have entered the market over the years, but Buick can still show them a thing or two. Consequently, Valley Buick GMC offers this quick comparison of the Buick Encore and some close competitors.

The chosen comparison model is the Encore GX Preferred It is the entry-level trim for the Encore GX, and this being Washington state, it has equipped with all-wheel-drive (AWD) for a base MSRP of $27,600. We are comparing it to the most closely priced AWD trim levels of the Mazda CX-30, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Honda HR-V. The Nissan Kicks would have been included in this comparison, but it is not available with AWD.

Encore GX Prefered AWD vs Mazda CX-30 Preferred AWD

The Mazda CX-30 Preferred with AWD has a starting MSRP of $28,220. Both models have the same 7.9 (out of 10) rating from Some Encore GX Preferred advantages include:

• The Encore comes standard with a navigation system vs having to upgrade to a higher trim level on the CX-30.
• Encore GX has a 9-speed transmission vs the CX-30 6-speed transmission.
• Encore GX has wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM vs. connecting by cord for the CX-30.
• With seats up, the Encore GX has 16% more cargo space than the CX-30
• Keep your hat on, as the Encore GX has more front headroom.
• While warranties are the same, the Encore GX’s free 24-hour roadside assistance lasts for 5 years or 60,000 miles vs. 3 years/36,000 miles for the CX-30.

Encore GX Prefered AWD vs Toyota Corolla Cross AWD

The Corolla Cross is one of the latest additions to the segment and as the name states, it is based on the Corolla platform. The LE AWD has a starting MSRP of $27,240. Edmunds.com gave the Encore GX an overall rating of 7.9 vs 7.4 for the Corolla Cross. The Encore was specifically rated higher in the areas of Driving, Interior, Utility, and Technology. Some specific objective advantages of the Encore GX Preferred AWD over this model include:

• The Encore GX has four more inches of rear legroom.
• The Encore GX also has more front and rear shoulder room.
• The Encore GX has more front headroom.
• 9-speed transmission on the Encore G vs a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for a more satisfying transmission response.
• Standard 18-inch wheels vs 17-inch for a better appearance.
• Parking Assistance and heated seats are available options on the GX vs having to upgrade to a higher trim level on the Corolla Cross.
• While warranties are the same, the Encore GX’s free 24-hour roadside assistance lasts for 5 years or 60,000 miles, while the Corolla Cross’s service ends after two years.

Encore GX Prefered AWD vs Honda HR-V

The Honda HR-V entered the segment in the 2016 model year and is now in its 2nd generation. With a starting MSRP that nearly matches the featured Encore GX trim at $27,150, the HR-V Sport AWD model was used for comparison. Some specific objective advantages of the Encore GX Preferred AWD over the HR-V model include:

• A 9-speed transmission over a CVT for improved transmission response.
• The Encore comes standard with a navigation system which is not available on the HR-V model line.
• A sunroof and parking assistance are available on the Encore GX Preferred but require a jump-up to the EX-L trim on the HRV.
• While warranties are the same, the Encore GX’s free 24-hour roadside assistance lasts for 5 years or 60,000 miles vs. 3 years/36,000 miles for the HR-V.

Everyone’s tastes and priorities differ, of course.  What this comparison should show is that if you are considering any of these competing models, the Encore GX should be at the top of your list. The best place to check out an Encore GX, of course, is Valley Buick GMC.