2021 Buick Encore GX review

1. Small on the outside, big on the inside 

At first glance, the 2021 Encore GX looks like a sleek subcompact SUV. Then you step inside and quickly realize that there’s nothing subcompact whatsoever about the spacious interior. There’s seating for up to five passengers inside the deceptively sizable cabin. There’s also plenty of space for everyone to stretch out too, with 40.9 inches of front seat legroom and 36 inches of rear seat legroom. 

2. Abundance of cargo space 

While your passengers are settling into the spacious cabin, all of their luggage and items can be stored in the capacious trunk. The 23.5 cu-ft of cargo volume behind the rear seats is plenty enough for everyday needs, from the weekly groceries to the whole family’s holiday luggage. Fold the rear seats flat, however, and that cargo volume expands up to 50.2 cu-ft – useful for when you need to transport large or awkwardly shaped items. A hands-free liftgate is also available to make loading and unloading a breeze. 

3. Compact and versatile engine choices 

Two engine options are available for the 2021 Encore GX, both of them diminutive in size, yet punchy and perfectly suited for daily driving. Front-wheel-drive models get a 1.2L turbocharged engine as standard, packing a stout 137 horsepower while also being able to achieve an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined.

The alternative is a 1.3L turbocharged engine, standard on all-wheel-drive models and optional otherwise. Output is boosted to 155 horsepower, while still being able to achieve an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined in all-wheel-drive form and 31 mpg combined in front-wheel-drive configuration.

4. Stacked feature list  

With three main trim levels all packed with features, you’re guaranteed a well-equipped 2021 Encore GX regardless of which model you choose. The base Preferred trim is loaded with standard features, including an eight-inch touchscreen display, available onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, a six-speaker sound system, and wireless Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ integration.

Augmenting this trim is optional equipment including a sunroof, a power liftgate, and heated front seats. The Select trim adds dual-zone automatic climate control, and the top-line Essence trim can be found with leather upholstery and a seven-speaker Bose® sound system. 

5. Available driver convenience technologies 

For peace of mind out on the road, the 2021 Encore GX offers a great selection of driver convenience features across the trim lineup. Standard tech includes forward collision mitigation and lane departure mitigation, but look out for available adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Additionally, top-line Essence trims can be found with the Convenience Package, which includes a digital rearview mirror and automated parking system to make parking in tight spaces a total breeze.