Buick calls its new Encore the only luxury subcompact SUV.
The Encore has an attractive exterior design that hues toward Buick’s hugely popular Enclave large crossover SUV. The traditional Buick design language, including the waterfall grille and the portholes on the hood, is evident.
On the inside, the Encore looks good, but isn’t overly luxurious.
There is a well arranged dashboard and comfortable seating, nominally for five.
But as this is a subcompact, be aware that the seating space is not abundant in the back.
The cargo area isn’t exceptionally large.
As for driving dynamics, the Encore has a solid ride, but it's clear that it wasn't built with performance in mind.
And that's OK, as Buick is calling the Encore an alternative to its popular Verano small sedan, for those who prefer an SUV. It's practical, affordable and attractive.
Buick's practice of making exceptionally quiet vehicles continues with the Encore, which not only has sound-deadening materials, but also has standard Bose Active Noise Cancellation.
Ride positioning in the Encore is good; it genuinely feels like you're in an SUV as you sit up higher than you might in other small crossovers.
The Encore is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 138 horsepower and 148 pounds-feet of torque.
The same engine is featured in another recent General Motors product, the Chevrolet Sonic compact.
As such, the Encore's fuel economy numbers look pretty good: 25 mpg city, 33 highway for front-wheel drive models and 23 and 30 with all-wheel drive.
With a starting price of just around $24,950, it has the potential to draw buyers to the Buick brand who previously might not have considered it.
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