Austin Buick Encore vs. the Encore GX – What’s the Difference?

Many people in Austin are wondering what the differences are between the new Buick Encore and the Encore GX. Despite the shared name and size class, there are notable differences between the Austin Buick Encore and the Encore GX. They are both targeted towards drivers who want a compact SUV that is easy to maneuver and is nimble on the roads. The Buick Encore GX offers more powertrain options than the Encore, and these extra options make a huge difference when it comes to overall top-end performance. As you decide which SUV is a better fit for you, here are a few points to keep in mind.

The Basics Of The Buick Encore & Encore GX

Both compact SUVs are small five-seaters, with the Encore GX being slightly longer by around 3 inches. This adds to the cargo space and increases it to 50.2 inches from 48.4 inches. The Encore GX is also priced lower than Encore. We have discussed the aspects further for a more detailed comparison.

How Do They Compare With Efficiency & Power?

One major difference between the two is the fuel economy. The Encore GX is better and offers 30mpg in the city and 32mpg on the highway while Encore gives 25 mpg in the city and 30 on the highway with its standard engine. There is an option to add an all-wheel-drive system to either model, which causes a slight decrease in the fuel economy.

The standard engines of both models offer a similar power output. The Encore GX features a 1.2-liter turbocharged engine with 137 horsepower and 162-pound feet of torque. In contrast, the Encore models have a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that gives 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque.

Buick Encore GX Technology vs. Encore Tech

There is a stark difference between the driver-assist technologies in both models. These smart safety features significantly help with stressful situations on the road.

The Austin Buick Encore GX comes with standard features, such as Driver Confidence Package, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keep assist. With the additional safety package option, you also get the blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert. These options are standard in the middle trim, Select.

The Austin Buick Encore doesn’t offer driver-assist features in either of its trims, but it does give you access to two Safety Packages in the Preferred Trim. The first safety package adds a rear cross-traffic alert and a blind-spot monitor, while the second safety package has a forward collision alert and a lane departure alert. These options are available to purchase separately too.

Style- Athletic Or Elegant?

The Encore GX offers a more modern, sporty style giving an athletic standard on the road. At the same time, the Encore has a more classic and elegant route. Encore GX has chiseled body lines, a winged black mesh grille, and a bolder personality than its sibling. The Encore doesn’t have such body lines and instead has a more subdued and straightforward front fascia giving a more family-friendly vibe.

Austin Buick Encore GX Comparable Interior To Encore

One major similarity between the two is their quiet and flexible interiors. They both come with the standard Buick QuietTuning that creates a unique and enjoyable experience. Both the Encore GX and the Encore have the option to fold the front passenger seat to increase cargo space. The Encore GX has a ten-way power driver’s seat and eight-way power front passenger’s seat, along with heated front seats that the Encore doesn’t offer.

As for the interior, the GX model has a total of 50.2 cubic feet of cargo volume, and Encore has 48.4 cubic feet of cargo volume. Depending on your vehicle preference, larger ones don’t always have to be better. Both of them can seat up to five passengers, but the Encore GX has more volume and mass and requires more slightly more finesse to maneuver.

Buick Encore GX VS. Encore- Is One Bigger?

One major selling point of the Austin Buick Encore GX is its size. If size matters to you, you will prefer the 103.9-inch wheelbase on the Encore GX instead of the 101.2-inch wheelbase on the base Buick Encore. The size difference means a more spacious interior and a longer exterior and body frame for the Encore GX.

According to vehicle reports, the C-pillar of the GX is longer, while the D-pillar is more extended along a redesigned fascia and has more angular curves in comparison to Encore, which translates to a greater length of 175.7 inches on the Encore GX compared to 169.1 inches on the Encore.

Other than that, the longer the vehicle is, the harder it is to reverse, park in tight spots, and parallel park. You lose a slight margin in terms of maneuverability with the larger Encore GX but have more interior space instead. If you prefer more compact SUVs, you are better off going with the original Encore.

Test Drive The New Buick Encore GX & Encore To Decide For Yourself

Overall the new Buick Encore and the Encore GX in Austin are similar compact SUVs. It really comes down to personal preference. We invite you to schedule a test drive of both and decide for yourself if the Encore GX or the Buick Encore is a better fit for your Austin lifestyle. If you are looking to trade in your vehicle, we will offer top dollar for your trade. You can even value your trade online before you get here.