For those who felt that the regular Encore was a tad too cozy, the 2022 Buick Encore GX is here to stretch your horizons. It's like the Encore went to the gym and came back slightly bigger and noticeably more contemporary. Are you a fan of turbo? Well, you're in luck. With choices of a turbocharged 1.2-liter or a 1.3-liter three-cylinder engine, the Encore GX isn't entering the race to satisfy speed demons, but it certainly won't let you down on the daily drive. It gives you the stability of a racehorse with the grace of a ballet dancer. The 2022 Buick Encore GX is a well-equipped contender, not just with the likes of Mazda CX-30 and the Hyundai Kona, but also rubbing shoulders with the highbrows like BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA-class. It might not have the German swagger, but it sure packs a surprisingly roomy and comfortable punch!
Read on to learn more about the 2022 Buick Encore GX.
The interior of the 2022 Buick Encore GX is thoughtfully designed with a focus on comfort and functionality. Space is generous, especially for a compact SUV, accommodating adult passengers comfortably even on long journeys. The cockpit is intuitively designed, with controls being easy to locate and operate. The Encore GX also boasts a wealth of tech features, including a sharp and responsive infotainment system as standard. The use of high-quality materials throughout the cabin enhances the overall feeling of luxury, although it may lack the finesse found in German equivalents. Nonetheless, the interior of the 2022 Buick Encore GX offers a pleasant and comfortable space for both drivers and passengers.
The 2022 Buick Encore GX doesn't just impress with its interior offerings - it's a beauty from the outside, too. It carries an attractive allure with its sleek, modern lines and compact stance. The front grille is sophisticated, flanked by halogen projector-beam headlamps that are designed for both functionality and aesthetics. The elegant contouring along the sides leads to a rear end that's just as stylish, with LED tail lamps adding a touch of contemporary class. The 18-inch aluminum wheels with a high-gloss finish give the vehicle a sporty stance, while the available panoramic sunroof opens up to the sky, adding an element of joy to every journey. The vehicle's design is a perfect blend of modern sophistication and rugged charm, making it an attractive choice for city dwellers and adventure lovers alike. This is a car that resonates with a broad spectrum of drivers, offering design features that are both visually appealing and purposeful.
The heart of the 2022 Buick Encore GX lies in its robust turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The base model is powered by a 1.2-liter engine, cranking out 137 horsepower. For those seeking a bit more punch, there's an optional 1.3-liter engine that ups the ante to 155 horsepower. The base engine pairs seamlessly with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive, while the more potent 1.3-liter engine is featured on every Encore GX with all-wheel drive and is exclusively mated with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While it might not win any drag races (taking 9.3 seconds to reach 60 mph), the Encore GX feels livelier than this figure suggests, especially around town where the turbo engine's low-end grunt shines. Though it may not match the acceleration times of luxury-branded competitors such as the Audi Q3, the BMW X1, and the Volvo XC40, the Encore GX compensates with a smooth and controlled ride, making it a worthy consideration in the compact SUV segment.
Notably, the larger of the two three-cylinder engines, the turbocharged 1.3-liter, receives the highest fuel-economy ratings from the EPA. This engine, when paired with front-wheel drive and the CVT, is said to achieve up to 32 mpg on the highway. The smaller 1.2-liter engine drops the fuel efficiency slightly to 30 mpg. If you opt for the 1.3-liter engine with all-wheel drive and the nine-speed automatic, the mpg drops further to 29. Despite these minor variations, the 2022 Buick Encore GX stands out as a fuel-efficient option in its class, helping you save at the pump while offering a performance that doesn't compromise on power.
The 2022 Buick Encore GX takes safety seriously and is equipped with a multitude of standard driver-assistance technologies. The safety features include Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, and Lane-Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning. In addition, a rearview camera mirror and 360-degree camera system will be available as optional upgrades for a comprehensive view of your surroundings. Although the 2022 Buick Encore GX has yet to be rated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), its predecessor's performance and the brand's commitment to safety lend confidence in its ability to securely transport its occupants. For the latest crash-test results, please visit the NHTSA and IIHS websites.
The 2022 Buick Encore GX is a bit of a Goldilocks car – it's not too big, not too small, but 'just right' for many drivers. It ticks a lot of boxes: spacious interiors, sleek design, fuel efficiency, and a decent set of standard safety features. Its well-appointed cabin and almost luxury-like feel come at a price point that makes it an attractive option for those hesitant to fully commit to a luxury brand. Think of the Encore GX as your stepping stone toward luxury, without the luxury price. On the flip side, the Encore GX isn't the most refined or powerful in its class. If you've got a need for speed, this isn't your ride. But if you're looking for a smooth, comfortable ride around town and on long drives, this car won't let you down. And while it might not match the panache of its German counterparts, it holds its own with its unique blend of style and practicality.
So, would we recommend the 2022 Buick Encore GX? Absolutely – if you want a compact SUV that's comfortable, stylish, reliable, and won't break the bank, this could be the one for you. Just don't plan on winning any drag races with it.
