2026 Buick Encore GX vs. the Competition

When it comes to premium SUVs, Lexus offers this very popular model that is designed with comfort and advanced technology in mind. It also has a sporty side with the F Sport trim. There is a lineup of drivelines available, from the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine to two hybrids – including a plug-in hybrid. All models have all-wheel drive. An eight-speed automatic s connected to the turbocharged engine, while the hybrids use a CVT. Tere is also a choice of base, Premium, Luxury, and F Sport trims.

• The Lexus NX has a larger footprint, but don’t let the exterior dimensions trick you: the Encore GX actually offers more overall cargo space inside. With the rear seats up, the Buick has 23.5 cubic feet compared to the Lexus’ 22.7 cubic feet. Fold the rear seats down, and the Encore GX boasts 50.2 cubic feet vs. 46.9 cubic feet in the NX.
• Speaking of size, the Encore GX is 12 inches shorter than the NX and weighs 800 pounds less. These figures make the Buick a nimbler vehicle to get around town and into parking spaces
• In terms of fuel economy, the Encore GX with all-wheel drive achieves better average figures than the NX with 26 MPG in the city compared to 21 MPG. In combined driving the Buick is rated at 27 MPG compared to 24 MPG in the Lexus.
• Encore GX provides a complimentary three-year trial of OnStar One service, meaning you can quickly connect to a live support agent if your vehicle gets stolen, involved in an accident, or if you need roadside assistance for your Encore GX
• Pricing is a key factor that attracts customers to the Encore GX. The Lexus NX’s MSRP is over $21,000 more than the Buick.

The Encore GX and this Chevrolet may be mechanical cousins, but each model has its own distinctive look and feel, both inside and out. Trailblazer offers a choice of 1.2-liter or 1.3-liter turbocharged engines, as well as front- or all-wheel drive. Front-drive models get a CVT, while all-wheel drive versions have a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Trailblazer comes in LS, LT, RS, and ACTIV trim levels.

• The difference between the Encore GX and the Trailblazer goes beyond just the badge in the grille – the Encore GX has a unique appearance from head to toe, exuding the premium look and detailed finish that has come to symbolize a Buick product.
• Inside, the Encore GX Avenir shows how to elevate an interior, even in a compact SUV. Avenir offers available perforated leather seating – something that is not available on any Trailblazer.
• Want a better ride quality? The Encore GX delivers Buick’s sophisticated ride tuning and ride geometry giving you a luxurious feel on the highway.
• There are more technology features available on the Encore GX compared to the Trailblazer, including HD Surround Vision and a rearview camera mirror.
• Audio playback does matter when deciding between vehicles. The Encore GX offers six standard peakers, with a Bose audio upgrade available. In the Trailblazer, you start off with just four speakers.

Volvo’s premium small SUV comes from a lineage of vehicles made for safety. With a choice of two 2.0-liter turbocharged engines, the XC40 also comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. The XC40 is offered There is in Core, Plus, or Ultra trim levels.

• When it comes to fuel economy, the Encore GX achieves better average figures than the Volvo XC40, with 30 MPG in the city compared to 25 MPG with its standard driveline. The Buick’s all-wheel drive model also achieves 26 MPG in the city compared to the Volvo’s 23 MPG.
• Smartphone connectivity is an important piece in enjoying a new vehicle. While the XC40 offers standard Bluetooth connectivity and wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay projection, it does not offer standard wireless CarPlay/ Android Auto compatability like the Encore GX.
• The nine-inch portrait-style infotainment screen in the XC40 may do more than it appears. However, check out the Encore GX’s center stack. It has separate climate control switches from the center 11-inch touchscreen. Most climate functions are found on the Volvo’s touchscreen with minimalist switchgear below.
• Pricing is a key factor that attracts customers the Encore GX. The XC40’s MSRP is over $15,000 more than the Buick.

The Kona has a very unique design that is a standout in its class. It also has plenty of space inside and a long list of standard technology features. Power comes from a 2.0-liter naturally aspired 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, which drives either the front or all four wheels. The 2.0-liter comes with a CVT, while the 1.6-liter turbo has an eight-speed automatic. A battery-electric version is also available. The Kona comes in SE, SEL Sport, SEL Premium, and Limited trim levels.

• The Kona with the 2.0-liter engine has less torque (132 pound-feet) than the Encore GX with the 1.2-liter engine (162 pound-feet). The 1.3-liter engine in the Buick has more torque, as well (174 pound-feet).
• Base engine fuel economy comparisons are mostly a wash, with the two models trading city versus highway advantages. Among the turbocharged AWD models, the Encore GX has a 1 mpg advantage across the board.
• The Kona lacks a front passenger seat that folds flat with the cargo floor, providing additional cargo space, especially for long items.
• Buick includes a complimentary three-year trial of OnStar One services with every new Encore GX. With OnStar One, there is one button to connect to a live person if your vehicle gets stolen, involved in an accident, or if you need roadside assistance for your Encore GX
• The Kona Limited is the most premium vehicle you can get in the lineup. But, nothing can match the elevated appointments and luxurious feel of the Encore GX Avenir’s interior appointments.