Is Buick Encore a Good Car? An Honest Buyer’s Guide

Is Buick Encore a good car? For the right driver, yes. The Buick Encore can be a comfortable, practical, and surprisingly refined little crossover, especially when we use it mainly for commuting, shopping, and navigating busy city streets.

However, it is not automatically the best subcompact SUV for everyone.

The Encore’s strengths are easy to appreciate: elevated seating, compact dimensions, a quiet cabin, simple controls, and available all-wheel drive. It feels more substantial than many economy hatchbacks while remaining small enough to squeeze into tight parking spaces.

Its weaknesses are equally important. Performance is modest, the rear seat is not especially spacious, some model years require careful mechanical inspection, and used examples vary enormously in condition. A neglected Encore can become an expensive headache, while a properly maintained one can be a pleasant everyday companion.

There is also a naming issue we must clear up. The original Buick Encore and the Buick Encore GX are different vehicles. Buick’s current American lineup includes the Encore GX but no longer lists the original Encore. The original North American Encore covered the 2013–2022 model years, while the larger Encore GX arrived later and remains available.

So, should we buy one? Let’s look beneath the polished Buick badge and find out what the Encore is really like to own.

Quick Verdict: Is the Buick Encore Worth Buying?

The Buick Encore is worth considering when we want a small, comfortable crossover that is easy to drive and does not feel stripped down inside.

It is particularly suitable for:

• Urban commuters
• Couples or small households
• Older drivers who appreciate easy entry
• First-time SUV buyers
• Drivers downsizing from a larger vehicle
• People who prioritize comfort over speed
• Buyers who need available all-wheel drive

We should be more cautious when we need strong acceleration, generous rear-seat space, frequent towing capability, or a vehicle that will regularly carry four adults and their luggage.

The Encore is best understood as a comfortable city car wearing crossover clothes. It is not a miniature off-roader, performance SUV, or family hauler. Once we judge it according to its actual purpose, its appeal becomes much clearer.

Buick Encore vs Buick Encore GX: Know the Difference

Before shopping, we need to confirm which vehicle a listing actually describes.

The Original Buick Encore

The original Encore is the smaller, rounder crossover sold in North America from the 2013 through 2022 model years. It uses a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission.

Later versions improved the engine’s output, and the 2022 model produced 155 horsepower. Front-wheel drive came standard, while all-wheel drive was available. The 2022 Encore was rated at up to 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, depending on configuration.

This is the vehicle most used-car shoppers mean when they ask, “Is Buick Encore a good car?”

The Buick Encore GX

Despite sharing the Encore name, the Encore GX is a separate, newer design. It is longer, roomier, more modern, and generally better equipped with current driver-assistance technology.

The Encore GX was introduced for the 2020 model year and effectively assumed the Encore’s position within Buick’s lineup. The original Encore continued alongside it briefly before disappearing after 2022. The Encore GX remains part of Buick’s 2026 SUV range.

When comparing prices, we should never assume an Encore and an Encore GX are simply different trim levels. They have different platforms, engines, dimensions, transmissions, interiors, and ownership considerations.

Main Buick Encore Pros and Cons

Here is the simplest overview:

Advantages	Disadvantages
Easy to park and maneuver	Modest acceleration
Comfortable, elevated seating	Limited rear-seat legroom
Quiet cabin for its size	Small cargo area with seats upright
Straightforward controls	Some potentially costly turbo and PCV issues
Available all-wheel drive	Not designed for towing or heavy hauling
Good visibility	Older safety technology on early models
Premium-looking interior touches	Resale value varies by market
Useful maximum cargo capacity	Engine may sound strained under hard acceleration

The Encore’s biggest advantage is not any single specification. It is how approachable the vehicle feels.

We can step inside, understand the controls almost immediately, see clearly out of the windows, and drive through crowded streets without feeling as though we are steering a boat through a bathtub.

How Comfortable Is the Buick Encore?

Comfort is one of the strongest reasons to buy an Encore.

A Softer Ride Than Many Small Crossovers

Many subcompact SUVs chase a sporty personality. They use stiff suspension settings, large wheels, and quick steering to create excitement. The result can feel energetic on smooth pavement but tiring over broken roads.

The Encore takes a different approach.

Its suspension generally favors comfort. Small bumps, expansion joints, and imperfect urban pavement are absorbed reasonably well. We still feel larger potholes because the vehicle has a short wheelbase, but the ride is usually calmer than its tiny exterior suggests.

Think of it as a comfortable walking shoe rather than a racing spike. It may not encourage us to attack every corner, but it makes the daily journey easier.

Cabin Noise Is Better Controlled Than Expected

Buick has traditionally placed emphasis on reducing unwanted noise, and the Encore reflects that philosophy.

At moderate speeds, the cabin often feels more isolated than those of basic economy cars. Road and wind noise are not eliminated, but they are softened enough to create a more relaxed atmosphere.

This makes the Encore pleasant for commuting, listening to podcasts, or having a conversation without raising our voice.

The engine becomes more noticeable when we accelerate hard. Its small turbocharged design must work enthusiastically when merging, climbing a steep hill, or carrying several passengers. During gentle driving, however, the cabin usually feels composed.

Easy Entry and a Helpful Seating Position

The Encore’s upright shape provides one of its most practical advantages: easy entry and exit.

We do not drop down into it like a sports car, nor do we climb up into it like a full-size SUV. The seat height sits in a convenient middle ground.

That makes the Encore appealing to drivers with limited mobility, parents installing a child seat, and anyone who simply prefers a clear view of surrounding traffic.

What Is the Buick Encore Like to Drive?

The Encore is easy to drive, but it is not exciting in the traditional sense.

Excellent for City Driving

In crowded areas, the Encore feels completely at home.

Its short overall length makes tight parking spaces less intimidating. The steering is light at low speeds, visibility is generally good, and the elevated driving position helps us judge the vehicle’s corners.

Making a three-point turn does not feel like organizing a military operation. We turn, reverse, straighten the wheel, and continue with minimal drama.

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This friendliness is valuable. A car does not need enormous horsepower to improve our day. Sometimes the best car is simply the one that does not make routine journeys harder than they need to be.

Acceleration Is Adequate, Not Impressive

The original Encore’s acceleration is acceptable for ordinary use. We can keep up with traffic, enter highways, and pass slower vehicles when we plan ahead.

What we should not expect is instant power.

Press the accelerator deeply, and the transmission may need to downshift while the turbocharged engine gathers momentum. With passengers or cargo onboard, that pause becomes more noticeable.

The 2022 Encore’s 155-horsepower engine was stronger than earlier versions, but the vehicle remained tuned for efficiency and everyday usability rather than performance.

Drivers who regularly enter fast highways through short ramps should test the Encore in those conditions before buying it.

Highway Driving Requires Realistic Expectations

Once it reaches cruising speed, the Encore can travel comfortably on the highway. Its upright design and short wheelbase may make it feel less planted than a larger crossover, particularly in strong crosswinds, but it is not inherently unsuitable for longer drives.

The greater concern is passing power.

We need more space and planning when overtaking at highway speeds. The Encore responds, but it does not leap forward like a vehicle with a larger turbocharged engine.

Is All-Wheel Drive Necessary?

Available all-wheel drive can help in snow, heavy rain, loose surfaces, and steep driveways. It may be worthwhile in regions with severe winters or poorly maintained roads.

However, it does not turn the Encore into an off-road SUV.

Ground clearance, tires, driver judgment, and road conditions remain important. All-wheel drive can help us move forward, but it cannot magically shorten braking distances on ice.

Drivers living in warm urban climates may be perfectly satisfied with front-wheel drive, which is usually simpler and more fuel-efficient.

Is the Buick Encore Fuel-Efficient?

The Encore provides respectable fuel economy, although it is not the undisputed efficiency champion of its class.

For reference, the 2022 front-wheel-drive Encore was rated at up to 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. The official brochure also listed the 1.4-liter turbo engine and 48.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo space.

Actual fuel economy depends on:

• Traffic density
• Outside temperature
• Driving speed
• Tire pressure
• Maintenance condition
• Use of all-wheel drive
• Passenger and cargo weight
• Frequency of short journeys
• Aggressive acceleration

The Encore’s small turbocharged engine can be economical when driven gently. If we frequently demand full boost, climb steep hills, or spend hours in stop-and-go traffic, consumption may be noticeably higher.

That is a common characteristic of small turbo engines. They can sip fuel like tea when relaxed and drink more eagerly when pushed.

Is the Buick Encore Spacious Inside?

The Encore uses its compact footprint intelligently, but space remains limited.

Front-Seat Space

The front seats are one of the Encore’s better features. The tall roof and upright seating position create a sense of openness that the exterior dimensions do not immediately suggest.

Most drivers should find enough headroom, and the controls are positioned within easy reach. The dashboard is not as visually dramatic as newer digital interiors, but its relative simplicity can be an advantage.

We do not need to search through layers of touchscreen menus just to adjust the temperature.

Rear-Seat Space

The rear seat works best for children, teenagers, or adults on shorter journeys.

Two adults can fit, but taller passengers may wish the front seats could move farther forward. Carrying three adults across the rear bench will feel cramped.

This is an important test-drive detail. We should adjust the driver’s seat to our normal position and then sit directly behind it. Reading dimensions online cannot replace this simple physical test.

Cargo Space

The Encore offers up to 48.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seats folded. The official 2022 brochure describes a 60/40-split rear seat and maximum cargo space of 48.4 cubic feet.

That maximum figure sounds generous, but space behind the upright rear seats is more modest. It is suitable for groceries, small suitcases, backpacks, or everyday errands.

For larger objects, folding the rear seats transforms the vehicle’s usefulness. The front passenger seat in some versions can also fold, making it possible to carry longer items.

The Encore is therefore more versatile than a conventional sedan, even though it cannot match a larger compact SUV when passengers and cargo must travel together.

Does the Buick Encore Have Good Interior Quality?

The cabin is one of the reasons the Encore can feel more expensive than it is.

Buick mixes soft-touch areas, metallic-looking trim, conventional buttons, and a relatively clean layout. Not every material is luxurious, but the overall design usually feels warmer than the hard-plastic interiors found in some inexpensive competitors.

We should still keep expectations realistic.

This is an entry-level Buick, not a miniature Cadillac. Lower sections of the doors and dashboard use economy-grade materials, and older examples may develop scratches, rattles, or worn seat surfaces.

A well-preserved Encore can feel pleasantly upscale. A neglected one can look tired very quickly.

Is the Buick Encore’s Technology Easy to Use?

Later Encore models offer the more appealing technology packages.

Depending on year and trim, equipment may include:

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• Touchscreen infotainment
• Apple CarPlay
• Android Auto
• Bluetooth
• Satellite radio
• Rearview camera
• Remote start
• Keyless entry
• Heated seats
• Heated steering wheel
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert

The interface is generally straightforward. Physical controls remain available for important functions, which reduces distraction and makes the vehicle easier to use in motion.

Before buying, we should test every feature rather than merely confirming that it appears in the advertisement.

Connect a phone. Adjust the speakers. Try the camera. Test both key fobs. Operate every window. Confirm that the touchscreen responds accurately.

A ten-minute technology check can reveal problems that a quick drive around the dealership may miss.

Is the Buick Encore Reliable?

The Buick Encore can be reliable, but its long-term dependability depends heavily on maintenance and inspection.

This is not a vehicle we should purchase blindly because the mileage appears low. A high-mileage Encore with complete service records may be a better choice than a low-mileage example that received irregular oil changes and spent years making short journeys.

The most important areas involve the turbocharged engine, crankcase ventilation system, cooling system, and automatic transmission.

Turbocharged Engine Concerns

Small turbo engines operate under significant heat and pressure. Clean oil of the correct specification is essential.

Potential warning signs include:

• Check-engine light
• Reduced power
• Whistling or unusual turbo noise
• Blue exhaust smoke
• Rough acceleration
• Oil leaks
• Underboost codes
• Excessive oil consumption

General Motors issued service information addressing underboost code P0299 and wastegate preload concerns on applicable vehicles. It also established special coverage for certain 2017–2018 Buick Encore vehicles whose 1.4-liter turbochargers could fail, potentially causing reduced power, rough running, and a check-engine light.

This does not mean every 2017 or 2018 Encore will suffer turbo failure. It means the vehicle identification number, repair history, and current turbo performance deserve careful verification.

PCV and Camshaft-Cover Problems

The positive crankcase ventilation system is another important inspection area.

GM service bulletins describe conditions involving damaged PCV diaphragms, missing or improperly seated intake-manifold non-return valves, oil consumption, oil leaks, blue exhaust smoke, unusual vacuum, and several diagnostic trouble codes.

Possible symptoms include:

• A whistling noise from the engine
• Rough or unstable idle
• Oil leaking around the valve cover
• Blue smoke
• Increased oil consumption
• Check-engine warnings
• Strong vacuum at the PCV vent

These symptoms should not be ignored. A relatively small ventilation problem can create additional engine issues when left unresolved.

Cooling-System Inspection

Cooling-system condition is critical because overheating can turn a manageable repair into a major engine expense.

Inspect the coolant reservoir when the engine is completely cold. Look for:

• Low coolant
• Crusty residue
• Wet hose connections
• Sweet coolant odor
• Discoloration around the water pump
• Signs of previous overheating
• Recently replaced parts without supporting invoices

GM published guidance explaining that some staining near the water pump could resemble a leak, while an active trail of coolant required closer attention. Additional service information directs technicians to inspect turbocharger coolant pipes and their connections when investigating leaks.

A professional cooling-system pressure test is a sensible step before purchasing an older Encore.

Automatic-Transmission Behavior

The six-speed automatic transmission should shift smoothly during light and moderate acceleration.

Warning signs include:

• Delayed engagement
• Harsh shifts
• Shuddering at low speeds
• Engine flare between gears
• Clunking when selecting drive or reverse
• Hesitation after stopping
• Transmission warning messages

GM service information addresses low-speed torque-converter-clutch shudder and instructs technicians to verify the condition before performing the specified fluid procedure.

Again, a technical bulletin is not evidence that every Encore has a defective transmission. It gives us a specific behavior to watch for during the test drive.

Drive the vehicle from cold, continue until fully warm, and test it in slow traffic as well as at highway speed. Some transmission symptoms appear only after the fluid reaches operating temperature.

Electrical and Battery Issues

Modern crossovers can display confusing warnings when the battery becomes weak.

A tired battery may contribute to:

• Slow starting
• Infotainment resets
• Warning lights
• Stop-start malfunctions
• Keyless-entry problems
• Erratic electronic behavior

Before assuming the vehicle has a major electrical defect, test the battery and charging system. Still, repeated warning messages should be diagnosed properly rather than dismissed by a seller.

Is the Buick Encore Safe?

The Encore’s safety performance is mixed when judged against modern standards.

IIHS ratings for the 2013–2022 design show a Good result in the original moderate-overlap frontal test. However, the same generation received a Poor result in the organization’s later updated moderate-overlap evaluation, which introduced more demanding rear-passenger protection criteria.

That distinction matters. A vehicle may have performed well under the standards used when it was designed while appearing less competitive under newer, tougher testing.

Safety equipment also varies by year and trim. Early versions may lack advanced systems commonly expected today, while later models can offer features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Before buying, verify the specific vehicle rather than assuming every Encore includes the same safety package.

We should also enter the vehicle identification number into NHTSA’s recall database. NHTSA emphasizes that recalls can be updated and that unrepaired safety recalls should be completed free of charge.

How Expensive Is a Buick Encore to Maintain?

Routine maintenance costs are generally manageable for a small crossover. Tires, brakes, filters, batteries, and basic service should not be unusually expensive.

The risk lies in deferred maintenance and turbocharged-engine repairs.

Potentially expensive items include:

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• Turbocharger replacement
• Cooling-system repairs
• Intake manifold or PCV repairs
• Camshaft-cover replacement
• Air-conditioning repairs
• Transmission work
• Infotainment replacement
• All-wheel-drive components

A cheap purchase price does not automatically create a cheap car.

We should reserve money for post-purchase maintenance, particularly when buying an older example without a detailed service history. Replacing all fluids, worn tires, a battery, and neglected suspension components can quickly change the financial picture.

The smartest Encore is rarely the absolute cheapest one advertised. It is usually the one with the clearest history and the fewest unanswered questions.

Which Buick Encore Model Years Are Best?

Later models generally offer the most attractive combination of stronger performance, newer infotainment, updated styling, and remaining service life.

A well-maintained 2020–2022 Encore can be appealing to buyers who want the original model’s small dimensions without purchasing one of the earliest examples.

The 2022 model is particularly simple to compare because the lineup was reduced, and it used the 155-horsepower 1.4-liter turbocharged engine.

However, model year alone should never determine the decision.

A carefully serviced 2017 Encore with documented repairs may be a better purchase than a neglected 2021 model with accident damage and overdue oil changes.

For every model year, prioritize:

1. Complete maintenance records
2. Clean engine oil
3. Stable coolant level
4. Smooth transmission behavior
5. No active warning lights
6. Successful cold start
7. Independent mechanical inspection
8. Verified recall completion
9. Consistent tire condition
10. Clean vehicle-history report

Who Should Buy a Buick Encore?

The Encore makes sense when we value convenience more than excitement.

It can be a good choice for a driver who:

• Travels mainly alone or with one passenger
• Lives in a city or crowded suburb
• Wants a higher seating position
• Finds larger SUVs difficult to park
• Prefers traditional controls
• Wants a quieter cabin than an economy hatchback
• Needs flexible cargo space occasionally
• Can obtain a vehicle with good maintenance records

It is also a sensible downsizing option. Someone moving from a midsize sedan or larger SUV may appreciate the Encore’s familiar comfort without the bulk.

Who Should Avoid the Buick Encore?

We should consider alternatives when we:

• Carry tall adults in the rear frequently
• Need strong passing acceleration
• Tow trailers
• Drive heavily loaded on steep roads
• Want sporty handling
• Need maximum cargo space with all seats occupied
• Prefer the newest driver-assistance systems
• Do not want the maintenance demands of a turbocharged engine

Large families will probably outgrow it quickly. Drivers covering long highway distances may also prefer a more powerful and stable compact SUV.

The Encore can perform those duties occasionally, but they are not where it shines.

Buick Encore Compared With Popular Alternatives

Buick Encore vs Chevrolet Trax

The original Encore shares important engineering roots with the first-generation Chevrolet Trax.

The Buick generally emphasizes quieter operation, softer interior design, and a more premium presentation. The Trax may be less expensive to purchase.

When buying used, condition matters more than the badge. A clean Trax is preferable to a neglected Encore, and the reverse is equally true.

Buick Encore vs Honda HR-V

The Honda HR-V traditionally appeals to buyers who prioritize interior versatility, reputation, and efficient packaging.

The Encore can feel quieter and more comfortable in the front seats, while the HR-V may offer a more practical cabin for passengers and cargo.

The better choice depends on whether we value refinement or maximum utility.

Buick Encore vs Mazda CX-3

The Mazda CX-3 is usually the more engaging vehicle to drive. Its steering and handling feel sharper, but its cabin and rear seating can also feel tight.

The Encore is softer, calmer, and less sporty. One feels like a small crossover designed for winding roads; the other feels like a compact lounge designed for errands.

Buick Encore vs Kia Soul

The Kia Soul offers a boxier cabin and often provides better usable interior space.

The Encore counters with available all-wheel drive, a more traditional crossover shape, and a potentially quieter driving experience.

Urban drivers who prioritize space may prefer the Soul. Drivers who want an SUV-like seating position and available extra traction may lean toward the Encore.

Used Buick Encore Inspection Checklist

Before purchasing, complete the following checks.

Before Starting the Engine

• Confirm the engine is cold
• Check the oil level and condition
• Inspect the coolant reservoir
• Look underneath for leaks
• Examine tire wear
• Check body-panel alignment
• Search for overspray or accident repairs
• Confirm both key fobs are present

During the Cold Start

• Listen for rattling
• Watch for blue or white smoke
• Check idle quality
• Confirm warning lights turn off
• Listen for PCV whistling
• Check for strong fuel or coolant odors

During the Test Drive

• Test light and full acceleration
• Check transmission shifts
• Drive at low speed
• Test highway merging
• Listen for wheel-bearing noise
• Brake firmly and gently
• Test steering alignment
• Drive over uneven pavement
• Check the air conditioning
• Confirm all-wheel drive has no warning messages

After the Test Drive

• Look for fresh leaks
• Recheck coolant odor
• Let the vehicle idle
• Test reverse and drive engagement
• Scan for diagnostic trouble codes
• Review service records
• Arrange an independent inspection

A seller who refuses a professional inspection is giving us useful information—just not the kind we hoped to receive.

Final Verdict: Is Buick Encore a Good Car?

Yes, the Buick Encore can be a good car when we choose the right example and understand its limitations.

It delivers comfortable seating, easy maneuverability, a relatively quiet cabin, useful cargo flexibility, and the convenience of available all-wheel drive. For city driving, daily commuting, and small-household duties, it can feel like a well-tailored jacket: compact, comfortable, and suitable for almost every ordinary occasion.

It is not flawless.

Acceleration is modest, rear-seat room is limited, and the turbocharged engine requires diligent maintenance. PCV, turbo, cooling-system, and transmission concerns make a pre-purchase inspection especially important.

The Encore is therefore not a vehicle we should buy based solely on appearance, mileage, or price. We should buy it based on condition, documentation, inspection results, and how well it matches our actual lifestyle.

Find a maintained example, confirm that recalls and relevant repairs are complete, and the Encore can be a satisfying small crossover. Choose a neglected one because it looks inexpensive, and that bargain may melt faster than ice on a hot dashboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Buick Encore a Reliable Used Car?

A Buick Encore can be a reliable used car when it has received regular oil changes, cooling-system maintenance, and timely repairs. Reliability varies significantly by condition, engine history, and previous ownership. A mechanical inspection is strongly recommended.

How Long Can a Buick Encore Last?

There is no guaranteed lifespan. A carefully maintained Encore can provide many years of service, while a neglected example may develop expensive problems much earlier. Maintenance records are more useful than mileage alone when predicting longevity.

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Does the Buick Encore Have Transmission Problems?

Some vehicles may experience shuddering, delayed engagement, or rough shifting. GM has published service guidance concerning certain low-speed torque-converter-clutch shudder conditions. During a test drive, evaluate the transmission both cold and fully warmed.

Is the Buick Encore Good for Highway Driving?

The Encore can handle highway driving, but acceleration and passing power are modest. It is comfortable once cruising, although drivers who spend most of their time on fast highways may prefer a larger and more powerful crossover.

Is the Buick Encore Good in Snow?

An all-wheel-drive Encore can provide useful extra traction in snow, especially when fitted with quality winter tires. Front-wheel-drive versions can also perform adequately with appropriate tires. All-wheel drive does not replace careful driving or reduce icy-road braking distances.