Buick has long operated on the fringe of other brands, somewhere between luxury and mainstream models. However, in recent years, this division of General Motors has found its place in the market with increasingly interesting new models. In fact, it was thanks to the Encore GX that this wave of innovation began.
For 2025, the American manufacturer's small SUV is more refined and elegant than ever. It's now clear that we're dealing with a luxury model. At least, that's what its design, level of equipment, and engine suggest. As for its price, that's another story.
Range and Pricing
Somehow, General Motors has managed to maintain a starting price of just $32,875 for the 2025 Encore GX, which is very affordable, especially for a luxury model. Buick achieved this by offering front-wheel drive for the entry-level version, something that's become quite rare these days. If you prefer all-wheel drive, the Preferred version offers it starting at $34,875. Next is the Sport Touring version, which has a sportier and more aggressive look, with all the chrome removed for a more sinister appearance. Finally, the Avenir version tops the range with a starting price of $39,755. The quality of the finish and choice of materials are what make this version so special.
Category and Competition
The Buick Encore GX is part of one of the most competitive segments in the market. Luxury subcompact SUVs are accessible to a wide audience, which makes them so popular. The competition is fierce, but the American manufacturer's small SUV has some strong arguments in its favor. It offers an excellent value for money.
Rivals: Alfa Romeo Tonale, Audi Q3, BMW X1, BMW X2, Cadillac XT4, Lexus UX, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Volvo XC40.
Design and Technology
Buick has long been considered a "beige" vehicle brand, if you catch the meaning. Its designs used to lack inspiration and boldness. However, that's no longer the case today. In fact, I'd say Buick goes further than most of its rivals in terms of design. The 2025 Buick Encore GX is very appealing to the eye. It grabs attention for all the right reasons. It features a pronounced expression at the front, while the rear leaves a more structured impression. It boasts nice proportions and even offers some vibrant color choices. In short, Buick has changed, and that's a very good thing.
I must admit I'm not the biggest fan of the dashboard design in the Buick Encore GX. I would have preferred a flatter screen, without the curved edges, but that's a subjective preference. Otherwise, the interior style of the model is a success. Ergonomics have been well thought out, and it's a model that offers a lot of comfort despite its size.
On the technology side, you're getting the best the industry has to offer. General Motors is currently a leader in this area. The dashboard is clear, the multimedia system is highly intuitive, and the driver assistance technologies are well-tuned.
Performance
The 2025 Buick Encore GX only offers one engine, which might be its only downside. Fortunately, this engine is very versatile and perfectly suited to the model. It's a 1.3-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine that produces 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission if you opt for the all-wheel-drive version. If you choose the front-wheel-drive base model, you'll get a CVT transmission. As for fuel consumption, GM reports an average of 8.0 L/100 km in the city and 7.6 L/100 km on the highway for the front-wheel-drive version. The all-wheel-drive versions have an average consumption of 9.1 L/100 km in the city and 8.4 L/100 km on the highway.
Weak Points
It definitely lacks a high-performance version as well as an electrified option in the Encore GX lineup.
Strong Points
It's an eye-catching model that offers an elevated experience for its price. The Buick Encore GX is also very enjoyable to drive, and the various technologies it offers are among the best in the industry.
Signature Feature
The 2025 Buick Encore GX stands out from the competition with its incredible value for money.
Final Word
Buick has done an excellent job with the Encore GX, both in terms of design and mechanics. It's a model you buy to treat yourself, and that's how you know it belongs in the luxury vehicle category.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
