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2017 Buick Encore

Starting at $23,915

6/10 C/D RATING
Specs
2017 buick encore
Michael Simari|Car and Driver
6/10 C/D RATING

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  • Highs Quiet and comfortable interior, peppy optional engine, impressive tech features.
  • Lows Unimpressive driving dynamics, weak standard engine, interior misses the luxury mark.
  • Verdict The Encore provides a comfortable ride, decent cargo room, and a wealth of tech features, but its interior falls just short of true luxury.

Overview

Buick launched its Encore subcompact crossover-sport-utility for 2013, putting GM’s semi-premium brand at the forefront of a new segment. The Encore, which is assembled in the General Motors plant in South Korea, got its name because the small two-row model’s styling mimics the mid-size three-row Enclave that has propped up Buick’s North American sales for the past decade. As an upmarket alternative to the Chevy Trax with which it shares its basic platform, the Buick Encore comes with the standard and optional equipment, and the nicely appointed interior, to make it a credible small, premium product.

What's New for 2017?

For 2017, Buick applied a moderate mid-cycle update to its popular Encore. The optional 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine became available on more trim levels. There’s a newly sculpted nose, with a revamped grille and headlamps, reflecting the latest Buick design language, and newly available LED headlamps. The standard LED taillamps have been redesigned, there are new wheel designs, and the sideview mirrors are now body-colored instead of black.

Pricing

Original MSRP:

  • Base: $23,915
  • Preferred: $25,290
  • Sport Touring: $26,490
  • Preferred II: $27,790
  • Essence: $29,990
  • Premium: $31,390

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Buick offers two 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engines for the Encore, both coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission. The barely adequate base engine produces 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque, while the optional four makes 153 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. In our review, we described the optional engine as “peppy” but with a middling 7.8 second 0-60 mph time (in Car and Driver testing) when equipped with front-wheel drive, though not very peppy at 8.4 seconds with all-wheel drive. The Encore offers a surprisingly supple ride for having such a short wheelbase, though the payoff is less than agile handling. Steering is well weighted if not particularly engaging, but it’s accurate and will be agreeable for buyers seeking a comfort-oriented small crossover.

motor vehicle, automotive design, vehicle, automotive tire, land vehicle, transport, automotive wheel system, car, rim, automotive tail  brake light,View Photos
Michael Simari|Car and Driver

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Encore's cabin is very nearly premium, save for a few missteps. There are some hard plastics in the door panels and lower center console, and we found some mismatched trim pieces on our test vehicle. But soft-touch sections on the armrests and dash pad provide a bit of upscale ambience. For 2017, the Encore now has a decluttered dashboard with a 4.2-inch color information center, bright white accents, and contrast stitching. Quiet tuning with Bose active noise cancellation, keyless entry, and push-button start are now standard. Top trim levels are available with features like a heated steering wheel and dual-zone climate control. The rear seat has a 60/40 split for flexibility. Cargo space is 18.8 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 48.4 cubic feet with both sides of the second row folded.

motor vehicle, steering part, automotive mirror, automotive design, mode of transport, steering wheel, vehicle, center console, white, car, interiorView Photos
Michael Simari|Car and Driver

Infotainment and Connectivity

Buick’s latest IntelliLink connected infotainment system is now standard across the Encore lineup, featuring an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration and OnStar 4G LTE with a WiFi hotspot. A six-speaker audio system with SiriusXM satellite radio is standard, and a Bose premium audio setup with seven speakers is optional on higher trim levels.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)

View Crash Test Results

For more information about the Buick Encore’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.

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