If you’re shopping for a small SUV, you’ve likely asked yourself, is a Buick Encore a good car? The Buick Encore appeals to drivers seeking a premium-feeling subcompact SUV with a quiet cabin and easy handling for urban environments. This article will give you a detailed, honest look at its strengths and weaknesses to help you decide.
We’ll cover everything from performance and comfort to reliability and cost. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of whether the Encore fits your lifestyle and budget.
Is A Buick Encore A Good Car
To answer this core question, we need to look at the whole package. The Buick Encore is a good car for specific buyers, but it has notable drawbacks that might rule it out for others. Its success depends largely on what you prioritize in a vehicle.
For city dwellers or those who primarily take short trips, the Encore’s size and maneuverability are big pluses. It’s easy to park and feels nimble in traffic. However, if you regularly take long highway trips or need strong acceleration, you might find it lacking.
Let’s break down the key areas that define the Encore’s value proposition.
Defining The Buick Encore’s Strengths
The Encore excels in several areas that matter to everyday drivers. These are the points where it often wins over shoppers compared to rivals.
A Premium And Quiet Cabin Experience
Step inside the Encore, and you’ll immediately notice it tries to feel more upscale than many competitors. Buick’s focus on quiet tuning is real. The cabin is insulated from road and wind noise effectively.
- Quality materials on the dashboard and door panels.
- Available leather seating and heated surfaces.
- An intuitive infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in later models.
Exceptional Maneuverability And Parking Ease
Its small footprint is a huge advantage in urban settings. The turning radius is tight, making U-turns and navigating cramped parking lots stress-free.
- Easy to judge size from the driver’s seat.
- Good visibility out of all windows.
- Available rear parking assist and camera systems.
Strong Fuel Economy For City Driving
Around town, the Encore’s fuel efficiency is competitive. The turbocharged 1.4-liter engine is designed for stop-and-go efficiency rather than power.
You can expect figures in the low to mid 20s (mpg) in the city and around 30 on the highway, which is respectable for its class.
Understanding The Buick Encore’s Weaknesses
No car is perfect, and the Encore has some consistent criticisms. Being aware of these helps set realistic expectations.
Underwhelming Engine Performance
This is the most common complaint. The standard 1.4-liter turbo engine feels underpowered, especially with a full load of passengers or when merging onto highways.
- Acceleration is slow and the engine can sound strained.
- The 6-speed automatic transmission can be hesitant to downshift.
- Later models received a more powerful 1.4L, but it remained a weak point compared to rivals.
Cramped Rear Seat And Cargo Space
As a subcompact SUV, space is limited. Adults will find the rear seats tight for legroom on longer journeys. The cargo area is also small behind the rear seats.
- With rear seats up, cargo space is minimal for a big grocery run.
- Folding the seats down helps, but the load floor isn’t completely flat.
- If you regularly carry more than one passenger, consider the slightly larger Encore GX.
Infotainment System Can Feel Dated
While functional, the standard Buick IntelliLink system in older models feels behind the times. The graphics and response time aren’t as sharp as newer systems from Honda or Hyundai.
Evaluating Reliability And Cost Of Ownership
Long-term value is crucial. Here’s what you need to know about the Encore’s dependability and running costs.
Predicted Reliability Scores
Reliability ratings for the Encore have been mixed. Early model years (2013-2015) had more reported issues. Later years showed improvement but didn’t consistently top the charts.
- Check specific model year ratings from sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.
- Common issues have included turbocharger problems, electrical gremlins, and premature brake wear.
- A well-maintained used Encore can still be a sensible choice.
Maintenance And Repair Costs
As a premium brand, Buick maintenance costs can be slightly higher than non-luxury competitors like Honda HR-V or Toyota C-HR. However, they are generally lower than true luxury brands.
Parts are readily available due to shared GM components. Getting routine service is rarely a problem at dealerships or independent shops.
Depreciation And Resale Value
Buicks traditionally depreciate faster than some Japanese rivals. This is bad news for new buyers but creates opportunity in the used market.
- A 3-year-old Encore often costs significantly less than a similar-age CR-V.
- This makes a used Encore a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious buyers.
- Factor in lower purchase price when considering total cost of ownership.
Who Is The Buick Encore Best Suited For
The Encore isn’t for everyone, but it’s an excellent fit for a clear set of drivers.
The Ideal Buick Encore Driver Profile
This person prioritizes comfort and ease over sportiness and space. They are likely a single professional, a couple, or an empty nester.
- Primarily drives in the city or suburbs.
- Takes frequent short trips rather than cross-country journeys.
- Values a quiet, comfortable cabin over rapid acceleration.
- Doesn’t regularly need to carry more than one passenger.
Comparison To Key Competitors
How does the Encore stack up against it’s main rivals? Here’s a quick breakdown.
vs. Honda HR-V: The HR-V has more interior magic (Magic Seat) and better resale, but the Encore offers a quieter, more premium cabin feel.
vs. Mazda CX-30: The CX-30 is far more engaging to drive with better power, but can have a firmer ride. The Encore is softer and more isolated.
vs. Hyundai Kona: The Kona offers sharper styling and more standard features, but Buick’s ride comfort and noise control are often superior.
Key Considerations For Used Vs. New
Your buying strategy significantly impacts the Encore’s value. Here’s guidance on choosing between new and used models.
Buying A New Buick Encore
Buying new gets you the latest features, full warranty, and peace of mind. However, you’ll absorb the steepest depreciation.
- Consider new if latest safety tech (like automatic emergency braking) is a top priority.
- Look for dealer incentives and financing offers, which Buick often provides.
- Remember that the Encore was discontinued after the 2022 model year, so “new” may mean leftover inventory.
Buying A Used Buick Encore
This is where the Encore shines as a value pick. You get near-luxury ambiance for a mainstream price.
- Target model years 2017 and newer for better reliability and updated features.
- Always get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic, focusing on the turbo and transmission.
- Check the vehicle history report for accidents and consistent maintenance records.
Final Verdict And Recommendations
So, is the Buick Encore a good car? The answer is a conditional yes. It’s a good car if your needs align with its strengths.
We recommend the Buick Encore if:
- Your daily driving is mostly urban.
- A serene cabin is a high priority.
- You usually drive alone or with one passenger.
- You’re looking for a used SUV with premium touches on a budget.
We suggest you look elsewhere if:
- You frequently drive on highways or need strong passing power.
- You regularly use the back seats for adults.
- Top-tier reliability and resale value are your main concerns.
- You need maximum cargo flexibility.
The Buick Encore fills a specific niche beautifully. It provides a comfortable, quiet, and easy-to-drive experience for city-centric drivers. By understanding it’s limitations, particularly around power and space, you can make an informed decision. For the right person, it remains a compelling and often overlooked choice in the crowded small SUV market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Buick Encore a reliable car?
Reliability is average. Later model years (2017 and up) are generally more reliable than early ones. It’s crucial to check specific year ratings and get a thorough inspection when buying used.
What are the main problems with the Buick Encore?
Common issues include turbocharger failure, problems with the timing chain, various electrical faults, and excessive oil consumption in some engines. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding major repairs.
Is a Buick Encore good on gas?
Yes, its fuel economy is a strong point. You can expect around 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, making it efficient for daily commuting and errands.
How does the Buick Encore compare to the Encore GX?
The Encore GX is a newer, slightly larger model with more modern styling and available all-wheel drive. It offers more power and updated technology, effectively replacing the original Encore in Buick’s lineup.
Is the Buick Encore being discontinued?
Yes, Buick discontinued the standard Encore after the 2022 model year in North America. The Encore GX continues as the brand’s entry-level SUV. This makes used Encores widely available.