2018 Buick Encore SUV

Driving Impression

Editor:

New Car Test Drive

“”

With the standard 1.4-liter turbo engine, without direction injection, it takes nine seconds to move the 3200-pound Encore up to sixty miles per hour, a lethargic performance. The engine strains to get the Encore underway, the transmission upshifts too soon so has to change its mind and downshift for more acceleration; and it doesn’t bring back such great fuel mileage.

The direct-injection engine gets 31 miles per gallon, while offering quicker performance. Its 153 horsepower provides more appropriate vigor. Passing on two-lane roads and merging onto the expressway is much easier and safer. It makes a worrisome booming noise under hard acceleration, however.

Despite the short wheelbase, even with large wheels, the Encore delivers a surprisingly and impressively comfortable ride. Small potholes and other such spots are still choppy, but less than you expect. Optional all-wheel drive not only improves traction, but improves the ride.

The electric power steering does its job well.

The automatic Stop/Start system is barely noticeable, bravo to Buick, as many manufacturers’ systems are intrusive.

Walk Around

Editor:

New Car Test Drive

“”

Buick Encore’s overall shape is cohesive, not too hippy and not too edgy. Subtle curves in the sheetmetal. It doesn’t shout anything, it just states class.

Encore looks as much like a small hatchback as it does a crossover. It got better looking with a facelift for 2017, although we’re not so sure about the chrome strip like a glider’s wings, added to the waterfall grille. With LED headlamps, the hood looks clean. Small spoiler over the liftgate looks right.

Interior Overview

Editor:

New Car Test Drive

“”

Being tall, the Encore offers good head room. Being narrow, it’s pinched on shoulder and elbow room, even in the front. And the wide center console might squeeze the front occupants’ knees. But the driver gets a fine position, enjoying a commanding view past the short front end. Although not over the shoulder, making that standard rearview camera a wise move. A low dashboard and tall roof bring back a sense of spaciousness.

The front seats are comfortable, with nicely shaped seatbacks, although the bottom cushions are short on support.

The back seat can easily carry two adults, and there are seatbelts for a third passenger in the rear; but it won’t be three adults. Knee room is livable, helped by slight scoops in the front seatbacks. There’s a folding armrest with cupholders, drops down to better the fill the space than a center passenger would.

Soft-touch surfaces and metal trim give the cabin a premium feel, while it is also versatile and flexible. Both the rear seat and the front passenger seat fold down. Folding the back seat expands cargo capacity from 18.8 to nearly 50 cubic feet.

Active noise cancellation keeps the engine noise down, and while some tire and wind noise comes in, and the info flashes on an 8-inch touchscreen in the center of the dash, the cabin stays surprisingly calm for a subcompact.

Summary

Editor:

New Car Test Drive

“”

Buick Encore is a comfortable small-family subcompact crossover, with premium equipment and a premium feel, for a fairly low price. The direct-injection engine is a smart upgrade.

Sam Moses contributed to this review, with staff reports.

Model Lineup

Editor:

New Car Test Drive

“”

The entry-level Encore ($22,900) comes with front-wheel drive and the standard engine. Standard equipment includes an 8-inch touchscreen, power windows/locks and heated mirrors, cruise control, cloth upholstery with simulated leather trim; power driver’s seat; ambient lighting; rearview camera; OnStar telematics, IntelliLink infotainment, and 18-inch alloy wheels. (Prices are MSRP and do not include destination charge.)

The Convenience package includes dual-zone automatic climate control, remote start, blind-zone and rear cross-traffic alerts, and foglamps. Leather adds a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and leather-appointed seating. Premium features Bose audio, parking sensors, plus lane-departure and forward-collision warnings.

Upgrading to the Direct Injection engine means stepping up to the Encore Sport Touring ($25,565) model, which includes rear spoiler, stop/start technology, front/rear park assist, and special 18-inch alloy wheels.

Options include navigation and a sunroof.