Used 2021 Buick Encore

The 2021 Encore is the smallest and least-expensive crossover SUV from Buick. The Encore is a cousin of the Chevrolet Trax, but has more premium features and a more supple ride quality. The Encore is an easy way to step into a more upscale crossover without plunking down the mid-$30,000 it takes to get into a full-on luxury subcompact SUV like the Lexus UX or Audi Q3.

Since debuting several years ago, the Encore has been a success story for Buick, especially in bringing younger buyers to the brand. But its glow has dimmed for 2021 in light of the Buick Encore GX. Though it carries a very similar name, the 2021 Encore GX is an all-new model and not related to this Encore. The Encore GX is slightly larger, roomier, more stylish and brings more safety features – including standard ones – not found in the Encore. All that, and the Encore GX has a starting price that’s only $900 more than an Encore.

The Buick Encore has seen its lineup further simplified for 2021, but it retains some appeal. The Encore uses a small and efficient 4-cylinder engine vs. the 3-cylinder ones found in the GX, and still offers respectable tech with its 8-inch touchscreen and standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration.

With the Encore, Buick has done a commendable job making even a very small SUV relatively comfortable. While the Encore and its Chevy cousin the Trax share powertrain, dimensions and other aspects, the Buick is plusher and quieter thanks to extra insulation and suspension tuning. The ride quality is composed and the cabin is hushed thanks to active noise cancellation.

What the Encore is missing is the extra verve of past models’ optional, more powerful engine. The sole offering now is a small 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder. And though its 138 horsepower isn’t a tragedy, it also doesn’t inspire enthusiastic driving. Really awakening the Encore requires a forceful use of the accelerator, which is when engine noise becomes noticeable.

At least fuel economy is solid. And the effort required for steering and braking is all well considered, making the Encore a breeze to drive. The raised driving position is another plus, enhancing outward vision. And the ride height facilitates easy entry and exit. For shorter commutes, city jaunts and as an errand runner, the Encore succeeds. Its diminutive size also makes it a breeze to park.

Unlike fresher competitors including the new Encore GX, this model doesn’t offer more advanced driving and safety aids like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

As Buick’s smallest and least expensive crossover SUV, the 2021 Encore still manages to feel somewhat upscale, with only a few cheaper-looking plastics in evidence. Otherwise, the cabin is well-appointed and refined. Upholstery is a mix of cloth and leatherette. Though the Encore is not the freshest vehicle in its segment, it still boasts good technology. The Encore comes with a standard 8-inch touchscreen, compared to the 7-inch unit on the Chevy Trax.

The cabin is on the narrow side, but controls for climate and audio are easy to see and use. Rear seat space is expectedly tight. Considering the Encore’s diminutive exterior dimensions, its cargo area is quite good. There’s 18.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats – like a trunk in a large sedan – and 48.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. One neat trick is the front passenger seat’s ability to also fold, enabling you to carry longer items.

Still, here again the new Encore GX bests this older Encore in interior room.

The Encore subcompact crossover SUV has a squat, upright profile and a raised stance. At around 168 inches in length, it’s smaller than some hatchbacks. This makes it ideal for those with small garages or drivers who routinely have to fight for tight parking spots. There are some handsome elements, like the vertical grille with floating Buick logo.

Comparatively, the new Encore GX is longer, leaner, and has a fresher design. See what your own eyes have to say when comparing the two.

“QUIET TUNING” WITH ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION
Buick has some of the quietest interiors around. Thank the ample insulation and active noise-cancellation system, which works much like the headphones used by many frequent fliers.

“ACTIVE ON-DEMAND” ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
As a fine compromise between confidence and consumption, the Encore’s Active On-Demand all-wheel-drive system senses wheel slip and directs power to the wheel (or wheels) with the best traction. When not needed, the Encore reverts to front-drive mode for optimum fuel economy.

For 2021, the Encore is available in just two trims: 1SV and Preferred. The base level 1SV covers the basics like cruise control, single-zone air conditioning, keyless open, and 6-way power driver’s seat. The standard infotainment system remains quite robust, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and 6-speaker audio system. Also included is GM’s subscription-based OnStar telematics connected services system and 4G LTE Wi-Fi.

Higher-trim Encore Preferred models add a rear cargo cover and floor mats. Moreover, this trim opens the door for options.

Most important options, including all-wheel drive, require you to select the Encore Preferred trim. Also available on that model are a moonroof, remote vehicle start, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The 2021 Encore doesn’t have the more sophisticated driver-assistance systems of the new Encore GX, but this one does offer a frontal collision alert and lane-departure warning, parking sensors and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

The Buick Encore uses a turbocharged 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is the standard setup, and all-wheel drive (AWD) is optional on the Preferred trim. The Encore isn’t exactly dripping with power, but it’s quite fuel efficient, registering around 30 mpg on the highway in FWD form.. Despite the presence of a turbocharger, the Encore uses regular gasoline.

1.4-liter turbocharged inline-4
138 horsepower @ 4,900 rpm
148 lb-ft of torque @ 1,850-4,900 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 25/30 mpg (FWD), 24/29 mpg (AWD)