I just drove one for a week as a rental (1,900 miles total) and I can vouch for the fact the 1.3 liter with the 9-speed auto and AWD is a perfectly reasonable setup. I thought it would be underpowered but it really wasn’t. Obviously this is no Ferrari but I was reasonably pleased with its overall performance. Got 33 mpg overall in mixed driving, not bad. It’s a pretty good road trip vehicle especially because it is nice and quiet, and had enough pep around town so long as you’re not the type for stop light drag races. I didn’t notice the seats being too narrow for me but there were some hard, shiny plastics and obvious cost cutting here and there. It had everything it needed and felt slightly more premium than the Trail Blazer I recently sat in but the Mazda CX-30 definitely wins out in the cabin department. The Mazda is just one competitor mentioned but my guess is would be typically more expensive too. The Encore GX is an overall versatile, competent SUV, probably a little too small for true family duties - don’t think of putting 5 people in here unless it is just around town - but for a young couple or retirees, or those with one small child, it might work out quite well. It exceeded my expectations.
I would suggest test driving the the “Select” trim level with the 1.3 engine. Yes, the one I test drove few days ago was a front wheel drive with CVT. Let’s just say it had plenty of get up and go and merged on the hwy very well without all the drone noise. Also it does have a fold down rear armrest for the passengers in the backseat.
Love mine but got the 1.3. I’m getting about 36mpg and it is quiet and smooth unlike Ford’s 3cyl. And it had way more giddy up than other SUVs in the size class that I drove...and I drove a lot of them.
@@billbeck47 36 combined in an SUV rated lower than 33 HWY is pretty good. A 3 cyclinder turbo makes more power than the Prius. And engine size doesn’t mean anything when you’re comparing an SUV with a Prius. I bet you tell everyone the Prius gets better MPG than a Tesla, and that the Prius has a bigger engine. Both are true but mean absolutely nothing.
@@RaitisRides Good video. I had hope you would discuss the size difference between the Encore & the Encore GX the GX looks like a slightly larger vehicle than the regular Encore. I want smaller so I will go with the Encore & not the GX
Enjoyed the review! Thanks! As a current 2018 Encore owner and previously a 2015, I'm a bit partial to Buick. The things that are important to me as a driver are maneuverability, ride quality, "quiet" and 87 octane gas! Buick nailed it! The quiet and ride are amazing in a vehicle this size! It's actually quite a luxurious little crossover! Performance is plenty! The head room is cavernous! I'm 6'2"! And reliability is amazing! My next Buick will be 2021. And the Encore GX will be the car! Can't wait for your review w/the 1.3 engine!
Update! I said in my response that my next Buick was going to be a '21 Encore GX! Well, as George Jefferson would say, I moved up to a '21 Cadillac XT4 Sport! And the only thing it has in common with my 2018 Encore is the color. Black! I'll let you know in a few months what I think! So far, lovin' it!
@@michaelscofield2444 It rides nice, very comfortable. Gas mileage is OK. My biggest issue is connectivity. I paid for the wireless charging pad. But since Buick (GM) took away the feature that lets my phone connect via Bluetooth to the car for texts and such, I have to plug in my phone. And then it can't lie flat on the charging pad. (It's getting charged because of the cord, but I could have saved some $.) After I bought it (I was the owner of 2 Encores prior, so I was accustomed to 98% of the car) I thought I just had to sync my phone for texts to be read aloud and such. Then I find out GM did away with that feature. I don't like Android Auto, but in the 2020 at least. it ALSO isn't a Bluetooth option. I won't buy GM again. It somehow feels smaller than the traditional Encore, even though the wheelbase is longer. I'd give it a B or B- as a car. It's now just a bit over a year old, and I've had to take it in twice for service on mechanical things.
We had a 1980s Buick Century.Bought it new a dealer.Some some fast talking sales with a line of B._. sold it to us.Stalling issues,took it back to service 1st week. Tech laughed at us,said they all do that. Sales person said,I'm sales take it to service.Nice customer service.Long story,we sold it after 6mos.Bought offshore product.All our vehicles, 6 in total since then are made by foreign country. GOOD job UAW.
My understanding is the CVT is with the FWD drivetrain. The 1.3 AWD receives a 9 speed automatic. If you buy the package that includes a hands-free rear lift gate, as you approach the vehicle with the key fob, the vehicle projects the Buick logo on the ground. Break that beam with your foot and the lift gate opens. The ST designation on the lift gate indicates the vehicle has the Sport Touring package which gives the red trim on the grille/fascia and wheel inserts. St is available with the bottom Essence, mid level Select, and top of the line Essence trim. The Essence trim level adds leather seating with memory, power seats left and right, Panoramic sunroof and some other extras. The only no charge color is white. All the other colors run $495, the White Frost Tri-Coat adds $1095. With all the options a loaded GX Essence runs $37K+.
Despite the zonks I really like this one for a work car. Looking forward to the break down of the 1.3! And broski... don’t mix M&M’s and Skittles. Shame.
Its probably plastic on back passenger cause thats the seat that will fold down for extended cargo. Offers protection. Also thank you for this review! None of the major media outlets have reviewed this vehicle yet as of 3/16/2020.
The top trim is 155 hp and I drove it and it had more power than I thought it would with the turbo. And yes it IS selling like hotcakes in the US already and they aren't even discounting at all like they do the other Buicks. It's a nice vehicle.
Thank you, Mr. Raiti, for coming to Chicago and checking out the Auto Show and what Chicago had to offer. I had the chance to meet you and your beautiful wife, at the show, along with my family. You were very gracious and respectful. You took pictures with me and gave us some of your “swag” items. It was a great moment for myself and family. I really enjoy your videos and your channel. Keep up the great work!👍🏾 Mike
So for 28k it's about the same as upper trims of Cx30. With 50+ more horses, real automatic and better MPG. Which one would you take Joe, for your money?
Saw the paint finish on the CX30, right then and there I walked away. If you want a car that scratches from day one buy a CX30. Fragile paint. We've own a Buick made in Korea and the paint job is impeccable. The GX has an automatic, He's showing a base CVT one. The essence GX AWD has 155 hp. The turbo actually has great take off, I test drove it. I've driven turbos before.
We loved the review, we were waiting for you to mention the ride because we had a Buick years ago and loved the smooth ride but if you commented on it I missed it except for the body leaning around the corners
The wife is looking for a small awd vehicle to use as her daily car. This car failed big time. It resides in Zonkville permanently. 😩 Thanks for the info. You are the coolest cat on RUclips.
Joe never showed or mentioned that the front passenger seat can be fold flat for a ladder or surfboard. That is why the back of the passage seat has the plastic on the back top...
Thanks brother Joe i asked you in my comment to review Buick and Volvo cars and suvs and you deliver some of that great job still the best of the best and the master of cars reviewers always keep Buick and Volvo on your list
Halogen headlamps and incandescent turn signals in an "upscale" brand in 2020? A prop rod for the hood? I never even made it to the interior review. Buick should have stuck with making Park Avenues or been laid to rest. Still, an enjoyable (partial) review due to Raiti!!!
Any idea when you might review the other Encore GX trims? I just found you a few weeks ago and love watching the videos. They are very helpful for someone like me looking for a new ride. At 296,000 miles it's getting close to retirement time for the 2005 Grand Prix.
It really does look good I think but for that kind of money I think it should have more power. I think Buick will be going under if they dont do something to bring in younger buyers.
Buick is one of the best selling brands in china, almost their entire lineup is china centric. The only Buick designed with America first is the Enclave. They aren't going anywhere. If any GM brand was to go, it would be GMC.
@@james2042 I could see them continuing to sell Buick in China, but in the U.S., not so much. I think the GMC brand survives because it's their "Jeep" brand.
@@rmknicks every vehicle in GMC's lineup is offered in Chevys with roughly the same quality. GMC is just a big appearance package for chevy. At least Buick offers something different. (except for the now 2 compact crossovers). Also Jeep is FCA's main non truck brand, GMC is a side brand.
I believe the reason for the passenger front seat plastic behind the seat , is for when you have longer items like a ladder or such to protect the back of the leatherette seat.
Great video! I test drove it. We have a 4 cyl Encore and the 3 cyl turbo GX actually has more power than the 4 cyl Encore. Center console needs more padding I agree. There's 3 trims and a sport trim, so I hope you show us the highest trim (Essence). I'm leaning toward buying it, only thing that I didn't like was the turbo groan. I came from a turbo and love a turbo for added power but the GX is louder on acceleration than even I'm used to. Considering Buick's known for 'quiet' rides, I wonder how Buick owners will embrace it.
Emergency twinkies? I'm sold! I do like the styling, way more than the Ford Echosport, which proportions look like a clown car to me. Excellent review and looking forward to you reviewing the more powerful trim levels.
I bought one, that I love, in 2017. Average 31.9 mpg with a mix of mostly suburban driving. No problems at all yet. Tows a small trailer ok. I wish it had a little tailgate instead of the big hatch. I think the new styling is ok but a little too busy and flashy, geared more towards kids. I wonder how it would have looked if GM would have kept Opal?
Great detail review, thank you, it will be perfect if you also test the rear view camera to see if it is clear enough. And yes to the more small SUV review.
The passenger front seat has plastic on the back because the seat folds flat which is also why Buick switched the 60/40 rear seats to 40/60. This is also why the passenger front seat has manual recline. Also the upgraded engine comes with a nine speed instead of the cvt
I used to drive a 2013 Hyundai Tucson, but gave this car to a relative and bought me a 2021 Buick Encore. I miss the spaciousness of my old car - especailly the center counsole. The Encore has but a small cubby hole instead. Nevertheless, I got a good deal on the Encore, and it drives really smooth for a small car! Aside from missing my center console, I do like the Encore. Hope it lasts 14-15 years like my very first Tucson.
Great video. I blame you for my appetite after watching your videos, ha! Relative has an Encore cream color leather. Stains horribly from blue jean dye since first week. Dealer can't get it out. Buy black or brown leather. Back seat arm rest comes in higher trim. I like a black surround around wheels to protect from nicks, even Lexus adds a thin strip to all their SUVs. To me, it looks odd without it now.
Thanks Joe for showing the spare tire. If you ask 50 people if would like to have a spare tire in they car show when they a flat tire on there, What would there answer be?
It's a beautiful SUV, however the 1.2 liter turbo engine and $30,000 to $35,000+ price? A 1.2 liter turbo engine is a serious problem for me. Lots of thrown off heat, high horsepower for 1.2 liters and only 240cc's per person with 5 passengers PLUS a 3800 pound car to move around? That's 4650 pounds driven by a 1.2 liter engine? No way...
My dad got a Buick Encore for my mom, but After 6 months she traded it in because its way to small.. I convinced her to get something a little bigger. A GMC Terrain..
I think Buick is way better than regular GMC. For GMC it’s Cadillac, Buick then GMC/Chevy for luxury. Now if you talking trucks then flip it around lol.
Just what we need, another SUV. Is there a contest going on to see who can produce the most SUV’s? Should do well in Munchkinville. Nice job Joe! Congrats in advance on reaching 200K. 👍🏻👍🏻🥳🇺🇸
I'm a car guy but I get why a lot of people want these. My issue is with the engines, way too small for the weight in my opinion. I want to see minimum 2.0 litre turbo + in these things. Keep up the good work.
Everything looks great until you get to the 3 cylinders for $35k fully loaded. We went to see one last night and it was very sporty looking, glad you reviewed this so we are more informed.
@@RaitisRides look really sharp in Chilli Red with rear diffuser, pin stripe, and color coded body molding. BUT 3 cylinders...why!! Such a nice buy with 4 cylinders, cutting costs doesn't mean you make money.
I think for 2 ppl perfect daily suv, looks good but I would choose Honda CRV Vs 1.5 turbo. Bigger, stronger, has air vents between front seats, more interior room, resales value.
Nice Ride I really like crossovers but I really wish that they would bring back the Grand National with 650hp that right there was my favorite V6 old school car of all time . And make sure you like And subscribe and don't skip those ads 👍
I went to the car show here in Atlanta to see both vehicles in even up close I was not feeling that Buick Encore GX up close and saw the Chevy Trailblazer too, this made Kia Seltos in which I also up closed looks way good
I like this Encore GX. Love the look i side and out and like the 3 cylinder engine choices. Can get quite expensive when going with top trim optioned out on the Buick Website as I had it up to like $36,000.00 and I noticed on top trim there are still like 3 expensive option packages you have to add to get everything. Other than that I really like it and would take 1 of these.
Yea 36k is alot for this small suv, but I've found this is the cheapest car you can get lumbar support for the passenger which my wife really wants on our next car
@@joshaugustine8808 Hey I like small cars and 3 cylinders and love the look of this. Plus GMs 3 cylinder seems to be really really good after reading extensively on it. I say everyone likes different things and thats why there are so many makes and models and all sizes.
I think GM should have killed the Buick division several years ago when they killed off some of their other divisions. They don’t make cars anymore and just sell fancier crossovers than Chevrolet. Keep Chevrolet for the masses, and Cadillac for premium buyers. It’s redundant to have Buick in the middle. I have to zonk the whole Buick division! 🤪
Agreed. I know zero young people who own Buicks. It's all old folks. Whenever I see a Buick ahead of me, I ALWAYS zoom around them. Because I know they're going to be a slow, bad driver. I'd rather be around a Mercedez driver, than a Buick one lol.
We own a Buick, was made in Korea yes. I personally have seen a lot of GMs made in Canada and Mexico with horrible quality issues. Buick quality is amazing. CX-30 didn't like as much. I test drove it. I sat lower in it and the display isn't touch screen, it's all controlled with a knob. Mazda paint has issues. Personal preference I'm sure.
I drive a 2015 Camry and looking at smaller CUV. I think the CX-30 is twice the car and starts at $21,900 for base up to $28,200 for Premium. No comparison to this w/ a motorcycle size engine. At $28k its an expensive under-powered car (in my opinion) made in China and S. Korea. I'd choose a Hyundai Kona or Kia Seltos over this any day.
Dude, I'm assuming you jog . . . the snack talk makes me wonder?! Love the Compact/Sub-Compact videos . . . keep it up. Looking to eventually upgrade to a newer, smaller CUV . . . have a Venza, not sure the newer Venza is in my future. The Encore GX, the Seltos and the Kona are high on my list at this point, although the Kona is a little short in the entry for me with my bad back. Thanks for the info!
I’m hate when cars do not have air vents between front seats, beck seats area never have enough air flow. My kids was always complaining about how 🥵 is on rear area in summer and cold 🥶 in winter. They receive air flow only from under front seats.
@@RaitisRides It will sell well. Better than the Encore which sold well even if that mystified many. 40 yrs ago people bought Buck vs Chevy. Today the GX over the very, very similar T-Blazer.
This vehicle is marketed for me. I have a Chev Trax, which I love, but I wish it had just a tad more cargo space which is what this car has. I need good gas mileage as I drive 600 miles round trip to work (only 2-3 times per month), and I must have a 120 outlet to power my stuff. I would get the “bigger” engine though.
I drove a 2012 Buick Lucerne. There is a reason they only made this car for 3-4 years. Complete garbage and I would never consider another Buick. Fuel pump went at 62k miles and should have been a recall (common problem that Buick eventually changed). Engine mounts all broken in 3 years and replaced and broke again in 2 more years. It just makes me never consider a GM car ever. Always a fantastic review BTW!!!!!
☀Does the all-wheel drive work all the time, or does it turn off at a certain speed? On some subcompact suvs, all-wheel drive shuts off at 20 miles\h. As far as I remember Hyundai and Kia have such a limitations☀
I test drove it and there's a shut off button for AWD so you only have to use it in winter. Sales guy pointed it out. There's a button for it on the center console area. This will get you better MPG most times then.
Give it a test drive it's got a lot for the price range. Turbo engine gives it more power than many think it will too. AWD doesn't use the CVT which is a benefit too. ;)
This is nice for GMC...but this is dead in the water as soon as the Kia Seltos come out in March. They have a month or so to sell as many as they can....then close shop n go home.
As always, great review! Kinda wish you’d test the sound systems, Joe. Does it rock? I know you’re a rocker, you gotta be checking it out! Can ya work it in? Thanks brother 👍🏻👍🏻
the plasic seat back is on the passenger side which tells me they did this so you can put your kids front facing carseat on the passenger side so as the diver you have a ciew of your kid, and the plastic will save your seat when the kids kick it constantly.
Bring back Pontiac! You can't put excitement, in a Buick, and try to sell it to younger generations... Sorry. 🙄 I do like the passenger side located emergency flasher button! ≥≥≥≥≥≥... 😱
Beware with the buick. We bought the cream color interior (leather seats) with regular Encore and they stain like crazy!!!! Would never recommend. We took to the dealership and they couldn't get the blue jean dye out of it and it was only 1 month old. I had a faux leather in a Chevy and it did stain but came out easily with cleaner. Not sure what Buick was thinking. They owe us new seat covers but it'll just happen again.
This isn't a bad vehicle really. It just seems a bit unrefined; ie no back seat armrest, outdated antenna, no rear hvac etc... I do have to disagree on the rear vents though. I kind of like those.
I think Buick has something good here. A good competitor for the new Kia Seltos. I prefer the Kia but a lot of people will be attracted by the Buick name, and 28k for this configuration looks kind of reasonable and the car has kind of a more mature look. I think there's a big audience here... Another awesome review.
Good video review. Why do car manufacturers put out a nice vehicle with decent mpg and then the following "upgrades" have lower mpg. My 2017 Encore Essence gets better mpg than this with a little bigger engine. Are the extra digital features that much heavier? Also, I'd never opt for a CVT. I turned down a ton of nice deals because of they had a CVT. I'll watch for the review of the 9-speed.
I'm zonking 3 cylinders. Way too much strain on that little of an engine. No replacement for displacement. And I need a cubby for my root beer barrels and my chocolate covered espresso beans.
Cylinders are irrelevant nowadays except for sports cars and even then mostly for noise and bragging. Blowers, superchargers and electric motors are doing their jobs better and better.
Lolol his comments are so funny " could just give it to your guests as a going away gift" 😂😂. Awesome videos and hopefully designers check your points because you accurately reflect public opinions ✅
LOVE it! Could you please put it into a box and send it over to Gold Coast Australia please! As you know, GM have withdrawn their Holdens from Australia and I think this would have been the next Holden Trax. VERY disappointed.
I only like the grill. I think the Toyota CH-R is way better overall in the looks department. On another note I wish everybody on the truck side would make the tail part of the trucks wider. That slim look just seem a bit out of place to me. I would like to see a slightly wider tail on the trucks. Just my personal input on it.
Beware of the 2020 Escape, there's a lot of people complaining about the alignments on various areas of it. Many on a page I follow have had to take it back for the auto body shop to adjust. Not sure why quality control has issues missing these things when it should come out looking better than so-so.
I just drove one for a week as a rental (1,900 miles total) and I can vouch for the fact the 1.3 liter with the 9-speed auto and AWD is a perfectly reasonable setup. I thought it would be underpowered but it really wasn’t. Obviously this is no Ferrari but I was reasonably pleased with its overall performance. Got 33 mpg overall in mixed driving, not bad. It’s a pretty good road trip vehicle especially because it is nice and quiet, and had enough pep around town so long as you’re not the type for stop light drag races. I didn’t notice the seats being too narrow for me but there were some hard, shiny plastics and obvious cost cutting here and there. It had everything it needed and felt slightly more premium than the Trail Blazer I recently sat in but the Mazda CX-30 definitely wins out in the cabin department. The Mazda is just one competitor mentioned but my guess is would be typically more expensive too.
The Encore GX is an overall versatile, competent SUV, probably a little too small for true family duties - don’t think of putting 5 people in here unless it is just around town - but for a young couple or retirees, or those with one small child, it might work out quite well.
It exceeded my expectations.
I would suggest test driving the the “Select” trim level with the 1.3 engine. Yes, the one I test drove few days ago was a front wheel drive with CVT. Let’s just say it had plenty of get up and go and merged on the hwy very well without all the drone noise. Also it does have a fold down rear armrest for the passengers in the backseat.
Love mine but got the 1.3. I’m getting about 36mpg and it is quiet and smooth unlike Ford’s 3cyl. And it had way more giddy up than other SUVs in the size class that I drove...and I drove a lot of them.
Thanks for sharing that John! I really appreciate that!
36 MPG sucks, the Toyota Prius has a bigger engine and makes over 50 mpg. Who are you kidding? This reviewer is a joke.
@@billbeck47 36 combined in an SUV rated lower than 33 HWY is pretty good. A 3 cyclinder turbo makes more power than the Prius. And engine size doesn’t mean anything when you’re comparing an SUV with a Prius. I bet you tell everyone the Prius gets better MPG than a Tesla, and that the Prius has a bigger engine. Both are true but mean absolutely nothing.
13:29 seatback folds flat so back plastic is to put stuff on when seat is folded.. kayaks, 2x4's, etc.. won't damage seat that way
couchp0tatoe Buick be smart tho
I was thinking if you put a car seat back there the kid couldn't kick the crap out of the front seatback.
Heather Myers why not just train your kids not to kick the dang seat? Lol if I did that I got a whoopin so... I didn’t do it
@Biden sucks Trump won catch a nail on leather or cloth seat and damage will be far worse. I'd take a plastic cover any day.
Just picked mine up. I love it. ❤️
I test drove one, I was really impressed. I loved the heads up display, and the top camera used for parking.
The plastic on the back of the front passenger seat is for protection if you decide to fold the front seat flat for even more cargo room.
Thank you for that! I appreciate the assist!
@@RaitisRides good video too
@@RaitisRides Good video. I had hope you would discuss the size difference between the Encore & the Encore GX the GX looks like a slightly larger vehicle than the regular Encore. I want smaller so I will go with the Encore & not the GX
Enjoyed the review! Thanks! As a current 2018 Encore owner and previously a 2015, I'm a bit partial to Buick. The things that are important to me as a driver are maneuverability, ride quality, "quiet" and 87 octane gas! Buick nailed it! The quiet and ride are amazing in a vehicle this size! It's actually quite a luxurious little crossover! Performance is plenty! The head room is cavernous! I'm 6'2"! And reliability is amazing! My next Buick will be 2021. And the Encore GX will be the car! Can't wait for your review w/the 1.3 engine!
Thanks for sharing that great ownership input David!
+David East Hope you enjoy. I still think your current Encore (2018) is the best looking design Buick has manufactured for the Encore.
Is this as reliable as a Toyota or hunda ?
@@mrcassonova1 Yes!
Update! I said in my response that my next Buick was going to be a '21 Encore GX! Well, as George Jefferson would say, I moved up to a '21 Cadillac XT4 Sport! And the only thing it has in common with my 2018 Encore is the color. Black! I'll let you know in a few months what I think! So far, lovin' it!
My Encore Gx is going to be two weeks old tomorrow and I Love it.I had two Encores before the GX . The GX is the best
Do you suggest it for a family of four?
You sound like me! I had 2 Encores prior, and my new GX is a week old!
@@LibLadyB Any problem with your Buick Encore GX?
@@michaelscofield2444 It rides nice, very comfortable. Gas mileage is OK. My biggest issue is connectivity. I paid for the wireless charging pad. But since Buick (GM) took away the feature that lets my phone connect via Bluetooth to the car for texts and such, I have to plug in my phone. And then it can't lie flat on the charging pad. (It's getting charged because of the cord, but I could have saved some $.) After I bought it (I was the owner of 2 Encores prior, so I was accustomed to 98% of the car) I thought I just had to sync my phone for texts to be read aloud and such. Then I find out GM did away with that feature. I don't like Android Auto, but in the 2020 at least. it ALSO isn't a Bluetooth option. I won't buy GM again.
It somehow feels smaller than the traditional Encore, even though the wheelbase is longer. I'd give it a B or B- as a car. It's now just a bit over a year old, and I've had to take it in twice for service on mechanical things.
I've had mine a month and love it. It drives like a sports car, gets good gas mileage and has room for a large man. Made a great choice.
We had a 1980s Buick Century.Bought it new a dealer.Some some fast talking sales with a line of B._. sold it to us.Stalling issues,took it back to service 1st week. Tech laughed at us,said they all do that. Sales person said,I'm sales take it to service.Nice customer service.Long story,we sold it after 6mos.Bought offshore product.All our vehicles, 6 in total since then are made by foreign country. GOOD job UAW.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this one.
My grandparents had a nice Buick back in the mid 90's. That's the last time I have known someone to own one..... just saying 😂
The only Buick I am going with is a Grand National or GNX.
This car looks amazing and could have pulled it off as a sporty suv. The engine options made me walk away but car looks gorgeous.
My understanding is the CVT is with the FWD drivetrain. The 1.3 AWD receives a 9 speed automatic. If you buy the package that includes a hands-free rear lift gate, as you approach the vehicle with the key fob, the vehicle projects the Buick logo on the ground. Break that beam with your foot and the lift gate opens. The ST designation on the lift gate indicates the vehicle has the Sport Touring package which gives the red trim on the grille/fascia and wheel inserts. St is available with the bottom Essence, mid level Select, and top of the line Essence trim. The Essence trim level adds leather seating with memory, power seats left and right, Panoramic sunroof and some other extras. The only no charge color is white. All the other colors run $495, the White Frost Tri-Coat adds $1095. With all the options a loaded GX Essence runs $37K+.
Correction, the bottom package is called Preferred
More comprehensive videos in the sub-compact SUV segment please, comparisons too. So popular with the city dwellers. Thanks so much!!!
Despite the zonks I really like this one for a work car. Looking forward to the break down of the 1.3! And broski... don’t mix M&M’s and Skittles. Shame.
Yes sir! Now that is an interesting mix!
Diecast Racing Club people like em both. 🤔 in the same pack I'd buy.
Its probably plastic on back passenger cause thats the seat that will fold down for extended cargo. Offers protection. Also thank you for this review! None of the major media outlets have reviewed this vehicle yet as of 3/16/2020.
FIRE breathing 130 hp for 28k. This car will sell like hotcakes. Great job Buick 👍🏽
It will, in china
The top trim is 155 hp and I drove it and it had more power than I thought it would with the turbo. And yes it IS selling like hotcakes in the US already and they aren't even discounting at all like they do the other Buicks. It's a nice vehicle.
137 hp
I currently have one as a loaner. The 1.2 CVT is actually very peppy. I was surprised that it’s gonna be underpowered but no not at all.
Thanks for sharing your input and perspective!
Thank you, Mr. Raiti, for coming to Chicago and checking out the Auto Show and what Chicago had to offer. I had the chance to meet you and your beautiful wife, at the show, along with my family. You were very gracious and respectful. You took pictures with me and gave us some of your “swag” items. It was a great moment for myself and family. I really enjoy your videos and your channel. Keep up the great work!👍🏾 Mike
So for 28k it's about the same as upper trims of Cx30. With 50+ more horses, real automatic and better MPG. Which one would you take Joe, for your money?
@Raschaud Farmer he can't call the hard shots until he reaches 500k subscribers, otherwise car makers might turn against him, in this case Buick
Saw the paint finish on the CX30, right then and there I walked away. If you want a car that scratches from day one buy a CX30. Fragile paint. We've own a Buick made in Korea and the paint job is impeccable. The GX has an automatic, He's showing a base CVT one. The essence GX AWD has 155 hp. The turbo actually has great take off, I test drove it. I've driven turbos before.
The passenger seat has plastic on for when you fold all seats down and have a flat supportive surface for your 2x4's or whatever you are hauling.
Thanks for that awesome info.
We loved the review, we were waiting for you to mention the ride because we had a Buick years ago and loved the smooth ride but if you commented on it I missed it except for the body leaning around the corners
The wife is looking for a small awd vehicle to use as her daily car. This car failed big time. It resides in Zonkville permanently. 😩 Thanks for the info. You are the coolest cat on RUclips.
I was getting all hyped but as soon as you said CVT at around 6:00, I cried.
Joe never showed or mentioned that the front passenger seat can be fold flat for a ladder or surfboard. That is why the back of the passage seat has the plastic on the back top...
Solid review. This guy has me cracking up, with all his snack references 🤣
Me too
Me too I keep laughing LOL
In his secret life he’s a Hostess representative disguised as an auto reviewer
I would like to see how this or any similar vehicle handles passing or merging with the A/C on.
Making a mess in the new car lolol
Thanks brother Joe i asked you in my comment to review Buick and Volvo cars and suvs and you deliver some of that great job still the best of the best and the master of cars reviewers always keep Buick and Volvo on your list
Halogen headlamps and incandescent turn signals in an "upscale" brand in 2020? A prop rod for the hood? I never even made it to the interior review. Buick should have stuck with making Park Avenues or been laid to rest. Still, an enjoyable (partial) review due to Raiti!!!
I totally feel your pain man!
It's GM doing what GM does best. Nothing is standard - you'll have to buy 3-4 "packages" for that.
rm brooklyn add no turn signals on the mirrors typical gm cost cutting still going strong in 2020 I am done with gm
The plastic piece is there because I think it folds down flat for longer cargo, to help not ruin the seats
I've folded down the front seat and used it as a foot/leg rest when sitting in the back, lol.
Any idea when you might review the other Encore GX trims? I just found you a few weeks ago and love watching the videos. They are very helpful for someone like me looking for a new ride. At 296,000 miles it's getting close to retirement time for the 2005 Grand Prix.
I actually will be doing another one in the next week, You got some awesome mileage out of your Pontiac!
Lmaoooo how does he not laugh at his snack jokes,,, this man is a cornball I love it 😂
It really does look good I think but for that kind of money I think it should have more power. I think Buick will be going under if they dont do something to bring in younger buyers.
I totally agree with you!
Buick is one of the best selling brands in china, almost their entire lineup is china centric. The only Buick designed with America first is the Enclave. They aren't going anywhere. If any GM brand was to go, it would be GMC.
@@james2042 I could see them continuing to sell Buick in China, but in the U.S., not so much. I think the GMC brand survives because it's their "Jeep" brand.
@@rmknicks every vehicle in GMC's lineup is offered in Chevys with roughly the same quality. GMC is just a big appearance package for chevy. At least Buick offers something different. (except for the now 2 compact crossovers). Also Jeep is FCA's main non truck brand, GMC is a side brand.
Buick has never brought in younger drivers and they've been just fine. Regular Encore has sold extremely well.
I believe the reason for the passenger front seat plastic behind the seat , is for when you have longer items like a ladder or such to protect the back of the leatherette seat.
Great video! I test drove it. We have a 4 cyl Encore and the 3 cyl turbo GX actually has more power than the 4 cyl Encore. Center console needs more padding I agree. There's 3 trims and a sport trim, so I hope you show us the highest trim (Essence). I'm leaning toward buying it, only thing that I didn't like was the turbo groan. I came from a turbo and love a turbo for added power but the GX is louder on acceleration than even I'm used to. Considering Buick's known for 'quiet' rides, I wonder how Buick owners will embrace it.
Emergency twinkies? I'm sold! I do like the styling, way more than the Ford Echosport, which proportions look like a clown car to me. Excellent review and looking forward to you reviewing the more powerful trim levels.
Love the reviews! Ejector seats😂 and everytime you mention twinkies 🤣
I bought one, that I love, in 2017. Average 31.9 mpg with a mix of mostly suburban driving. No problems at all yet. Tows a small trailer ok. I wish it had a little tailgate instead of the big hatch.
I think the new styling is ok but a little too busy and flashy, geared more towards kids.
I wonder how it would have looked if GM would have kept Opal?
How many miles does it have? I bought a 2017 a week ago with 28k miles on it
Great detail review, thank you, it will be perfect if you also test the rear view camera to see if it is clear enough. And yes to the more small SUV review.
Thanks for the compliment, Funny that you bring that up because I have started to do that in newer reviews.
Rear camera--AMAZING clarity.
The passenger front seat has plastic on the back because the seat folds flat which is also why Buick switched the 60/40 rear seats to 40/60. This is also why the passenger front seat has manual recline. Also the upgraded engine comes with a nine speed instead of the cvt
I used to drive a 2013 Hyundai Tucson, but gave this car to a relative and bought me a 2021 Buick Encore. I miss the spaciousness of my old car - especailly the center counsole. The Encore has but a small cubby hole instead. Nevertheless, I got a good deal on the Encore, and it drives really smooth for a small car! Aside from missing my center console, I do like the Encore. Hope it lasts 14-15 years like my very first Tucson.
Great video. I blame you for my appetite after watching your videos, ha! Relative has an Encore cream color leather. Stains horribly from blue jean dye since first week. Dealer can't get it out. Buy black or brown leather. Back seat arm rest comes in higher trim. I like a black surround around wheels to protect from nicks, even Lexus adds a thin strip to all their SUVs. To me, it looks odd without it now.
Thanks Joe for showing the spare tire. If you ask 50 people if would like to have a spare tire in they car show when they a flat tire on there, What would there answer be?
It's a beautiful SUV, however the 1.2 liter turbo engine and $30,000 to $35,000+ price? A 1.2 liter turbo engine is a serious problem for me. Lots of thrown off heat, high horsepower for 1.2 liters and only 240cc's per person with 5 passengers PLUS a 3800 pound car to move around? That's 4650 pounds driven by a 1.2 liter engine? No way...
My turbo just went on my brand new car only 20k miles lol
My dad got a Buick Encore for my mom, but After 6 months she traded it in because its way to small..
I convinced her to get something a little bigger. A GMC Terrain..
I think Buick is way better than regular GMC. For GMC it’s Cadillac, Buick then GMC/Chevy for luxury. Now if you talking trucks then flip it around lol.
Buying one of these for my kids this week. On sale for under $19k. It’s a preferred, but doesn’t have the red sports accents.
this started off as such a normal review until we got to the interior and suddenly SNACK CITY...I love it
Thanks for letting me share some laughs with you!
Just what we need, another SUV. Is there a contest going on to see who can produce the most SUV’s? Should do well in Munchkinville. Nice job Joe! Congrats in advance on reaching 200K. 👍🏻👍🏻🥳🇺🇸
I think Chevy wins that contest! Thanks Larry for sharing the excitement with me!
I think this is adorable for my mama on mamas day, she is a tiny senior 4/8 tiny little hands and feet , its just for her nobody else, poifect🥰😍
Thanks for letting me share it with you!
I'm a car guy but I get why a lot of people want these. My issue is with the engines, way too small for the weight in my opinion. I want to see minimum 2.0 litre turbo + in these things. Keep up the good work.
Because there's a cubby for the rear passengers, you can put a portable AC vent in there.
almost 200k my brother. I’m ready for the party
Thanks Matt! We are putting together all of the details.
@@RaitisRides almost 400k 🤩
Everything looks great until you get to the 3 cylinders for $35k fully loaded. We went to see one last night and it was very sporty looking, glad you reviewed this so we are more informed.
I could not agree with you more!
@@RaitisRides look really sharp in Chilli Red with rear diffuser, pin stripe, and color coded body molding. BUT 3 cylinders...why!! Such a nice buy with 4 cylinders, cutting costs doesn't mean you make money.
Jump up to the Essence level! My turbo has got zip!
I think for 2 ppl perfect daily suv, looks good but I would choose Honda CRV Vs 1.5 turbo. Bigger, stronger, has air vents between front seats, more interior room, resales value.
Hey Joe......glad you zonked that antenna, it's hideous!!
Thanks for bringing this to us........almost at 200k subs buddy!!
Must be for better in-car wifi for all passengers.
Great minds zonk a like! I appreciate you sharing the excitement with me!
@@normt5463 Not at all.
The plastic on the rear passenger seat is for toddlers in car seats or just kids kicking the seat and not damaging the leather.
Nice Ride I really like crossovers but I really wish that they would bring back the Grand National with 650hp that right there was my favorite V6 old school car of all time .
And make sure you like And subscribe and don't skip those ads 👍
My uncle has one love that car hat when ppl call it a monte shit asses
I like the encore but really like the larger size of this
I went to the car show here in Atlanta to see both vehicles in even up close I was not feeling that Buick Encore GX up close and saw the Chevy Trailblazer too, this made Kia Seltos in which I also up closed looks way good
I like this Encore GX. Love the look i side and out and like the 3 cylinder engine choices. Can get quite expensive when going with top trim optioned out on the Buick Website as I had it up to like $36,000.00 and I noticed on top trim there are still like 3 expensive option packages you have to add to get everything. Other than that I really like it and would take 1 of these.
I am so glad that you like this one!
Yea 36k is alot for this small suv, but I've found this is the cheapest car you can get lumbar support for the passenger which my wife really wants on our next car
@@joshaugustine8808 Hey I like small cars and 3 cylinders and love the look of this. Plus GMs 3 cylinder seems to be really really good after reading extensively on it. I say everyone likes different things and thats why there are so many makes and models and all sizes.
My Gramps had a Buick Park Avenue Ultra with a supercharger. Seems like I don't see too many on the road but cute ute's are in.
amill1563 loved those old PA’s with the super charger. Awesome cars back then!
I want a GNX!
@@barrysoetoro3488 This is true!
I think GM should have killed the Buick division several years ago when they killed off some of their other divisions. They don’t make cars anymore and just sell fancier crossovers than Chevrolet. Keep Chevrolet for the masses, and Cadillac for premium buyers. It’s redundant to have Buick in the middle. I have to zonk the whole Buick division! 🤪
Agreed. I know zero young people who own Buicks. It's all old folks. Whenever I see a Buick ahead of me, I ALWAYS zoom around them. Because I know they're going to be a slow, bad driver. I'd rather be around a Mercedez driver, than a Buick one lol.
Cant you get a fully loaded CX-30 for around that price?
I was kind of shocked at the price of this Buick
Pico Especially when made over seas.
We own a Buick, was made in Korea yes. I personally have seen a lot of GMs made in Canada and Mexico with horrible quality issues. Buick quality is amazing. CX-30 didn't like as much. I test drove it. I sat lower in it and the display isn't touch screen, it's all controlled with a knob. Mazda paint has issues. Personal preference I'm sure.
Lee G Yeah, I like the exterior design and interior layout of the GX, but I’m not sure about the 3cyl engine or transmission long term.
I drive a 2015 Camry and looking at smaller CUV. I think the CX-30 is twice the car and starts at $21,900 for base up to $28,200 for Premium. No comparison to this w/ a motorcycle size engine. At $28k its an expensive under-powered car (in my opinion) made in China and S. Korea. I'd choose a Hyundai Kona or Kia Seltos over this any day.
Is bigger, but pretty sure the cx-3 is also pretty cheap
Dude, I'm assuming you jog . . . the snack talk makes me wonder?!
Love the Compact/Sub-Compact videos . . . keep it up.
Looking to eventually upgrade to a newer, smaller CUV . . . have a Venza, not sure the newer Venza is in my future. The Encore GX, the Seltos and the Kona are high on my list at this point, although the Kona is a little short in the entry for me with my bad back.
Thanks for the info!
Thanks for letting me share some snack fun and this Buick with you!
I’m hate when cars do not have air vents between front seats, beck seats area never have enough air flow. My kids was always complaining about how 🥵 is on rear area in summer and cold 🥶 in winter. They receive air flow only from under front seats.
Looks like a lot of cut corners. I cannot see this car selling very well in such a tough and competitive market
It will be interesting to see what happens!
@@RaitisRides It will sell well. Better than the Encore which sold well even if that mystified many. 40 yrs ago people bought Buck vs Chevy. Today the GX over the very, very similar T-Blazer.
This vehicle is marketed for me. I have a Chev Trax, which I love, but I wish it had just a tad more cargo space which is what this car has. I need good gas mileage as I drive 600 miles round trip to work (only 2-3 times per month), and I must have a 120 outlet to power my stuff. I would get the “bigger” engine though.
The front passenger seat folds flat for you to put stuff all the way through to the front the hard plastic is to protect the back of the seat
Thanks for that info.
I drove a 2012 Buick Lucerne. There is a reason they only made this car for 3-4 years. Complete garbage and I would never consider another Buick. Fuel pump went at 62k miles and should have been a recall (common problem that Buick eventually changed). Engine mounts all broken in 3 years and replaced and broke again in 2 more years. It just makes me never consider a GM car ever. Always a fantastic review BTW!!!!!
☀Does the all-wheel drive work all the time, or does it turn off at a certain speed? On some subcompact suvs, all-wheel drive shuts off at 20 miles\h. As far as I remember Hyundai and Kia have such a limitations☀
No it turns off at certain speed.The new Kia Seltos stays on all of the time.
I test drove it and there's a shut off button for AWD so you only have to use it in winter. Sales guy pointed it out. There's a button for it on the center console area. This will get you better MPG most times then.
@@LGMinnesota
thanks for the answer😀👍
Give it a test drive it's got a lot for the price range. Turbo engine gives it more power than many think it will too. AWD doesn't use the CVT which is a benefit too. ;)
I guess next year they will offer an optional Kohler lawn mower engine with pull start? I think I'll pass on this one,
How are you today Joe? Also congrats on reaching to 200K. 🎉🎉🎉. Not a fan of the Buick Encore. The Buick Enclave is my taste.
The 2021 Envision should be very competitive. I hope, the styling is on point.
My first Buick SUV!! Awesome video Joe.
A 1.2 liter. I'll zonk that before the CVT.
This is nice for GMC...but this is dead in the water as soon as the Kia Seltos come out in March. They have a month or so to sell as many as they can....then close shop n go home.
Nope
Anthony, yep. 3 cylinder engine and cvt? Come on, junk. Kia has a turbo 4 cylinder and 9 speed dual clutch. Way better, and better quality bro.
The Seltos is already out. Saw one at the dealer last week. It looks fantastic.
@@treads2595 agree. Leaps and bounds ahead of GM! In price, reliability, design, fit and finish AND performence!
Have you sat in a Seltos? Super stiff.
As always, great review! Kinda wish you’d test the sound systems, Joe. Does it rock? I know you’re a rocker, you gotta be checking it out! Can ya work it in? Thanks brother 👍🏻👍🏻
Automatically a Zonk for me is the CVT my dude
I feel your transmission pains!
My wife has a CVT in her patriot and one thing is, it doesnt really kill the performance, just feels weird and it really helps with fuel mileage.
Matt Agui most vehicles have CVTs these days
@@matthewlocke9225 thats false
Charless Holsinger umm... all the Nissans, Subaru’s, most Honda’s, Toyota’s, Hyundai’s & Kias do. Basically most all foreign cars I guess.
the plasic seat back is on the passenger side which tells me they did this so you can put your kids front facing carseat on the passenger side so as the diver you have a ciew of your kid, and the plastic will save your seat when the kids kick it constantly.
Good call!
The passenger side front seat folds down flat so you can get longer items in the car.
Its plastic becuase that seat folds forward flat. So you can fit an 8ft long item inside the Encore Gx on the diagonal .
Bring back Pontiac! You can't put excitement, in a Buick, and try to sell it to younger generations... Sorry. 🙄
I do like the passenger side located emergency flasher button! ≥≥≥≥≥≥... 😱
I totally agree with you! That is the passenger eject button!
I'm hanging on to my 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix Gt....3.8 L with true auto tranny !!
Jeff Miller I miss Pontiac!
Buick is the brand to have in china. It is all young chinese people want.
Yes!
I’m one for lighter color interiors, so I love it!
Beware with the buick. We bought the cream color interior (leather seats) with regular Encore and they stain like crazy!!!! Would never recommend. We took to the dealership and they couldn't get the blue jean dye out of it and it was only 1 month old. I had a faux leather in a Chevy and it did stain but came out easily with cleaner. Not sure what Buick was thinking. They owe us new seat covers but it'll just happen again.
WE had to search out of state to get my burnished bronze with black interior. NO WAY was I doing that super light!
if the powertrain and tech are solid, then this will be a hit. looks like the Cadillac division guys had input on the styling queues.
Great video Joe but what is Buick thinking with a 3 cylinder engine. They won't be able to give them away here in the U.S.
This isn't a bad vehicle really. It just seems a bit unrefined; ie no back seat armrest, outdated antenna, no rear hvac etc... I do have to disagree on the rear vents though. I kind of like those.
Which would you prefer chevy trax 1.2 turbo or buick encore gx 1.3 turbo
I am going new Trax
I think Buick has something good here. A good competitor for the new Kia Seltos. I prefer the Kia but a lot of people will be attracted by the Buick name, and 28k for this configuration looks kind of reasonable and the car has kind of a more mature look. I think there's a big audience here... Another awesome review.
Good video review. Why do car manufacturers put out a nice vehicle with decent mpg and then the following "upgrades" have lower mpg. My 2017 Encore Essence gets better mpg than this with a little bigger engine. Are the extra digital features that much heavier? Also, I'd never opt for a CVT. I turned down a ton of nice deals because of they had a CVT. I'll watch for the review of the 9-speed.
I lost it at the slim jim holder!
I'm zonking 3 cylinders. Way too much strain on that little of an engine. No replacement for displacement. And I need a cubby for my root beer barrels and my chocolate covered espresso beans.
I totally agree with you!
@Franklin Sharp Yes sir!
Cylinders are irrelevant nowadays except for sports cars and even then mostly for noise and bragging. Blowers, superchargers and electric motors are doing their jobs better and better.
Lolol his comments are so funny " could just give it to your guests as a going away gift" 😂😂. Awesome videos and hopefully designers check your points because you accurately reflect public opinions ✅
Thanks for the review. My in-laws are considering buying one, so this has been very helpful.
LOVE it! Could you please put it into a box and send it over to Gold Coast Australia please! As you know, GM have withdrawn their Holdens from Australia and I think this would have been the next Holden Trax. VERY disappointed.
I love the look and interior. But the MPGs are terrible for it's size and a 1.2L turbo engine? I'm good.
I totally feel your pain!
Looks great but won't buy a 3 cylinder engine for that sized vehicle. Yes love to see more small SUV videos.
I only like the grill. I think the Toyota CH-R is way better overall in the looks department. On another note I wish everybody on the truck side would make the tail part of the trucks wider. That slim look just seem a bit out of place to me. I would like to see a slightly wider tail on the trucks. Just my personal input on it.
Great video. The funnier the better. And you know that compartment I the center console, you put your weed in there. 🤣😉👀😱
I would buy a Ford Escape before I bought this Buick, could get a high trim level model for less money! Better transmission
Beware of the 2020 Escape, there's a lot of people complaining about the alignments on various areas of it. Many on a page I follow have had to take it back for the auto body shop to adjust. Not sure why quality control has issues missing these things when it should come out looking better than so-so.
Always get a kick out of your snacks reference!