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The Encore GX slates in the middle of the Buick crossover lineup. See how the 2023 Buick Encore GX arrives as a semi-luxury SUV wrapped in compact and handsome packages below.
If you’re looking for a bigger car than the Buick Encore, then you may want to consider the Encore GX which boasts a slightly more dimension and more modern amenities. Aside, the Encore was axed out from Buick’s lineup with the last model year. The 2023 Buick Encore GX makes a nice bridgehead into the crossover SUV segment with decent refinement, so check out what it has to offer below.
An Overview of the Encore GX
The Encore GX is a B-segment crossover SUV produced by General Motors under its division, Buick, since 2019. The vehicle model was unveiled at the 2019 Shanghai Auto Show at the same time as the launch of the 2nd generation Encore. The SUV uses the same mechanical frame as the Chevy Trailblazer SUV, the VSS-F platform. Size-wise, the Encore GX is positioned beyond the Encore but under the Envision. It is produced by General Motor Korea, as the smaller sibling Encore, and the SAIC-GM automaker in China.
For the North American market, the 5-passenger SUV was displayed for the first time at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2019 and it made a debut earlier in the following year as a 2020 model year. There are three trim grades provided: the entry-level Preferred, Select, and Essence. An optional package called Sport Touring is offered exclusively for the Essence trim that adds a sportier exterior appearance and 2-tone roof.
Meanwhile in Mexico, the Encore GX is marketed as the Encore only. It started to get on sale around the same time as North America but provides three trim levels named the Convenience, Leather, and Sport Touring.
In terms of sales numbers, the Encore GX surpassed Encore quickly even though it is the younger model of the two. In other news, the Encore is already discontinued due to the current market that leans more into favoring larger SUVs.
The 2023 Buick Encore GX Interior Design and Features
The 2023 Buick Encore GX brings the same powertrain as the last model year: a 155 HP 1.3L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine that generates up to 174 pound-feet of torque. The CVT gearbox is paired for the FWD model, while the AWD variant receives a 9-speed automatic transmission.
The fuel economy of the FWD Encore GX is estimated by the EPA at 29 mpg city and 32 mpg highway ratings. These numbers are decent but come off as common in comparison with other crossovers in the same power class. The AWD version receives 26 mpg city and 29 mpg highway ratings.
Major automakers around the world are moving into electrified vehicles, including Buick which has confirmed several electric crossover SUVs to be released in the upcoming years. There’s a possibility of an EV model in the Encore or Encore GX size, but the chance for the models themselves to be turned into an electrified car is quite low, especially for the GX which has been around for only a couple of years.
The standard safety features equipped in the subcompact SUV are including automatic high-beams, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Reserved for Select and Essence trim levels only is the blind-spot monitoring system. Optional safety tech consists of a surround-view camera, a head-up display, and adaptive cruise control.
Arrival Date and Pricing Details
In terms of the interior area, the 2023 Buick Encore GX is expected to bring similar materials and features as last year. The cabin comes with more generous space compared to the Encore, heated seats, and leather upholstery. In the market, Buick as a brand itself walks on a bridge between mainstream and luxury vehicles, so it’s only natural to find that the Encore GX is better equipped compared to other subcompact SUVs such as the Subaru Crosstrek or Nissan Kicks. However, don’t expect the car to bring the fit and finish levels as big German luxury automaker names like BMW, Volvo, or Audi.
The infotainment and entertainment features offered by the Buick are quite rich. An 8” infotainment touchscreen display, smartphone integration systems (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a wireless hotspot come as standard, along with other convenient advanced technology such as active noise canceling system and push-button start. Higher trim levels receive a head-up display and navigation system. Optional features are including Bose audio system, a parking assistant, and a wireless charging pad.
2023 Buick Encore GX Release Date
There’s no word yet about when the 2023 Buick Encore GX will be dropped, but looking at the last year’s model launch, it’s probably already arrived by the spring of the 2022 calendar year.
The 2023 Buick Encore GX pricing range starts at $25,595 (incl. destination fee). The top-range AWD Essence is offered at $31,795.