
The 2025 Buick Encore GX is proof that luxury doesn’t always have to come with a sky-high price tag. This small premium SUV blends style, technology, and practicality into a well-rounded package, making it a strong choice for those seeking an elevated driving experience without breaking the bank.
Buick has carefully crafted the Encore GX to deliver a quiet, refined cabin, impressive cargo space, and modern tech features that feel right at home in today’s competitive market. With its upgraded infotainment system, smart safety features, and a smooth ride, the Encore GX offers a level of sophistication often reserved for pricier alternatives.
But while it excels in comfort and utility, its modest engine lineup and less-than-stellar fuel economy leave room for improvement, especially when compared to sharper-handling rivals like the Mazda CX-30 or the roomier Volkswagen Taos.
Still, if your priorities lean toward a serene ride, upscale cabin, and modern tech, the Encore GX has plenty to offer.
Why the Buick Encore GX Stands Out
Quiet, Comfortable Cabin: Active noise cancellation and premium materials elevate the driving experience.
Modern Tech Features: 11-inch infotainment touchscreen and digital gauge cluster steal the show.
Impressive Cargo Space: Class-leading practicality with smart storage solutions.
Refined Ride Quality: Smooth and composed on long highway stretches.
A Few Shortcomings:
- Underwhelming Powertrains: Even the larger engine lacks punch.
- Average Fuel Economy: Rivals offer better efficiency.
- Premium Price Tag: Slightly pricier than mainstream alternatives.
Verdict: The 2025 Buick Encore GX impresses with luxury-inspired design, spacious utility, and modern tech, though its performance and fuel economy lag behind more dynamic competitors.
What’s New for 2025?
- The base 1.2-liter engine can now run on E85 ethanol biofuel.
- A fresh Marina Metallic blue paint option joins the color lineup.
- Carryover updates from last year include an upgraded interior and infotainment system.
Trims and Pricing
The 2025 Buick Encore GX is available in three trims: Preferred, Sport Touring, and Avenir.
Preferred – Starting at $27,295
- 18-inch Alloy Wheels
- LED Headlights
- 11-inch Infotainment Touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Six-Speaker Audio System
- Safety Suite: Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane-Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Monitoring
Recommended Upgrades: Heated front seats, power driver’s seat, wireless charging pad, and adaptive cruise control.
Sport Touring – Starting at $28,495
- Gloss-Black Exterior Trim and Grille
- Roof Rails
- Sport-Style Synthetic Leather Upholstery
- LED Taillights
Why It’s the Sweet Spot: The Sport Touring trim adds sporty styling touches and extra features, making it our recommended pick for most buyers.
Avenir – Starting at $32,795
- 19-inch Pearl Nickel Wheels
- Leather Upholstery
- Heated, Power-Adjustable Front Seats
- Dual-Zone Climate Control
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Power-Folding Rear Seats
Top Choice for Luxury: The Avenir trim delivers a near-luxury experience with its upscale features and premium cabin materials.
Engine and Performance: Smooth, But Not Thrilling
The 2025 Buick Encore GX offers two turbocharged three-cylinder engines:
- 1.2-Liter Turbo (137 hp, 162 lb-ft) – Paired with a CVT (front-wheel drive).
- 1.3-Liter Turbo (155 hp, 174 lb-ft) – Paired with a CVT (FWD) or nine-speed automatic (AWD).
Neither engine is particularly sporty, but the 1.3-liter option is noticeably better for highway cruising and daily driving.
Performance Highlights:
- 0-60 mph: Around 8.5 seconds (1.3L engine).
- Towing Capacity: Up to 1,000 pounds (with trailering package).
- Handling: Stable and predictable, with light, relaxed steering.
For buyers who crave more power and sharper dynamics, rivals like the Mazda CX-30 or Volkswagen Taos are more engaging behind the wheel.
Fuel Economy: Falls Behind Some Competitors
- 1.2-Liter (FWD): 30/31 mpg (City/Highway)
- 1.3-Liter (FWD): 29/31 mpg (City/Highway)
- 1.3-Liter (AWD): 26/28 mpg (City/Highway)
Compared to rivals, the Encore GX lags behind. The Mazda CX-30 (33 mpg highway) and Volkswagen Taos (36 mpg highway) offer better efficiency.
Interior: Premium Design, Practical Space
The 2025 Encore GX shines inside with a clean, modern layout, high-quality materials, and ample cargo space.
Interior Highlights:
- Seating for Five: Supportive front seats and decent rear legroom.
- Cargo Space: 23.5 cubic feet behind rear seats, 50.2 cubic feet with seats folded.
- Flat-Folding Front Passenger Seat: Allows storage of items up to 8 feet long.
- Noise Reduction: Treated glass and active noise cancellation ensure a peaceful ride.
While power-adjustable seats should be standard at this price, the cabin overall delivers a premium experience that punches above its weight class.
Infotainment and Connectivity: Big Screen, Big Impact
The 11-inch touchscreen paired with an 8-inch digital gauge cluster creates a sleek, futuristic look on the dash.
Tech Highlights:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (standard)
- Wi-Fi Hotspot (standard)
- Wireless Charging Pad (optional)
- Optional Bose 7-Speaker Premium Audio
Compared to the 8.8-inch display in the Mazda CX-30 and the 8-inch screen in the Hyundai Venue, the Encore GX’s 11-inch system stands out.
Safety: Loaded With Smart Tech
The 2025 Buick Encore GX includes a suite of advanced safety features:
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Forward Collision Alert
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Lane-Keeping Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Optional features include Adaptive Cruise Control and a Surround-View Camera System.
While official crash-test ratings for 2025 aren’t out yet, the nearly identical 2024 model earned five stars from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS.
Buick Encore GX vs. the Competition
- Mazda CX-30: Sportier driving dynamics and better fuel economy.
- Volkswagen Taos: More cargo space and better efficiency.
- Hyundai Venue & Nissan Kicks: More affordable but less refined.
The Encore GX excels in comfort, tech, and refinement, even if it doesn’t claim class-leading performance or fuel economy.
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