Interested in one of the popular subcompact SUVs? We don’t blame you! The popularity of subcompact SUVs is continuing to rise given their small size, maneuverability, affordability, and efficiency. Two vehicles that are commonly compared in this growing class are the 2019 Buick Encore vs 2019 Chevy Trax. Both vehicles offer everything a driver is looking for in a subcompact SUV, however the Encore is much more luxurious than the Trax. If you’re looking for a vehicle with advanced standard features and lux touches, you’ll want to check out the 2019 Buick Encore.
#1. A More Luxurious Interior
The 2019 Buick Encore is the more expensive vehicle, however it offers an exceptionally more high-quality and luxurious interior than the 2019 Chevy Trax. The Trax features hard plastics that seem instantly cheap upon entering the cabin, as well as lower quality cloth upholstery and poorly cushioned seating. The design of the Trax is simplistic and modern, but not necessarily sleek and luxurious. Meanwhile, the Encore prides itself on utilizing only the most premium materials throughout its cabin, including soft-to-the-touch surfaces, high-quality upholstery, and an incredibly sleek interior design. The moment you step into the cabin of the Encore, you’re surrounded by subtle, lux touches, and these only increase with each trim level. If you’re looking for a vehicle that makes every ride enjoyable, you’ll appreciate what the 2019 Buick Encore has to offer.
#2. Class-Leading Infotainment Suite
Both the 2019 Buick Encore and 2019 Chevy Trax offer an excellent standard entertainment suite, especially compared to many of their competitors in the subcompact SUV class. However, the 2019 Buick Encore has the edge in this category. On the base model of the Encore, you’ll find nearly every entertainment feature you can think of for no additional cost. These standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, a WiFi hotspot, dual USB ports, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and even satellite radio. If that’s not enough, the Encore also offers a long list of available entertainment features including navigation and an enhanced sound system.
On the 2019 Chevy Trax, you’ll find a smaller, 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, two USB ports, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. While this is an above average entertainment suite for the subcompact class, it simply doesn’t rival what is offered on the new Encore.
#3. Handling & Performance
The 2019 Buick Encore and 2019 Chevy Trax have matching 1.4L 4-cylinder engines on their base model, however the Encore offers a more powerful version of this engine onboard its higher trim levels. Since its release, the 2019 Chevy Trax has been criticized for its slow acceleration and poor handling. Critics note that several other competitors in the subcompact SUV class offer superior power and handling, including the 2019 Buick Encore. The Encore has been praised for its incredibly smooth and responsive handling, as well as its quick acceleration when equipped with its more powerful 1.4L SIDI 4-cylinder engine which produces up to 153 hp. For both the Encore and Trax, front-wheel drive is the standard configuration, however all-wheel drive is available. Fuel efficiency on both the Encore and Trax are nearly identical, so comparing their performance really comes down to handling and power, where the Encore excels.
#4. Top Trim Level Comparison
For drivers looking to experience the ultimate in luxury, both the 2019 Buick Encore and 2019 Chevy Trax offer higher trim levels packed with premium features. However, as a luxury subcompact SUV, the Encore simply offers more, even when compared with the top trim level o the Trax. The most luxurious model offered on the 2019 Buick Encore is the Essence trim which features heated front seating, a heated steering wheel, and genuine leather upholstery. The Essence model is also home to rain-sensing wipers and a wide variety of driver assist technology.
Meanwhile, the highest trim level on the 2019 Chevy Trax is the Premier. This model features heated front seats and a leather wrapped, but not heated, steering wheel. The Premier also offers only leatherette upholstery, which feels more luxurious than the lower trim level cloth upholstery but is not genuine leather seating like that of the Encore. Consequently, the upholstery of the 2019 Buick Encore is softer and more high-quality, while the Trax lets off a synthetic scent from its less expensive materials.
#5. Top of The Line Warranty
The 2019 Buick Encore has one of the best warranties available in the subcompact SUV class, and when you’re planning on purchasing a brand new vehicle, this is incredibly valuable. Drivers investing in the new Encore can enjoy a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty, as well as a 6-year/70,000-mile warranty. Meanwhile, those investing in the 2019 Chevy Trax are offered the basic 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile warranty. If you’re looking to protect your investment with the best possible warranty, you’ll want to opt for the 2019 Buick Encore over the 2019 Chevy Trax.
The Ideal Audience for Each Vehicle
When it comes to the 2019 Buick Encore vs 2019 Chevy Trax, it is important to note that both vehicles are excellent options in the subcompact SUV class. However, each of these vehicles has their own unique set of specialties and is designed for a slightly different audience.
2019 Buick Encore
The 2019 Buick Encore is one of the more expensive vehicles in its class, however it is also one of the most luxurious in its class. The Encore offers one of the nicest interiors and one of the most advanced standard entertainment suites. This subcompact SUV also provides drivers with more luxury options than its competitors, and is design for drivers looking for exactly that. Like other small SUVs, the Encore is fuel-efficient and maneuverable, however it simply offers a higher level of luxury. If you’re looking for an advanced, modern, and premium interior, while still enjoying all of the features of a subcompact SUV, you’ll love the 2019 Buick Encore.
2019 Chevy Trax
The 2019 Chevy Trax focuses more on putting out an inexpensive product through the use of cheaper materials and less luxurious and advanced features. However, this is true on even its higher trim levels, making it a difficult fit for drivers interested in upgrading to exceptionally luxurious options. The Trax is a suitable option for drivers prioritizing affordability above all other factors, as it is one of the most affordable SUVs in its class and is a fuel-efficient vehicle. If you’re not interested in luxury features and simply want to spend less on your new vehicle, the 2019 Chevy Trax is a good option.
Visit Your Local Buick Dealership to See The 2019 Buick Encore, Today!
If you’re interested in purchasing the 2019 Buick Encore, it’s important to visit your local Buick dealership and see it in person. Be sure to inquire about any applicable specials and incentives, and check out as many trim levels and any packages and accessories that you can. Ask your local Buick dealership any questions that you may have, and don’t forget to take this luxurious vehicle for a test drive! If you’re looking for a high-quality, premium subcompact SUV, you’ll appreciate all that the 2019 Buick Encore has to offer.
