If you’ve been trying to decide between a 2021 Buick Encore vs 2021 Buick Encore GX, we’re here to help. These popular crossover SUVs may share the same Encore name but vary widely in style, driver-assist technology, and overall appeal. To give its customers as much choice as possible, Buick expanded its crossover models into a smaller version that is versatile and economical. The existing entry-level Encore SUV, which was introduced in 2013, received a new sister model, the Encore GX. Both offer five-passenger seating and are nimble to drive and maneuver. The Encore has become one of Buick’s most popular vehicles, from young singles and couples with active lifestyles to retired, empty-nesters.
Classic Buick Style
So what’s the best way to decide between the two crossover SUVs? Both models deliver a quiet, smooth ride and afford the driver with a light yet accurate driving journey. When choosing between the Encore GX or Encore, your personality will certainly play a role in helping you choose which vehicle to purchase.
For those who want a more modern, sporty style, you’ll be more inclined to go with the newer Encore GX. Its design features chiseled body lines and a winged black mesh grille. If you want to add an even bolder style on the GX, take a long look at the Sport Touring Package. This feature, available on all trims, gives your GX a bit more drama on certain car parts. For instance, the grille gains a dramatic graphic style look using unique high-gloss black and red inserts. The optional Black Roof package makes the GX even bolder with a black roof, mirrors, and roof rails, not letting anyone see inside the vehicle.
For those seeking a more traditional subdued look, the classic Encore is a perfect match. This entry-level subcompact has an elegant and straightforward, simple design that appeals to those who are seeking a comfortable family vehicle. The Encore has been praised for its nimble size that provides it with quick maneuverability along city streets and reliable handling.
New Technology
If keeping up with the latest technology, whether it be for safety or driver-assist functions, is one of your prime reasons to purchase a vehicle, the 2021 Encore GX comes out ahead of the base Encore model. This newer GX model SUV finds itself equipped with a Driver Confidence Package that includes Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Front Pedestrian Braking. Adding the optional Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert will also give you peace of mind when changing lanes or backing up.
If you’ve chosen the Encore instead, with the Preferred trim, you still will be able to include two Safety Packages. The Safety Package comes with the Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert and adds on a 120-volt power outlet. Meanwhile, the Safety Package II will give you Rainsense Wipers, the Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and Front and Rear Park Assist – a well-rounded set of features to make driving in any condition easier.
Buick has not forgotten to keep you and your family totally connected while driving your Encore models. The Encore is designed with an eight-inch infotainment system connected to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you purchase the Encore GX, you’ll be thrilled to no longer be tethered with cables. Its Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offer wireless connectivity on all GX trims; plus, you also have access to an available wireless charger. Users will enjoy the sizeable eight-inch screen to see messages and show navigation. 2021 also brought SiriusXM Satellite Radio to your Encore GX trims.
A Luxurious Interior
While both the Buick Encore and Buick Encore GX have an interior designed for five passengers, the GX version has a larger 50.2 cubic feet of max cargo volume as compared to the Encore, which offers 48.4 cubic feet of cargo space. What else sets the two models apart?
The Encore GX is accented with a roomy, cleaner, and more modern interior. You and your passengers will never want to leave the comfort of the GX’s interior as you recline in leather-appointed seats, grasp a heated steering wheel, enjoy the fresh air through a panoramic moonroof, and maintain a clean scent due to your in-vehicle air ionizer. You and your front seat passenger will never complain about the inside temperature because you both can use the dual-zone climate controls. This permits you both to set personalized temperatures.
The 2021 Encore features beautiful two-tone appointed seats and is equipped with 10 standard airbags. At the touch of a button, you’ll be able to unlock your Encore’s doors and start the engine due to its keyless entry and push-button start technology.
As you travel in your subcompact SUVs with family and friends, you’ll appreciate Buick QuietTuning technology on both Encore models. The vehicles are solidly built with Active Noise Cancellation, acoustic laminated glass in the windshield and front side windows, and triple door seals. This technology helps to reduce, block out, and absorb obtrusive noise.
Stylish Exterior
Perhaps the easiest way to distinguish between the two crossover SUVs is the exterior styling. You might have grown accustomed to the Buick Encore’s exterior – a more classic, refined look. The new Encore GX extolls a more modern younger style and is larger by three inches in size than the conventional Encore. The GX is extended to 103.9-inches compared to the Encore’s 101.2-inches. But that doesn’t mean that Buick wasn’t paying attention to its original Encore model. In 2021, Buick made a few tweaks to the Encore. It added two new exterior colors, Dark Moon Blue Metallic and Cinnabar Metallic, which replaced Winterberry Red Metallic and Deep Azure Metallic.
Power and Fuel Economy
If you and your family are planning to use the Buick Encore SUV for a lot of travel around town, doing errands, and taking it on vacation, you’ll want to closely compare its power and fuel economy. As everyone watches today’s gas prices, the Encore GX scores points by attaining up to 30 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway, while the Encore gets up to 25 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. Both vehicles, however, can have an all-wheel drive system added, which lowers their fuel economies incrementally.
The standard engines on both 2021 Encore models deliver similar power levels. The GX is equipped with a 1.2-liter turbocharged engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, while the Encore is designed with a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine generating 155 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. If you’re seeking a bit more power in your Encore GX, you can purchase one with a 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder, which will give you 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque.
Buy the Best Buick
The 2021 Buick Encore and 2021 Buick Encore GX both have a lot to love about them, and the choice as to which one you should get all depends on your personal taste. Both models will give you exceptional fuel economy, exciting tech features, and that classic Buick luxury. Now, you just need to decide which details you prefer.
