The subcompact crossover is not the most popular model in its family. Well, it is a funky vehicle for an urban ride. But, buyers are looking for larger units that will provide more power and better safety. Still, size is not going to help if you are a reckless driver. The 2022 Buick Encore will be unchanged, but the company drew attention to the GX model. This is a larger crossover with more room inside.
The Encore is an upscale model with a lot of advanced features included in the base offer. However, you can also upgrade it through an existing trim level or optional packages. There is only one engine available. On the other hand, it is a proven three-cylinder unit with 140 horsepower. Handling and maneuvering is exceptional, as well as the gas mileage. The 2022 Buick Encore comes with an excellent suspension setup that will increase the overall comfort in bumpy roads. Some details are making the crossover pretty cool, like an adjustable moonroof or storage area on the floor. General Motors is not going to deliver the Super Cruise package, but driver aid options are pretty generous and helpful.
What can be changed? Buyers complained about the noise in the cabin. So, some kind of isolation would be a great addition. The visibility is not the best as well. Plus, the price of the subcompact crossover is a bit higher compared to rivals. Some fans were disappointed when engineers dropped a 1.4-liter four-pot mill. It might be back. Or some kind of a hybrid drivetrain.
2022 Buick Encore Specs, Hybrid
When the second generation of the crossover hit the market, some fans were surprised with the new lineup of engines. General Motors decided to update the powertrains, by dropping a four-pot unit and offering two inline-three mills. The base version is a 1.2-liter powerplant. Turbocharged, it can produce 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. Only front-wheel drive is available and such a configuration returns nearly 30 mpg combined. The perfect setup for an urban ride.
The alternative is a slightly larger 1.3-liter displacement. Also turbocharged, it adds 17 horsepower. The gas mileage is even better, sitting at 30/32 mpg, or 26/29 mpg if you are using an all-wheel drive. A nine-speed automatic transmission works so smoothly, so you won’t feel turbo lags during a ride.
A 1.4-liter four-pot engine is something we got used to it. It is still part of the GM lineup, but only on a few vehicles. It creates a similar output to the base turbo-3 – 138 horsepower. A larger engine consumes more fuel, dropping the gas mileage to 25/30 mpg when it was available on the Encore in the previous generation. Besides this one, we expect a kind of engine support in the future. General Motors is serious about this. Buick Enspire was one of the first EV concepts the carmaker presented. Now, there are more interesting ideas and some of them will find the way to the products already in 2022.
2022 Buick Encore Packages
Unfortunately, there are only two trim levels available for the subcompact crossover. The base one is equipped with LED lamps and an 8-inch touchscreen. Keyless start and cruise control are notable features. Also, the upscale quality of materials makes the 2022 Buick Encore nearly a luxury vehicle. Preferred package includes larger wheels, a few details, and that is all. But, for further upgrades, you will need this trim.
The 2022 Buick Encore GX is much more fun to build. The starting trim level is Preferred. Well, it comes with similar features like its younger brother. But, the situation is becoming more serious when you take the mid-range Select trim. For just $1,600 you will get a power driver’s bucket, heated front row, blind-spot alert, and dual-zone climate control. Plus, the package allows you to add navigation and HUD. The Encore GX Essence is top of a class package with leather, LED headlights, and a power outlet. If you want to make it even more exclusive, then consider adding Bose audio system or a wireless charging port.
Price Stays Put
Without big changes, the prices won’t go up. The base MSRP for the subcompact 2022 Buick Encore is $23,200. The Preferred package adds $1,500, as much as for the AWD. This version is the starting build for the GX. However, a larger crossover is slightly more expensive. Essence is the package with the most options. Without upgrades, it will cost $28,500. General Motors is trying to keep pace with the competition. Still, their Buick vehicles are somewhere between the standard and luxury class. We can say its biggest rival is Mazda and their CX-30. But, you can also consider buying an entry-level model of Mercedes GLA, BMW X1, or Audi Q3. On the other hand, you can load Honda HR-V or Toyota C-HR with plenty of options and these won’t cost you as much as the 2022 Encore.