The company is not announcing any big change for the 2023 Buick Encore, or its bigger sibling, the GX. Both vehicles are relatively new and up to date with technology. Well, the Encore GX could introduce some changes under the hood. Regular crossover is now powered by a 1.4-liter turbo-four engine. It makes the vehicle more potent and fun to drive.
The 2023 Buick Encore will offer a quiet cabin and a smooth ride. Compared to rivals, this crossover comes with more tech features, while keeping the price at a reasonable level. Still, options are pretty expensive. Also, one of the reasons why the 2023 Encore might not be the best buy is the arrival of the next-gen model, probably the 2024 YM.
Another cool option is a slightly larger 2023 Buick Encore GX. It is positioned between the regular subcompact crossover and Envision. It doesn’t bring some radical change, but it is always good to have a choice. Compared to the standard model, the GX comes with different drivetrains and packages.
2023 Buick Encore Features
Unfortunately, General Motors cut all the trim levels for the current Encore. So, you will find it only in the Preferred package. Fans hope that the 2023 YM might add another trim level. Still, if the new generation is coming in 2024, then Buick will keep those configurations for the updated crossover.
Highlights of the Preferred trim are 18-inch wheels, halo lights, a six-speaker sound system, and satellite radio. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also standard. The screen could be bigger than the current 7-inch display. You can upgrade the safety with the blind-spot monitor. In this case, you will get a warning if there is someone in blind spots during a lane change. Higher safety packages include forward collision warning and lane departure warning. Parking sensors are also optional, as well as the 120V outlet. We recommend a moonroof and remote start, as the accessories you must have.
Encore GX Packages
The GX crossover is going to offer more options than the regular Encore. The Preferred package is there, but with different features. In this case, you will get heated mirrors, a leather steering wheel, and an 8-inch touchscreen. Wireless smartphone integration is available. Optionally, there are Cold Weather and Safety packages.
The mid-range version is the 2023 Buick Encore GX Select. This bundle adds rear cross-traffic alert, armrests for the second row, and dual-zone automatic climate control. You can recognize the Select trim thanks to roof rails. The essence is top of the line trim with leather upholstery, ionizer, heated steering wheel and front seats, as well as the memory setting for the driver’s bucket.
Essence trim also offers the most optional packages, such as the Advanced Technology set, or Convenience bundle. Some of the features you are getting are a premium Bose audio system, hands-free liftgate, navigation, wireless charging, HUD, 360-degree camera, and many others.
2023 Buick Encore Specifications
The latest update of the crossover included the refresh of the engine lineup. Instead of the old lineup, now you are getting a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit. It brings 155 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough for the subcompact model. A six-speed auto transmission sends power to the front wheels, or all four corners if a buyer demands. The gas mileage is not impressive. The crossover returns 24/32 mpg. Most rivals are around 30 mpg combined. Still, their outputs can’t match what you get from the Encore.
The GX is bigger, but it is not as potent as the base version. Under the hood of this model is an inline-three engine. Buyers will pick between 1.2 and 1.3 displacements. The first one is good for 137 hp and 162 lb-ft while returning 30 mpg combined. That is a significant upgrade compared to the standard crossover. A 1.3-liter engine delivers 155 hp and 175 lb-ft. The fuel economy is also making a difference with 29/32 mpg if you select the front-wheel drive. With an all-wheel drive, the gas mileage drops significantly by 3 points. A nine-speed automatic gearbox might be a reason since FWD models are using a CVT. The towing capacity, both for the 2023 Buick Encore and Encore GX will be 1,000 pounds.
Prices
The new crossover will come with the same price as before. It is $25,500 for the only available package. All-wheel drive costs $800, and optional packages and colors are not going to be more than $500. The GX version is more expensive. The base MSRP is $27,500 and climbs to $30k for the Essence model. Again, premium colors can cost between $500 and $1,000. You can invest about $1,500 for the Advanced Technology package, or the Experience bundle. Other options include the enhancement of appearance, convenience, safety… The Encore GX is very similar to the Chevy Trailblazer. But, besides dimensions and powertrains, Buick is building a more upscale crossover, which is very close to the premium segment.
