2020 Buick Encore GX vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2020 Buick Encore GX presented a more mature and refined exterior compared to its predecessor, the Encore. It was slightly larger in every dimension, with a longer wheelbase and a wider track, giving it a more complete and sophisticated appearance. The exterior featured a larger grille, revised headlights, and a reworked rear end, which contributed to its enhanced aesthetic appeal. Inside, the cabin of the Encore GX mirrored the exterior's maturity, offering a well-crafted interior with a focus on style and fit. While it wasn't as upscale as some competitors, it surpassed others in its class, providing a pleasant environment for occupants.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX maintained the brand's signature design language, with sharp lines and a sculpted exterior that echoed the styling of its Lexus siblings. The NX F Sport variant added sporty elements like a honeycomb grille and unique wheels, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the NX offered a luxurious and comfortable cabin, with high-quality materials and excellent fit and finish. The front seats provided ample space, and the rear seats accommodated adults comfortably. Despite some engine noise, the cabin remained quiet, typical of a Lexus vehicle.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX came standard with a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT for front-wheel drive. An optional 1.3-liter turbocharged engine delivered 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, with the choice of all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the engine provided adequate power, it felt underwhelming at low speeds. The driving experience was smooth, with responsive steering and a well-tuned suspension that handled bumps well. The Encore GX excelled in composure and handling at higher speeds, offering a confident ride.

The 2021 Lexus NX, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It featured a six-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, providing a relatively quiet ride despite some engine noise under hard acceleration. The F Sport variant included Active Sound Control for enhanced engine notes. The NX offered three drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—affecting throttle response and steering. With a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, the NX was capable but not sporty, focusing on a smooth and comfortable driving experience.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX offered increased space, particularly in the rear seats and cargo area. It provided 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded, surpassing some competitors. The rear legroom was improved, and the rear load floor could be adjusted for more space. The front cabin layout was practical, with relocated cup holders and additional storage spaces, enhancing everyday usability.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured a well-styled and comfortable interior, with ample room for front passengers and decent legroom for rear occupants. The NX offered 17.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded, which was smaller than some rivals. The SUV included a power liftgate with kick sensor technology and optional power-folding rear seats, adding convenience to its functionality.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX came equipped with GM’s latest touchscreen infotainment system, offering a user-friendly interface with crisp graphics. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Optional features like a wireless charging pad and head-up display were available, though the latter used a small plastic display rather than projecting onto the windshield.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch option available in the Navigation package. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the Lexus system was less user-friendly. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. The NX also offered a Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system and compatibility with the Lexus Enform Remote app, providing remote access and vehicle monitoring.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX included standard safety features like forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera system. The vehicle also featured a Teen Driver System for setting speed and volume limitations.

The 2021 Lexus NX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and pedestrian detection. The NX received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with additional options like park assist and adaptive headlights. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided emergency assistance and vehicle notifications.