2022 Buick Encore GX vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights flanking the prominent Audi Singleframe grille, emphasizing width with horizontal elements. The body showcased crisp character lines, and the rear was marked by bold, large taillights. The Q5 exuded a classy, modern appearance with exceptional fit and finish. The plug-in hybrid version sported S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, including standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels, further elevating its aesthetic appeal. Inside, the Q5 maintained a classy and modern vibe, packed with technology yet uncluttered. The interior featured high-quality materials, with real wood and metal accents, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen positioned for optimal driver visibility. The second row was well-appointed with standard leather upholstery.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was a handsome little SUV, though it bore a strong family resemblance to the Encore, making it difficult to distinguish between the two. It featured Buick's trapezoidal "waterfall" grille, a high beltline, and similar headlight styling. The Encore GX's slightly longer wheelbase and additional length gave it a less stubby appearance. The optional ST (Sport Touring) appearance package added body-colour moldings, custom grille, sport bumpers with red accents, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the Encore GX offered an attractive cabin with soft-touch materials and standard cloth seats on base models, while the top Essence trim featured leather upholstery. The heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel was well-sized, though some controls were cumbersome. Overall, the controls and instrumentation were straightforward and easy to use.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with an additional 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque from a 14.1-kWh battery, resulting in a total combined output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup, paired with a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, provided impressive acceleration, reaching 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds. The Q5 PHEV offered fuel efficiency of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 km combined, with a gasoline-only rating of 8.8 litres per 100 km. The battery could be recharged overnight with household current or in 2.4 hours with Level 2 service. The drivetrain featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro AWD, offering various driving modes. Handling was good, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was equipped with a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The engine was surprisingly capable, though a bit buzzy, and the stop/start feature was somewhat annoying. While power was adequate, the driving dynamics were uninspiring, with a less settled ride and more noise than expected. The Encore GX was not designed for off-roading, and its handling was drama-free but unremarkable.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV offered smart packaging, with the battery pack located under the luggage compartment floor, preserving cargo space. It provided 710 litres of space behind the second row and 1,503 litres with the second row folded. The second row offered reasonable legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and optional ventilation. The interior featured smartly laid-out storage options and an uncluttered design.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, despite its small size, was comfortable and easy to live with. Ingress and egress were straightforward, and controls were clearly marked. The elevated ride height provided excellent visibility. Front-seat headroom and legroom were adequate, though rear-seat knee room was tight. Cargo space measured 665 litres behind the rear bench and 1,422 litres with the seat folded. The Encore GX featured a two-level cargo floor and optional hands-free power liftgate, enhancing convenience.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi’s latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. The cabin offered customizable LED ambient lighting and a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto were included.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered decent tech, with an eight-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Optional features included navigation, HD surround vision, adaptive cruise control, and a Convenience package with wireless phone charging. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with intuitive app layout and efficient voice recognition.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, ABS with brake assist, electronic stability control, and available driver-assistance features like Audi Pre Sense front and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX performed well in NHTSA crash tests, earning five stars overall. The IIHS awarded it "Good" ratings in crash tests, with varying headlight ratings. Safety features included Teen Driver technology, tire-fill alert, and available driver-assistance features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance.