2021 BMW X7 vs 2022 Buick Encore GX

The 2021 BMW X7 was a standout in the luxury SUV segment, often seen navigating the bustling streets of metropolitan Los Angeles. It was known for its superior interior quality, surpassing that of the Cadillac Escalade, and boasted more prestige than the Infiniti QX80 or Lincoln Navigator. The X7 also offered advanced technological features that outshone the Lexus LX 570, and its visual presence was more commanding than the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. Despite its impressive attributes, the X7's appeal was subjective, as personal preference played a significant role in this segment.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, on the other hand, was a compact SUV that shared a strong family resemblance with its sibling, the Encore. It featured Buick's signature trapezoidal "waterfall" grille and a high beltline, with a slightly longer wheelbase that gave it a more balanced appearance. The Encore GX was particularly attractive with the optional ST appearance package, which added sporty design elements. While the exterior paint options were updated for 2022, the interior offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and a user-friendly layout, though it lacked the premium feel of higher-end models.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive AWD system. The X7 featured eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which included a 48-volt starter/generator and battery to enhance fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Despite these advancements, the X7's fuel economy ratings were slightly lower than the previous year, with 19 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined. The X7 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering ample power for most driving situations. However, its handling was somewhat compromised by its size and weight, with noticeable body motions even with the optional Dynamic Handling Package.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engine options: a 1.2-liter engine with 137 horsepower and a 1.3-liter engine producing 155 horsepower. The 1.3-liter engine was standard on the top Essence trim and available on other trims. Front-wheel drive was standard, with AWD as an option. The FWD models used a CVT, while AWD models had a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Encore GX's powertrain was surprisingly capable, though it exhibited some harshness typical of small engines. While the ride was not as refined as expected from a Buick, the Encore GX handled adequately for its class, though it was noisier inside than anticipated.

The 2021 BMW X7 offered a luxurious interior with features like heated and ventilated seats, premium leather upholstery, and a five-zone climate control system. Front-seat comfort was exceptional, and the second-row captain's chairs provided ample space, though access could be challenging due to the long rear doors. The third-row seats were surprisingly accommodating for adults, and the power clamshell tailgate revealed a modest cargo space of 48.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, expanding to 90.4 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, despite its compact size, provided a comfortable and user-friendly interior. The front seats offered adequate headroom and legroom, while rear-seat knee room was limited. Cargo space measured 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. The Encore GX featured a two-level cargo floor and could accommodate items up to eight feet long. The optional hands-free power liftgate added convenience, with adjustable height settings for easier access.

The 2021 BMW X7 was equipped with Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and an iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, both featuring 12.3-inch displays. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro with real-time data services. Additional features included wireless smartphone charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control. The head-up display was a useful addition, though it was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. The Advanced Technology package added features like HD surround vision, a head-up display, and adaptive cruise control. The Convenience package included automatic parking assist, wireless phone charging, and a rear camera mirror. The system was intuitive and user-friendly, with efficient voice recognition and easy Bluetooth pairing.

The 2021 BMW X7 came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The Driving Assistance Professional Package included advanced features like evasive-steering assist and traffic-jam assist, which worked well in most situations but occasionally struggled with lane maintenance. The Parking Assistance Package added semi-automated parking assist and a surround-view camera.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered a range of standard driver assistance features, with additional options available. It included Teen Driver technology and a tire-fill alert system. The Encore GX received five-star ratings from the NHTSA for overall crash protection and "Good" ratings from the IIHS in crash tests. However, its headlight ratings varied, with the top trim receiving an "Acceptable" rating and lower trims receiving a "Marginal" rating.