2022 Buick Encore GX vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis's first SUV, was a fresh design that managed to balance innovation with the brand's emerging signature style. It featured a sleek two-box design with a long hood and short front overhang, complemented by a massive trapezoidal grille and distinctive "Quad Lamp" LED headlights. The vehicle's exterior was marked by elegant lines and high-quality paint and trim, while the interior boasted a luxurious feel with real wood, metal, and leather. The dashboard was sleek and uncluttered, emphasizing spaciousness and technology integration, including a 14.5-inch high-definition display.

In contrast, the 2022 Buick Encore GX shared a strong family resemblance with its sibling, the Encore, featuring Buick's trapezoidal "waterfall" grille and similar headlight styling. The Encore GX was slightly longer, giving it a more balanced appearance. The optional ST appearance package added sporty elements like custom bumpers and 18-inch wheels. Inside, the Encore GX offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and leather upholstery on higher trims. The controls were straightforward, and the vehicle provided good visibility, making it user-friendly for drivers.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The GV80's ride was enhanced by independent multi-link suspension and, in the 3.5T models, electronically controlled suspension with road preview. The 2.5T engine was lively but could feel strained under pressure, while the 3.5T provided a smoother and more powerful experience. Fuel consumption for the 2.5T was rated at 11.3 L/100 km city and 9.5 highway, while the 3.5T was slightly higher at 12.9 city and 10.4 highway.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was equipped with a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine delivering 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Despite its small size, the engine was capable, though it could be noisy. The Encore GX's ride was less refined than expected, with noticeable noise and vibration. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, but the driving dynamics were uninspiring, making it more suited for urban driving than off-road adventures.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered a sophisticated interior with advanced technology and ergonomic design. The centre console featured a rotary gear selector and a multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The second row was spacious, with power-adjustable seats and climate control, while the third row, available on 3.5T models, increased passenger capacity to seven. The GV80's interior was luxurious, with high-quality materials and thoughtful design elements.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, while compact, provided a comfortable and practical interior. Front-seat headroom and legroom were ample, though rear-seat space was tighter. The cargo area offered 665 litres of space with the rear seats up and 1,422 litres with them folded. The Encore GX featured a two-level cargo floor and an optional hands-free power liftgate, enhancing its practicality. The controls were intuitive, and the vehicle was easy to enter and exit, making it user-friendly for a wide range of drivers.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a cutting-edge infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and a digital key function for Android users. The GV80 also included Genesis Connected Services, providing a range of remote and safety features. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, along with a premium Lexicon audio system.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came with an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The vehicle included a range of driver-assistance features, with options for advanced safety technologies. The tech package added navigation, voice recognition, and personal profile customization. The Encore GX's infotainment system was user-friendly, with clear app layouts and efficient voice recognition.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came with 10 airbags and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control with machine learning and highway-driving assist. The GV80 also offered advanced parking assist features, enhancing its safety credentials.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX also performed well in safety tests, earning five stars from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS. It included standard driver assistance features, with options for additional safety technologies. The Encore GX's Teen Driver technology and tire-fill alert system added to its safety offerings, making it a secure choice for families.