2023 Buick Encore GX vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians a range of six models, with prices starting from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim, and the new ST-Line added a sporty flair to the XLT version. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a rakish roofline, creating a taut, athletic appearance. Blacked-out roof pillars contributed to a "floating roof" effect. Inside, higher-trim Explorers showcased a mix of quality and questionable materials, with the cabin mostly justifying its price point, though hints of the base trim were occasionally evident.

In contrast, the 2023 Buick Encore GX broke away from Buick's historical design cues, presenting rounded exterior surfaces and a tall stance that resulted in awkward proportions. The Sport Touring Package attempted to enhance its appearance with unique bumpers, a black mesh grille, and two-tone wheels, but the changes were subtle. Inside, the Encore GX Essence model featured leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and power-adjustable seats, but the abundance of plastic reminded occupants of its entry-level status within Buick's lineup. The dashboard and door panels evoked 1990s design, though the instrument cluster was a standout feature with its clear layout.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims came with a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. It had a towing capacity of 2,400 kg and fuel consumption between 10.3 and 11.8 L/100 km. The hybrid option for the Limited trim combined a 3.3-litre V6 engine for 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,268 kg and consuming as little as 9.6 L/100 km. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, standard on the ST and Platinum trims, delivered 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kg and fuel consumption of 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and offered an engaging driving experience, especially in the sport-tuned ST version.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX in Canada came 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 standard AWD. The engine's power delivery required patience, as it wasn't always smooth, but the ride was comfortable and quiet, thanks to Buick's Quiet Tuning package. The Encore GX excelled in noise reduction and ride quality, but its driving dynamics were less impressive, feeling ponderous and awkward with significant body roll and lifeless steering.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. However, the third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. Fully equipped models offered features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain's chairs. Storage space was limited, with missed opportunities for additional storage solutions. The cargo area offered 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,264 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,132 litres with both rear rows down.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. It provided 665 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,422 litres with them folded. The front seats were positioned close together, affecting the sense of spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. However, Buick maximized small-item storage with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless charging pad. The instrumentation was well-executed, with clear displays and an array of hard buttons for ease of use.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a navigation system. Higher trims offered wireless charging, a surround-view camera, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the Sync 3 system's voice recognition was less advanced than the newer Sync 4, and the larger touchscreen felt like an afterthought in the dashboard design.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information display. Optional features included navigation, a head-up display, wireless charging, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system. Standard connectivity features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with attractive graphics, and the 8-inch screen size was adequate for the dashboard design.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though the steering wheel sensitivity could be improved.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX included standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane keep assist. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system. The Encore GX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2022, with top crash test ratings and an "Average" score for child-seat anchor ease of use.