2023 Buick Encore GX vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Buick Encore GX departed from Buick's storied design history, presenting a style that didn't echo the brand's past nor forge a new path. Its rounded exterior and tall stance resulted in awkward proportions that failed to capture the SUV allure that many buyers sought. Even with the optional Sport Touring Package, which added subtle enhancements like different bumpers and a black mesh grille, the changes were barely noticeable unless compared directly to a standard model. Inside, the Encore GX Essence trim offered expected features like leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control, but the abundance of plastic reminded us of its position at the lower end of Buick's lineup. The interior design, with its blob-like dashboard, harkened back to less appealing aspects of 1990s automotive design, though the instrument cluster stood out with its well-framed digital display.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot embraced a more rugged and substantial appearance with its redesign. The fourth-generation model grew in size, enhancing its presence with a boxier style and upright grille. These changes complemented the TrailSport model, which gained legitimate off-road capabilities like a taller ride height and underbody skid plates. The interior took a conventional approach, maintaining attractiveness and functionality. Materials quality met class expectations, and features like heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard in Canada. Overall, the Pilot's design emphasized utility without sacrificing appeal, making it a preferred choice over its predecessor.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX in Canada came 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 standard all-wheel drive. While acceleration felt stronger than the specs suggested, power delivery was not smooth, requiring patience to get the most out of the engine. The ride was comfortable, and the cabin was quiet, thanks to Buick's Quiet Tuning package. However, the Encore GX felt ponderous and awkward, with slow and lifeless steering and significant body roll due to its suspension tuning.

The 2023 Honda Pilot featured a new 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission with standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Acceleration was quick, and the engine emitted a pleasant hum when pushed. The Pilot prioritized comfort over performance, with light steering and noticeable body roll in corners. The TrailSport model offered increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities without sacrificing on-road comfort. Towing capacity reached up to 2,268 kg, making it a versatile choice for families seeking adventure.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. Cargo capacity was respectable, with 665 litres behind the rear seats and 1,422 litres with them folded. However, the front seats were positioned close together, reducing the sense of spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. Small-item storage was well-executed, with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless charging pad. Instrumentation was clear, though the lack of a 360-degree camera button was noted.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional, with a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level Sport trim featured a seven-inch touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Pilot excelled in storage and convenience, with clever features like a stowable second-row centre seat and ample space for adults in the second row. Cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 3,219 litres available behind the front seats. A power tailgate was standard, with hands-free operation on higher trims.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came with a standard 8-inch touchscreen and 4.2-inch driver information display. Optional features included a navigation system, head-up display, and Bose audio system. Standard connectivity features were wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with graphics that were nicer than many competitors, though the screen size was modest.

The 2023 Honda Pilot, particularly in the EX-L trim and above, offered a larger touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless phone charger. The Touring trim added USB ports in every row, a multi-view camera system, and a fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was functional, with quick responses and a logical layout. Features like Honda's CabinTalk and a Bose premium audio system enhanced the experience.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX included standard driver assistance 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 2022 Top Safety Pick, though child-seat anchor ease of use was rated "Average."

The 2023 Honda Pilot earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added front and rear parking sensors and surround-view cameras. The safety systems functioned well, with no false alarms during testing, and the adaptive cruise control maintained smooth operation.