2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2023 Buick Encore GX

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 drivers of its entry-level status within Buick's lineup. The interior design, with its blob-like dashboard and door panels, 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 Volvo XC40 maintained its distinctive presence with a flat-roofed profile and clean exterior lines, embodying Volvo's current design language. Updates for 2023 included pixelated "Thor’s Hammer" headlights and a more angular front bumper, though these changes were subtle. The XC40 shared its Compact Modular Architecture with other Volvo and Polestar models, making it unique in North America for offering a combustion engine. Inside, the XC40 continued with a minimalist design, featuring thin air vents and scalloped door elements. The Ultimate trim added luxurious touches like a panoramic moonroof and an Orrefors crystal shift knob, though the all-black interior felt utilitarian. Despite being Volvo's entry-level model, the XC40's fit and finish were commendable, though the materials reflected its position in the lineup.

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 all-wheel drive. The engine delivered a stronger acceleration than its specs suggested, but power delivery was not smooth, requiring a patient driving style. The Encore GX excelled in ride comfort and noise reduction, thanks to its well-damped suspension and active noise cancellation. However, its driving dynamics were less impressive, with slow and lifeless steering and significant body roll.

For the 2023 Volvo XC40, a significant change was the introduction of mild-hybrid powertrains, featuring a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-horsepower integrated starter generator. The B5 models in Canada boasted a 2.0-litre turbo-four-cylinder engine with 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC40 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, offering a refined driving experience with smooth power delivery. The XC40 Recharge variant added more power with its dual electric motors, achieving 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, and a 359-kilometre range. The XC40's chassis tuning provided a composed ride, absorbing bumps gracefully, though it lacked a sport driving mode.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. However, the Kia Seltos provided more rear legroom and cargo space. The Encore GX's cargo capacity was 665 litres with the rear seats up and 1,422 litres with them folded. The front seats were positioned closely together, affecting the sense of spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. Despite the limited cabin size, Buick optimized small-item storage with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless charging pad. The instrumentation was well-executed, with clear information conveyance.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, while compact, offered reasonable space among its competitors. It matched the BMW X1 for rear-seat headroom and provided generous shoulder room, enhancing the feeling of spaciousness. Cargo space was 566 litres with the rear seats up and 1,328 litres with them folded, less than the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. The XC40 featured good interior storage, with creatively designed door panels and a spacious centre console. A power tailgate and keyless entry were standard, adding to its practicality.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came with a standard 8-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information display. Optional features included a navigation system, head-up display, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system. Standard tech included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with graphics that surpassed many competitors, though the screen size was modest by current standards.

For 2023, the Volvo XC40 adopted an Android-based infotainment system, featuring Google Maps and Google Assistant. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch touchscreen were standard, with a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system available on higher trims. The infotainment experience was visually pleasing, though users preferring Apple might find less satisfaction. The minimalist design meant most controls were touchscreen-based, which could be less convenient for some functions.

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 top "Good" ratings in IIHS crash tests, though it scored "Average" for child-seat anchor ease of use.

Volvo's 2023 XC40 emphasized safety with standard features like lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like adaptive cruise control and Pilot Assist. The XC40 received top "Good" ratings in most IIHS crash tests, though it scored "Acceptable" in the updated side-impact test. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating, though the XC40 Recharge was not rated.