2024 Buick Encore GX vs 2023 Buick Encore GX

The 2023 Buick Encore GX did not reflect Buick's storied design history, such as the iconic 1938 Y-Job. Its styling was a departure from the past without forging a new path, resulting in awkward proportions that failed to capture the SUV appeal that buyers sought. The optional Sport Touring Package added subtle enhancements like unique bumpers and a black mesh grille, but these changes were barely noticeable unless compared directly to a standard model. Inside, the top-trim Essence model offered expected features like leather upholstery and power-adjustable seats, but the abundance of plastic reminded occupants of its position at the lower end of Buick's lineup. The interior design, with its uninspired dashboard and door panels, harkened back to less favourable 1990s automotive aesthetics, though the instrument cluster stood out with its well-framed digital display.

In contrast, the 2024 Buick Encore GX presented a more appealing design, drawing inspiration from the 2022 Wildcat concept. The refreshed model featured a striking new front with sleek daytime running lights and angular LED headlamps, complemented by a new Buick logo. The Avenir trim added unique grille elements and chrome accents, while the rear received updated LED tail lights. The colour palette was vibrant, offering options like brilliant red and Copper Ice Metallic, with some trims allowing for a contrasting black roof. Inside, the most significant change was the introduction of a 19-inch glass panel housing the digital gauge cluster and touchscreen, lending a premium, tech-forward appearance. Despite some cheap-feeling plastics, the overall interior design was a step up, though limited to black or cream colour options.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX in Canada came standard 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 all-wheel drive. The engine delivered a stronger performance than its specs suggested, though power delivery was not always smooth, requiring patience to extract its full potential. The ride was comfortable, with a well-damped suspension and active noise cancellation enhancing the driving experience. However, the Encore GX felt ponderous, with slow steering and significant body roll detracting from its overall agility.

For 2024, the Encore GX retained the same powertrain, offering similar performance figures. The 1.3-litre turbo engine provided adequate acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in about nine seconds, though highway passing required patience due to the transmission's reluctance to downshift promptly. The selectable AWD system allowed for some fuel-saving control, but competitors offered more seamless automatic systems. Despite these limitations, the Encore GX remained a competent city car with a smooth ride.

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 capacity. The Encore GX's cargo space was respectable, with 665 litres behind the rear seats and 1,422 litres with them folded. The front seats were positioned closely together, compromising spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. Despite the limited cabin size, Buick maximized small-item storage with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless charging pad. Instrumentation was well-executed, with clear information displays and an array of hard buttons for ease of use.

The 2024 Encore GX maintained similar cargo capacities, with 665 litres behind the rear seats and 1,422 litres with them folded. The interior featured standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. Optional features included a seven-speaker Bose audio system and a moonroof. The Encore GX could accommodate items up to eight feet long with the front seat folded, enhancing its utility.

The 2023 Encore GX came with a standard 8-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information display, with optional navigation, a head-up display, and a Bose audio system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM were standard, though rear passengers lacked USB ports. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with clear graphics, though the screen size was modest by current standards.

In 2024, the Encore GX upgraded to an 11-inch touchscreen paired with an 8-inch digital gauge cluster under a single glass pane. While visually appealing, the screen had unused space, creating a perception of malfunction. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with USB ports and an available wireless charging pad. The rear camera mirror provided a wider rear-view angle, enhancing safety. The infotainment system remained simple, focusing on essential features without additional apps.

The 2023 Encore GX included standard driver assistance features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane keep assist. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. The model received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2022, though child-seat anchor ease of use was rated lower.

For 2024, the Encore GX's Driver Confidence package included standard features like lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included rear park assist and adaptive cruise control. Unique to Buick were the Teen Driver and Buckle to Drive features, enhancing safety for young drivers. The 2024 model received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though IIHS ratings were pending.