2024 Kia EV9 vs 2023 Buick Encore GX

The 2023 Buick Encore GX departed from Buick's storied design history, presenting a styling that lacked the brand's traditional flair. Its rounded exterior and tall stance resulted in awkward proportions that failed to capture the SUV appeal that has drawn many buyers to this segment. Even with the optional Sport Touring Package, which added subtle enhancements like a black mesh grille and two-tone wheels, the Encore GX's design remained understated. Inside, the top-trim Essence model offered expected features like leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control, but the abundance of plastic reminded occupants of its entry-level status within Buick's lineup. The dashboard and door panels, reminiscent of 1990s design, lacked visual interest, though the instrument cluster stood out with its well-framed digital display.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia EV9 introduced a fresh design direction for Kia's electric vehicles, while maintaining a distinctly Kia SUV aesthetic. Its exterior featured blocky lines and a unique lighting signature, with "Star Map" daytime running lights and a "Digital Tiger Face" grille. The top Land trim offered a Digital Pattern Lighting Grille, adding a constellation of light points. The EV9's interior was equally innovative, with a spacious third row providing ample headroom and legroom, surpassing even the Kia Telluride and BMW X7. The second-row seats offered comfort and support, while cargo space was competitive, with a high and flat load floor for easy luggage retrieval. Up front, the "floating" centre console provided storage solutions, though the shallow top-closing cubby might disappoint some.

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. It featured all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission. While acceleration felt stronger than the specs suggested, power delivery was not smooth, requiring a patient approach to throttle applications. The Encore GX excelled in ride comfort and noise reduction, thanks to its well-damped suspension and active noise cancellation. However, it felt ponderous and awkward in most situations, with slow and lifeless steering and significant body roll.

The 2024 Kia EV9 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the Light trim's single motor, rear-wheel-drive setup producing 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 370 kilometres. The Wind model, with a larger battery, provided 489 kilometres of range but slightly reduced horsepower. The top Land trim featured all-wheel drive with dual motors, delivering 379 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a range of up to 451 kilometres. The EV9 GT-Line prioritized performance, offering smooth power delivery and good handling, with adjustable regenerative braking for a natural feel. While charging information was limited, Kia claimed fast charging capability, reaching 80% in 25 minutes on a high-speed DC fast charger.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. However, the Subaru Crosstrek provided more front legroom, and the Kia Seltos offered more rear-seat space. Cargo capacity was respectable, with 665 litres behind the rear seats and 1,422 litres with them folded. The front seats were positioned close together, limiting 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 conveyance.

The 2024 Kia EV9 stood out with its spacious third row, offering ample headroom and legroom, surpassing even larger SUVs. It could seat up to seven passengers, with second-row captain's chairs available on higher trims. Cargo space was competitive, with 572 litres behind the third row, expandable to 2,313 litres with only the front seats in place. The "floating" centre console provided storage solutions, though the shallow top-closing cubby might disappoint. Second-row passengers in GT-Line trims enjoyed additional storage options, including a large drawer and tray table.

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

The 2024 Kia EV9 took technology to the next level with a three-screen curved display, including a 12.3-inch driver information display, 5-inch Climate Display, and 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad, were standard. Higher trims featured a 14-speaker Meridian Premium Audio system. The EV9's connectedness was noteworthy, with over-the-air updates and the Kia Connect store offering additional features and customization options. This "future-proofing" approach allowed owners to upgrade their vehicles over time.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came with 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. It received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS 2022 Top Safety Pick.

The 2024 Kia EV9 offered a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, with standard adaptive cruise control, blind-spot collision avoidance, and forward collision avoidance. Higher trims included additional features like the Blind-spot View Monitor and reverse parking collision avoidance assist. While not yet rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, it received the highest rating from Euro NCAP.