The 2023 Buick Encore GX occupies an interesting position in the crowded subcompact SUV segment. While many competitors focus on sporty driving dynamics, bold styling, or aggressive pricing, Buick takes a different approach. The Encore GX emphasizes comfort, quietness, and everyday usability, offering buyers a more refined experience than they might expect from a small crossover.
For drivers who spend most of their time navigating busy city streets, commuting to work, or running daily errands, the Encore GX delivers a smooth and approachable driving experience. It also benefits from a generous list of safety technologies and a cabin designed with simplicity and practicality in mind.
Although it faces strong competition from vehicles such as the Mazda CX-30, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, and Subaru Crosstrek, the Encore GX continues to appeal to buyers who value comfort and ease of use above outright performance.
Our Take
The 2023 Buick Encore GX succeeds as a comfortable daily driver. It may not be the most exciting vehicle in its class, nor does it offer the strongest performance or the most upscale interior, but it delivers a pleasant ownership experience that many buyers will appreciate.
Its greatest strengths are ride comfort, visibility, cabin quietness, and user-friendly technology. Buick has created a crossover that feels easy to drive and easy to live with, especially for commuters and small families. While rivals such as the Mazda CX-30 offer more engaging handling and the Subaru Crosstrek provides greater versatility, the Encore GX counters with a smoother and more relaxed personality.
For shoppers looking for a practical small SUV that prioritizes comfort over sportiness, the Encore GX remains a solid contender.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Comfortable ride quality for daily driving
- Quiet cabin compared with many rivals
- Easy visibility and confidence-inspiring driving position
- Good cargo space for the segment
- Strong list of standard safety features
Cons
- Value proposition is challenged by newer rivals
- Engine performance feels modest
- Interior materials fall short of premium expectations
- Some advanced features require expensive trim upgrades
- Rear-seat space trails several competitors
What’s New for 2023
The 2023 Buick Encore GX carries over largely unchanged from the previous model year, which is not necessarily a bad thing. Buick continues to offer the same formula that has helped the Encore GX attract buyers seeking comfort, practicality, and a straightforward ownership experience.
The biggest changes involve packaging adjustments and feature availability across the trim lineup. Buyers still have access to Buick’s growing collection of driver-assistance technologies, upgraded infotainment features, and available all-wheel drive. While some competitors received major redesigns or significant powertrain updates, Buick chose to focus on maintaining the Encore GX’s proven strengths rather than reinventing the vehicle.
For shoppers considering a 2023 model, the familiar formula means there are few surprises, and the Encore GX remains a comfortable and dependable option in the small SUV segment.
Exterior Design
The 2023 Buick Encore GX features a clean and conservative design that prioritizes elegance over attention-grabbing styling. Unlike some competitors that rely on aggressive body lines and oversized grilles, the Encore GX adopts a more mature appearance that aligns with Buick’s traditional image.
Its sculpted front fascia, signature grille, LED lighting elements, and smooth body contours help create a premium look without appearing overly flashy. The proportions are well balanced, giving the Encore GX a slightly more upscale presence than many entry-level crossovers.
While vehicles such as the Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona may offer more distinctive styling, the Buick’s understated design has aged gracefully. Buyers who prefer a crossover that looks refined rather than trendy will likely appreciate the Encore GX’s approach.
Driving Experience
The Encore GX is designed to make daily driving as stress-free as possible. Visibility is excellent in all directions, the steering is light and predictable, and the compact dimensions make parking and maneuvering through city traffic remarkably easy.
Buick has tuned the suspension for comfort rather than sportiness, which suits the vehicle’s mission well. The Encore GX absorbs most road imperfections effectively and feels stable during normal driving situations. The driving experience is relaxed and approachable, making it particularly appealing to commuters and first-time SUV buyers.
However, drivers seeking excitement may find the Encore GX less engaging than competitors such as the Mazda CX-30 or Subaru Crosstrek. Body roll is noticeable during aggressive cornering, and steering feedback is limited. Still, for everyday transportation, the Buick delivers exactly what many buyers want: a smooth, comfortable, and confidence-inspiring driving experience.
Performance & Acceleration
The 2023 Buick Encore GX offers adequate performance for everyday driving, but acceleration is not one of its strongest attributes. Buyers can choose between two turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The base 1.2-liter engine produces 137 horsepower, while the available 1.3-liter turbo increases output to 155 horsepower and provides noticeably better responsiveness.
Around town, the Encore GX feels sufficiently quick for commuting, errands, and urban driving. The turbocharged power delivery helps the crossover move confidently from traffic lights, and the compact size makes it easy to navigate crowded streets. However, acceleration becomes less impressive during highway passing maneuvers or when carrying multiple passengers and cargo.
The available all-wheel-drive models pair the larger engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which feels more refined and responsive than the continuously variable transmission used in front-wheel-drive versions. While the Encore GX will not satisfy performance enthusiasts, it delivers enough power for the needs of most small SUV buyers.
Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement
Comfort remains one of the Encore GX’s biggest advantages. Buick has invested considerable effort into making the cabin feel quieter and more relaxing than many competitors in the segment. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and rough pavement effectively, helping passengers remain comfortable during longer journeys.
Road and wind noise are generally well controlled, particularly at city speeds. Buick’s QuietTuning technology adds additional sound insulation throughout the cabin, contributing to a more refined driving experience than many similarly priced rivals. This emphasis on comfort gives the Encore GX a personality that feels more mature than some of its competitors.
The ride can become slightly unsettled on rougher highways due to the vehicle’s relatively short wheelbase, but overall comfort remains one of the strongest reasons to consider the Encore GX over sportier alternatives.
Interior & Luxury Feel
Inside, the 2023 Buick Encore GX attempts to deliver a near-premium experience without reaching luxury-brand pricing. The dashboard design is straightforward and functional, with logically placed controls and a layout that is easy to understand from the moment you get behind the wheel.
The front seats provide good support and remain comfortable during longer drives. Higher trims add features such as power-adjustable seating, dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and upgraded upholstery materials that help elevate the cabin experience. Visibility is excellent thanks to the upright seating position and large windows, creating an airy feeling throughout the interior.
While the Encore GX presents itself as a more upscale alternative to mainstream competitors, some hard plastics and budget-oriented materials prevent it from feeling truly luxurious. Nevertheless, the cabin remains attractive, comfortable, and well suited to daily use, which will likely matter more to most buyers than premium branding.
Technology & Infotainment
The 2023 Buick Encore GX offers a technology package that focuses on simplicity and ease of use rather than flashy features. At the center of the dashboard is an intuitive infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen that responds quickly and is easy to navigate. Unlike some competitors that have moved nearly every function into touchscreen menus, Buick continues to provide physical controls for commonly used features, making daily operation far more convenient.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, allowing drivers to seamlessly connect their smartphones for navigation, music streaming, messaging, and voice commands. Available features include a Wi-Fi hotspot, satellite radio, navigation, and a head-up display on higher trims.
One of the Encore GX’s strengths is that drivers rarely need to dig through complicated menus to access basic functions. While the system may not feel as modern as some newer competitors, it remains user-friendly and practical, which many owners will appreciate over time.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is one of the more attractive aspects of the Encore GX. The smaller 1.2-liter turbocharged engine delivers the best efficiency ratings in the lineup, making it an appealing choice for drivers who spend most of their time commuting or navigating city traffic.
Models equipped with the larger 1.3-liter engine and all-wheel drive sacrifice some efficiency in exchange for improved performance and additional traction. Even so, fuel consumption remains competitive within the subcompact SUV segment.
Compared with rivals such as the Mazda CX-30 and Subaru Crosstrek, the Encore GX remains relatively economical to operate. Regular gasoline compatibility also helps keep ownership costs under control, making the Buick a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want a comfortable crossover experience.
Practicality & Cargo Space
Practicality is one of the Encore GX’s strongest qualities. Despite its compact footprint, Buick has done an impressive job maximizing interior space, creating a vehicle that feels larger inside than its exterior dimensions might suggest.
The rear cargo area provides enough room for groceries, luggage, sports equipment, and everyday family needs. Folding rear seats further expand the available cargo capacity, allowing the Encore GX to handle larger items when necessary. A particularly useful feature is the available fold-flat front passenger seat, which makes it easier to transport longer objects that would not normally fit inside a small crossover.
Storage solutions throughout the cabin are well thought out, with multiple compartments for personal items, drinks, and electronic devices. While some competitors offer slightly larger cargo areas, the Encore GX remains among the more practical options in its class and serves daily family duties exceptionally well.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety is one of the areas where the 2023 Buick Encore GX performs particularly well. Buick equips every model with a solid collection of standard driver-assistance technologies designed to improve driver awareness and reduce the likelihood of accidents during daily driving.
Standard features include automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, following-distance indicators, and automatic high-beam headlights. These systems operate smoothly and help make the Encore GX feel reassuringly secure, especially for families and commuters.
Higher trims can be equipped with additional technologies such as adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system. While some competitors offer these features at lower trim levels, the Encore GX still provides one of the stronger safety packages in the segment. Strong crash-test ratings further reinforce its appeal as a family-friendly crossover.
Competitors Worth Considering
The subcompact SUV segment is packed with strong alternatives, and the Encore GX faces fierce competition from several well-established rivals.
The Mazda CX-30 is one of the most compelling options for buyers who value driving enjoyment. It offers a more upscale interior, sharper handling, and available turbocharged performance. The Subaru Crosstrek appeals to adventurous buyers thanks to its standard all-wheel drive, rugged personality, and impressive practicality.
Meanwhile, the Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos provide excellent value, generous feature content, and modern styling. Both Korean rivals often undercut the Buick on price while offering competitive technology and warranty coverage.
The Encore GX distinguishes itself through comfort, cabin quietness, and ease of use. While it may not dominate any single category, it remains one of the most relaxing and user-friendly vehicles in this highly competitive class.
Trim Comparison
The 2023 Buick Encore GX is available in several trims, allowing buyers to choose a model that fits both their budget and feature preferences.
The Preferred trim serves as the entry point and includes many of the essential features buyers expect, including smartphone connectivity, safety technologies, and a comfortable cabin. It offers solid value for drivers seeking an affordable crossover.
The Select trim adds desirable upgrades such as additional comfort features, upgraded interior materials, and access to the more powerful 1.3-liter engine with available all-wheel drive. For many buyers, this trim strikes the best balance between price and equipment.
At the top of the lineup sits the Essence trim. This version adds premium touches such as upgraded seating materials, additional technology options, enhanced convenience features, and access to the most advanced driver-assistance systems. While it delivers the most luxurious Encore GX experience, it also pushes pricing closer to larger and more premium competitors.
Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?
For most buyers, the 2023 Buick Encore GX Select AWD is the trim that offers the best overall value. It strikes an ideal balance between affordability, comfort, technology, and everyday usability while avoiding the steep price increase of the top-spec Essence model.
The Select trim benefits from the stronger 1.3-liter turbocharged engine, available all-wheel drive, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and several convenience features that significantly improve the ownership experience. It feels noticeably more complete than the base model without entering the price territory of larger and more premium SUVs.
Unless you specifically want the luxury-focused upgrades available on the Essence trim, the Select AWD is the version we would recommend to most shoppers.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
The 2023 Buick Encore GX may not be the most powerful, most luxurious, or most exciting vehicle in the subcompact SUV segment, but it succeeds where many buyers spend most of their time: daily driving.
Its comfortable ride, quiet cabin, user-friendly technology, and practical interior make it an excellent choice for commuters, small families, and drivers who prioritize comfort over sporty handling. While competitors such as the Mazda CX-30, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, and Subaru Crosstrek may outperform it in specific areas, the Encore GX delivers a balanced and stress-free ownership experience.
If you’re looking for a compact crossover that is easy to drive, comfortable to live with, and equipped with modern safety features, the 2023 Buick Encore GX deserves serious consideration.
FAQ
Is the 2023 Buick Encore GX a reliable SUV?
The 2023 Buick Encore GX has developed a reputation as a dependable small crossover. Regular maintenance and proper servicing can help owners enjoy years of reliable operation.
Does the 2023 Buick Encore GX offer all-wheel drive?
Yes. All-wheel drive is available on selected trims and is paired with the more powerful 1.3-liter turbocharged engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission.
How fuel-efficient is the 2023 Buick Encore GX?
The Encore GX delivers competitive fuel economy for the segment. Front-wheel-drive models are the most efficient, while all-wheel-drive versions sacrifice a small amount of efficiency for additional traction.
Which 2023 Buick Encore GX trim is the best value?
We recommend the Select AWD trim because it offers the strongest combination of performance, comfort features, technology, and value for money.
Is the Buick Encore GX better than the Subaru Crosstrek?
The answer depends on your priorities. The Encore GX offers a quieter cabin and a more comfort-oriented driving experience, while the Crosstrek provides greater off-road capability, standard all-wheel drive, and a more adventurous character.
