2016 Buick Encore Expert Review
Reviewed by Stefan Ogbac
Three new exterior colors have been added to the 2016 Buick Encore: River Rock Metallic, Graphite Gray Metallic, and Summit White. Revised 18-inch "Ultra Bright" alloy wheels have been added.
Vehicle Summary
The 2016 Buick Encore is a small two-row crossover that slots below the larger Enclave and is available in front- or all-wheel-drive configurations.
Overview
One engine is available in the 2016 Encore, a turbocharged 1.4-liter I-4 rated at 138 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is the only gearbox available. Fuel economy is respectable for the class at 25/33 mpg city/highway in the front-drive variant and 23/30 mpg with all-wheel drive. Despite its size, the Encore has plenty of interior space, with 18.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the split-folding rear seats and 48.4 cubic feet with them down.
Safety
In addition to dual front, front-side, and side curtain airbags, the 2016 Encore also comes standard with rear side airbags and knee airbags for the driver and front passenger. Higher trim levels are available with rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot warning, forward collision warning and lane departure warning.
Trims, Packages, and What's Standard
Base-level Encores get a rearview camera, cloth/leatherette upholstery, active noise cancellation, 18-inch alloy wheels, and Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system with a seven-inch touchscreen. Higher trim levels get additional features such as dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, leather upholstery, a Bose audio system, front and rear parking sensors, and an optional navigation system.
What We Think
In a 2013 First Drive review, we said that while the Encore leans toward the sporty side in the way it drives, it isn't as athletic as the BMW X1 or the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque. The crossover's small size, on the other hand, means it's easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Despite its small dimensions, the Encore has plenty of space for people and gear, while its cabin has a clean design and filled with high quality materials. The 1.4-liter turbo-four, however, isn't quick and is merely adequate for hauling the Encore's curb weight of around 3,200 pounds. Visibility out the back and on the sides are compromised due to a small rear window and thick C-pillars
Cool Fact
The Buick Encore is closely related to the Chevrolet Trax and the European-market Opel/Vauxhall Mokka.
Key Competitors
- Mini Countryman
- Fiat 500X
- Mazda CX-3
- Subaru XV Crosstrek
- Honda HR-V
