2017 Buick Encore Expert Review
Reviewed by Alisa Priddle
The Encore subcompact crossover has a new fascia, grille, hood, fenders and headlights up front, including the winged design grille and triple-shield insignia on the Avenir concept and LaCrosse . Nice cosmetic makeover while basic underpinnings remain the same.
Vehicle Summary
This small five-passenger crossover is Buick's bread and butter, part of a three-crossover lineup that also includes the new midsize two-row Envision and the popular three-row Enclave. The Encore is based on the Chevrolet Trax, which was also refreshed for the 2016.
Overview
The 2017 Buick Encore rides on new 18-inch wheels and has a new look up front as well as new LED taillights and chrome exhaust outlets. LED daytime running lamps replace the low-beam running lamps of the last mode. The crossover is offered in five trim levels and now comes in three new colors: Black Cherry Metallic, Ebony Twilight Metallic, and White Frost Metallic. Inside is a new dash and center stack with a 8-inch touchscreen that now hosts Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and there's also a 4.2-inch screen for the driver. The 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot is standard (but requires a subscription after the initial trial period) and can accommodate the connection of up to seven devices.
Power comes from a 1.4-liter turbo I-4 as the base engine, pumping out 138 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque. There is also a direct-injected 1.4-liter turbo with automatic engine stop/start, which increases power to 153 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. That engine is available on the Encore Sport Touring model, but all Encores have a six-speed automatic transmission and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive.
Safety
The chassis is little changed from the 2016 model that scored a Good on IIHS overlap front crash tests as well as side crash tests, roof strength and the safety of the head restraints and seats. The Encore only scored a Basic rating on crash avoidance and mitigation but that is one area where new features may be added in the future. The 2016-model-year crossover (before the refresh) scored poor in headlights.
What We Think
The Encore was one of the first in a growing field of subcompact crossovers and has enjoyed sales prowess even as the segment continues to expand. Buick continues to offer a strong entry in a popular category of vehicle and the updated styling should help fend off the competition even if the engine, transmission, and chassis are carryovers.
Read our original First Drive review on the 2013 model right here.
Cool Fact
The Encore has only been around since the 2013 model year but is currently the brand's best-seller.
Key Competitors
- Audi Q3
- Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
- Chevrolet Trax
- Fiat 500X
- Mazda CX-3
- BMW X1
