Buick Encore GX 2022: Is It Worth The Hype?

Hey guys! Let's dive into the Buick Encore GX 2022 and see if it's really worth all the buzz. This subcompact SUV has been making waves, and we're here to break down everything from its performance and features to its overall value. If you're in the market for a small SUV, you're probably wondering if the Encore GX should be on your list. Well, buckle up, because we're about to find out! We will examine its strengths, weaknesses, and how it stacks up against the competition. By the end of this review, you'll have a clear picture of whether the 2022 Buick Encore GX is the right fit for your lifestyle and budget. Let's get started!

Overview of the 2022 Buick Encore GX

Alright, let's get acquainted with the 2022 Buick Encore GX. This little SUV is positioned as a slightly more premium offering within the subcompact SUV segment. Buick aims to provide a blend of style, comfort, and technology in a package that's easy to maneuver and park – perfect for city driving, right? It slots in between the smaller Encore and the larger Envision in Buick's lineup. For the 2022 model year, the Encore GX received some minor updates to its features and available packages, keeping it fresh in a competitive market. Key features include a stylish exterior design, a comfortable and well-appointed interior, and a range of tech features designed to enhance the driving experience. The Encore GX is available in three main trims: Preferred, Select, and Essence, each offering a different level of features and luxury. Under the hood, you'll find a choice of two turbocharged three-cylinder engines, providing a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. And, of course, Buick emphasizes its quiet cabin and comfortable ride, aiming to create a more premium feel than some of its rivals. In terms of competition, the Encore GX goes head-to-head with vehicles like the Mazda CX-30, Honda HR-V, and Hyundai Kona. These are all popular choices, so the Encore GX has its work cut out to stand out from the crowd. We'll delve into how it fares against these competitors later on. But for now, let's just get the wheels turning and explore what the 2022 Buick Encore GX has to offer. Keep in mind that as the year goes on, it is expected that there will be some upgrades for the future. The Buick Encore GX is trying to make its own name in the business. The goal is to separate itself from its competition by using a combination of the features offered. Let's delve in deeper!

Trim Levels and Features

Let's break down the trim levels of the 2022 Buick Encore GX and what you get with each one. As mentioned before, there are three primary trims: Preferred, Select, and Essence. The Preferred trim is the entry point, but it still offers a solid array of features. You'll get things like a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a suite of advanced safety features like forward collision alert and lane departure warning. Moving up to the Select trim adds more creature comforts. You can expect features such as heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and maybe some upgraded exterior styling elements. Finally, the Essence trim is the top-of-the-line offering. It brings the luxury with features like leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and potentially even more advanced technology options like a premium sound system or a panoramic sunroof. Across all trims, Buick focuses on providing a comfortable and well-equipped interior. Each trim level builds upon the previous one, giving you the chance to customize the Encore GX to your specific needs and budget. It's worth noting that Buick often offers packages and options that can further enhance your Encore GX, adding things like advanced safety tech, upgraded wheels, or other features to increase your driving pleasure. Deciding which trim is right for you depends on your priorities and how much you're willing to spend. But no matter which trim you choose, the 2022 Buick Encore GX aims to deliver a refined and enjoyable driving experience. From the base model, it can stand on its own in the competition. The goal is to provide a user-friendly and great experience to everyone who uses this car. The Encore GX is a great SUV.

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about how the 2022 Buick Encore GX actually drives. Under the hood, you have two engine options: a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine and a 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder. The 1.2-liter engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive, while the 1.3-liter engine is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and it comes with either a CVT or a nine-speed automatic transmission, depending on the drivetrain. Now, I know what you might be thinking: three cylinders? But don't knock it 'til you try it! These engines are designed to provide a good balance of fuel efficiency and performance in a small SUV. The 1.3-liter engine, in particular, offers a bit more pep, especially when equipped with all-wheel drive. Buick prioritizes a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, making for a smooth experience, and the cabin is well-insulated from road noise, adding to the feeling of refinement. Handling is generally predictable and easy, making the Encore GX a good choice for city driving and everyday commutes. It's not designed to be a sporty SUV, but it provides a confident and stable driving experience. Acceleration won't blow you away, but it's adequate for most driving situations. The CVT might take some getting used to if you're accustomed to traditional transmissions, but it contributes to the Encore GX's fuel efficiency. Overall, the 2022 Buick Encore GX offers a pleasant and easy-to-drive experience, with a focus on comfort and refinement. The driving dynamics are well-suited to its target audience: those seeking a practical and stylish SUV for daily use. While it may not be the fastest SUV in its class, its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride make it a compelling choice. In a busy market, the Encore GX does its best to stand out. It provides its passengers with a good and stable driving experience.

Engine Options and Fuel Economy

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of the 2022 Buick Encore GX's engine options and fuel economy. As mentioned, you have a choice of two turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The smaller 1.2-liter engine produces around 137 horsepower, while the 1.3-liter engine offers a bit more oomph, with approximately 155 horsepower. The 1.3-liter engine is the more popular choice, providing a noticeable increase in performance, especially when you're merging onto the highway or tackling hills. Fuel economy is a strong suit for the Encore GX. The 1.2-liter engine with front-wheel drive delivers impressive fuel efficiency, often exceeding 30 miles per gallon combined. The 1.3-liter engine is also quite efficient, although fuel economy will vary slightly depending on whether you choose front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. All-wheel drive models will typically see a small reduction in fuel economy compared to front-wheel drive models. The EPA estimates for fuel economy are generally competitive within the subcompact SUV segment. Buick has done a good job of balancing performance and efficiency with these engine options. The combination of the turbocharged engines and the CVT (or nine-speed automatic) helps to maximize fuel economy. Real-world fuel economy will, of course, depend on your driving habits and the types of roads you typically drive on. However, the Encore GX is designed to be an efficient and cost-effective choice for those looking to save money on gas. If fuel efficiency is a top priority, the Encore GX should definitely be on your radar. Its great gas mileage will help you save money. The gas mileage will help you in the long run. The Encore GX is a great SUV.

Interior and Technology

Let's step inside the 2022 Buick Encore GX and explore its interior and technology features. Buick aims to provide a comfortable and upscale cabin, even in its subcompact SUV. The interior design is generally clean and modern, with a focus on quality materials. You'll find soft-touch surfaces in key areas, giving the Encore GX a more premium feel than some of its rivals. The seats are designed for comfort, and there's generally enough space for front and rear passengers, though taller adults might find rear legroom a bit limited. The infotainment system is a key part of the driving experience. The Encore GX comes standard with a touchscreen display, which varies in size depending on the trim level. The system includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and other apps. Buick also typically includes a Wi-Fi hotspot, keeping you connected on the go. In terms of technology, the Encore GX offers a range of advanced driver-assistance features. These include things like forward collision alert, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. These safety features are designed to enhance your driving experience and provide peace of mind. The overall interior design of the Encore GX is well-executed, with a focus on creating a comfortable and user-friendly environment. Buick has done a good job of balancing style and functionality. The materials used, the layout of the controls, and the integration of technology all contribute to a positive driving experience. While it may not be the most spacious SUV in its class, the Encore GX offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin, packed with features designed to enhance your daily drives. The interior provides you with a great experience. The interior has good features and user-friendly usage. The GX will give you a great experience!

Infotainment and Safety Features

Let's focus on the infotainment and safety features found in the 2022 Buick Encore GX. As mentioned, the Encore GX comes standard with a touchscreen infotainment system. The size of the screen varies depending on the trim level, but the system itself is generally user-friendly. It includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allow you to connect your smartphone to the car's system, giving you access to your favorite apps, navigation, and music. Buick also typically includes a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, which is a great feature for keeping you connected on the road. In terms of safety features, the Encore GX is equipped with a solid suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Standard features often include forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keep assist. These features are designed to help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe. Higher trim levels may offer even more advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. These features can make your driving experience even safer and more convenient. Buick is committed to providing a safe and secure driving environment, and the Encore GX is a testament to that commitment. The combination of the infotainment system and the safety features makes the Encore GX a well-equipped SUV. The technology is designed to make your drive easier and safer. The Encore GX is the SUV for you! The safety features are a great addition.

Exterior Design and Styling

Let's talk about the look and feel of the 2022 Buick Encore GX from the outside! Buick has given the Encore GX a stylish and modern design, aiming to attract those who want a blend of sophistication and practicality in a subcompact SUV. The front of the Encore GX features Buick's signature design elements, including a distinctive grille and stylish headlights. The overall design is clean and well-proportioned, giving the Encore GX a premium feel. Buick has done a good job of creating a cohesive design that sets it apart from some of the more utilitarian-looking SUVs in its class. The profile of the Encore GX is sleek and sporty, with a sloping roofline and a well-defined character line. This gives the SUV a dynamic appearance, while still providing a practical amount of interior space. The rear of the Encore GX continues the stylish design theme, with attractive taillights and a sculpted liftgate. Buick offers a range of exterior colors, allowing you to personalize your Encore GX to match your taste. The Encore GX is designed to be a head-turner, and it definitely stands out from the crowd. The overall aesthetic is one of refinement and modernity, with Buick's attention to detail clearly evident. The Encore GX is a stylish SUV. The exterior helps set the tone for what the car is trying to provide. The car looks amazing.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's sum it all up with a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2022 Buick Encore GX.

Pros:

• Stylish Design: The Encore GX boasts a sleek and modern design that sets it apart from some of its rivals. It's a good-looking SUV.
• Comfortable Interior: The interior is well-appointed, with quality materials and comfortable seating. You will have a great time inside!
• Fuel Efficiency: The Encore GX offers impressive fuel economy, making it an economical choice for daily driving. It saves money!
• User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is easy to use, and the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a plus. Easy to use!
• Advanced Safety Features: A good range of standard safety features provides peace of mind on the road. Very safe!

Cons:

• Engine Performance: While efficient, the base engine may feel a bit underpowered for some drivers. Not the fastest.
• Rear Passenger Space: Rear passenger legroom might be a bit tight for taller adults. Legroom could be better.
• Pricing: The Encore GX can get a bit pricey when you move up to higher trim levels or add options.

Final Verdict: Is the 2022 Buick Encore GX Right for You?

So, after all that, is the 2022 Buick Encore GX the right choice for you? It really depends on what you're looking for in a subcompact SUV. If you value style, comfort, fuel efficiency, and a good dose of technology, the Encore GX is definitely worth considering. It offers a refined driving experience, a well-appointed interior, and a host of features that make it a compelling package. It's a great car! However, if you prioritize performance, or if you frequently carry passengers in the back, you might want to consider other options. The Encore GX's engine performance might not be for everyone, and the rear passenger space is a bit limited. But overall, the 2022 Buick Encore GX is a solid contender in the subcompact SUV segment. It offers a good balance of features, value, and driving experience. I would recommend this SUV. It is one of the best SUVs on the market. It is great for city driving! I hope this review has helped you make an informed decision. Good luck with your car search!