2021 Buick Encore GX

The 2021 Buick Encore GX comes in three trim levels: Preferred, Select, and Essence. A turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission is standard on the front-wheel-drive models. The all-wheel-drive models come standard with a turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder. It's optional for front-wheel-drive with the Select and Essence trims. The Preferred trim comes standard with Buick QuietTuning technology, 18-inch aluminum wheels, an 8-inch infotainment center. Add an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, roof-rack side rails, heated front seats, remote start, a rear-seat center armrest, and dual-zone automatic climate control for the Select. The Essence trim features a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel, an air ionizer, and LED headlamps and tail lamps.

The small SUV's crisp body lines and dramatic styling make it stand out with a uniquely athletic persona. It not only looks good but has a balance of efficiency, power, and handling to match its looks. The turbocharged three-cylinder engine powers the 2021 Encore GX with ease. The available 1.3-liter with 155 horsepower follows the base level 1.2-liter engine delivering 137 horsepower. The front-wheel drive pairs with a CVT, and the all-wheel drive has a nine-speed automatic transmission. It's a powerful vehicle, with some of the models towing up to 1,000 pounds.

The Encore GX surprises drivers with its dynamic performance. It rounds corners with very little body roll with more than enough grip and accurate steering making judgment easy. Add to that the well-tuned pedal feedback and smooth CVT transition and you have a controlled, smooth ride. The SUV feels strong in the city and secure on the open road, with its stability only increasing with speed.

Front passengers enjoy an attractive dashboard fitted with a clear, user-friendly touch screen interface. The interior is practical with a center console that includes a deep, narrow bin for smart phones and large door pockets that easily fit a water bottle. The well-designed interior is a merging of digital and analog. The climate control works quickly and the same applies to the seat heaters. The rear seat cushions are comfortable with easy access in and out of the vehicle. There's plenty of headroom and legroom both front and back of the cabin. The rear seats split and fold forward for storage, with the front passenger seat folding flat, creating extra space for long objects.

The 2021 Encore GX earned five stars for its crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, a rearview camera mirror, active lane control, and LED headlights with automatic high beams. Available options are a 360-degree camera system, adaptive cruise control, a surround-view camera system, automatic park assist, and parking sensors in the front and rear.