Home > News & Blogs > 2020 Buick Encore GX Review: MotorVero’s Take on Buick’s Versatile Compact SUV
2020 Buick Encore GX Review: MotorVero’s Take on Buick’s Versatile Compact SUV
Buick Encore GX: The Perfect Midsize Crossover SUV | MotorVero
The Buick Encore GX: Redefining the Midsize Crossover Experience
Buick's Strategic Crossover Expansion
Buick's SUV lineup welcomed an important new member with the introduction of the Encore GX, a carefully positioned crossover designed to occupy the sweet spot between the subcompact Encore and midsize Envision. This strategic move addressed a crucial gap in Buick's offerings, providing consumers with exactly what market research indicated they wanted: more space than the Encore without stepping up to the larger Envision.
Key Positioning Advantages
Perfect Middle Ground: 5 cu-ft more cargo space than Encore, 3 cu-ft less than Envision
Competitive Dimensions: Comparable to Jeep Compass (vs Encore's Renegade-size)
Platform Innovation: Shares little with smaller Encore despite naming similarity
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Under the Hood: Powertrain and Performance
While initial announcements were light on technical details, automotive experts uncovered that the Encore GX would debut GM's next-generation Ecotec four-cylinder engines. These powerplants were paired with either:
The refined 9-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission
An all-new continuously variable transmission (CVT) designed for optimal efficiency
This powertrain combination promised to deliver the perfect balance of responsive performance and fuel efficiency that crossover buyers prioritize. Industry analysts predicted these engineering choices would position the Encore GX favorably against competitors like the Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona.
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Safety Revolution: Standard Advanced Features
The Encore GX marked a significant step forward in making premium safety technology accessible, featuring as standard equipment what competitors often reserved for higher trim levels:
Safety Feature
Description
Benefit
Automatic Emergency Braking
Detects impending collisions
Reduces frontal crash severity
Lane Keep Assist
Gentle steering corrections
Helps prevent unintentional drifting
Front Pedestrian Braking
Detects people in path
Reduces pedestrian impact risk
Optional upgrades included a groundbreaking rear camera mirror (providing an unobstructed rear view regardless of passengers or headrests) and a high-definition 360-degree surround-view camera system that set new benchmarks in the segment.
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Global Design Philosophy
The Encore GX debuted simultaneously as a global model, sharing its fundamental design with the version unveiled at Shanghai Auto Show. However, Buick emphasized regional adaptations:
Market-Specific Variations
North American Version: More rugged styling cues and standard AWD availability
Chinese Market Model: Featured extended wheelbase option not available elsewhere
European Variant (sold as Opel/Vauxhall): Tuned suspension for European driving preferences
This global yet localized approach allowed Buick to achieve economies of scale while still catering to regional preferences - a strategy that would become increasingly common in the automotive industry.
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Competitive Landscape and Market Position
Automotive analysts immediately recognized the Encore GX's strategic positioning against key rivals:
Competitor
Encore GX Advantage
Segment Benchmark
Jeep Compass
More premium interior materials
Off-road capability
Mazda CX-30
Greater rear seat space
Driving dynamics
Hyundai Kona
Standard safety features
Value pricing
The Encore GX carved out a unique niche by offering near-luxury amenities at mainstream prices, appealing to buyers who had previously considered premium European brands but were deterred by higher ownership costs.
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What Made the Encore GX Special
Several innovative features set the Encore GX apart in the crowded compact crossover segment:
QuietTuning Technology: Buick's signature noise cancellation created a serene cabin environment
Configurable Cargo System:
Adjustable load floor
Hidden underfloor storage
40/20/40 split-folding rear seats
Available Adaptive Cruise: Rare in class at launch price point
These thoughtful touches demonstrated Buick's understanding of real-world customer needs beyond just spec sheet comparisons.
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The Future of Buick's Crossover Strategy
The Encore GX represented more than just a new model - it signaled Buick's transformation into a crossover-focused brand. Industry observers noted several strategic implications:
Electrification Readiness: Engine bay designed for future hybrid variants
Dealer Network Impact:
Attracted younger buyers to Buick showrooms
Increased service department throughput
As consumer preferences continued shifting toward crossovers, the Encore GX positioned Buick to compete effectively through the decade, with analysts predicting it would become the brand's volume leader.