2021 Buick Encore

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$23,200

starting MSRP

2021 Buick Encore
2021 Buick Encore

Key specs

Base trim shown

SUV

Body style

27

Combined MPG

5

Seating capacity

168.35” x 65.25”

Dimensions

Front-wheel Drive

Drivetrain

Overview

The good:

  • Small size makes it city-friendly
  • Seating position offers great visibility
  • Android Auto, Apple CarPlay standard
  • Onboard Wi-Fi hot spot standard
  • Front passenger seat folds down for long cargo
  • Good headroom

The bad:

  • Engine performance
  • Stop-start system not smooth
  • Front seats uncomfortable, lack support
  • Automatic emergency braking not offered
  • No armrest for front passenger
  • Backseat legroom

2 trims

Starting msrp listed lowest to highest price

Wondering which trim is right for you?

Our 2021 Buick Encore trim comparison will help you decide.

See also: Find the best SUVs for 2023

Notable features

  • Five-seat subcompact SUV
  • Front- or all-wheel drive
  • 138-hp, turbo four-cylinder engine
  • 8-inch touchscreen standard
  • Forward collision warning available

2021 Buick Encore review: Our expert's take

What Is the 2021 Buick Encore?

The Encore is a subcompact SUV that seats five. It’s powered by a standard 138-horsepower, turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available. Competitors include the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

What’s New on the 2021 Buick Encore?

There are no significant changes. 

What Features in the 2021 Buick Encore Are Most Important?

Standard features include:

  • 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity
  • 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot
  • Fold-flat front passenger seat
  • Power-adjustable driver’s seat

Available features include:

  • All-wheel drive
  • Blind spot warning
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • Lane departure warning
  • Forward collision warning
  • Rain-sensing windshield wipers

Should I Buy the 2021 Buick Encore?

If you’re a city-dweller willing to sacrifice some cabin space for a subcompact SUV with connectivity and good visibility, the Encore might be a good fit. The SUV’s lack of standard active safety features, however, is a demerit. 

Consumer reviews

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.7
  • Interior design 4.8
  • Performance 4.4
  • Value for the money 4.7
  • Exterior styling 4.8
  • Reliability 4.7

Most recent consumer reviews

5.0

Great Sub SUV

Reviews low engine power. I took this car across 2 mountain ranges and it did great. On real step inclines it would drop 1 mph starting up but regain it before we hit the top. I had no problems passing other vehicles. Handled well in heavy rain and windy conditions. I'm not sure what the top end speed is, but it's over a 110.

5.0

Affordable, Efficient, Reliable

Bought new and now have 29k miles on it in two years. Zero problems so far. Get 36 mpg on highway. Luxury interior. With back seat folded I can get a bicycle inside. Regular maintenance is minimal; basically change oil and filter and rotate tires every 7500 miles. At 60 k replace the spark plugs. Only downside is acceleration. It could be better but it’s fine around town. If you drive with a lead foot and kick the turbo in every time you accelerate, I would suspect you could have turbo problems eventually. This is not a performance car but it does get you from point a to b efficiently, comfortably and with a slice of luxury for a very fair price. It is also very easy to maneuver in the city and very easy to park withe backup camera.

1.0

Absolutely trash. Get a Honda or Toyota for eco

Horrible car. Trim fell off after 5k miles had to get replaced. Clear on trim flaking off. Front end rattle, and the motor sounds like a tin can. Turned in early with 17500 on the clock. I take good care of my stuff. My 1993 BMW 7 series was a better car. Horrible car, Horrible design. Will never buy a GM car ever again.

See all 15 consumer reviews

Warranty

New car and Certified Pre-Owned programs by Buick
New car program benefits
Bumper-to-bumper
36 months/36,000 miles
Corrosion
36 months/36,000 miles
Powertrain
60 months/60,000 miles
Roadside assistance
60 months/60,000 miles
Certified Pre-Owned program benefits
Maximum age/mileage
5 model years or newer/up to 75,000 miles
Basic warranty terms
12 months/12,000 miles bumper-to-bumper original warranty, then may continue to 6 years/100,000 miles limited (depending on variables)
Powertrain
6 years/100,000 miles
Dealer certification required
172-point inspection
Roadside assistance
Yes
View all cpo program details

Have questions about warranties or CPO programs?

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