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2021 Buick Encore GX

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$24,200

starting MSRP

Key specs

Base trim shown

SUV

Body style

29

Combined MPG

5

Seating capacity

171.4” x 64.1”

Dimensions

Front-wheel drive

Drivetrain

Overview

(35 reviews)

The good:

  • Quiet on highway
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Fuel economy
  • Easy-to-use multimedia system

The bad:

  • Sluggish powertrain
  • Torque steer (FWD) and vague steering
  • Unsettled over rough pavement
  • Bland materials

3 trims

Starting msrp listed lowest to highest price

Wondering which trim is right for you?

Our 2021 Buick Encore GX trim comparison will help you decide.

See also: Find the best SUVs for 2025

Notable features

  • Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto standard
  • Small, five-seat SUV
  • Front- or all-wheel drive
  • Choice of turbo three-cylinder engines
  • CVT or nine-speed automatic transmission
  • Shares platform with 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer

2021 Buick Encore GX review: Our expert's take

What Is the 2021 Buick Encore GX?

New last year, the five-seat Encore GX is a “tweener” SUV that fits between the subcompact Encore and compact Envision in Buick’s lineup. Available with front- or all-wheel drive, the Encore GX offers a choice of three-cylinder engines: a 137-horsepower, turbocharged 1.2-liter or a 155-hp, turbocharged 1.3-liter. Front-drive models have a continuously variable automatic transmission, while all-wheel-drive versions get a nine-speed automatic. Encore GX competitors include the Mazda CX-30 and Volkswagen Taos

What’s New on the 2021 Buick Encore GX?

New standard features include satellite radio and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. 

What Features in the 2021 Buick Encore GX Are Most Important?

Standard features include:

  • 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system
  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane-keeping assist
  • Automatic high-beam headlights

Available features include:

  • Hands-free power liftgate
  • Remote start
  • Dual-zone automatic air conditioning
  • Leather-trimmed seats
  • Heated front seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Navigation
  • Bose premium stereo
  • 360-degree camera system
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Blind spot warning

Should I Buy the 2021 Buick Encore GX?

The Encore GX straddles the line between mainstream and luxury small SUVs. In some ways, thanks to its quietness and fuel-efficient drivetrains, it’s perfectly fine. However, the cabin doesn’t feel premium, and acceleration is modest.

Consumer reviews

(35 reviews)
Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.4
  • Interior 4.5
  • Performance 4.4
  • Value 4.5
  • Exterior 4.6
  • Reliability 4.4
Write a review

Most recent consumer reviews

I bought this used with 26,000 miles in the spring of

I bought this used with 26,000 miles in the spring of 2024. I love the styling, interior, and value. My only complaint is that the angle of the infotainment display can make it difficult to see due to reflections, especially in bright sunlight. I love the AWD option, it adds to stability - even in dry conditions. The remote start is handy in cold weather since I now live in an apartment and no longer have a garage. Performance with the optional engine is more than adequate.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Having fun
  • Does recommend this car
0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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ABSOULTLY LOVE THIS CAR HAS EVERYTHING YOU COULD ASK FOR.

ABSOULTLY LOVE THIS CAR HAS EVERYTHING YOU COULD ASK FOR. VERY QUIET INSIDE FEATURES FEATURES FEATURES ARE ABUNDANT I AM SO GLAD I BOUGHT THIS CAR. WE DID ALOT OF SEARCHING AND THIS WAS THE ONE WE KEPT COMING BACK TO

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 4.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Does recommend this car
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Terrible

This has been a horrible experience. Alicia‘s car my check engine light was on seven months later, and nobody could explain to me why I was on. I took it to several dealerships and I would’ve had to order a part. They finally called the recall and I got my part now I’m having problems with my brakes, my system blanked out on me like it was a video game while I was driving I would not recommend this car .

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.0
  • Interior 4.0
  • Performance 2.0
  • Value 2.0
  • Exterior 3.0
  • Reliability 1.0
  • Purchased a New car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does not recommend this car
1 person out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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See all 35 consumer reviews

Safety

Based on the 2021 Buick Encore GX base trim.
Combined side rating front seat
5
Combined side rating rear seat
5
Frontal barrier crash rating driver
5
Frontal barrier crash rating passenger
4
Overall frontal barrier crash rating
5
Overall rating
5
Overall side crash rating
5
Risk of rollover
18.5%
Rollover rating
4
Side barrier rating
5
Side barrier rating driver
5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5

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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