The 2026 Buick Encore GX arrives in the compact SUV segment with a mission to blend upscale styling, everyday practicality and advanced technology in a small-footprint package. Buick positions it as a premium sub-compact crossover that still remains accessible. With a refreshed look, cabin that punches above its class and a full suite of features, the Encore GX stands out among its rivals. In this review we’ll dive into what makes it special, explore its key specs and features, discuss the pros and cons, and end with handy “how-to” tips for ownership, plus FAQs and conclusion.

Key Highlights

• Premium cabin materials and design in a compact crossover.
• Two turbocharged three-cylinder engine options (1.2L & 1.3L) offering decent efficiency.
• Strong tech & connectivity: e.g., ultrawide 11-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.
• Flexible cargo and interior space for the class: good practicality for urban and weekend use.
• Safety & driver-assistance come standard under Buick’s “Driver Confidence” suite.

Design & Styling

The 2026 Encore GX carries forward the styling cues of a premium compact crossover: a bold front grille, crisp body lines and upscale touches that elevate it beyond basic sub-compacts. Inside, Buick uses higher-quality materials and attention to detail that give it a near luxury feel in its segment. As one review put it: “its above-average interior materials and glitzy exterior styling elevate its curb appeal above more pedestrian-looking subcompact SUVs.
The cabin is quiet, thanks in part to Buick’s QuietTuning technologies, which reduce unwanted road and engine noise for a refined ride.

Performance & Powertrain

Under the hood the Encore GX offers:

• A 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine (~137 hp) paired with front-wheel drive & CVT.
• A 1.3-litre turbo three-cylinder (~155 hp, 174 lb-ft torque) which can be paired with all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic in some versions.

Driving impressions: It delivers a comfortable ride and poised handling for everyday use (especially in urban commuting and relaxed drives). According to MotorTrend:

“The 2026 Encore GX puts its best foot forward when … cruising around town … The GX even offers some trail-going capability, as well as impressive composure over rough paved surfaces.
However, acceleration is not its strong suit: AWD versions take ~8.8-9 seconds to reach 0-60 mph, which is adequate but not sporty.

Fuel economy: While efficient, it doesn’t lead the class. For example: the FWD 1.2L version achieved ~30 mpg combined, but AWD versions drop into the high-20s.

Interior, Comfort & Practicality

Inside, the Encore GX puts emphasis on comfort and usable space:

• Seating for 5, good first-row space, and usable second row for adults in this size class.
• Cargo flexibility: rear seats split 60/40, and fold flat (or nearly flat) for expanded storage. One source states “a cavernous 50 cubic feet of configurable cargo capacity” when seats folded.
• Tech amenities: standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an ultrawide 11” infotainment screen, optional panoramic power moonroof, available hands-free power liftgate.
• Premium touches: higher trims offer perforated leather seats, heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, etc.

Thus it strikes a good balance of daily usability and premium feel in this segment.

Safety & Technology

Safety is a key strength: The Encore GX includes the Buick Driver Confidence suite across trims, featuring forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist with departure warning, pedestrian braking, etc.
The tech integration is modern: the infotainment system is responsive, graphics are clean and intuitive.

Trim Levels & Features Overview

For 2026 the Encore GX is offered in multiple trims (in the U.S.) including Preferred, Sport Touring (ST), and Avenir (luxury-oriented).
Examples of what they offer:

• Preferred: entry trim, includes 1.3-litre engine option, 18” wheels, cloth/leatherette seating, etc.
• Sport Touring (ST): sporty exterior styling (gloss-black grille, 18” gloss black wheels), 1.3 L turbo + 9-speed automatic, additional design accents.
• Avenir: top luxury trim, 19” wheels, premium leather seating with Avenir embroidery, heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate, optional hands-free liftgate.

Pricing (U.S. MSRP) starts around ~$26,495 for the base Preferred (as per Buick U.S. site) for 2026.

Strengths & Weaknesses

What’s good:

• Premium look and feel in a small SUV package.
• Strong tech and connectivity features.
• Flexible, practical interior for the class.
• Quiet, comfortable ride.

What’s less ideal:

• Performance is modest – the engines are adequate but not sporty.
• Fuel economy is good but not class-leading.
• Some reviewers feel that while it aims upscale, it doesn’t quite match luxury-brand rivals in every area.

How to Get the Most Out of It

Here are some “how to” tips if you’re considering the 2026 Encore GX:

• How to choose a trim: If you want the best balance of value and features, the Sport Touring (ST) trim is often recommended (offers stronger engine, nicer wheels/styling at moderate extra cost).
• How to use cargo/folding seats: The 40/60 split rear seats plus fold-flat front passenger seat (in some trims) maximize versatility for carrying longer items. Check the specific model for the flat-folding front passenger feature.
• How to maintain ride comfort: Since the cabin aims for quiet refinement (via QuietTuning etc.), keep up regular maintenance (tyre pressures, suspension checks) to preserve the smooth ride experience.
• How to evaluate performance needs: If you do a lot of highway driving or want quicker acceleration, remember the 0-60 is ~8.8 s for AWD 1.3L version – if you want more punch, compare with alternatives
• How to get the best connectivity: Make sure to pair your phone with the wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto as soon as possible and check for any software updates – infotainment responsiveness has been praised.

FAQs

Q1: What engine options are available for the 2026 Encore GX?
A1: Two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a 1.2-litre (~137 hp) and a 1.3-litre (~155 hp) depending on trim/drive configuration.

Q2: Does the Encore GX offer all-wheel drive (AWD)?
A2: Yes, AWD is available on certain trims (typically with the 1.3-litre engine and 9-speed automatic).

Q3: What kind of infotainment and connectivity does it have?
A3: Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an ultrawide 11-inch infotainment screen on higher trims, Wi-Fi hotspot capability.

Q4: How practical is the cargo space?
A4: Very practical for its class. Rear seats fold down and you get strong utility; one source notes ~50 cubic ft when seats folded.

Q5: Is this SUV good value compared to rivals?
A5: It offers premium features for its size and price range, which gives it strong value. That said, for those prioritising sportier performance or best-in-class fuel economy, some rivals may be stronger.

Conclusion

The 2026 Buick Encore GX stands out in the compact SUV segment by offering a refined interior, high-level tech, flexible practicality and a comfortable ride—all wrapped in stylish packaging. It may not deliver the fastest acceleration or the ultra-top fuel economy, but it doesn’t aim to. Instead, it focuses on delivering a premium feel in an accessible small crossover. If you’re looking for a compact SUV that brings a little more refinement (without jumping into full luxury territory) then the Encore GX is a compelling choice.