The 2022 Buick Encore GX is a more compelling sub-compact SUV than Buick’s older Encore model.
Based on a different, slightly bigger platform than the Encore, the Encore GX offers two engine choices, optional all-wheel drive (AWD), and a far more comprehensive set of safety features.
The Encore GX can also be ordered with a number of attractive packages and other features, yet the trim level pricing is on par or only a little higher than the Encore.
While Buick aspires to be seen as a premium brand, the Encore GX compares more favorably with other small SUVs from mainstream automakers rather than those from European rivals.
2022 Buick Encore GX Preferred (starting at $24,200)
The Encore GX Preferred Encore GX Preferred is presented as a 5-passenger SUV, but in reality it’s only fit to carry four adults comfortably. The extra passenger space gained over the Encore is to be found in the rear seating area.
The GX Preferred rides on 18-inch wheels and is powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine that develops a rather paltry 137 horsepower. This weak engine performance is compounded by its pairing with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) in the front-wheel drive (FWD) version. While economical, CVTs are not fun to drive and they can make the engine surge noisily while accelerating.
If you opt for the AWD GX Preferred for an extra $2,000 (the same premium for AWD as on all GX trims), then at least you get a more acceptable 9-speed automatic transmission. Importantly, the AWD GX trims also benefit from adopting a slightly larger 1.3-liter, turbocharged 3-cylinder engine. This powerplant develops 155 hp, which is better than the 1.2-liter engine output, but still nothing to write home about.
Standard across the board on all Encore GX trims is an impressive suite of safety features. This includes automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, forward collision alert, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist.
Inside, the GX Preferred has single-zone automatic climate control, 8-inch touchscreen, 4.2-inch driver info display, 6-speaker audio system, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The Encore GX is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Various packages available for the GX Preferred trim offer remote start, heated front seats, 8-way power driver seat, hands-free power tailgate, and a power moonroof.
A safety package adds the following features to the existing driver aids list: adaptive cruise control, rear park assist, blind-spot alert, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Adding in the $1,195 destination fee, the Encore GX Preferred sticker comes to $25,393. Given 3% financing over 60 months and no down payment, that would produce a monthly payment of $436. Find a Buick Encore GX Preferred for sale
2022 Buick Encore GX Preferred includes:
- Safety systems suite – Strong list of standard and available driver aids.
- Automatic climate control – New for 2022.
- AWD capability – Brings 9-speed automatic transmission vs. unpleasant CVT on FWD version.
2022 Buick Encore GX Select ($25,800)
We would lean toward the Select trim as representing the best value of the Encore GX lineup.
The Select grade makes dual-zone climate control standard, along with heated front seats, and a luggage rack. The 1.3-liter engine is available as an option on the FWD Select trim.
For an extra $1,795, an advanced technology package graces the 8-inch touchscreen with a navigation system and also adds adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera system, and a head-up display for the driver. Find a Buick Encore GX Select for sale
2022 Buick Encore GX Select includes:
- Heated front seats — Must-have for cold climate buyers.
- Dual-zone climate control — Keeps both front occupants happy.
- Adaptive cruise control — Great option for highway commuting.
2022 Buick Encore GX Essence ($28,600)
Moving up to the topline 2022 GX Essence trim brings a few extra standard frills. Among them are 8-way front passenger power-adjustable seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated steering wheel, and LED tail lights.
The 1.3-liter engine becomes standard on both FWD and AWD versions of the Essence trim.
A convenience package available on the Essence grade adds automatic parking assist with braking, a rear camera mirror, and wireless phone charging.
A further option is a 7-speaker Bose audio system. Find a Buick Encore GX Essence for sale
2022 Buick Encore GX Essence includes:
- Standard 1.3-liter engine – Both FWD and AWD versions get bigger engine.
- Heated steering wheel – Nice to have in cold weather.
- Bose sound system – Pleasing optional audio upgrade.
