Come the year 2021, Buick decides to squash its whole sedan lineup, and let the SUVs run the show. The 2021 Buick Encore, is On-Sale now. Priced at an MSRP of $24,195, the trims have been cut down to the Base, and the $25,595 Preferred variant. Available in both FWD and AWD, (which costs an extra $600), the 2021 Encore gets a 1.4L turbocharged 138 hp-setup.
Having said that, fairly new features like Advanced infotainment system, Stabilitrak, Quiettuning technology, Remote starting, etc have been added to the 2021 Buick Encore. But does it help the Encore fare up to the mark as some of the other SUV competitors such as the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3, and the Hyundai Kona? Let's find out.
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Ratings
Pricing And Features
7.5
Maintenance, Reliability And Warranty
8.0
Engine And Performance
8.0
Fuel Economy
8.0
Interior
7.0
Exterior
8.0
Safety
9.0
Competition
8.5
8.0
OVERALL RATING
Expert Review, Pricing Analysis and Buying Guide
8.0
Overall Rating
Available in over 2 trim variants, the 1SV, and the Preferred, prices for these range from an MSRP of $24,195 - $25,595. Standard across the trim lineup, the powertrain department gets a minor treatment, with the 153-hp version getting squashed completely to make way for a standard but seriously underpowered 138 hp 1.4L turbocharged engine.
Also, the 2021 Buick Encore will be incorporating forward collision alert, safety II package, Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and Sirius XM satellite radio as standard. There is another set of newly added colors and components like QuietTuning technology, power moon-roof, premium LED lighting, head-turning wheels, and personalized and powerful ride experience with the Buick infotainment system.
Even in an increasingly competitive segment of subcompact SUVs, there are aspects of this little Buick that stand out - MOTORTREND
2021 Buick Encore SUV Front View
2021 Buick Encore SUV Rear View
7.5/10 Pricing and Features
8.0/10 Engine and Performance
8.0/10 Fuel Economy
7.0/10 Interior
8.0/10 Exterior
9.0/10 Safety
8.5/10 Competition
2021 Buick Encore Pricing and Features
7.5/10
The 2021 Buick Encore will come in two trim levels, instead of the 4 trims that were a part of the Encore lineup until 2020 -1SV and the top-level Preferred are the trims in question. It is reported to have a price ranging from MSRP $24,195 for the 1SV variant, which goes all the way up to MSRP $25,595 for the Preferred variant in the FWD setup.
Moreover, you can opt for an AWD setup too with the Preferred trim, at a premium of $600, on top of the MSRP. Both the trims of the Encore are powered by the same 1.4L turbocharged Inline-4 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
Trim
Base
Preferred
MSRP (FWD)
$24,195
$25,595
MSRP (AWD)
N/A
$26,215
Features
An 8-inch advanced infotainment touchscreen
All 1SV features included and these-
Apple CarPlay
Remote start
Android Auto
Sunroof
Keyless entry with push-button ignition
Leatherette upholstery
4G LTE Wi-FI hotspot
120-volt power outlet
8-inch touchscreen setup
With no resemblance whatsoever to the trims of the past, Buick has made the 2021 Encore out of sheer ergonomics. Moving up the trim levels, the crossover, Encore gets much more plush interior features and safety tech. Speaking of the various safety and driver-assistant features on offer, the 2021 Buick Encore comes with 2 external safety packages-
Packages
Safety Package
Safety Package II
Features
Blind-spot monitoring
Forward Collision alert
Rear cross-traffic alert
Lane Departure warning
Front and rear parking sensors
Rain-sensing wipers
Apart from the safety tech being included in the 2021 Encore, two new exterior shades, going by the name of Dark Moon Blue Metallic and Cinnabar Metallic are the only changes being brought about for the year 2021.
With Buick having downsized its trim lineup to the Base and Preferred trims, our recommendation would be for you to go for the 2021 Buick Encore Preferred variant, which would set you back by an MSRP of $25,595. The Preferred variant of the Encore still offers great safety features that quantify the value-based proposition remark quite perfectly. Moreover, with the new safety packages on point, the Preferred trim is the best of both worlds, and thus makes the 2021 Buick Encore a practical, luxurious, and highly responsive SUV, which is well worth the price.
Its engine is adequate for scooting around town but borders on feeling underpowered as it buzzes the little ute up to speed - MOTORTREND
The 2021 Buick Encore comes equipped with the only engine option available for 2021, a 1.4L turbocharged engine that churns out 138 hp and 148 lb-ft. Peak torque is achieved in the lower rev band itself thanks to its potent turbocharged engine. Opt for the Preferred trim, and the standard 6-speed automatic transmission is more than willing to send all the power to all of its wheels for a rigorous acceleration and inspiring driving experience in the Encore.
The 2021 Buick Encore can hit 60 MPH from a standstill in just 9.0 seconds. Moreover, it sports the same set of brakes as that of the 2020 model. It's 11.8-inch front brake rotors and 10.6-inch rear brake rotors are expected to bring in the hefty 1.6-ton 2021 Buick Encore to a complete standstill from 60 MPH in just 126 ft.
Models
2021 Buick Encore
2021 Mazda CX-3
2021 Honda HR-V
2021 Hyundai Kona
MSRP
$24,195
$21,685
$22,000
$20,400
Engine
1.4L turbocharged Inline-4 engine
2.0L Inline-4
1.8L NA Inline-4
2.0L GDI 4-cylinder
Transmission
6-speed shiftable automatic
FWD
FWD
FWD
Drivetrain
FWD
6-Speed shiftable automatic
CVT
6-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic
Power
138 hp @ 4900 RPM
148 hp @ 6000 RPM
141 hp @ 6500 RPM
147 hp @ 6200 RPM
Torque
148 lb-ft @ 1850 RPM
146 lb-ft @ 2800 RPM
127 lb-ft @ 4300 RPM
132 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM
0-60 MPH
9.0 sec
8.6 secs
9.3 secs
9.2 secs
Quarter mile
16.4 sec
16.3 secs
16.8 secs
16.8 secs
Top speed
120 MPH
120 MPH
125 MPH
127 MPH
Speaking of the handling features like steering and suspension setup, Buick Encore will be coming with a front independent suspension and a stabilizer bar. Also, along with this to provide you more confidence on icy, wet, or uneven roads, Buick Encore is already planning to assimilate and provide you with 'Stabilitrak' which automatically intervenes when it senses the loss of control.
The 2021 Buick Encore stands to deliver 26 MPG in the city and 31 MPG out on the highway for the FWD setup, although when you opt for the $600 extra AWD setup, the figures face a minor decline of 1 MPG throughout. The vehicle has the biggest fuel tank capacity of 14 gallons, which goes onto show that, despite having some average MPG figures, the Encore can cover far longer distances between fuel-stops than the rest of the segment can achieve.
Although, the 2021 Buick Encore is tremendously economical if you ask us. With a minimal of 6.3 tons of CO2 emitted per year, it is also slightly more eco-friendly and is relatively good for the environment too.
Model
2021 Buick Encore
2021 Mazda CX-3
2021 Honda HR-V
2021 Hyundai Kona
MPG(City)
26
29
26
27
MPG(Hwy)
31
34
32
33
MPG(combined)
28
31
28
30
Fuel capacity
14 gallons
12.7 gallons
13.2 gallons
13.2 gallons
Range (City/ Highway/ Combined)
350/420/378 miles
368.3/431.8/393.7 miles
356/435/369 miles
369.6/422.4/392 miles
Emissions (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15k mi/yr)
6.3
5.7
6.3
5.9
Honda's subcompact SUV, the HR-V is quite the fuel-efficient choice for the $22,000 price-point and the engine option, it is being offered with. Mazda CX-3, on the other hand, stands last in this comparison, with the smallest fuel-tank of the lot, nevertheless on the top of the list when it comes to outright MPG figures.
Within the Encore's compact body lies an interior that is very nearly premium save for a few missteps - CAR AND DRIVER
The 2021 Buick Encore receives quite a bit of subtle tweaks on the inside. The 2021 Buick Encore offers a decent standard dashboard area and interior space. The interior cabin is sumptuous, with the seats having enough space to seat 5 average-sized adults comfortably. Even with the shortest wheelbase of the lot, it still manages to pack in decent space in crossover standards.
With only two trims this time around, the seats are draped in leather on both of them, with the front seats, having electronically adjustable settings, and moreover, it also comes with a heated steering wheel, this time around. Nevertheless, the 2021 Buick Encore reportedly deals with all of the previous iterations' shortcomings, by having an astonishing 8" diagonal Buick infotainment system with a touch screen, and voice-activated capabilities.
Models
2021 Buick Encore
2021 Mazda CX-3
2021 Honda HR-V
2021 Hyundai Kona
Seating capacity
5
5
5
5
Front row (headroom/shoulder-room/legroom) (in)
39.6/54.2/40.8
38.4/53.5/41.7
39.5/56.8/38.3
39.6/55.5/41.5
Rear row (headroom/shoulder-room/legroom) (in)
38.8/52.5/35.8
37.2/50.4/35.0
38.3/54.5/39.3
37.8/54.5/34.6
Cargo Capacity (cu.ft)
19.0
17.8
24.3
19.2
Personalized and powerful connected ride experience by featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto compatibility, a trial version of Sirius XM satellite radio, and an optional Premium Bose 7-Speaker audio system to give you a concert-like experience will be added as standard features on the 2021 Buick Encore from now on. Along with this, it is reported that the 2021 Encore will also come with a built-in high speed reliable 4G LTE wi-fi hotspot and 2 or more USB ports with the auxiliary input jack.
The Encore's near luxury amenities make it a vehicle worth considering - cars.usnews
Both the basic 2021 Encore and the 2021 Encore GX, are on the receiving end of the minor yet much needed exterior update. The sleek and sculpted exterior front of the 2021 Buick Encore along with the athletic hood lines, give it a slight aerodynamic feel, and the signature lights give it a much more astounding look when compared to its rivals.
Crisp cuts and creases make up a large portion of the crossover, with a long hard beltline rising gradually to the rear end, and flowing into the taillights. Moreover, when you equip the Base and the Encore GX model with the Sport Touring package, you get a gloss-black painted roof and very appealing 18-inch gloss wheels.
Models
2021 Buick Encore
2021 Mazda CX-3
2021 Honda HR-V
2021 Hyundai Kona
Curb weight(Ibs)
3237
2932
2906
3126
Length(in)
168.4
168.3
170.4
164
Width(in)
70.1
69.6
69.8
70.9
Height(in)
65.3
60.7
63.2
61.6
Ground clearance(in)
6.2
6.1
7.3
6.7
Wheelbase(in)
100.6
101.2
102.8
102.4
The dimensions of the 2021 Buick Encore have also changed. It now houses the shortest wheelbase in the segment. Although, fret not, as the effect is minimal in the interior.
Some of the exterior features included in the 2021 Buick Encore are-
The Buick's weak powertrain holds it back, however, as many class rivals offer more powerful engines - cars.usnews
Straight-out Buick has equipped the 2021 Encore with the most advanced and best-in-class features known to a crossover of its caliber. Buick has always done well when it comes to reliability and resonating with that same aspect, the 2020 Buick Encore is rated high enough in crash-test safety, with the IIHS awarding the Encore with an overall rating of "Good" in terms of safety.
The 2021 Buick Encore has taken it up a notch with its feature list. Come the year 2021, a plethora of driver-assistance features that were optional earlier are from now on standard in the 2021 Encore, with the complete focus edged on the passengers' safety.
Safety measures included in the 2021 Buick Encore are-
Side blind zone alert
Lane Departure warning
Front and rear parking sensors
Rear cross-traffic alert
LATCH
Stabilitrak
Tire pressure monitoring system
Rain sensing wipers
Forward collision alert system
2021 Buick Encore Competition
8.5/10
2021 Buick Encore vs 2021 Mazda CX-3
The Mazda CX-3, although a fairly new contender, in this highly contested segment, gives the Encore, a well-seasoned player a run for its money. It is subsequently better than the 2021 Encore, in a majority of the performance criteria.
But Mazda CX-3, on the other hand, may have an interior that may feel a bit outdated and bland even for a wholesome family's taste. Fuel-efficiency wise too, Mazda takes the cake this time around. So if we had to recommend one, we'd whole-heartedly recommend the 2021 Mazda CX-3.
2021 Buick Encore vs 2021 Honda HR-V
With a much more powerful and potent powertrain, the 2021 HR-V races ahead of the Encore, with even better proportions. The only thing where it fails to impress, is in the ride and handling part, as the Encore has a much better driving stance, with an even better and graceful driving dynamics.
As the Honda manages to beat the Encore in terms of fuel-efficiency, it also manages to zoom past it in terms of performance prowess. So to sum it up, the 2021 Buick Encore does not stand a chance against the all-new 2021 Honda HR-V.
2021 Buick Encore Final Verdict
According to the reported specs and varied feature list for the 2021 Buick Encore, it is sure that the new one will be a more attractive offering than the 2020 Encore in every which way possible. The Pros are good enough to hook you onto this car, but the wide list of Cons prove out to overthrow the 2021 Encore quite a bit when compared to its major rivals.
Even with a limitless safety feature list backing the 2021 Encore, there are much better cars in the market that would rather suit you, with their subtle appeal. So you should maybe consider your options before straightaway opting for the 2021 Buick Encore, whose only change for the year is two new exterior shades.
There was a midcycle refresh for 2017 that added styling revisions and infotainment upgrades but for the most part, this is the same Encore that's been on the market for eight years now - MOTORTREND
Does the 2021 Buick Encore have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, the 2021 Buick Encore gets Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features.
Which is bigger, the Buick Encore, or the Buick Enclave?
Buick Enclave is the bigger crossover out of the two, with bigger proportions, powertrain, better and bigger power figures, and MPG figures for that matter.
Does it come in an AWD setup?
Yes, the 2021 Buick Encore comes in an AWD setup, although only optional in the Preferred trim. It comes at a premium of $1,500 on top of the MSRP.
What other sub-compact SUVs can the Buick Encore be compared to?
The sub-compact SUV segment is filled with note-worthy SUVs. The Buick Encore shows off its might against some of the other seasoned players in the market such as the Mazda CX-3, Honda HR-V, and the Hyundai Kona.
Pros - Easy to drive, easy to park, easy to maintain
Cons - Noisy, stiff ride quality
Is is any good? There are two major issues I have come across in my time with Encore and those are- the road noise and the stiff ride quality. Apart from them, it has been an absolute blast to drive or to own in general. My wife loves it. It is easy to drive and turn. Has tons of space to store the groceries. The seats are comfortable and the vehicle as a whole is quite safe. The children also like the Buick a lot. The salesman was really friendly and helpful. They were very welcoming of me and offered me a coffee. Plus, the whole presses didn't take that long. I was in and out with my car in a matter of hours.
Pros - Smooth transmission, taillight design, and illumination, excellent handling
Cons - No cup holders at the back
Smooth and responsive I absolutely love my new Encore. It has been an absolutely fantastic experience so far. Everything about it is been amazing. It is comfortable, powerful, quiet, and a JOY to ride! Plus, the cabin has an adequate amount of room to stretch the body! And because of big windows, the interior feels roomy and airy. The cargo space, on the other hand, is a little small. And there are no cup holders in the back. Everyone was very nice to work with. The whole process was very easy and straightforward. The people there were very calm and patient and didn’t rush me one bit.
Cons - Too much repairs. Outdated infotainment. Tight on space.
Bad experience! I have this Buick Encore in my garage for over 3 years now. It is a good car for running daily errands in the city and is mostly used by my wife. It has been futile in terms of reliability though. The Encore feels having spent more time in a repair shop than my garage in the past six months. There has been dozen of repairs from rattling noises to sensor failures. The only silver lining is the low cost and easy availability of GM spares. Also, the Encore isn't for someone who would extensively use the rear seats. They barely fit full-size adults because of limited legroom and three of them together in the bench seat is surely a crunch! The Encore has been my second purchase from Elite Motors. Personally knowing the owner has its own perks. It was a very fair and reasonable deal for the Encore. Highly recommend the place for great deals and financing options!
