2020 Buick Encore GX Review

No, it's not a trim level of the Buick Encore. The 2020 Buick Encore GX is a new, small two-row SUV that will slot in between the existing Encore and larger Envision SUVs in Buick's lineup. Visually, the Encore GX fits pretty seamlessly between its siblings. But with 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space, its utility comes a bit closer to the compact Envision (at about 27 cubic feet). We don't have final dimensions for the Encore GX, but that cargo space suggests it will be on the larger end of the spectrum.

But one place the Encore GX opts for small is its engines, with either a turbocharged 1.2-liter engine or an optional turbocharged 1.3-liter. No word on the output of the former yet, but the latter is said to produce 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is estimated at 31 mpg combined, which would make the Encore GX a pretty efficient choice among small luxury SUVs.

Buick is also packing plenty of safety tech into the Encore GX, in a departure from its siblings. Currently, quite a few active safety features don't come standard on the Envision or the Encore. But the Encore GX offers forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking, pedestrian braking, and lane keeping assist as standard features. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and a rearview camera mirror will be available upgrades as well.

We don't have final pricing yet, but we expect the 2020 Buick Encore GX to start under $30,000, which would make it more affordable than most extra-small luxury SUVs. Our current top pick in the segment is the BMW X1, which offers more cargo space and more power, with a 27.1-cubic-foot trunk and 228 hp. Yet while the Encore GX won't match the power of most other competitors, if its predicted mileage is accurate it will be noticeably more efficient.

The Lexus UX 200 comes with standard active safety features and a powertrain that emphasizes efficiency over power. But the Lexus is a little closer to the old Encore in terms of utility, and the UX 200 starts over $30,000.