2021 Encore GX Essence – FWD
This week I test drove the 2021 Encore GX Essence . The highlights were the handling, comfortable interior and the overall ride experience. Encore GX is on the same platform as the Chevy Blazer. Starting at a MSRP of $24,200 and 30/32 MPG The Buick Encore offers a balance of efficiency, power and agile handling,
Exterior
Buick improved the lines on the GX and the extra 3 inches in length adds to the appearance. My test version was Chili Red Metallic and it is a great color choice for this vehicle.
The GX has crisp body lines, streamlined stance and dramatic styling.
Interior
The Whisper Beige interior color matches well with the Chili Red Metallic exterior but would look good with almost any color combo. The panoramic moonroof gives every passenger a great view and makes the interior seem more spacious.
Encore GX offers more than 50 cu. ft. of maximum cargo space with the rear seats folded, including 2.7 inches of additional cargo height with a conveniently reconfigurable cargo area floor.
I liked the shifter and heated steering wheel that can come in handy in colder weather. I definitely prefer the 8″ diagonal Buick Infotainment System with Navigation that comes with the advanced technology package.
Engine / Powertrain
The 2021 Buick Encore GX Essence comes standard with the ECOTEC 1.2L Turbo engine with a Continuous Variable Transmission. My test version had the ECOTEC 1.3L Turbo engine combined with the Continuous Variable Transmission
The ECOTEC 1.3L Turbo engine and powertrain generate 155 hp @ 5600 rpm and 174 lb-ft torque @ 1600 rpm. The Encore GX gets 30 city/32 hwy/31 combined MPG.
With the Buick Encore GX you get efficiency over power but acceleration is more than I expected from a 3 cylinder engine.
Special Options / Package
My test vehicle had the Advanced Technology Package which includes
8″ diagonal Buick Infotainment System with Navigation Adaptive Cruise Control Rear Park Assist
HD Surround Vision and Heads-Up Display. In my opinion it’s worth the extra $1,790 for this package.
My Encore GX also had the Experience Buick Package which comes with a Panoramic tilt-sliding power moonroof and 18″ Medium Android High Gloss wheels with chrome inserts. This is also something to consider as all my passengers commented on the Moonroof and how much it added to the passenger experience. The 18” wheels enhance the stance of the Encore GX.
Safety
Some notable safety features are Automatic Emergency Braking; Front Pedestrian Braking; Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning; Forward Collision Alert; Following Distance and IndicatormIntelliBeam® auto high-beam assist.
The Teen Driver Feature is something I have not seen. This configurable feature lets you activate customizable vehicle settings associated with a key fob to help encourage better driving behavior. It can limit certain vehicle features, and automatically turns on certain safety systems if the vehicle is equipped. An in-vehicle report card gives you information on driving habits and helps you to continue to coach your new driver.
Conclusion
The 2021 Buick Encore GX Essence – FWD offers a good ride and drive experience. The interior is nice and there is plenty of cargo space for the overall size. There are some great options to enhance the GX and it is worth considering if you are looking for a small SUV. The starting MSRP is $24,200 and the version I tested MSRP is $35,065.
Check out all things Buick Encore GX at the official Buick website below as follows:
https://www.buick.com/suvs/previous-year/encore-gx
