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The 2022 Buick Encore GX, which represents the third production year of the current generation, has just arrived. Just like was expected, it brings no significant changes. Practically, the only major change is that a more powerful 1.3-liter engine is now standard in the range-topping Essence trim. Other than that, things remained pretty much the same and the overall layout isn’t much different compared to the initial model from 2019.
You may count on familiar design characteristics. This small crossover has a lot of good things to offer, starting from a pretty spacious cabin for its class. The cargo area is spacious, while we also like its composed handling. On the other hand, the biggest complaints go to things like not particularly capable powertrain options and some cheap materials on the inside.
The new model is already available on the market, with a starting price of around 25.000 dollars.
2022 Buick Encore GX Redesign
As we’ve just mentioned, the 2022 Buick Encore GX represents the third production year of the current, first generation. Therefore, it doesn’t bring any particular changes. The overall design is the same as in the initial model. This was one of the first models to use GM’s new VSS-F platform. The mechanical aspect of this crossover is pretty common, while we particularly like the suspension setup, which is on a firm side and offers pretty composed handling. For the same reason, the ride can be pretty rough sometimes, especially on pawn roads.
When it comes to the styling, there’s not much to say about this crossover. It follows the brand’s latest design language, with sleek headlights and massive grille design. Of course, this year hasn’t brought anything in particular but a mid-cycle refresh could happen already in a year or two.
Interior
The 2022 Buick Encore GX interior is a mixed bag, just like the previous model years. On one side, there is a cabin that offers plenty of passenger room, considering the segment standards. This is one of the rare subcompact crossovers that can comfortably accommodate adults in both rows. Also, the driving position is pretty good – we like the ergonomics, while visibility is good in all directions. The cargo area also features a pretty respectable volume for the class. You may count on about 23.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and a total of 50.2 cubic feet, which is more than you get from most classmates.
On the other side, the overall interior quality isn’t that impressive. Yes, you can find soft-touch materials here and there. Still, there is also a lot of surfaces that feature hard plastics and other low-rent materials, especially in the back of the cabin.
Features
The 2022 Buick Encore GX didn’t bring any particular changes regarding the standard and available equipment. Most of the things are the same as in the last year’s model. So, base versions come equipped with goodies like automatic climate control, keyless entry, push-button start, an 8-inch touch screen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a six-speaker stereo, satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hot spot, four USB ports, and Bluetooth. Additionally, you can get goodies like a moonroof, remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, air purifier, navigation, wireless charging, HD radio, 7-speaker audio system etc.
When it comes to safety, a rearview camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, and the following distance indicator are on the list of standard equipment. Additionally, you can get goodies like blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane change alert, parallel park assist, front and rear parking sensors, a surround-view parking camera system, adaptive cruise control, and a head-up display.
2022 Buick Encore Engines
Under the hood, the 2022 Buick Encore will continue with a couple of familiar three-cylinder engines in the offer. Base models use a 1.2-liter unit, which puts out around 137 horsepower. It comes in pair with a CVT gearbox and offers decent driving dynamics, good enough for daily commuting. The optional 1.3-liter engine is a bit of an upgrade. It is good for about 155 horsepower and offers slightly better acceleration and performance. The biggest advantage is that it comes in pair with a 9-speed automatic transmission and has all-wheel drive on the offer.
When it comes to fuel economy, the base engine returns around 28 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The optional engine is even more efficient and returns around 30 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
2022 Buick Encore Release Date and Price
The 2022 Buick Encore is already available in most parts of North America, with a starting price of around 25.000 dollars. Models like Mazda CX-30, Mini Countryman and Nissan Rogue Sport are some of the key competitors.
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