The 2018 Buick Encore is a subcompact SUV that is based on the same platform as the mainstream Chevrolet Trax. Positioned as a near-luxury model, the Encore features niceties like available dual-zone climate control, heated steering wheel and leather seating. It also features extensive sound-deadening material to provide more road isolation on the highway. Second-row legroom and cargo space are aligned with the segment, meaning fairly small. Luckily, Buick offers the larger midsize Envision and full-size Enclave in their SUV lineup.
Pros: Agility, Available Luxury Features, Quiet & Smooth Ride
Cons: Limited Second-Row Legroom, Less Fuel-Efficient Than Competition
Looks Best In: Winterfrost exterior/Brandy interior
Competition: Infiniti QX30, Volkswagen Tiguan, Subaru Crosstrek, Lexus NX, Jeep Renegade, Volvo XC40
Safety Score: The 2018 Buick Encore received an “Acceptable” rating for the passenger small front overlap crash test performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and was outperformed by some competitors.
Summary: The 2018 Buick Encore’s best asset is the smooth and comfortable ride it provides in a segment where many competitors have rough, loud and uncivilized rides over rutted surfaces. While it lacks any sporting pretenses, that isn’t part of the Buick’s mission and it fulfills its role of delivering a sense of solitude in a tidy package that’s easy to maneuver and park. The Encore has successfully taken the virtues of larger Buick models and transferred them over to a smaller design.
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[Images: Buick]
