When you think of Buick, you might still picture the brand as making vehicles primarily for an older generation. However, the 2025 Buick Encore GX is here to challenge that perception. With its modern design, updated technology, and competitive features, this small SUV is proving itself as a formidable contender in the crowded compact SUV market.
In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 2025 Buick Encore GX, including its exterior design, performance, interior features, and overall driving experience. Is it the most underrated small SUV on the market? Let’s find out.
Sleek Exterior Design
The 2025 Buick Encore GX has shed its old-fashioned image with a contemporary and stylish exterior. The front end of the vehicle is particularly striking, featuring winged LED daytime running lights that are integrated with the turn signals. These lights give the Encore GX a sophisticated and modern look. The headlights are positioned lower on the front end, and while fog lights are absent, their absence doesn’t detract from the overall design.
The front end design highlights the Tri-Shield Buick logo, which was updated in the 2024 model. The combination of chrome surround and gloss black on the front grille adds a touch of elegance to the vehicle, making it clear that this is no longer just your grandmother’s Buick.
Performance and Drive Options
The Encore GX comes with two engine options, both of which are turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The 1.3L engine, which is the focus of this review, delivers 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque.
It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the front-wheel drive model. However, if you opt for all-wheel drive, you’ll get a 9-speed automatic transmission, offering a more dynamic driving experience.
Fuel efficiency is another strong suit for the Encore GX, with the front-wheel drive model achieving 29 MPG in the city, 31 MPG on the highway, and 30 MPG combined. With a 13.2-gallon fuel tank, this SUV is economical to run, making it a practical choice for both city and highway driving.
Convenient Features for Everyday Use
Buick has packed the Encore GX with a variety of convenient features that make daily driving a breeze. The remote control provides easy access to essential functions like lock, unlock, remote start, and the power tailgate. There’s even a panic button for added security.
One feature that stands out is the passive entry system available on both the front and rear doors. This feature is especially useful for parents who need to access the back seats first, allowing you to unlock and lock all four doors from the back. The inclusion of blind spot monitoring in the side mirrors adds an extra layer of safety.
Rear Design and Tailgate Functionality
The rear of the Encore GX continues the theme of modern elegance with a rear roof spoiler, rear window wiper, and the updated Tri-Shield logo. While the 2025 model doesn’t introduce significant changes compared to its predecessor, it still maintains a fresh and appealing look.
One notable feature in the rear is the power tailgate, which can be adjusted to open at different heights. If you find that it doesn’t open all the way, simply adjust the dial from “Off” or “3/4” to “Max” to ensure full functionality.
The cargo cover is easy to remove, allowing you to maximize your cargo space, and the floor can be adjusted to increase storage height slightly, depending on your needs.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Encore GX offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin, with enough space to accommodate both the driver and passengers comfortably. The driver’s door features ample storage space, and all the standard controls are within easy reach, including power side view mirrors, power windows, and controls for the headlights and taillights.
One of the highlights of the Encore GX is its virtual cockpit, which features a total of 19 inches of screen space. This includes a 9-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11-inch center screen.
Despite the high-tech appearance, the interface is user-friendly and not overwhelming, making it easy for anyone to navigate.
For those who value safety, the Encore GX is equipped with several key features, including automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, lane change alert, and rear cross-traffic alert. While it may not have the most extensive suite of safety features, it offers enough to ensure peace of mind on the road.
Driving Experience
Driving the 2025 Buick Encore GX is a pleasant surprise. It’s not a high-performance SUV, but it handles well and provides a smooth and comfortable ride. Its compact size makes it ideal for city driving, with a tight turning radius that makes maneuvering in tight spaces easy.
The seats are comfortable, even for longer drives, and taller drivers will find enough headroom and legroom to stay comfortable. The steering wheel is both tilt and telescopically adjustable, adding to the overall comfort.
One thing that stands out about the Encore GX is how it balances technology and simplicity. It offers enough modern features to keep you connected and entertained, but not so much that it becomes overwhelming or complicated to use. For those who prefer a vehicle with just the right amount of technology, the Encore GX is an excellent choice.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Buick Encore GX may very well be the most underrated small SUV on the market today. With its stylish design, efficient performance, and thoughtful features, it offers a lot of value for its price. Whether you’re looking for a vehicle that’s easy to drive in the city, offers a comfortable ride, or just provides the right amount of technology, the Encore GX ticks all the boxes.
What do you think about the 2025 Buick Encore GX? Is it the most underrated small SUV? If you’re considering purchasing one, what trim level are you interested in, and how would you spec it out? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
