Lately, you may have noticed that some Buicks have a “GX” at the end of their name. While it may be confusing, that isn’t a trim – it signifies an all-new model. Take the 2021 Buick Encore GX; it’s a subcompact SUV that is roomier and has more features than the 2021 Buick Encore. For buyers who plan to use the back seat for more than kids, the GX has enough space for adults to ride comfortably, and there is versatile cargo space that expands to just over 50 cubic feet with the seats folded down (the standard Encore offers 48 cubic feet).
Lots of thought has been dedicated to interior storage in the Encore GX, with several cubbies, bins, and pockets throughout. A pleasant interior is quiet and welcoming, and the exterior has a sporty but refined appeal. There is a lot to like about the new Encore GX, and here are a few things that stand out from the rest.
1 – Luxury Features Without the High Price
Luxury is Buick’s sweet spot. There’s no denying that a Buick interior will pamper you with comfortable, adjustable seats and soft-touch materials. From the satisfying catch of the door closing to the ideal placement of the armrests, Buick knows its customers like convenience and quality. Sweeping curves on the dash and doors feel soothing, and the leather-wrapped steering wheel and leatherette trim are standard. Heated seats are available for all trims, which is a boon in cold climates, and an available heated steering wheel is appreciated when temperatures drop. Active noise cancellation serves to make the hushed interior even more insulated on the highway, as does the laminated windshield, both standard equipment.
Upper trim features like memory settings for the driver’s seat and mirrors, a head-up display that projects programmable data onto the windshield, and even humidity control are all available if you want them. One bundled package some buyers may enjoy is the rear view camera mirror and rear view camera washer combo that gives you a clear vision of everything behind you, even when your car gets dirty. While this is only the beginning, it’s a good place to begin.
2 – Wireless Smart Phone Integration Is Standard
Here is where Buick has gotten very smart with features for the Encore GX. Everyone has a smartphone these days, even folks who don’t consider themselves tech-savvy. With the inevitable trend of smartphones taking the place of so much other tech, it stands to reason that at some point, it has to become simpler to connect our phones to our vehicles. Having wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is no more difficult than having a WiFi hotspot or Bluetooth – which are both standard for the Encore GX – and it makes sense to have this feature as standard, too. Wireless charging is also part of the deal if you upgrade to the top trim.
3 – Desirable Features Available for All Trims
Car manufacturers often place certain features out of reach for entry-level trims, but even the entry-level Encore GX can be outfitted with most of the features you find on the upper trims. This makes going with the lower price point more attractive if you would like to add a feature or two you want but don’t want to pay for the higher-priced model. Then again, some features may be expensive a la carte, and you’ll be better off with the next trim level anyway. Still, the option is there to have features like remote start and a hands-free liftgate that shines a Buick logo on the ground where your foot needs to kick to open it. That’s a handy feature.
For drivers who plan to spend long hours in the car, having lumbar control can be a life-saver for your back. Buick makes it available across all trims, and it’s power-adjustable. If you love the idea of being able to link your home’s Amazon Alexa to your Buick, it’s available with a Buick Connected Services subscription, which will allow linking your Amazon account. Being able to access all the same services you use from home could come in very handy while you’re driving, like being reminded to stop at the store on your way home. Never forget milk or eggs again. For the exterior, if you love the idea of a panoramic moonroof or the black roof package that gives the Encore GX a two-tone paint job with black accents, then you’re in luck.
4 – Confident Handling
Most SUVs suffer from being top-heavy, which means they tend to “roll” when turning. When you have high-profile vehicles, this is common. Buick has managed to reduce that sensation in the Encore GX with a well-sorted suspension. The handling on the GX is enjoyable to drive with responsive steering that takes nicely to winding roads and corners, an unusual experience with an SUV. Adding the available all-wheel drive brings another layer of performance, making the Encore GX an excellent option for facing bad weather and dirt roads.
If you enjoy a quiet cabin that smooths out all the bumps on the highway and can handle a little adventure, a Buick is right up your alley. Buick doesn’t shut the door on the potential for taking weekend camping trips, however, with the option to add a trailering package that will allow your Encore GX to tow up to 1,000 pounds. It’s not much, and the lightweight allowance really is suited to a micro-camper or trailer for light equipment. But it’s still an option, at least, which makes the Encore GX just a bit more versatile than many other SUVs in its class.
5 – Standard Safety Features
Buick has expanded its list of standard safety features for the Encore GX with a full suite of advanced driver-assist technologies. All trims come standard with a set of systems that will assist the driver in stopping and steering, warn the driver to take action, and activate other automated features. Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Front Pedestrian Braking all play an active role in redirecting or assisting the driver for safety. Optional safety features that can be added include Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which provide more warnings for the driver.
There are also many convenient safety features standard. IntelliBeam automatic high beams will get brighter when the sensors detect darker conditions and then will automatically dim themselves for approaching traffic. Drivers who tend to tailgate may have to get used to being warned about getting too close to a car when the following distance indicator sets off its alarm, but it could save you from a fender-bender. Optional convenient features like HD Surround Vision for 360-degree camera views, Adaptive Cruise Control that manages speed fluctuations on the highway, and Automatic Parking Assist with Braking will take conveniences over the top.
Cars are halfway to driving themselves with most of the assistive features already available, and it won’t be long before full-self driving is here. Having your car park itself is already a convenience you can add to the Encore GX, and the future technology of more automation is right on the horizon. For now, Buick is a brand that makes luxury attainable for every driver. Everyone who wants a luxury experience can slip into the 2021 Encore GX and enjoy the good life at any trim level.
