2026 Buick Encore GX
Drivers looking for a practical vehicle for their daily commute are drawn to the subcompact SUV class. These vehicles combine the fuel economy of compact cars with the roominess and versatility of an SUV. However, not all subcompact SUVs are the same. If you want a level of luxury and advanced technology, then you should consider making the 2026 Buick Encore GX your next vehicle.
The Encore GX was introduced in 2020, giving drivers a subcompact SUV with a difference. In addition to efficient performance and a versatile design, the Encore GX offers luxurious appointments, a unique exterior appearance, and advanced safety and infotainment technology that help it stand out in its class.
With a starting price of $26,200, this model offers unique value for drivers looking for more from their small SUV.[a] Buick offers the 2026 Encore GX in three trims, starting with the Preferred and Sport Touring, and culminating in the top-of-the-line Avenir. This gives you the options you need to choose a Buick Encore GX that is right for you.
Power and Performance
Engine Choices
Buick offers the 2026 Encore GX with two engines. The top trims, Sport Touring and Avenir, come standard with a 1.3L ECOTEC I-3 gas engine and front-wheel drive (FWD), while the starting trim, Preferred, comes with a smaller 1.2L ECOTEC I-3 gas engine. However, if you opt for a Preferred trim with all-wheel drive, your Encore GX will feature the larger 1.3L engine.
The 1.2L ECOTEC I-3 engine delivers up to 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. However, for drivers looking for more power, the 1.3-liter ECOTEC I-3 delivers up to 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. As a result, the Encore GX Preferred with FWD delivers slightly better fuel economy with its smaller engine, but it doesn’t offer the same speed or acceleration as trims equipped with the larger engine.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Interestingly, the transmission in your 2026 Encore GX depends on the drivetrain you choose. Buick gives you the option of FWD for better fuel economy and all-wheel drive (AWD) for improved traction, especially in inclement weather.
Trims equipped with FWD come with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Rather than having a set of distinct gear speeds, a CVT adjusts seamlessly through an infinite range of performance ratios, keeping the engine running at its optimal efficiency zone. If you choose AWD, then your engine will come paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
The 2026 Encore GX is one of the most economical models in its vehicle class. This is why it is a great option for drivers looking to get to work while saving on gas. The best part is that, with the Encore GX’s luxurious appointments and comfortable interior, you can enjoy the ride without compromising efficiency.
The most fuel-efficient trim of the 2026 Buick Encore GX is Preferred when equipped with FWD. This gets up to 30 MPG combined, with a very impressive 30 MPG in city driving. Other FWD trims of the Encore GX with the larger 1.3-liter ECOTEC engine also average 30 MPG combined, but are slightly less efficient in city driving with a fuel economy of 29 MPG. If you opt for an AWD trim, you will still get a solid 27 MPG combined.
Acceleration and Handling
While you won’t win any races in a 2026 Encore GX, the vehicle still has sufficient speed and acceleration for merging onto a busy highway during rush hour. Trims with the 1.3-liter ECOTEC engine can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 8.8 seconds, with a top speed of 120 mph. This is why the Encore GX is a solid choice for commuters, as it can cruise at highway speeds with ease.
Interior Comfort and Versatility
When people think of subcompact SUVs, roominess is rarely a word they associate with the class. However, the 2026 Buick Encore GX delivers a surprising amount of interior space, with enough room for up to five passengers, and a trunk that will come in handy on your next shopping trip to the mall.
Passenger Comfort
When you slide behind the wheel of the Encore GX, you will be greeted by a surprisingly roomy interior. The designers at Buick have done an excellent job maximizing passenger space without making the Encore GX bulky or difficult to maneuver. They’ve also distributed passenger space well between the front and rear seats, providing a balanced amount of room in both rows.
For example, front-row passengers have 40.9 inches of legroom and 55.42 inches of shoulder room, while those seated in the back will enjoy 36.01 inches of legroom and 53.61 inches of shoulder room. This is enough room for everyone to stretch out, even on long road trips.
Buick has given the interior a very luxurious styling. The Preferred trim features cloth and leatherette seats, while the Sport Touring trim features leatherette seats with the ST logo embroidered into the front seat headrests.
The top-trim Avenir has perforated leather-upholstered seats, with the Avenir logo embroidered on the front seats as well. No matter which trim you choose, you’ll find a comfortable, stylish interior.
Cargo Capacity
The 2026 Encore GX has a very large trunk for all your belongings. When you open the liftgate, you will find 23.5 cu.ft. of space. This is plenty of room for your groceries or luggage when you take the Encore GX on a road trip. If you need more space, the 60/40 split bench in the back easily folds down, freeing up an impressive 50.8 cu.ft. for your cargo.
The Avenir trim offers an available hands-free power liftgate. While holding the keyfob, stand behind your vehicle and make a slight kicking motion to open the trunk. This will come in handy when your hands are full with packages.
Advanced Technology and Connectivity
Buick has always been at the forefront of technological innovation, and this is certainly true of the 2026 Encore GX. This model comes equipped with standard features that will keep you and your passengers safe, connected, and entertained wherever you go.
Comprehensive Safety Features
The 2026 Encore GX received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Each year, the NHTSA conducts a series of safety tests on most passenger vehicles sold in America, with the top performers earning a five-star rating. This is because Buick prioritizes standard safety features and technology across its lineup, including the Encore GX.
The Encore GX is equipped with a comprehensive airbag system designed to protect passengers in the event of a collision. However, the key to safety is avoiding accidents, which is why every 2026 Encore GX comes with the standard Buick Driver Confidence package. This set of active driver assistance systems will detect potential hazards on the road and alert you so you can take evasive action. At the same time, autonomous features help you avoid a collision.
The Following Distance Indicator will let you know if you are driving too close to the vehicle in front of you. If the other vehicle suddenly stops, the Forward Collision Alert will sound, and the Automatic Emergency Braking will bring your Encore GX to a safe stop or reduce your speed to mitigate damage in an unavoidable collision. It even has a Front Pedestrian Braking system that works similarly to prevent accidents involving cyclists and pedestrians.
One of the most common causes of highway accidents involves lane changes. The standard Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert will help you change lanes safely in your Encore GX. When you signal to change lanes, the system will let you know if another vehicle is in the adjacent lane so that you can avoid a collision.
Similarly, drifting into adjacent lanes can also cause accidents. A momentary distraction, such as looking at your navigation or talking on the phone, can cause your vehicle to drift out of its lane. The Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning will let you know if your Encore GX is drifting into an adjacent lane unintentionally, while using slight steering adjustments to get you back on the straight and narrow.
Infotainment and Entertainment
The 2026 Buick Encore GX features an ultrawide 11-inch diagonal HD color touchscreen display. This will make navigating through your favorite apps or simply following a navigation app easier than ever. All you have to do is connect your smartphone using wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The wireless feature is a benefit since you can use the system even if you left your charging cables at home.
The infotainment system connects to the Encore GX’s standard audio system. Buick has done an impressive job of strategically placing the speakers throughout the vehicle’s cabin, delivering exceptional sound. You can find plenty of USB ports placed throughout the cabin so all passengers can charge their devices.
You get a trial period for SiriusXM, with the finest selection of music, sports, and news to listen to. Through an OnStar subscription, you can also get access to Wi-Fi hotspot capability to stay connected wherever the road may lead you.
Your Local Buick Dealership for the 2026 Buick Encore GX
Jim Ellis Buick GMC Mall of Georgia is the place to find the 2026 Buick Encore GX. We are an authorized Buick dealership with a great selection of 2026 Encore GX models, including all trims.
Every customer we serve receives the Jim Ellis Promise, our commitment to giving you the finest customer service you have ever experienced. Our team will take the time to get to know you, treating you like family, giving you the respect you deserve, and understanding that your time is valuable.
Come in today and see why your next SUV should be a 2026 Buick Encore GX from us!