2025 Buick Encore GX: A Stylish and Sophisticated Subcompact Crossover

The subcompact crossover segment is a battleground of practicality, affordability, and style. Standing out requires a blend of all three, plus a dash of something extra. The 2025 Buick Encore GX aims to do just that, positioning itself as a more premium offering within the crowded field. Building upon the refresh it received in 2024, the 2025 Encore GX continues to refine its formula of upscale design, comfortable features, and a surprisingly engaging driving experience.

Exterior Elegance: A Design That Punches Above Its Weight

The 2025 Encore GX carries over the significant styling updates from the previous model year, and that's a good thing. The front fascia is dominated by Buick's new signature grille, a sleek and wide design that emphasizes the vehicle's width and gives it a more planted stance. The sharply angled LED headlights, integrated seamlessly with the grille, contribute to a modern and sophisticated look. The overall impression is one of premium design, a departure from the often-bland aesthetics found in the subcompact segment.

The body lines are sculpted and flowing, giving the Encore GX a sense of motion even when stationary. The available Sport Touring (ST) package adds unique design elements, including a blacked-out grille, body-color accents, and distinctive wheels, further enhancing the vehicle's sporty appeal. Avenir, the top trim, adds exclusive mesh grille and clear lens tailights. The rear of the vehicle features sleek LED taillights and a subtle integrated spoiler, completing the refined and cohesive design. This isn't just a "cute" crossover; it's a genuinely stylish vehicle that can hold its own in any setting.

Interior Comfort and Technology: A Premium Cabin Experience

Stepping inside the 2025 Encore GX reveals an interior that prioritizes comfort and technology. The centerpiece is the updated infotainment system, featuring a large, crisp touchscreen display that's seamlessly integrated into the dashboard. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, providing effortless smartphone connectivity. The intuitive interface and responsive touch controls make navigating the system a breeze. A digital instrument cluster, another significant upgrade from the previous generation, provides clear and customizable information to the driver.

The materials used throughout the cabin feel surprisingly upscale for the segment. Soft-touch plastics, available leather upholstery, and thoughtful design details create a premium atmosphere. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on longer journeys. While the Encore GX is a subcompact, the interior space is well-utilized. Front passengers will find ample headroom and legroom, and while the rear seats are best suited for two adults, they offer reasonable comfort for shorter trips.

The Avenir trim takes the interior luxury to the next level, with features like quilted leather seats, a premium Bose audio system, and unique interior trim accents. This top-tier trim truly elevates the Encore GX into a near-luxury experience.

Performance and Driving Dynamics: Efficient and Engaging

The 2025 Encore GX offers two engine choices, both turbocharged three-cylinder options. The standard engine is a 1.2-liter unit that delivers a respectable 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and is primarily focused on fuel efficiency. While not a powerhouse, it provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving.

For those seeking a bit more pep, the available 1.3-liter turbocharged engine is the better choice. It bumps the output to 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. This engine is also available with all-wheel drive (AWD), paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The AWD system provides added confidence and traction in inclement weather. The 1.3-liter engine with AWD offers a noticeably more spirited driving experience, making the Encore GX feel surprisingly agile and responsive.

Regardless of the engine chosen, the Encore GX offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road, and the cabin remains relatively quiet, even at highway speeds. The steering is light and precise, making the Encore GX easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind Comes Standard

Buick has equipped the 2025 Encore GX with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, known as the Buick Driver Confidence package. This includes:

• Automatic Emergency Braking: Can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate the impact.
• Forward Collision Alert: Warns the driver of a potential front-end collision.
• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane and alerts the driver if they begin to drift unintentionally.
• Front Pedestrian Braking: Detects pedestrians in front of the vehicle and may automatically apply the brakes.
• Following Distance Indicator: Displays the gap time between your vehivle and the one you follow.
• IntelliBeam Auto High Beams: It can automatically turn the vehicle's high beam headlamps on and off according to surrounding traffic conditions.

Additional available safety features include Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, and Adaptive Cruise Control, further enhancing driver awareness and safety.

Pricing and Trim Levels: Something for Everyone

The 2025 Buick Encore GX is offered in three trim levels: Preferred, Sport Touring (ST), and Avenir.

• Preferred: The base trim offers a well-equipped package with the standard safety features, the updated infotainment system, and a comfortable interior.
• Sport Touring (ST): Adds sporty styling elements, unique wheels, and some additional features.
• Avenir: The top-of-the-line trim offers the ultimate in luxury and features, including exclusive interior and exterior accents, a premium audio system, and additional driver-assistance technologies.

Pricing will vary depending on the chosen trim level and optional equipment, but the Encore GX generally starts in a competitive range within the subcompact crossover segment, offering a good value proposition for its level of refinement and features.

The Verdict: A Compelling Choice in a Crowded Segment

The 2025 Buick Encore GX stands out in the subcompact crossover segment by offering a blend of stylish design, a premium interior, a comfortable ride, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. It's a vehicle that feels more upscale than its price tag might suggest, making it an attractive option for buyers who want a small, efficient crossover without sacrificing style or comfort. While it's not the sportiest or most spacious option in its class, the Encore GX delivers a well-rounded package that's sure to appeal to a wide range of drivers. It's a compelling choice for those seeking a touch of luxury in a practical and affordable package.