The 2025 Buick Encore GX is making waves in the sub-luxury SUV market, aiming to offer a premium experience without breaking the bank. Coming off a recent refresh, this compact SUV boasts updated styling, enhanced technology, and a focus on value. For those in the market for a smaller SUV that punches above its weight class, the Encore GX is definitely one to consider. But with so many options available, how does the 2025 Buick Encore GX stack up? This in-depth review dives into the pros and cons of the latest Encore GX, helping you decide if it’s the right choice for your needs.
What’s New for the 2025 Buick Encore GX?
While the 2024 model year saw a significant revamp, the 2025 Buick Encore GX introduces more subtle updates. Notably, models equipped with the 1.2-liter engine now boast E85 fuel compatibility, offering drivers more fuel options. However, it’s worth noting that fuel economy does take a dip when running on E85, dropping to 22-23 mpg compared to the 30-31 mpg achieved with standard gasoline.
Aesthetically, the color palette welcomes a new Aquamarine Blue, while Sunrise Red Metallic and White Frost Tricoat are no longer available for the Preferred or ST trims. The Avenir trim shown in these images, however, still offers the striking Cinnebar Red, alongside a new Copper Ice Metallic option, exclusive to the top-tier trim. Other changes are primarily accessory-focused, including options like bright chrome lug nuts and an Ebony interior for the ST trim.
Across the entire 2025 Buick Encore GX range, remote start now comes as standard equipment, adding a touch of convenience to every model.
Front view of a red 2025 Buick Encore GX Avenir showcasing its updated grille and headlights
Side profile of a red 2025 Buick Encore GX Avenir highlighting its compact SUV dimensions
Rear angle of a red 2025 Buick Encore GX Avenir displaying its taillight design and badging
The Positives: Styling, Technology, and Cabin Comfort
One of the strongest aspects highlighted in Buick Encore GX reviews is its refreshed styling. The update has successfully elevated its appearance, aligning it with Buick’s larger SUV siblings like the Envision and Enclave. The more assertive front fascia, modern Buick tri-shield emblem, and refined taillights contribute to a more sophisticated and contemporary aesthetic. It’s a noticeable step up from the pre-refresh model, helping the Encore GX stand out in a crowded segment.
Inside, the 2025 Buick Encore GX continues to impress with its blend of style and user-friendly ergonomics. Positioned above mainstream competitors like the Toyota Corolla Cross, Honda HR-V, and Nissan Kicks, the Buick offers a more upscale ambiance. While some lower sections of the dashboard still feature black plastic, the materials you interact with most frequently – like the leather and switchgear – feel substantial and pleasant to the touch. A standout feature across all Encore GX trims is the inclusion of dual 11-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, a feature usually reserved for higher-priced vehicles.
Standard features are another area where the Buick Encore GX shines. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and essential driver-assistance technologies like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist are all included right from the base model. This generous list of standard equipment adds significant value to the Encore GX proposition.
Interior view of the 2025 Buick Encore GX Avenir showcasing its dual screens and leather seats
Close-up of the 2025 Buick Encore GX Avenir infotainment screen displaying navigation
Detail of the 2025 Buick Encore GX Avenir dashboard highlighting the climate controls and trim materials
Steering wheel and instrument cluster view of the 2025 Buick Encore GX Avenir showing the heated steering wheel feature
Front seats of the 2025 Buick Encore GX Avenir illustrating the comfortable and spacious interior
Optional upgrades further enhance the experience, with features like wireless smartphone charging, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree surround-view camera system, and rear park assist available across the trim levels. Even the top-of-the-line Avenir trim can be further enhanced with convenience and technology packages. For those needing to tow, the Encore GX offers a modest towing capacity of up to 1,000 pounds.
Ride comfort is another area where the 2025 Buick Encore GX receives positive Buick Encore GX reviews. Despite its compact size, the cabin provides a surprisingly spacious feel. Front passengers enjoy a generous 40.9 inches of legroom, while rear passengers get a respectable 36 inches. Cargo space is also competitive for the class, offering 50.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down and 23.5 cubic feet with them in place.
Rear seats and cargo area of the 2025 Buick Encore GX Avenir demonstrating passenger and luggage space
Areas for Improvement: Performance and Fuel Efficiency
While the 2025 Buick Encore GX excels in many areas, performance and fuel economy are points that warrant closer examination in Buick Encore GX reviews. Compared to rivals like the Mazda CX-30, which offers a potent 2.5-liter turbo engine, the Encore GX’s 1.3-liter engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, feels less dynamic. While adequate for city driving, the engine can feel strained, particularly in all-wheel-drive configurations.
Fuel economy figures for the front-wheel-drive models are EPA-rated at 29 city / 31 highway / 30 combined mpg. All-wheel-drive models see a drop to 26 city / 28 highway / 27 combined mpg. While not terrible, these numbers are merely “okay” for a small SUV with a small engine marketed for efficiency. Competitors, like the Mazda CX-30, offer comparable or even better fuel economy alongside more powerful engine options. The need to push the accelerator harder to achieve decent acceleration in the Encore GX can also negatively impact real-world fuel consumption.
Center console button in the 2025 Buick Encore GX Avenir allowing drivers to engage or disengage all-wheel drive to potentially improve fuel economy
Interestingly, opting for the base 1.2-liter engine in the front-wheel-drive Preferred trim doesn’t yield significant fuel economy gains. It still achieves the same 30 mpg combined rating, and even lower mileage when running on ethanol. Both engine options and transmission setups seem to require heavy throttle input for brisk acceleration, which ultimately impacts fuel efficiency.
Despite these shortcomings in performance and fuel economy, the 2025 Buick Encore GX still offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The ride quality is notably smooth for a vehicle in this class, and the cabin remains quiet, minimizing road noise. Handling is also competent, with the all-wheel-drive version providing secure grip during cornering.
Front three-quarter view of a red 2025 Buick Encore GX Avenir on a paved road showcasing its agile handling
Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the 2025 Buick Encore GX?
The Buick Encore GX has become a top seller for the brand, and for good reason. It’s a well-rounded small SUV that effectively targets buyers seeking a more premium feel without the hefty price tag associated with traditional luxury brands. It successfully bridges the gap between mainstream and luxury, offering a compelling value proposition.
However, based on Buick Encore GX reviews, the top-tier Avenir trim might not represent the best value. When fully equipped with option packages, the Avenir’s price point edges closer to true luxury competitors, diminishing its value advantage. For buyers prioritizing value, sticking with the Preferred or ST trims offers a more sensible approach. These trims provide a strong balance of features and affordability, capturing the essence of the Encore GX’s appeal.
For those seeking even greater value within the Buick family, the Envista presents an intriguing alternative.
Front view of a blue 2024 Buick Envista ST showcasing its coupe-like SUV styling
While sacrificing the larger engine, all-wheel drive availability, and some practicality, the Buick Envista offers a stylish and surprisingly engaging driving experience, particularly considering its more affordable price. Starting at a lower price point than the Encore GX, even the top-spec Envista Avenir remains significantly more budget-friendly.
Regardless of the specific Buick model chosen, buyers benefit from an industry-standard warranty, including a 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, it’s worth noting that Buick’s complimentary maintenance is limited to the first service visit, whereas some luxury rivals offer more comprehensive coverage.
For a more visual exploration, check out video reviews of the 2025 Buick Encore GX and its Envista sibling for a deeper dive.
