The 2026 Buick Encore GX continues to redefine the compact luxury SUV segment with its sophisticated design, advanced technology, and refined driving experience. This premium crossover bridges mainstream accessibility with luxury refinement, offering premium features without the luxury price penalty. New for 2026, Brilliant Red joins the exterior color palette and a popular 16-inch spare tire becomes available. Discover why the Encore GX stands out in the competitive compact SUV market.
Vehicle Overview
Efficient Performance
The 2026 Buick Encore GX features an efficient turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine generating 155 horsepower. Paired with a smooth continuously variable transmission and standard front-wheel drive (with available all-wheel drive), the Encore GX delivers confident handling across diverse driving conditions while achieving impressive 29 city/31 highway MPG ratings. The Ride and Handling suspension with fully independent suspension is tuned for a smooth ride and optimum handling.
Premium Interior
The Encore GX's spacious cabin accommodates five passengers with 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. Buick's exclusive QuietTuning™ technology combines several technologies to help reduce, block and absorb unwanted sounds for a remarkably quiet interior, including Active Noise Cancellation and acoustic laminated windshield. Premium materials and thoughtful design elevate the driving experience beyond ordinary compact SUVs.
Trim Levels & Pricing
2026 Buick Encore GX Trim Levels
2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred*Starting at $26,295 |
2026 Buick Encore GX Sport Touring*Starting at $27,100 |
2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir*Starting at $31,400 |
Preferred
Starting at $26,295
- 18-inch Bright Silver painted aluminum wheels
- Cloth with leatherette seating surfaces
- 8-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Standard front-wheel drive
- Buick Driver Confidence package
Sport Touring
Starting at $27,100
- Gloss black exterior trim
- Sport-inspired design elements
- Flat-bottom steering wheel
- Available all-wheel drive
- Enhanced styling package
Avenir
Starting at $31,400
- Premium perforated leather seating
- Avenir-specific exterior accents
- Heated steering wheel
- Power driver seat with lumbar
- Premium audio system
Which Trim to Choose?
While the Buick Encore GX Avenir offers indulgent luxury features, the Sport Touring model provides the best balance of premium features and value with its sporty design elements and available all-wheel drive. We recommend adding the Comfort Package, which includes heated front seats, heated steering wheel, 8-way power driver seat, and 2-way power lumbar support for optimal everyday comfort and convenience.
Technology Highlights
Infotainment & Connectivity
The Encore GX comes with a stylish infotainment touchscreen that operates on Buick's latest user interface. The screen pairs with most smartphones and provides a Wi-Fi hotspot for everyone inside. Additional tech upgrades include a rearview camera mirror and available 360-degree camera system.
- 8-inch diagonal infotainment touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Built-in Wi-Fi hotspot capability
- Available HD Rear Vision Camera
- Wireless charging capability
Convenience Features
The 2026 Encore GX is packed with thoughtful convenience technologies that enhance everyday driving. From keyless entry to advanced lighting systems, every feature is designed to make your driving experience more comfortable and intuitive.
- Keyless start with push button
- Remote Start system
- Automatic LED headlamps with IntelliBeam
- Power liftgate with obstacle detection
- Dual-zone climate control available
Performance & Efficiency
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2L Turbocharged I3 |
| Horsepower | 155 HP |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Drivetrain | Standard Front-Wheel Drive (AWD Available) |
| Fuel Economy | 29 city / 31 highway MPG |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.2 gallons |
| GVWR | 4,233 lbs |
Design & Styling
Exterior Design
The 2026 Encore GX showcases Buick's evolving design language with signature check-shaped LED headlamps and intricate grille accents that create a bold visual presence. Three distinct trim expressions range from practical Preferred with 18-inch Bright Silver wheels to athletic Sport Touring featuring gloss black exterior trim, and luxurious Avenir with premium finishes and exclusive badging.
New for 2026, Brilliant Red joins the exterior color options, complementing the existing palette. The Sport Touring trim features a more daring exterior design with gloss black accents that create a sporty, sophisticated appearance. All models feature automatic LED headlamps with IntelliBeam that automatically adjust high beams based on surrounding traffic conditions.
Interior Refinement
Inside, the Encore GX offers progressive material quality from cloth to premium perforated leather appointments. The Avenir trim elevates luxury with heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and power-adjustable driver seat with lumbar support. Buick's exclusive QuietTuning™ technology with active noise cancellation ensures a remarkably quiet cabin environment perfect for long journeys.
The interior features thoughtful amenities including available Whisper Beige seats with Ebony interior accents, color-keyed floor mats, and a flat-bottom steering wheel on Sport Touring models. The 40/60 split-folding rear bench seat provides versatile cargo configurations, while the front passenger seat features a flat-folding design to accommodate longer items.
Safety Features
Buick Driver Confidence Package
Standard on all 2026 Encore GX models, the Buick Driver Confidence package includes a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies designed to help protect you and your passengers on every journey.
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Front Pedestrian Braking
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
- Forward Collision Alert
- Following Distance Indicator
- IntelliBeam® auto high-beam assist
Additional Safety Systems
Beyond the standard driver assistance features, the Encore GX includes numerous safety technologies that provide peace of mind and protection for you and your loved ones.
- Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- HD Rear Vision Camera
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System
- Rear Seat Reminder system
- Comprehensive airbag system
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting price of the 2026 Buick Encore GX?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX starts at $26,295 for the base Preferred trim, with the Sport Touring starting at $27,100 and the luxurious Avenir trim beginning at $31,400. This positions the Encore GX as an exceptional value in the compact SUV segment, offering premium features at an accessible price point.
What engine does the 2026 Encore GX feature?
All Encore GX models come equipped with a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower. This is paired with a continuously variable transmission and standard front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option for enhanced traction in various driving conditions.
What technology features stand out in the Encore GX?
The Encore GX features an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Buick's latest user interface, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot capability. Standard safety technologies include the Buick Driver Confidence package with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and Forward Collision Alert.
How does the Encore GX compare to competitors?
The Buick Encore GX bridges mainstream and luxury segments, offering premium refinement without luxury pricing penalties. It receives strong ratings including a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA. J.D. Power recognizes Buick as the #1 mainstream brand for dependability, reinforcing the Encore GX's reputation for quality and reliability.
What is the cargo capacity of the Encore GX?
The Encore GX offers practical cargo space with 25.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The 40/60 split-folding rear bench seat and flat-folding front passenger seat provide versatile cargo configurations for active lifestyles while maintaining the vehicle's refined character and comfortable seating for five passengers.
Where can I test drive a 2026 Buick Encore GX?
Visit Ritchey Buick GMC in Daytona Beach to schedule your test drive of the 2026 Encore GX. Our knowledgeable staff will help you experience firsthand why the Encore GX represents exceptional value and premium refinement in the compact SUV segment.
Awards & Recognition
The 2026 Buick Encore GX continues Buick's tradition of excellence, with the entire Buick lineup being named J.D. Power's #1 Mainstream Brand in 2025. The Encore GX has earned maximum five-star overall safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), validating its comprehensive safety systems and structural integrity.
J.D. Power recognizes Buick as the number one mainstream automotive brand for dependability, reinforcing Encore GX's reputation for long-term reliability and customer satisfaction. The vehicle's combination of premium features, refined driving experience, and exceptional value proposition makes it a standout choice in the competitive compact SUV market.
Experience premium refinement at Ritchey Buick GMC in Daytona Beach—where the 2026 Encore GX elevates your driving expectations beyond ordinary compact SUVs. Stop by our dealership today to discover why the Encore GX is the perfect blend of style, technology, and value.