2020 Buick Encore GX Review: An (Obviously) Improved Formula

The glorious past of the three-shield division is just that – past. The era when the sedan dominated the American brand's lineup is coming to an end, with the Regal Sportback the only model still active, along with its GS version. Since the arrival of the Enclave in 2008 - and maybe even the Rendezvous in the early 2000s - the automaker has been growing its presence in the utility segment, much like the rest of the automotive industry.

For 2020, Buick welcomes a new member, the Encore GX, which positions itself between the Encore and the Envision. At the time of writing, we already know that the Envision will be completely revised for 2021, but for the "regular" Encore, nothing has been announced yet. Does the arrival of the Encore GX mean the end of the "regular" Encore? It probably does, but for now, Buick has content to offer two Encore models to its customers. The more the merrier, in SUV-land. Remember that Chevrolet is also splitting its small SUV lineup, as the Trax gets nudged over in the lineup in 2020 to make room for the Trailblazer, a non-identical twin of the Encore GX.

I had occasion to drive Buick's newest utility model, the Encore GX, in its Essence trim, the most luxurious in the lineup. At $37,678, this little urban vehicle isn't exactly a bargain for first-time buyers, but for those who want an agile, easy-to-park crossover, the Encore GX could be a viable option. Here's what I've learned about this newest Buick, and yes, another SUV!

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Slightly larger than the Encore
The Encore GX name suggests we can expect a cancellation of the Encore model that’s been with us since 2013. At the same, it could just be a case of the brand's strategists deciding to make good use of the badge’s name recognition After all, the Buick Encore quickly became Buick's best-selling model after it debuted. The addition of the Encore GX is strategic in my opinion, a bit like the Ford Bronco and its more affordable equivalent, the Bronco Sport.

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