2019 Buick Encore Review

Fortunately, if you're in the market for a used Encore, we have several of these small SUVs in stock, including many 2019 models – view them all here. Each one is fully certified before arriving at your door, and comes with a 7 day return policy. For something much newer, check out the next-generation 2024 Buick Encore GX here, slated to arrive sometime in spring 2023.

Key features:

• Good fuel economy from the 1.4 litre, 138 horsepower engine
• Comfortable and stylish interior with a range of features
• Four different trims suit a variety of buyers' needs and budgets

Direct competitors:

• Lexus UX
• Audi Q3
• BMW X1
• Mazda CX-3

Buick Encore trim levels in 2019

The 2019 Buick Encore was available in four different trim levels in Canada: the Encore Preferred, the Encore Sport Touring, the Encore Essence, and the Encore Premium.

Encore Preferred

The Encore Preferred was the base trim level, and it came with a range of standard features, including a 7-inch touchscreen display with Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system, a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera.

Encore Sport Touring

The Encore Sport Touring added a number of sporty features, including 18-inch aluminum wheels, a rear spoiler, and fog lights. It also came with the Convenience package, which includes features such as remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power-adjustable driver's seat.

2019 Buick Encore | Photo: Buick 

Encore Essence

The Encore Essence is the mid-level trim, and it adds a range of luxury features, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and an 8-inch touchscreen display with navigation. It also includes the Safety Package, which adds features such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert.

Encore Premium

The Encore Premium is the top-of-the-line trim, and it comes with a number of high-end features, including Bose premium audio system, front and rear park assist, rain-sensing wipers, and a power-adjustable front passenger seat. It also includes the Advanced Safety Package, which adds features such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and front and rear park assist.

2019 Buick Encore interior

Interior dimension specs:

• Cargo volume: 532 L (behind rear seat); 1,371 L (rear seat folded)
• Headroom: 39.6 inches Front; 38.8 inches Rear
• Legroom: 40.8 inches Front; 35.7 inches Rear
• Passenger Volume: 2,628 L

The 2019 Buick Encore features an upscale interior that is both stylish and comfortable, with a range of standard and available features to enhance the driving experience.

Comfortable seating with good cabin space

One of the highlights of the Encore's interior is its comfortable seating. The front seats are supportive and offer ample legroom and headroom, while the back seat provides enough space for two adults to sit comfortably. The seats are upholstered in either cloth or leather, depending on the trim level, and higher trims also offer features such as heated and power-adjustable seats.

The cabin of the 2019 Buick Encore is well-insulated, with sound-deadening materials used throughout to reduce road noise and vibrations. This helps create a peaceful and comfortable atmosphere for both the driver and passengers. 

Modern, stylish dashboard design

2019 Buick Encore | Photo: Buick 

The dashboard and centre console feature a modern and stylish design, with soft-touch materials and attractive chrome accents. The overall build quality is impressive, with tight-fitting panels and a sturdy feel that gives the interior a premium feel.

In terms of technology, the 2019 Buick Encore comes with a standard 7-inch touchscreen display with Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system. This system is easy to use and offers features such as Bluetooth connectivity, a six-speaker audio system, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims add an 8-inch touchscreen display and a premium Bose sound system, among other features.

Plenty of storage and cargo space for a small SUV

Storage space is another area where the Encore excels. The centre console provides ample room for small items, and the door pockets are large enough to hold water bottles and other items. 

The cargo area behind the rear seats offers 18.8 cubic feet of space, which expands to 48.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This is plenty of space for carrying groceries, luggage, or other cargo.

How does Buick’s smallest SUV perform and handle?

2019 Buick Encore performance specs:

• Engine: Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged DOHC I-4 (standard)
• Power: 138 hp @ 4900 rpm
• Torque: 148 lb.-ft. @ 1850 rpm
• Wheels: 18-in. x 7-in. Aluminum
• Tires: P215/55R18 AL3
• Brakes: Four-wheel disc with four-channel ABS

2019 Buick Encore | Photo: Buick 

The Encore offers a comfortable and composed ride, along with a decent level of performance for a subcompact SUV. Here's a closer look at the Encore's performance and handling capabilities.

Under the hood, the 2019 Buick Encore comes with a 1.4 litre four-cylinder engine that produces 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. While this may not be the most powerful engine in its class, it provides adequate acceleration for daily driving and gets good fuel economy. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and efficiently, providing a seamless driving experience.

The Encore's fuel efficiency is on par with other vehicles in its class, making it a good choice for buyers who are looking for a vehicle that can save them money at the pump.

Handling is another strong point for the 2019 Encore. Its small size and light steering make it easy to maneuver and park in tight spaces, while its suspension is well-tuned to provide a smooth and comfortable ride. The Encore is not designed to be a sporty or performance-oriented vehicle, but it handles well in a variety of driving situations, including city driving, highway cruising, and light off-roading.

2019 Buick Encore | Photo: Buick 

The 2019 Buick Encore comes with a range of safety features, including stability and traction control, anti lock brakes, and a rearview camera. Higher trims add additional features such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features work together to provide a safe and secure driving experience, making the Encore a solid choice for buyers who prioritize safety.

Verdict: is the 2019 Buick Encore a good buy today?

Overall, the 2019 Buick Encore offers a premium feel and a comfortable ride, along with a range of features and good fuel economy. Its small size and relatively affordable price make it a good choice for buyers who are looking for a practical and comfortable SUV that is easy to maneuver and park in tight spaces.

It offered a range of features and trims to suit a variety of buyers' needs and budgets back in 2019, from the base model with essential features to the top-of-the-line premium trim with advanced luxury and safety features.

Plus, the Encore's interior is a strong point for the vehicle, offering a comfortable and stylish cabin with a range of features that enhance the driving experience. The attention to detail and build quality give the interior a premium feel, making it a solid choice for buyers who are looking for a small SUV with a luxury feel – but without spending more money on the much pricier German rivals. 

While it may not be the most powerful or sporty vehicle in its class, its strengths lie in its comfortable ride, good fuel economy, and safety features, making it a practical and reliable choice for buyers who are looking for a well-rounded small SUV.

2019 Buick Encore | Photo: Buick