2014 Buick Encore Convenience

The Encore is Buick's small crossover, a subcompact SUV that fits easily in tight parking spots while still feeling premium inside. It drives smoothly and quietly, with a ride that soaks up bumps well for a small SUV. Cabin space is good up front, but the back seat is tight for adults and the cargo area is small unless you fold the rear seats down. Available features include a rearview camera, which owners say is handy because the thick rear pillars create a blind spot when backing up. The Convenience trim is the one to pick if you want heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel without stepping up to the Leather model. Its 1.4L I4 makes 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic and front-wheel drive; it gets 28 mpg combined and feels eager around town.