2017 Buick Encore Premium

The 2017 Encore is a subcompact SUV that brings a near-luxury feel to a small footprint, competing with the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3. The Encore drives with a composed, quiet demeanor, and the available all-wheel drive reacts quickly to slippery conditions. Inside, the cabin feels upscale with available leather and heated seats, but rear-seat legroom is tight for adults. Cargo space is modest, though folding the rear seats opens room for golf clubs or a bike, and the compact size eases parking. Its 1.4L I4 puts out 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque routed through a six-speed automatic, which makes it an easygoing commuter rather than anything sporty; the EPA rates it at 28 mpg combined with front-wheel drive. This FWD Premium also adds a heated steering wheel and a seven-speaker Bose sound system as standard, so if you want all-wheel drive in this trim you will have to look for a Premium listed with AWD.