2019 Buick Encore Preferred

The 2019 Buick Encore is a subcompact luxury SUV that slots below the compact Envision in Buick's crossover lineup. It competes with the Mazda CX-3, Honda HR-V, and Chevrolet Trax, offering a quieter cabin and more premium feel. The Encore's turbocharged engine feels eager around town, though it is not quick on the highway. Its ride is smooth and well-controlled for the class, with a composed feel over most surfaces. The cabin is surprisingly upscale for a subcompact, with soft-touch materials and a high seating position that aids visibility. The Preferred trim adds keyless access, remote start, and dual-zone automatic climate control over the base configuration, making it the sensible step up for daily comfort. Its 1.4L I4 produces 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, routed through a six-speed automatic to the all-wheel drive, which delivers sure-footed traction in rain or light snow without feeling heavy. The Preferred rides on 18-inch wheels with all-season tires, and the trade-off for the composed ride is that the steering is light and numb on-center.