2018 Buick Encore Preferred

It's Buick's smallest SUV, a subcompact that fits easily into tight city parking spots while still feeling upscale inside. If you're also looking at a Mazda CX-3 or a Toyota C-HR, this one gives you more rear-seat room and a quieter ride. The Encore handles nimbly and rides smoothly, though the engine feels a bit flat when you need to merge quickly. The cabin is stylish with quality materials, and the front seats are comfortable, but two adults in the back will find legroom tight. The Preferred is the trim that adds all-wheel drive and a few extra convenience features over the base front-drive model. Its 1.4L I4 makes 138 horsepower and works with the six-speed automatic to send power to all four wheels, which helps in rain or light snow. You get Buick's IntelliLink infotainment with a 7-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay as standard on this trim.