2018 Buick Encore Essence

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. Leather upholstery and a 7-inch touchscreen with navigation set the Essence apart from the Preferred II trim below it. The 1.4L I4 makes 138 horsepower and pairs with the six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive, which gives you confident traction in rain or light snow. The Essence can be ordered with a heated steering wheel and a power sunroof, which the lower trims don't offer.