Currently available in a selection of four trim levels, Buick's Encore has provided a more upscale alternative to similar subcompact crossover SUVs due in part to its long line of standard features, most of which are not present on competing models. Even the base model Encore comes standard with larger 18-inch wheels, roof rails, folding front passenger seat, Bluetooth connectivity, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. And the Encore also includes Buick's trademark noise reduction technologies, making it one of the quietest vehicles on the road today. The 2020 Buick Encore is expected to deliver the same performance, features, and standard of excellence as its predecessors, having just been recently announced at the 2019 Auto Shanghai Show.
The larger Encore GX is a long wheelbase variant of the Encore and is the model that is expected to be sold in North America. The all-new 2020 Buick Encore is said to be inspired by the Buick Enspire concept SUV and incorporates GM's advanced research & development and intelligent manufacturing. The newest Encore is also expected to be equipped with improved eighth-generation Ecotech engines paired with either a nine-speed automatic or continuously variable transmission (CVT), both of which should improve fuel economy. There also appear to be some exterior styling changes coming with the new Encore, but nothing too dramatic.
Buick has had a tremendous hit on its hands with the Encore since it was introduced in the US in 2013, making General Motors one of the first automotive manufacturers to bring a subcompact crossover SUV to the American market. The Encore went through an extensive overhaul in 2017, receiving major upgrades to the vehicle's interior, and it's possible the 2020 incarnation could bring further enhancements in all areas of the vehicle.
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While the drivetrain specs on the 2020 Buick Encore haven't been finalized yet, drivers can still expect some of the other performance features from the 2019 model to be included. The current 1.4 L turbocharged engine has proven to be very effective and powerful, and that is expected to improve with the addition of all new engines in the 2020 Encore.
Currently, braking takes very little effort, making for confident stopping performance in all kinds of driving conditions. Steering is also precise and well-balanced with an on-center feel. General handling is firm and responsive, especially in the curves. Buick's StabiliTrak system senses when the direction of the vehicle's wheels and the steering wheel are out of sync and applies precise control to the brakes to ensure command of the road.
The Encore isn't really designed as an off-road vehicle, but the available all-wheel drive does offer additional peace of mind in inclement weather situations or other road conditions where additional traction is needed. The intelligent AWD system constantly monitors all four wheels and directs power to them when it senses that more control is needed.
The interior of the 2020 Buick Encore is expected to remain the same as the 2019 model, with all the comforts and convenience that Buick drivers have come to love.
For those cold mornings, an available leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel will keep your hands comfortable and warm. Complementary to the heated steering wheel are available heated leather seats for the driver and front passenger.
With the keyless open and push-button start feature, you can unlock the doors and start the vehicle easily and quickly with your hands full of groceries or while preoccupied with your children. Available remote vehicle start functionality lets you start the Encore to let it warm up or cool down until you're ready to get in and drive.
The 2020 Buick Encore provides plenty of room to haul both people and cargo with a front passenger seat that folds completely flat as well as second-row seats which fold to allow even more room for items. The main cargo area is fairly low and offers a low load height, which makes getting items in and out a breeze. Also within the interior are plenty of nooks for small space storage, including a small center bin with retractable cover and a small compartment in front of the shifter. Generous cup holders also abound. Those in front feature anti-tip tabs and the front door pockets are large enough for a 40-ounce water bottle. For passengers in the back, rear cup holders are located within the center armrest.
As mentioned in the introduction, the 2020 Buick Encore will likely continue Buick's well-known tradition for an extremely quiet ride. Their QuietTuning technology combined with active noise cancellation work together to create a tranquil cabin. Triple door seals, acoustic laminated windshield and window glass also help to keep engine and road noise at bay.
Passengers can also personalize their preferred temperatures inside the Encore through available dual-zone climate controls, and an available in-vehicle ionization system provides cleaner, fresher air for all of the occupants.
Door openings on the 2020 Buick Encore are expected to offer the same ease of use for getting in and out of the vehicle, with enough space for taller folks and comfortable seat height for most people to enter and exit comfortably. The same goes for the rear passengers. The large rear seat openings also make it easy for utilizing a car seat, and the LATCH connectors are easily accessible by folding up the rear seat bottoms.
The 2020 Buick Encore is expected to continue the 2019 model's technological features described below. The standard Bose audio system pumps out some good power with excellent sound quality, which should satisfy all but the most serious audiophiles. The Encore is also equipped with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, satellite radio and Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system with an intuitive and easy to read 8-inch touchscreen display.
A smartphone-based navigation system is also included along with OnStar turn-by-turn directions. The Encore integrates to your smartphone via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, and there are two USB ports, an auxiliary input for a music player and a 12-volt power outlet for driver and front passenger. Folks in the back get a single 12-volt outlet.
Voice controls for use with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay allow for making hands-free phone calls and sound system operation.
Available optional features include an upgraded audio system with seven speakers and the innovative myBuick app which allows for remote locking and unlocking of the doors, engine start, and tire pressure check.
As with the 2019 model, the 2020 Buick Encore is expected to include the same safety features. The standard suite of features includes an extensive system of ten airbags (front, overhead, side, and knee), anti-lock brakes, seatbelt pretensioners, stability control, and a rearview camera.
More comprehensive safety features are available as options or as part of add-on packages on the Encore's higher trim levels.
The plainly-titled Safety Package includes side blind zone alert which can assist drivers to avoid oncoming hazards in blind spot areas. This unique feature provides notifications in the driver's side exterior mirror to detect moving vehicles during a lane-changing maneuver. Rear cross traffic alert aids on crowded streets or tight parking spots.
The Safety Package II includes everything in the basic Safety Package, but also adds front and rear parking assist and forward collision alert, which will alert the driver if a crash is imminent. This system will also detect if you are following too close to the vehicle in front of you. The lane departure warning feature provides alerts if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of a travel lane when the turn signal is not activated.
In the unfortunate event of an accident or breakdown, GM's OnStar functionality can provide peace of mind with available features such as automatic crash response, contact with emergency services, and roadside assistance.