| Pros | Cons | What's New |
|---|---|---|
Optional AWD system | Single engine option | OnStar 4G LTE |
Frugal fuel economy | Sluggish acceleration | Standard WiFi hotspot |
Practical cabin space | Cramped cargo area | |
Premium interior quality |
$25,565
price138 hp @ 4900 rpm
horsepower148 lb.-ft. @ 1850 rpm
torqueTBD
transmission1.4L 4cyl AWD 6A
engine-
basic warrantyThe 2015 Buick Encore sits on the Gamma II platform jointly manufactured by GM and Opel. It was designed as a contender in the subcompact SUV segment since its launch in 2013. The Buick Encore is currently in its first generation and offers a value for money package with its standard features and numerous options with its trim levels.
The Convenience trim makes more sense in the lineup than any other trim. With the standard features from the base trim, you have various features that are available from the convenience trim onwards. You can opt for the driver assistance features at a fair value. For $26,155, the Convenience trim of the Buick Encore can be your loaded subcompact SUV.
The 2015 Buick Encore has a starting price of $24,065 which goes all the way up to $29,435 for the top-end Premium trim. To give off-road capabilities, Buick has equipped the Encore with an optional AWD system. The Encore lives up to the name of Buick with its premium features and a quiet ride. To give you the best small SUV experience, the Encore rivals the Mini Cooper Countryman, Kia Soul, and the Chevrolet Trax.
The new Encore is available in four distinct trim levels for you. With various standard features onboard, the base trim is smartly priced. All the trims are available in AWD versions as well. The new OnStar 4G LTE WiFi hotspot is standard across all the trims. As we move up the lineup, the cabin gets better comfort and convenience features. However, the exterior design configurations are limited.
|
Trims |
Base |
Convenience |
Leather |
Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MSRP (FWD) |
$24,065 |
$26,155 |
$27,950 |
$29,435 |
|
MSRP (AWD) |
$25,565 |
$27,655 |
$29,950 |
$30,935 |
|
Key Features |
18-inch 5-spoke painted cast-aluminum wheels |
Adds features to the base trim |
Adds features to the convenience trim |
Adds features to the Leather trim |
|
Leather-wrapped steering wheel |
Deep tinted windows |
Heated front seats |
Passenger flat-folding seatback |
|
|
Buick Intellilink infotainment with a 7.0-inch display |
Front fog lamps |
Heated steering wheel |
Power sunroof |
|
|
Cruise control |
Dual-zone automatic air-conditioning |
Power driver seat with memory settings |
Bose premium speakers |
|
|
Roof rails |
Auto-dimming rearview mirror |
Leather interior |
Navigation system |
|
|
QuietTuning acoustic windshield and side glasses |
Rearview camera |
Blind zone alert and rear cross-traffic alert |
Front and rear park assist |
We Recommend
The Convenience trim makes more sense in the lineup than any other trim. With the standard features from the base trim, you have various features that are available from the convenience trim onwards. You can opt for the driver assistance features at a fair value. For $26,155, the Convenience trim of the Buick Encore can be your loaded subcompact SUV.
The 2015 Buick Encore is powered by an ECOTEC engine. It is a 1.4L 4 cylinder DOHC motor that outputs 138hp of peak power at a low RPM torque of 148lb-ft. The humble powertrain is mated to a 6-Speed automatic transmission. With an optional AWD system, the Encore gets mild off-road capabilities.
Unfortunately, this is the only engine option with the four trims. You can figure how a 138hp motor would accelerate. This one takes 9.7 seconds to sprint from 0-60 MPH with a quarter-mile run of 17.8 seconds. With that, the Buick Encore can attain a top speed of 118 MPH which is good enough for an entry-level subcompact SUV.
|
Models |
2015 Buick Encore |
2015 Mini Cooper Countryman |
2015 Kia Soul |
2015 Chevrolet Trax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MSRP |
$24,065 |
$22,750 |
$15,190 |
$20,120 |
|
Engine |
1.4L ECOTEC DOHC I-4 Regular |
1.6L DOHC I-4 Regular |
1.6L Gamma GDI I-4 Regular |
1.4L ECOTEC DOHC I-4 Regular |
|
Drivetrain |
FWD |
FWD |
FWD |
FWD |
|
Transmission |
6-Speed automatic w/od |
6-Speed manual w/od |
6-Speed manual w/od |
6-Speed automatic w/od |
|
Power |
138hp @ 4,900 RPM |
121hp @ 6,000 RPM |
130hp @ 6,300 RPM |
138hp @ 4,900 RPM |
|
Torque |
148lb-ft @ 1,850 RPM |
118lb-ft @4,250 RPM |
118lb-ft @ 4,850 RPM |
148lb-ft @ 1,850 RPM |
|
0-60 MPH (seconds) |
9.7 |
10.1 |
9.6 |
9.1 |
|
Quarter mile (seconds) |
17.8 |
17.9 |
17.2 |
16.9 |
|
Top Speed (MPH) |
118 |
112 |
115 |
110 |
In its segment, the Buick Encore gets the highest price tag, even higher than the Mini Cooper Countryman. All the cars offer 4 cylinder engines where the Encore and Trax output the maximum power, thanks to GM. Yet the Chevrolet Trax is comparatively faster as it is far lighter than the Encore. In terms of the top speed, the Buick Encore is the winner.
With its ECOTEC 4 cylinder engine, the Buick Encore has great mileage. You get 25 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and a combined 28 mpg. The 14.0-gallon tank works in its favor as you have a highway mileage of 462 miles which can take you the way and beyond to your favorite destinations outside the city.
|
Models |
2015 Buick Encore |
2015 Mini Cooper Countryman |
2015 Kia Soul |
2015 Chevrolet Trax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MPG City |
25 |
27 |
24 |
26 |
|
MPG Highway |
33 |
34 |
30 |
34 |
|
MPG Combined |
28 |
30 |
26 |
29 |
|
Fuel Capacity |
14.0 gal |
12.4 gal |
14.2 gal |
14.0 gal |
|
Range (City/ Highway/ Combined) |
350/462/392 |
334.8/421.6/372 |
340.8/426/369.2 |
364/476/406 |
As compared with the rivals, the Buick Encore is not the most fuel-efficient subcompact SUV. The underpowered Mini Cooper Countryman delivers the best fuel economy, however, the small tank affects its range. The Kia Soul is the only SUV behind the Encore. Even its counterpart, the Chevrolet Trax offers better mileage.
In the whole segment, the Buick Encore has the most appealing cabin design. You have great road visibility ahead of you with the huge windshield and thin A-pillars. With the opulent cabin, you have 3 color options with chrome accents across the whole dashboard and the center console. There's a leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel placed past the analog-digital gauge cluster. 7.0-inch infotainment sits atop the dashboard. However, too many controls can confuse the driver.
We have bucket seats at the front, for the driver, you have a 6-way power adjustable seat with power lumbar support where the passenger side is limited to 2-way manual adjustments. The top-end premium trim does justice with the passenger seat with 6-way power adjustments and lumbar support. Also, the passenger seat is way more practical with its under-seat storage and flat fold seatback. You can avail the heating function for the front seats too. The rear row gets a 60-40 split-fold bench seat.
With a standard cargo capacity of 18.8 cubic feet, the foldable bench and front passenger seat further enhance the cargo space so that you have 48.4 cubic feet of maximum space. The standard convenience features include Quiet Tuning for noise insulation of the windshield and the side glasses, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, adjustable headrests, and cruise control. As we climb up the trims, we get a heated steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and dual-zone automatic air-conditioning.
|
Models |
2015 Buick Encore |
2015 Mini Cooper Countryman |
2015 Kia Soul |
2015 Chevrolet Trax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seating capacity |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
|
Front row (Headroom/ Shoulder room/ Legroom) inches |
39.5/54.1/40.8 |
39.9/52.8/40.4 |
39.6/55.5/40.9 |
39.6/54.1/40.8 |
|
Rear row (Headroom/ Shoulder room/ Legroom) inches |
38.7/52.5/35.7 |
37.5/52.1/33.8 |
39.5/54.7/39.1 |
38.8/52.8/35.7 |
|
Cargo capacity (cubic feet) |
18.8 |
16.5 |
24.2 |
18.7 |
The Buick Encore has the most upscale cabin as compared with the rivals. The Mini Cooper Countryman gives it a close call with its design and quality. The standard interior and convenience package of the 2015 Buick Encore is much better than any other SUV. The whole dashboard is lit up with ice blue lighting that looks cool.
When it's about space and comfort, the Encore won't disappoint you with its decent front and rear seating space. After the Kia Soul, the Encore is the most practical and spacious subcompact SUV. The Chevrolet Trax is neck to neck with its friendly competition. Highlight Interior features:
The Encore comes standard with an Intellilink infotainment system that powers a 7.0-inch touchscreen display. The infotainment offers Bluetooth and USB audio with device connectivity and voice recognition, an AM/FM radio, a SiriusXM radio subscription, and an in-dash CD player for your old jams.
The infotainment gives access to OnStar 4G LTE internet with a WiFi hotspot for up to 7 devices. As standard, we get 6 surrounds sound speakers. With the top of the line Premium trim, you get a premium sound system with 7 Bose speakers with an amplifier. The display also works as a rearview camera display.
There's a driver information center inside the gauge cluster that shows safety alerts, driver assistance alerts, a trip computer, and a compass as well. The vehicle information is readily available around the display through 4 different gauges. Standout Infotainment features:
The Encore is the smallest SUV by Buick. It offers a small luxury package with its stylish and boxy design. As the subcompact SUV segment is booming, Buick took an opportunity to introduce its SUV with its signature premium touch. The elegant exterior of the 2015 Buick Encore is designed with attractive color options and chrome accents.
With a set of two projector headlamps, the Encore offers standard daytime running lights. The headlamps look unique with the ice blue treatment. The center stack is occupied by a sleek chrome grille with a chrome-plated Buick logo. Below we have a black bumper with a silver diffuser. From the convenience trim onwards, you get foglamps that are highlighted with chrome.
The sloping hood lines perfectly align themselves with the roof rails that blend in with the rear window spoiler. At the rear, we have a similar black bumper and huge liftgate that is separated from the taillamps. As standard, the Buick Encore has 18-inch cast-aluminum painted wheels which can be traded with all chrome wheels on the range-topping Premium trim.
|
Models |
2015 Buick Encore |
2015 Mini Cooper Countryman |
2015 Kia Soul |
2015 Chevrolet Trax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Curb weight (lbs) |
3,237 |
2,954 |
2,714 |
3,048 |
|
Length (inches) |
168.4 |
161.7 |
163.0 |
168.5 |
|
Width (inches) |
69.8 |
70.4 |
70.9 |
69.9 |
|
Height (inches) |
65.2 |
61.5 |
63.0 |
65.2 |
|
Ground clearance (inches) |
6.2 |
5.8 |
5.9 |
6.2 |
|
Wheelbase (inches) |
100.6 |
102.2 |
101.2 |
100.6 |
The Buick Encore is the biggest subcompact SUV as compared with the rivals. Even the Chevrolet Trax weighs 300 pounds less than the Encore. In terms of dimensions, both Encore and the Trax are longer than the other rivals. With its short wheelbase, the Encore can fit anywhere as it is really fun to drive even in the traffic. Exterior features in the 2015 Buick Encore include:
Buick is way ahead when it comes to safety and strength. Even if it is a small SUV, the Buick Encore gets its strength from its ultra-high-strength steel structure. That's why the 2015 Encore is rated 5 Stars by the NHTSA and has bagged the Top safety pick title by the IIHS.
For passive safety, the Buick Encore is equipped with 10 standard airbags with 3-point seatbelts and pretensioner. With the higher trims, you get active safety features such as a blind-spot monitor, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision alert, ultrasonic parking sensors, and a rearview camera. Standout Safety features:
The 2015 Buick Encore is all set to take on the rivals once again. The package is getting better every year. It offers better safety, amazing comfort, numerous convenience options, and superior entertainment. The Premium trim takes the styling to another level with leather and chrome. For a starting price of $24,065, you are getting an SUV that is drivable both in the city and the highway with its refinement and a good enough fuel economy. If you have 25 grand and are looking for a subcompact SUV, the Buick Encore is worth your money.
Car Name | 0-60 MPH | Quarter Mile | Top Speed | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2015 Buick Encore Ranked #6 | 9.5 sec | 17.2 sec | 116 mph | |||
2015 Jeep Renegade Ranked #1 | 7.9 sec | 15.9 sec | 112 mph | |||
2015 Hyundai Tucson Ranked #2 | 8.9 sec | - | - | |||
2015 Mazda CX-5 Ranked #2 | 8.9 sec | 17 sec | - | |||
2015 Kia Sportage Ranked #3 | 9 sec | 17.5 sec | 114 mph | |||
2015 Nissan Rogue Ranked #3 | 9 sec | 16.9 sec | 119 mph |
Car Name | MPG City | MPG Highway | MPG Combined | Fuel Tank Capacity | Range (C/H) | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2015 Buick Encore Ranked #2 | 25 mpg | 33 mpg | 28 mpg | 14 gal. | 350/462 mi. | |||
2015 Chevrolet Trax Ranked #1 | 26 mpg | 34 mpg | 29 mpg | 14 gal. | 364/476 mi. | |||
2015 Mazda CX-5 Ranked #1 | 26 mpg | 35 mpg | 29 mpg | 14.8 gal. | 384.8/518 mi. | |||
2015 Nissan Rogue Ranked #2 | 26 mpg | 33 mpg | 28 mpg | 14.5 gal. | 377/478.5 mi. | |||
2015 Jeep Renegade Ranked #3 | 22 mpg | 31 mpg | 27 mpg | 12.7 gal. | 304.8/393.7 mi. | Jeep USA | ||
2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek Ranked #4 | 23 mpg | 31 mpg | 26 mpg | 15.9 gal. | 365.7/492.9 mi. |
Car Name | Length | Width | Height | Ground Clearance | Wheelbase | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2015 Buick Encore Ranked #9 | 168.41 in. | 69.85 in. | 65.26 in. | 6.22 in. | 100.6 in. | |||
2015 GMC Terrain Ranked #1 | 185.3 in. | 72.8 in. | 66.3 in. | 6.9 in. | 112.5 in. | |||
2015 Nissan Rogue Ranked #2 | 182.3 in. | 72.4 in. | 66.3 in. | 7.4 in. | 106.5 in. | |||
2015 Mazda CX-5 Ranked #3 | 179.3 in. | 72.4 in. | 67.3 in. | 8.5 in. | 106.3 in. | |||
2015 Ford Escape Ranked #4 | 178.1 in. | 72.4 in. | 66.3 in. | 7.9 in. | 105.9 in. | |||
2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek Ranked #5 | 175.2 in. | 70.1 in. | 63.6 in. | 8.7 in. | 103.7 in. |
Car Name | Trunk Capacity | Passenger Volume | Max Trunk Volume | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2015 Buick Encore Ranked #7 | 18.8 cu.ft. | 92.8 cu.ft. | 48.4 cu.ft. | |||
2015 Jeep Renegade Ranked #1 | 18.5 cu.ft. | 100.1 cu.ft. | 140.6 cu.ft. | Jeep USA | ||
2015 Ford Escape Ranked #2 | 34.3 cu.ft. | 98.1 cu.ft. | 67.8 cu.ft. | |||
2015 Hyundai Tucson Ranked #3 | 25.7 cu.ft. | 101.9 cu.ft. | 55.8 cu.ft. | |||
2015 Nissan Rogue Ranked #4 | 32 cu.ft. | 105.8 cu.ft. | 70 cu.ft. | |||
2015 GMC Terrain Ranked #5 | 31.6 cu.ft. | 99.6 cu.ft. | 63.9 cu.ft. |
Car Name | Cargo Volume | Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area | Max Cargo Volume | Bed Length | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2015 Buick Encore Ranked #1 | 48.4 cu.ft. | 18.8 cu.ft. | 48.4 cu.ft. | 61 ft. | |||
2015 Chevrolet Trax Ranked #2 | 13.7 cu.ft. | 18.7 cu.ft. | 48.4 cu.ft. | 64 ft. | |||
2015 Jeep Renegade Ranked #3 | 144.4 cu.ft. | 18.5 cu.ft. | 140.6 cu.ft. | - | Jeep USA | ||
2015 Kia Sportage Ranked #4 | 13.6 cu.ft. | 26.1 cu.ft. | 54.6 cu.ft. | - | |||
2015 Mazda CX-5 Ranked #5 | 5.4 cu.ft. | 34.1 cu.ft. | 64.8 cu.ft. | - | |||
2015 Nissan Rogue Ranked #6 | 70 cu.ft. | 32 cu.ft. | 70 cu.ft. | 72 ft. |
Car Name | Towing Capacity | Payload Capacity | Weight | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2015 Buick Encore Ranked #2 | 3500 lbs. | 1018 lbs. | 3237 lbs. | |||
2015 Chevrolet Trax Ranked #1 | 5200 lbs. | - | 2805 lbs. | |||
2015 Kia Sportage Ranked #3 | 2000 lbs. | 1328 lbs. | 3280 lbs. | |||
2015 Jeep Renegade Ranked #3 | 2000 lbs. | 1172 lbs. | 3044 lbs. | Jeep USA | ||
2015 Mazda CX-5 Ranked #3 | 2000 lbs. | 1063 lbs. | 3194 lbs. | |||
2015 Hyundai Tucson Ranked #3 | 2000 lbs. | 1265 lbs. | 3232 lbs. |
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POPULAR TAGS
User Overall Rating
Posted On: July 23, 2024
I bought this car on a Wim I never regretted this decision. I get great gas mileage and a smooth ride even living in a large major city. If has decent pick up for a 4 cylinder car. When I am getting on a major highway I am able to get to the speed needed within seconds. I love the color its a deep brown with sparkles in it. The interior is brown and beige leather and has held up great. I would re...
User Overall Rating
Posted On: June 12, 2024
I bought this car on a Wim I never regretted this decision. I get great gas mileage and a smooth ride even living in a large major city. If has decent pick up for a 4 cylinder car. When I am getting on a major highway I am able to get to the speed needed within seconds. I love the color its a deep brown with sparkles in it. The interior is brown and beige leather and has held up great. I would re...
