How to choose between the 2024 Buick Encore GX and the 2024 Buick Envista

January 18 2024,

If you are looking for a new vehicle in the very competitive sub-compact SUV market, you might have noticed that Buick has two fairly similar models to offer. While both the refreshed 2024 Buick Encore GX and the entirely new 2024 Buick Envista share a lot in common, they also have several significant differences. Thus, when it comes to choosing between the 2024 Buick Encore GX and the 2024 Buick Envista, there are several factors to consider.

2024 Buick Encore GX

The 2024 Buick Encore GX is the smallest model in Buick’s all-SUV lineup. It’s designed to attract younger buyers to the brand with its upscale ambitions and its low price that place it in line with less premium rivals. The Encore GX benefits from a more traditional SUV design that results in a cargo-friendly interior, a comfortable ride, and a well-isolated cabin that keeps road noise at bay thanks to the brand’s Quiettuning technology. The Encore GX receives a styling makeover for 2024 with sleeker exterior lighting elements, reshaped front and rear bumpers, and an updated grille. The interior changes are intended to bring the Encore GX upmarket and make it even more modern, notably due to the inclusion of a new instrument panel that combines an 11-inch infotainment screen and an 8-inch digital driver information display in a single curved panel sat atop the dashboard.

2024 Buick Envista

On the other hand, the 2024 Buick Envista is an all-new nameplate for Buick. The Envista is an attractive and low-cost option among small SUVs and it targets buyers who want a more stylish crossover that is also more premium than most other entries in the segment while still being affordable. The Envista offers a high-end appearance, a well-controlled ride, and surprisingly low price tag given all of its standard and available features, which include the same new digital dashboard as the Encore GX. Despite it being the most affordable model in the Buick lineup, the Envista doesn’t feel like a cheap product and it offers the same three trim levels as the Encore GX: the well-equipped Preferred, the dynamic Sport Touring, and the upscale Avenir.

Main differences

As you can see, the 2024 Buick Encore GX and the 2024 Buick Envista are very similar in many ways, but they still have some fairly significant differences in terms of design and powertrains. Indeed, the Encore GX offers more cargo room than the Envista, whose sleek roofline cuts down somewhat on available space at the rear. This means that if you need to carry large items regularly, the Encore GX could serve you better with its cargo volume of up to 1,422 litres with the rear seat down, despite the Envista still offering a generous 1,189 litres of space.

In addition, another difference can be found under the hood. Indeed, the 2024 Buick Encore GX is powered by a 1,3L turbocharged three-cylinder engine that delivers 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels via a CVT transmission in the entry-level model. Available on the Preferred and standard on both other versions is an all-wheel drive system that also comes with a 9-speed automatic transmission.

In the case of the Envista, lifting the hood reveals a smaller 1,2L turbocharged three-cylinder engine that generates 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. This engine is exclusively paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels as the Envista doesn’t offer all-wheel drive.

As mentioned previously, another difference resides in the price of both models, since the 2024 Buick Envista takes on the role of entry point to the brand’s lineup with its starting MSRP of $29,830. The 2024 Buick Encore GX follows closely behind, with an MSRP of $32,480.

In conclusion, the choice between the 2024 Buick Encore GX and the 2024 Buick Envista depends on your preferences and needs. If you value more cargo space and a well-isolated cabin, the Encore GX might be the better choice for you. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with a distinctive style, the Envista could be a great fit.