2019 Buick Encore

2019 Buick Encore Highlights

The Buick Encore sits between mainstream subcompact SUVs and ones from luxury brands. For 2019, Buick has simplified the Encore’s lineup to four trims.

Key Details

• Subcompact crossover SUV body style
• Two-row, five-passenger seating
• Standard 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine
• Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or available all-wheel drive on select trims

Benefits

• Premium features in a subcompact package
• Comfortable and quiet ride for its class
• User-friendly technology with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Nimble handling and easy maneuverability in tight spaces
• Available all-wheel drive for enhanced traction
• Upscale interior appointments, especially in higher trims
• Fuel-efficient turbocharged engine

Related: 2019 Buick Encore Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

2019 Buick Encore Overview

Performance

The 2019 Buick Encore has one engine across all trims:

• 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine:
• 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque
• Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission
• Available with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)

This turbocharged engine provides a good balance of power and efficiency for the Encore's compact size. The turbocharger helps deliver responsive acceleration, particularly in city driving scenarios where quick bursts of speed are needed.

The six-speed automatic transmission offers smooth shifts and contributes to the Encore's refined driving character. It features a manual shift mode for drivers who prefer more control over gear selection. All-wheel drive is available on all trims except the base model.

While not designed for heavy towing, the Encore can handle light trailer duties when properly equipped, with a maximum towing capacity of 1,000 pounds.

2019 Buick Encore oil capacity:

• 4.2 quarts

2019 Buick Encore oil type:

• 0W-20 full synthetic

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2019 Encore a top five-star overall safety rating.

Standard safety features across all 2019 Encore trims include:

• Ten airbags, including knee airbags for front occupants
• StabiliTrak electronic stability control system
• Traction control
• Four-wheel antilock brakes
• Rearview camera

The top-tier Essence trim offers the exclusive Safety Package II, which includes:

• Rain-sensing windshield wipers
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Forward collision alert
• Lane departure warning

Driving

Behind the wheel, the 2019 Buick Encore combines comfort and agility, making it well-suited for urban environments and daily commutes. The Encore's compact dimensions contribute to its nimble handling, allowing effortless maneuverability in tight city streets and crowded parking lots.

Ride quality is a strong point for the Encore. Buick's QuietTuning technology, which includes acoustic laminated glass and sound-deadening materials, helps create a quieter cabin environment than many competitors in the subcompact SUV segment. The suspension does a reasonable job of absorbing road imperfections.

Interior

The 2019 Buick Encore interior delivers modest upscale vibes, befitting the automaker’s market position. Just enough quality materials throughout the cabin remind you of Buick’s premium intentions. The Sport Touring trim adds some sporty touches to the interior, including unique accents and a more performance-oriented instrument cluster.

Front seats provide good comfort for daily driving, while rear seat space is adequate for the subcompact class. Taller passengers may find legroom limited on longer trips. The rear seats can fold down to expand cargo capacity when needed.

Cargo space is modest but practical for a vehicle of this size:

• 18.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats
• 48.4 cubic feet with rear seats folded

2019 Buick Encore interior features include:

• Leatherette upholstery standard, with leather available on higher trims
• Power-adjustable driver's seat
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel (Sport Touring and Essence trims)
• Available heated front seats and steering wheel (Essence trim)

Technology

The 2019 Buick Encore has numerous infotainment and connectivity features, including:

• Standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Buick Infotainment System with Bluetooth
• Available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability
• Six-speaker audio system (Base and Preferred trims)
• Available seven-speaker Bose premium audio system (Sport Touring and Essence trims)
• Standard rearview camera

Higher trims offer additional tech features:

• Remote start system
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2019 Buick Encore are as follows:

1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine:

• FWD (mpg): 25 city / 30 highway / 27 combined
• AWD (mpg): 24 city / 29 highway / 26 combined

2019 Buick Encore Reviews

2019 Buick Encore consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are mostly favorable, with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5. Owners particularly praise the Encore's reliability, comfort, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Upscale features and cabin
• Numerous tech features
• Optional all-wheel drive
• Turbocharged engine
• City-friendly size

Problems

• Limited cargo space compared to larger SUVs
• Rear seat can be cramped for taller passengers
• Acceleration may feel underwhelming for some drivers
• Some advanced safety features are only available on the top trim

Explore: Here Are The Buick Encore Years To Avoid

CoPilot's Take

The 2019 Buick Encore is an exciting choice in the subcompact SUV segment. It offers premium features, compact practicality, and a comfortable ride. Meanwhile, the available all-wheel drive system adds versatility.

However, the Encore is underwhelming in a few areas. The turbocharged engine, while fuel-efficient, may feel underpowered to some drivers, especially during highway passing maneuvers. Cargo space, while practical for daily use, is limited compared to larger SUVs. The rear seat can also feel cramped for taller passengers on longer trips.

2019 Buick Encore FAQs

Are there any problems with the 2019 Buick Encore?

While the 2019 Buick Encore is generally considered reliable, some issues reported by owners and noted in reviews include:

• Engine issues, including stalling and complete failure
• Occasional transmission hesitation or rough shifting
• Some complaints about the start-stop system being intrusive
• Reports of electronic glitches

What are the pros and cons of a 2019 Buick Encore?

Pros:

• Premium interior quality for its class
• Quiet and comfortable ride
• Easy maneuverability in tight spaces
• User-friendly technology features
• Available all-wheel drive
• Good fuel economy for a subcompact SUV
• High safety ratings

Cons:

• Limited cargo space compared to larger SUVs
• The rear seat can be cramped for taller passengers
• Engine power may feel inadequate for some drivers
• Some advanced safety features are only available on the top trim
• Higher starting price than non-luxury subcompact SUVs
• Limited towing capacity

How many miles will a 2019 Buick Encore last?

With proper care, a 2019 Buick Encore can last 150,000 to 200,000 miles. It’s possible that the longevity could extend further, but lower-priced cars tend to reach end-of-life status at around the 200,000-mile mark. Ongoing maintenance, careful driving, and minimizing environmental exposure can improve lifespan.

Is there a recall on the 2019 Buick Encore?

Yes, the 2019 Buick Encore is subject to two recalls:

• A transmission fluid leak that can cause a fire
• An airbag that may not deploy in a crash

What trims are available for the 2019 Buick Encore?

The 2019 Encore comes in four versions:

• 2019 Buick Encore Base
• 2019 Buick Encore Preferred
• 2019 Buick Encore Sport Touring
• 2019 Buick Encore Essence

Check Out: Which Years Of Used Buick Encores Are Most Reliable?