Subcompact SUVs are sometimes probably the most inexpensive autos on a seller’s lot. They make easy-living each day drivers – sufficiently small to maneuver in city settings however with extra cargo area than you would possibly anticipate, given their small measurement. In 2023, many are high-tech and comfy, with options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to reflect your telephone on the automobile’s display screen and non-obligatory leather-based interiors.
The little Encore GX is Buick’s best-selling car. Most months, it almost ties Mazda’s most inexpensive SUV, the CX-30, in gross sales numbers. However that doesn’t imply these two have the identical attraction. Let’s examine them.
2023 Mazda CX-30
Critics say the identical factor about virtually each Mazda. They are saying it over and over as a result of it’s true – these are enjoyable to drive. The Mazda CX-30 is the least costly Mazda SUV however has the model’s trademark tight dealing with and a too-good-for-its-price cabin really feel. There are sensible causes to find it irresistible, too – resembling normal all-wheel drive (AWD). Pricing begins at $22,950.
Mazda CX-30 Highlights
Commonplace AWD: Most producers maintain prices down by constructing their subcompact SUVs as front-wheel-drive autos and charging additional for AWD. However what’s an SUV with out the grippy security of AWD? Within the Encore GX, energy to all 4 wheels provides $2,000 to the worth. It’s normal within the CX-30.
Decrease beginning value: Talking of value, the CX-30 begins about $3,000 lower than the Encore GX. Mazda builds it in seven trim ranges, whereas Buick builds the GX in simply three. That makes it simpler to discover a CX-30 with the options you need with out overpaying for those you don’t.
That Mazda really feel: The key to Mazda’s success is torque vectoring – a system that brakes every particular person wheel individually to level the automobile into turns with out a lot physique roll. It’s frequent on luxurious automobiles however not frequent at this value vary. Mazda, remarkably, builds it into even its least expensive automobiles. The CX-30 can also be far more highly effective than the Encore GX, even with out springing for the non-obligatory turbocharged engine.
Test this week’s Honest Buy Worth or see the Mazda CX-30 fashions on the market close to you.
2023 Buick Encore GX
Buick occupies a singular area within the automotive panorama, and it exhibits within the Encore GX. Buick is extra premium than an inexpensive model (cousin Chevrolet holds down that area). Nevertheless it’s inexpensive than a real luxurious model (cousin Cadillac has that job). Goldilocks-like, it builds automobiles rather less costly than true luxurious automobiles however a bit nicer than common. That’s a wonderful description of the Encore GX, a premium subcompact SUV and not using a true luxurious sticker value. Costs begin at $25,900.
Buick Encore GX Highlights
An upscale really feel: Our check driver mentioned the Encore GX “has a pleasant, upscale inside for the cash. It’s not as premium as an SUV from a luxurious model, however it additionally isn’t as costly.” That’s Buick’s candy spot, and the GX hits it.
Beneficiant cargo area: The CX-30 and Encore GX have remarkably related entrance and rear seat dimensions, however the GX wins the cargo area battle with the rear seats up or down.
QuietTuning Know-how: A well-equipped CX-30 has most of the trimmings of a luxurious automobile. The one the place Buick actually units itself aside, although, is quiet cabins. The Encore GX might be the quietest car in its class on the freeway.
Test this week’s Honest Buy Worth or see the Encore GX fashions on the market close to you.
Similarities
These two have almost the identical passenger quantity, and each, absolutely outfitted, are near-luxury automobiles.
Conclusion
The Buick Encore GX is a cushty subcompact SUV with near-luxury aspirations and a quiet experience. However its greater beginning value, added price for all-wheel drive, and uninspiring 137-horsepower engine restrict its attraction. The Mazda CX-30 is extra enjoyable to drive and extra highly effective, inexpensive, and will be equally luxurious at greater trims.
Specs:
| 2023 Mazda CX-30 | 2023 Buick Encore GX | |
| Beginning Worth | $22,950 | $25,900 |
| Well-liked Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder | 1.2-liter turbo 3-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 191 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 137 hp @ 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 162 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed automated | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Gas financial system | 26 metropolis/33 freeway/29 mixed mpg | 29 metropolis/32 freeway/30 mixed mpg |
| Additionally Out there | 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder | AWD; 1.3-liter turbo 3-cylinder; 9-spd automated |
| Specs | ||
| Primary Guarantee | 3 years/36,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Guarantee | 5 years/60,000 miles | 6 years/70,000 miles |
| NHTSA Total Security Score | TBD | 5 stars |
| Max Seating Capability | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 104.4 inches | 102.2 inches |
| Total Size | 173.0 inches | 171.4 inches |
| Width | 70.7 inches | 71.4 inches |
| Peak | 61.7 inches | 64.1 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 37.3 toes | 36.8 toes |
| Headroom, Entrance | 38.1 inches | 39.7 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 38.3 inches | 38.1 inches |
| Legroom, Entrance | 41.7 inches | 40.9 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 36.3 inches | 36 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Entrance | 55.6 inches | 55.4 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 53.6 inches | 53.6 inches |
| Cargo Quantity | 20.2/45.2 cubic toes | 23.5/50.2 cubic toes |
