Used 2013 Buick Encore SUV Review & Ratings

Performance

Despite its ultra-sporty and peppy appearance, the 2013 Buick Encore does not have the power to back up that first impression. The good news is that although fuel-economy statistics are not available yet, they are expected to be quite good for a vehicle in the compact crossover SUV segment.

It is powered by a 1.4-liter four-cylinder turbo engine that is paired up with a six-speed shiftable automatic transmission. This combination delivers 140 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque, so you will not be winning any races off the line. The 2013 Buick Encore will be a front-wheel drive vehicle, but all-wheel drive is available.

Although driving impressions are not available, one has to expect that it will be a little bumpy. While most others vehicles in this class boast a four-wheel independent suspension, the Encore does not, so bumps and holes hit by one tire will affect other tires.

Technology

• Noise Cancelation \" One of the main attractions of the 2013 Buick Encore is the noise cancellation technology, which uses the speakers to emit frequencies that cancel out road and engine noise.
• IntelliLink: Buick’s voice-activation IntelliLink allows you to use an USB or Bluetooth to connect your smartphone to the Encore’s 7-inch, full color LCD display radio.
• Navigation: Although not standard, navigation is available with real-time traffic.

Other technology and entertainment features worth mentioning include remote vehicle start, rain sense wipers, six-way seat, dual-zone climate control, universal remote transmitter, rear view camera, Sirius XM satellite radio and Bose speakers.

Safety

It is far too early to start talking about crash tests or braking distances, but with the lineup of features, one can’t help but expect that the Encore will score well, as Buick usually does. If drivers add OnStar, they will have even more peace-of-mind on the road, knowing that OnStar will be alerted in the event of a crash. A few of the many safety features that come standard include:

• 4-wheel ABS
• Head and side mounted airbags
• Child seat anchors
• Emergency braking assist
• Engine immobilizer
• Dusk sensing headlamps
• Traction control
• Stability control
• Tire-pressure monitoring

Appearance

If you are looking for a sporty crossover, it really does not get any better than the 2013 Encore. It is obvious that Buick is making an effort to target a younger driver finally. Low profile styling meets, muscular lines, which are complemented by blue-accented headlamps, privacy glass, roof racks and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Comfort

Despite its compact size, there is almost as much legroom for rear seat passengers in the Encore as there is in the Equinox. This means that adult passengers can actually get comfortable in the second row.

A noise suppression system will fend off road and engine noise by using the speakers to emit noise-canceling frequencies. Talk about innovative!

When you slip behind the wheel, you cannot help but feel as though you are in a high-priced luxury vehicle. The cockpit is modern, yet not overdone, with controls placed thoughtfully in the dashboard.

Cargo

You may be quite surprised at just how much cargo space you are granted in the 2013 Buick Encore. With all seats in place, you have 18.8 cubic feet available. However, when you fold the rear seat down, 48.4 cubic feet opens up. While these numbers may seem a bit smaller than other crossovers, keep in mind that this is a sub-compact.