2026 Buick Encore GX
The 2026 Buick Encore GX is a SUV priced from $25,900 to $33,000 with 6 available trims. This page brings together safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, fuel economy data from the EPA, reliability scores from RepairPal, ownership cost estimates from AAA, and manufacturer specifications. Every number below is sourced from its original publisher and can be independently verified.
The 2026 Buick Encore GX carries a 5-star NHTSA safety rating, a fuel cost grade of A among value SUVs, and a RepairPal reliability score of 3.5/5. NHTSA has no recall campaigns on file for this vehicle.
What the published data indicates
Compared with similar SUVs in our dataset, the clearest positive signals for the 2026 Buick Encore GX are lower estimated fuel cost and high published crash-test results, with lower estimated five-year cost. The main caution is that reliability is middle-of-pack.
- fuel cost
- safety
- estimated 5-year cost
Strongest published signals
- Fuel: Top 20% cheapest to fuel among gas SUVs. Best-case annual fuel cost is $1,450. Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2026 →
- Safety: 5-star NHTSA. Safest SUVs 2026 →
- Best estimated five-year cost in the lineup is about $8,449 below the similar-vehicle average. Lowest cost to own 2026 →
Limits and cautions
- Reliability is not a standout here: RepairPal 3.5/5.
Comparable models
- Starting MSRP
- $25,900 - $33,000
- EPA Combined MPG
- 27-30 MPG
- NHTSA Safety Rating
- 5-Star (Highest)
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $1,450 - $1,600/yr
- Recalls on File
- No recalls on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- Save $500 over 5 yrs
- Brand Origin
- United States
How Safe Is the 2026 Buick Encore GX?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX earned the highest possible 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Among SUVs, 82% have earned this top score. Ratings are based on frontal crash, side crash, and rollover resistance tests on production vehicles. Source: NHTSA.
Overall Safety
82% of SUVs share this top rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Frontal Crash | |
| Side Crash | |
| Rollover |
Rollover Risk: 17.9%
NHTSA and IIHS test vehicles independently using different crash scenarios. Together, they provide the most complete picture of a vehicle's crashworthiness.
How Did the 2026 Buick Encore GX Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
IIHS has tested the 2026 Buick Encore GX but did not award a Top Safety Pick designation. Individual test ratings are shown below. IIHS tests complement NHTSA ratings by evaluating different crash scenarios. Source: IIHS.
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | G Good |
| Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) | A Acceptable |
IIHS vehicle class: Small SUVs
Beyond crash test performance, the recall record shows whether the manufacturer has identified and addressed any safety-related defects after the vehicle went on sale.
Does the 2026 Buick Encore GX Have Any Recalls?
NHTSA has no recall campaigns on file for the 2026 Buick Encore GX. For context, the average SUV has 1.8 recall campaigns. Recalls can be issued at any time as new issues are identified. Source: NHTSA.
No recalls on file with NHTSA
Owner-Reported Problems
NHTSA complaint data is not available for the 2026 Buick Encore GX. This does not mean there are no complaints. The model may not yet be tracked in the NHTSA database.
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-03-07.
With the safety picture established, the next question is cost. Fuel is typically the largest variable expense for most drivers.
What Is the 2026 Buick Encore GX Fuel Economy?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX achieves up to 30 combined MPG, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,450. This is close to the $1,396 average for value SUVs. Actual costs depend on driving habits and fuel prices. Source: EPA (fueleconomy.gov).
Ranges from 27 to 30 combined MPG/MPGe depending on trim and drivetrain.
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preferred FWD FLEX | 30 MPG | 30 | 31 | $1,450/yr |
| Sport Touring FWD GAS | 30 MPG | 30 | 31 | $1,450/yr |
| Preferred AWD GAS | 27 MPG | 26 | 28 | $1,600/yr |
| Sport Touring AWD GAS | 27 MPG | 26 | 28 | $1,600/yr |
| Avenir FWD GAS | 30 MPG | 30 | 31 | $1,450/yr |
| Avenir AWD GAS | 27 MPG | 26 | 28 | $1,600/yr |
Fuel is only one part of the ownership cost equation. AAA estimates the full picture: insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and financing.
What Does the 2026 Buick Encore GX Cost to Own?
Estimated 5-year total ownership cost for the 2026 Buick Encore GX ranges from $68,280 to $92,395 depending on trim, based on AAA's Your Driving Costs study for the Subcompact SUV class. This includes insurance, maintenance, depreciation, registration, and financing. These are class averages, not specific to this model. Source: AAA.
| Maintenance | $1,746/yr |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,726/yr |
| Depreciation | $3,554/yr |
| Registration & Taxes | $641/yr |
| Financing | $898/yr |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $10,279/yr |
| Cost per mile | $0.66/mi |
Total cost varies significantly by trim. The table below breaks down each trim so you can see exactly where your money goes.
How Do the 2026 Buick Encore GX Trims Compare?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX is available in 6 trims, with base prices ranging from $25,900 to $33,000. Trims are available with Flex Fuel and Gasoline powertrains, which affects fuel economy and pricing. The table below compares key specifications and costs across all available trims. Prices shown are manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) and do not include destination charges, dealer fees, taxes, or incentives.
| Trim | Base MSRP | Combined MPG | Est. Annual Fuel Cost | Drive Type | Horsepower | Curb Weight | Est. 5-Year Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preferred FWD FLEX | $25,900 | 30 MPG | $1,450/yr | FWD | 137 hp | 3,023 lbs | $68,280 |
| Sport Touring FWD GAS | $27,100 | 30 MPG | $1,450/yr | FWD | 155 hp | 3,063 lbs | $69,480 |
| Preferred AWD GAS | $27,900 | 27 MPG | $1,600/yr | AWD | 155 hp | 3,255 lbs | $87,295 |
| Sport Touring AWD GAS | $28,700 | 27 MPG | $1,600/yr | AWD | 155 hp | 3,255 lbs | $88,095 |
| Avenir FWD GAS | $31,400 | 30 MPG | $1,450/yr | FWD | 155 hp | 3,063 lbs | $73,780 |
| Avenir AWD GAS | $33,000 | 27 MPG | $1,600/yr | AWD | 155 hp | 3,255 lbs | $92,395 |
The entry price has increased $300 since 2024.
New trims since 2024
- Preferred FWD FLEX (added 2025)
Trims no longer available
- Preferred FWD GAS (last available 2024)
Price changes since 2024
- Avenir FWD GAS $31,900 (2024) → $31,400 (2026) -$500
- Avenir AWD GAS $33,500 (2024) → $33,000 (2026) -$500
- Sport Touring FWD GAS $26,800 (2024) → $27,100 (2026) +$300
- Preferred AWD GAS $27,600 (2024) → $27,900 (2026) +$300
- Sport Touring AWD GAS $28,400 (2024) → $28,700 (2026) +$300
View full trim timeline (2024–2026)
| Trim | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preferred FWD GAS | $25,600 30 MPG | — | — |
| Sport Touring FWD GAS | $26,800 30 MPG | $27,140 30 MPG | $27,100 30 MPG |
| Preferred AWD GAS | $27,600 27 MPG | $27,940 27 MPG | $27,900 27 MPG |
| Sport Touring AWD GAS | $28,400 27 MPG | $28,740 27 MPG | $28,700 27 MPG |
| Avenir FWD GAS | $31,900 30 MPG | $31,500 30 MPG | $31,400 30 MPG |
| Avenir AWD GAS | $33,500 27 MPG | $33,100 27 MPG | $33,000 27 MPG |
| Preferred FWD FLEX | — | $25,940 30 MPG | $25,900 30 MPG |
Compare Trim Costs
Select two trims and adjust your driving and financing to see how monthly costs compare. Only costs we can compute from EPA data and your inputs are shown. No estimates, no guesses.
Your driving & financing
Choosing a trim is also about long-term dependability. The section below shows the third-party reliability rating available for this model.
How Reliable Is the 2026 Buick Encore GX?
RepairPal rates the 2026 Buick Encore GX at 3.5 out of 5.0 for reliability, which is about average for value SUVs. RepairPal ratings reflect repair frequency and cost data from a network of certified repair shops. Source: RepairPal.
The manufacturer's warranty provides a baseline of coverage. Here is what Buick includes.
What Warranty Does the 2026 Buick Encore GX Come With?
Buick provides the following warranty coverage for the 2026 Encore GX. Warranty terms are published by the manufacturer and apply to all trims. Coverage begins from the date of original purchase. Warranty terms shown here reflect the most recently published manufacturer data.
| Basic Warranty | 3yr/36k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 1yr/1visit |
What Are the 2026 Buick Encore GX Specs?
Detailed specifications for the 2026 Buick Encore GX as reported by the manufacturer. Specifications may vary by trim, market, and production date. Source: manufacturer-reported data.
| Engine | 1.2L I3, 1.3L I3 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 137 - 155 hp |
| Torque | 162 - 174 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic, 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | flex-fuel (unleaded/E85), regular unleaded |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal |
| Length | 171.2 in |
|---|---|
| Width | 71.4 in |
| Height | 64.1 - 65.2 in |
| Wheelbase | 102.0 in |
| Curb Weight | 3,023 - 3,255 lbs |
What Changed for the 2026 Buick Encore GX?
- Pricing changed across one or more trims
That is the complete data picture for the 2026 Buick Encore GX based on published data from EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, AAA, manufacturers, and selected third-party references as of the dates shown above. If any of these agencies publishes updated data, this page will reflect those changes automatically. For questions about how this data is collected and verified, see our methodology page.
2026 Buick Encore GX FAQ
How does the 2026 Buick Encore GX compare to other suvs?
Based on published data, the 2026 Buick Encore GX has a safety grade of B, a fuel cost grade of A, a RepairPal reliability score of 3.5/5, and zero recalls on file. These grades compare it against similar suvs in its price range. No single metric tells the whole story, so we recommend reviewing each section on this page. See our Safest SUVs 2026 list.
Which 2026 Buick Encore GX trim has the lowest ownership cost?
Among 6 available trims, the Preferred FWD FLEX has the lowest estimated five-year ownership cost at $68,280, starting at $25,900 MSRP. The most expensive trim to own is about $92,395. See the full trim comparison table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
How much does 2026 Buick Encore GX insurance cost?
AAA estimates the annual insurance cost for the Subcompact SUV class at $1,726 per year, or about $144 per month. This is a class-level average, not specific to the 2026 Buick Encore GX. Your actual premium will depend on your driving history, location, and coverage choices. Source: AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How much does 2026 Buick Encore GX maintenance cost per year?
AAA estimates average annual maintenance for the Subcompact SUV class at $1,746 per year. This covers routine services, wear items, and unscheduled repairs. Combined with insurance ($1,726/yr) and depreciation ($3,554/yr), total non-fuel ownership costs run about $10,279 per year. These are class averages from the AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How fast does a 2026 Buick Encore GX depreciate?
AAA estimates the Subcompact SUV class depreciates about $3,554 per year, or roughly $17,770 over five years. On a base MSRP of $25,900, that represents about 69% of the purchase price. These are class averages and actual depreciation varies by trim, condition, mileage, and market demand. Source: AAA.
How much will I spend on gas with a 2026 Buick Encore GX?
The most efficient 2026 Buick Encore GX trim costs an estimated $1,450 per year in fuel, or about $121 per month, based on EPA ratings and national average fuel prices. See our Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2026 list.
What vehicles compete with the 2026 Buick Encore GX?
Based on price range, body type, and segment positioning, the closest competitors to the 2026 Buick Encore GX include 2026 Mazda CX-30, 2026 Hyundai Kona, and 2026 Honda HR-V. Each of those pages includes the same safety, fuel cost, reliability, and recall data so you can compare directly. Browse all 2026 SUVs.
What changed on the 2026 Buick Encore GX from last year?
Compared to the previous model year, 1 new trim was added, 1 trim was dropped, and the entry price increased by $300 for the Buick Encore GX lineup. See the trim evolution timeline above for full year-by-year pricing and availability details.
How much does a 2026 Buick Encore GX cost per month to own?
Excluding your car payment, estimated monthly costs for the 2026 Buick Encore GX include about $857 for insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and fees, plus roughly $121 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $978 per month. These are estimates based on AAA class averages and EPA fuel data. Actual costs depend on your driving, location, and coverage.
Is the 2026 Buick Encore GX safe for families?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX earned NHTSA's highest 5-star overall safety rating, which evaluates frontal crash, side crash, and rollover resistance. A 5-star rating does not guarantee safety in every situation but indicates strong performance in standardized crash tests. See our Safest SUVs 2026 list.
Compare to Similar Vehicles
Other Model Years
Data on this page is compiled from government agencies and independent research organizations. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, purchasing, or safety advice. Verify all data with the original source before making decisions.