Buick Envista vs. Encore GX Comparison

The 2026 Envista and Encore GX are two of Buick’s most popular modern SUVs thanks to their excellent list of luxury-leaning features and affordable price tags. If you’re shopping for a new compact crossover near Dentsville or Blythewood, there’s a good chance they’re near the top of the list, but is one a better fit than the other? 

Join us while we compare the two to find out their differences, similarities, and which one is the right fit for your family. 

Buick Envista vs. Encore GX: Performance 

The 2026 Envista comes with a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine that makes 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. The motor is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive comes standard, with no all-wheel drive option available. 

Meanwhile, the 2026 Encore GX has two available engine options. The standard issue setup comes with the same 1.2-liter engine as the Envista, but shoppers who want a little extra kick can spring for the 1.3-liter engine that cranks out 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. The Encore GX also allows a choice between front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, making it a bit more versatile. 

Buick Envista vs. Encore GX: Fuel Economy 

Since it only has one powertrain option, all Envista models are rated for an estimated 28 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The Encore GX with front-wheel drive is just about neck-and-neck, with a rating of 29 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, giving both a combined average of 30 mpg overall. However, Encore GX AWD models take a bit of a hit, returning 26 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, which gives the Envista a slight edge in terms of gas mileage.

Buick Envista vs. Encore GX: Size and Dimensions 

The Envista can be recognized by its sporty liftback body style, while the Encore GX has more of a classic compact crossover profile, which means they have slightly differing interior dimensions. Here’s a side-by-side comparison: 

Taking a quick glance at the numbers, we see that the Encore GX has significantly more cargo space, but the Envista has more leg room in both rows. Of course, if neither one seems big enough for your family, you can also check out the larger Envision or Enclave. 

Buick Envista vs. Encore GX: Interior 

Both the Envista and Encore GX have a solid selection of luxury appointments and tech features. 

Inside the Envista, you’ll find an 11-inch HD center touch screen display and 8-inch driver information center, which combine into one continuous horizontal display. Bluetooth, in-vehicle Wi-Fi, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, multiple USB ports, and premium upholstery all come standard, and available features include wireless phone charging, heated front seats, and an upgraded stereo system. 

The Encore GX has a very similar setup, with the 11-inch center screen and 8-inch information center combo as well as all of the same standard and available features. In addition, it also has a few extra available upgrades like dual-zone climate control and a 120-volt power outlet.

Buick Envista vs. Encore GX: Safety Features 

Like all new Buick models, the Envista and Encore GX come with an impressive array of standard driver assistance features, including: 

• Forward Collision Alert 

• Automatic Emergency Braking 

• Front Pedestrian Braking 

• Following Distance Indicator 

• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning 

• Rear Park Assist 

• Intellibeam Auto High Beams 

• HD Rear Vision Camera 

• Teen Driver 

• Buckle to Drive 

In addition, the Encore GX has standard Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, as well as available HD Surround Vision. 

Buick Envista vs. Encore GX: Price 

Lastly, let’s check out both SUV’s respective pricing and trims. 

2026 Buick Envista pricing: 

• Preferred: $24,700 

• Sport Touring: $26,200 

• Avenir: $29,500 

2026 Buick Encore GX pricing: 

• Preferred: $26,200 

• Sport Touring: $27,400 

• Avenir: $31,700 

Nearly all Envista and Encore GX models have a starting MSRP under $30k, which allows shoppers to spring for the top-spec trims with the nicest features while remaining frugal, making both an excellent investment for families. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How many people can each SUV seat? 

Both the Envista and Encore GX seat up to 5 passengers. If you need more room, Jim Hudson Buick GMC also carries the larger Envision and Enclave. 

Which SUV has more cargo space? 

The Encore GX has more cargo room with up to 50.2 cubic feet behind the front seats, compared to 42.0 cubic feet in the Envista. Behind the rear seats, the Encore GX offers 23.5 cubic feet versus the Envista’s 20.7 cubic feet. 

Does the Buick Envista or Buick Encore GX have better gas milage? 

Both are nearly identical with front-wheel drive. The Envista is rated at 28 mpg city / 32 mpg highway, while the FWD Encore GX gets 29 mpg city / 31 mpg highway — both averaging 30 mpg combined. However, the Encore GX AWD drops to 26 mpg city / 28 mpg highway, giving the Envista a slight edge if fuel economy is a top priority. 

Does the Envista or Encore GX offer all-wheel drive? 

Only the Encore GX offers all-wheel drive. The Envista is front-wheel drive only. While AWD isn’t always necessary in Columbia’s mild climate, it can be helpful for occasional rainy weather, light off-road use, or trips to the mountains.

Shop Buick SUVs in Columbia, SC 

Still not sure which model is right for you? Stop by Jim Hudson Buick GMC, where we have an excellent selection of new Envista and Encore GX models ready to test drive so you can pick out the perfect ride for your family. We also have Buick lease deals and new vehicle specials so you can enjoy an affordable monthly payment and drive with peace of mind. 

Contact us online or call us at (803) 462-4475 to schedule and appointment today.