Buick's smallest model is back for an Encore as the brand's entry-level crossover model. The biggest change for 2016 is the addition of a Sport Touring trim that gets a new version of Encore's 1.4L turbocharged engine good for 153 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque and featuring idle stop-start technology, and trim-specific exterior cues. Otherwise, updates for 2016 are limited to new paint choices and revised 18-inch wheels.
Encore is offered in four other trims: base, Convenience, Leather, and Premium. All of these use the 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder carried over from last year, making 138 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque, and come standard with a six-speed automatic transmission. All trims, including the Sport Touring, can be optioned with either front- or all-wheel drive.
Even with its extra output, the Sport Touring's upgraded motor is the more efficient of the two, with ratings of 8.5/6.9 L/100 km (city/highway) in FWD form, and 8.9/7.4 with AWD. The less-potent engine used in other trims is rated at 9.5/7.2 with FWD and 10.2/8.0 with AWD.
Standard features include knee airbags, backup camera, Buick's "QuietTuning" system, including active noise cancellation, cloth seating with leatherette accents, heated side mirrors and integrated turn signal repeaters, six-way power driver's seat with lumbar, seven-inch IntelliLink touchscreen infotainment system, leather-trimmed steering wheel, cargo cover, electric power steering, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Convenience trim adds remote starting, auto-dimming rearview mirror, fog lights, rear cross traffic alert, and side blind zone alert.
Sport Touring adds the stronger motor, body-coloured door handles, and a rear spoiler.
The Leather model builds on the Convenience package and adds leather seating.
Finally, Premium trim brings a carpeted cargo mat, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear park assist, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and a seven-speaker stereo.
