Item: 2014 Buick Encore
Author: Bob Long

Overview

The Encore is a recent entrant into a crowded field of compact crossovers. However, the Encore offers a level of luxury and sophistication not found in the class. Buick hopes its miniaturized Enclave will appeal to style-conscious youth, as well as empty nesters hoping to downsize—but not downgrade—their ride.

What's New for 2014

The 2014 Encore adds Enhanced IntelliLink with text message support, Siri Eyes Free and smartphone voice recognition. New options include Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Side Blind Zone Alert, both of which are included in the Convenience package.

Buick Encore

Choosing Your Buick Encore

The Encore's sole engine is GM's familiar 1.4-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder, which makes 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission; front-wheel drive models feature manual-style shifting capabilities.

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The combination yields respectable acceleration and impressive EPA figures for a vehicle of its type—a front-wheel drive Encore earns up to 33 mpg on the highway. As an added bonus, the engine is designed to run on regular gasoline, not the premium grade required by some of the Encore's chief rivals.

In addition to benefitting from Buick's highly-efficient Quiet Tuning regimen, the Encore introduces a new element to the mix: Active Noise Cancellation circuitry that effectively filters out low-frequency engine sounds to ensure an even more serene passenger compartment.

The 2014 Encore is offered in front-wheel drive—and optional all-wheel drive—across four trim levels:

The optional Active On Demand All-Wheel Drive system is also quite advanced. Available on all Encore variants, this computer-controlled system automatically engages the all-wheel drive as surface conditions dictate and each time the vehicle stops to ensure smoother off-the-line acceleration. If no slip is present, it progressively disengages to promote better fuel economy.

The well-equipped Buick Encore can still be personalized with individual options. All but the base model can be fitted with a GPS-enabled navigation system, a power sunroof, a unique oil-pan heater for cold weather climates, 18-inch chrome-alloy wheels as well as the 7-speaker premium Bose Audio system.

CarsDirect Tip

We recommend going for the true luxury experience of the Leather trim level—it doesn't cost much more than the Base or Convenience levels, and includes pleasingly upscale amenities.

Choose Your Buick Encore »

Bob Long

Automotive Editor - March 31, 2014

Read Less

Specs & Features

Highlights

Overall Crash Safety Rating

Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque

1.4L I-4 / 138 HP / 148 ft.lbs.

Transmission

6-spd sequential shift control auto w/OD

Drive Type

Front-wheel

Fuel Economy - City/Highway/Combined

25 / 33 / 29 Mpg

Passenger Capacity

Bumper to Bumper Warranty

48 Months / 50,000 Miles

Mechanical Specs

Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque	1.4L I-4 / 138 HP / 148 ft.lbs.
Drive Type	Front-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Hwy/Combined	25 / 33 / 29 Mpg
Brakes	4-wheel Disc
Front Suspension	Strut
Rear Suspension	Semi-independent Torsion Beam Beam
Spare Tire And Wheel	Compact Steel
Fuel Tank	14.0 Gal.
Recommended Fuel Type	Regular Unleaded
Average Cost To Fill Tank	$53

Dimensions & Capabilities

Maximum Cargo Volume	48.4 Cu.ft.
Passenger Volume
Exterior Length	168.4 "
Exterior Width	69.9 "
Exterior Height	65.2 "
Front Headroom	39.6 "
Rear Headroom	38.8 "
Front Legroom	40.8 "
Rear Legroom	35.7 "
Front Shoulder Room	54.1 "
Rear Shoulder Room	52.5 "
Front Hip Room
Rear Hip Room
Curb Weight	3,190 Lbs.
Wheel Base	101 "
Turning Radius	18.3 '

Exterior Features

Door Count	4 Doors
Wheels	18.0 " Silver Aluminum
Paint	Clearcoat Monotone / Metallic Monotone / Pearlcoat Monotone
Exterior Mirrors	Dual Power Remote Heated Convex Spotter
Bumpers	Body-colored With Metal-look Insert
Grille Moldings	Chrome
Rear Spoiler	Lip
Exhaust	Stainless Steel With Polished Tailpipe Finish

Interior Features

Seating

Passenger Capacity	5
Seat Trim	Cloth/leatherette
Front Seat Type	Bucket
Heated Front Seats
Front Driver Seat Direction Controls	8-way (6-way Power)
Front Passenger Seat Direction Controls	4-way
Front Armrests	8-way (6-way Power)
Rear Armrests	Center
Rear Seats	60-40 Bench

Radio & Infotainment

Radio	Intellilink Siriusxm Am/fm/satellite, Clock, Seek-scan
Speakers	6
Radio Steering Wheel Controls
Apple Car Play
Android Auto
Bluetooth w/ Hands-Free Connectivity

Convenience Features

Steering Wheel Type	Telescopic Tilt
Climate Control
Cruise Control	With Steering Wheel Controls
Sun Roof
Rearview Mirror	Day-night
One Touch Open Window	Front And Rear
Tinted Windows	Deep
Vanity Mirrors	Dual Illuminated
Remote Keyless Entry	Keyfob (all Doors)
Power Outlets	1

Safety Features

Overall Crash Safety Rating
Overall Front Crash Safety Rating
Overall Side Crash Safety Rating
Rollover Crash Safety Rating
Front Impact Airbags	Driver And Passenger
Driver Side Impact Airbags	Seat Mounted
Knee Airbag	Driver And Passenger
Passenger Side Impact Airbag	Seat Mounted
Rear Side Airbag	Rear Side-impact Airbag
Seatbelt Pretensioners	Front
Anti-Lock Brakes	4-wheel Anti-lock Brakes (abs)
Forward Collision Warning
Blind Spot Sensor
Lane Departure Warning
Autonomous Cruise Control
Pedestrian Detection
Driver Attention Alert
Daytime Running Lights
Auto High Beams
Adaptive Headlights
Parking Sensors
Security Systems	Security System
Panic Alarm
Ignition Disable	Pass-key Iii

Warranty

Bumper To Bumper Months Miles	48 Months / 50,000 Miles
Major Components Months	72 Months / 70,000 Miles
Included Maintenance Months	24 Months / 24,000 Miles
Roadside Assistance Months	72 Months / 70,000 Miles
Corrosion Perforation	72 Months / Unlimited Miles
Accessories Months	48 Months / 50,000 Miles

Used 2014 Buick Encore for Sale