Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a 2019 Buick Encore? Let's dive into what US News has to say about it, and whether it's the right ride for you. We'll break down the reviews, check out the pros and cons, and see if this compact SUV lives up to the hype. Let’s get started!

Overview of the 2019 Buick Encore

The 2019 Buick Encore is a compact SUV that offers a blend of comfort, style, and practicality. It's designed for city dwellers and small families who need a versatile vehicle that's easy to maneuver and park. The Encore stands out with its upscale interior, user-friendly technology, and quiet ride. However, it also faces stiff competition in the crowded compact SUV market.

What US News Says

US News & World Report provides comprehensive reviews and rankings of vehicles, helping consumers make informed decisions. According to their analysis, the 2019 Buick Encore has some notable strengths but also areas where it falls short compared to its rivals.

Pros:

• Upscale Interior: One of the main draws of the Encore is its well-appointed cabin. High-quality materials and a stylish design give it a premium feel that's rare in this segment.
• User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is easy to use, with intuitive controls and a responsive touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, making smartphone integration seamless.
• Quiet Ride: The Encore excels at providing a comfortable and quiet ride, even on rough roads. This makes it a great choice for daily commutes and long trips.
• Compact Size: Its small footprint makes it easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces, which is a big plus for urban environments.

Cons:

• Small Cargo Area: One of the biggest drawbacks is its limited cargo space. If you frequently haul large items or need room for family luggage, the Encore might feel cramped.
• Engine Performance: The base engine can feel underpowered, especially when the vehicle is fully loaded. Acceleration is sluggish, which can be frustrating in certain driving situations.
• Rear Seat Space: The rear seats are a bit tight, which might not be comfortable for taller adults or families with older children.

Detailed Look at Key Features

To really understand the 2019 Buick Encore, let's break down some of its key features and how they perform.

Engine and Performance:

The 2019 Buick Encore typically comes with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While this engine provides decent fuel economy, its performance is often criticized for being underpowered. The base engine usually delivers around 138 horsepower, which may struggle when the vehicle is carrying passengers or cargo. An upgraded engine option is available on some trims, offering a bit more power, but it still doesn't transform the Encore into a performance-oriented SUV. The six-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth but can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration.

Interior and Comfort:

Inside, the Encore shines with its premium materials and attention to detail. The cabin is well-insulated, providing a quiet and comfortable ride. The front seats are supportive and offer good adjustability. However, as mentioned earlier, the rear seats can be a bit cramped, especially for taller adults. The overall design is elegant and modern, giving the Encore a more upscale feel than many of its competitors.

Technology and Connectivity:

The Encore comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This makes it easy to connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The system is user-friendly and responsive, with intuitive menus and controls. Other available tech features include a Bose audio system, built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, and keyless open and start.

Safety Features:

Buick equipped the 2019 Encore with a range of safety features to keep you and your passengers protected. Standard features include a rearview camera, anti-lock brakes, and a suite of airbags. Available advanced safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision alert. These technologies can help prevent accidents and provide added peace of mind.

Cargo Space and Practicality:

One of the Encore's main weaknesses is its limited cargo space. With the rear seats up, it offers just 18.8 cubic feet of cargo room. Folding down the rear seats expands the cargo area to 48.4 cubic feet, but this is still less than many of its competitors. If you frequently need to haul large items or carry a lot of luggage, the Encore might not be the best choice.

Real-World Driving Experience

How does the 2019 Buick Encore perform in everyday driving situations? Let's take a look.

City Driving:

In the city, the Encore's compact size makes it easy to maneuver through traffic and park in tight spots. The light steering and responsive brakes contribute to a nimble feel. However, the underpowered engine can be noticeable when accelerating from a stop or trying to merge onto busy streets. The quiet cabin and comfortable seats make city driving more pleasant.

Highway Driving:

On the highway, the Encore provides a smooth and comfortable ride. The cabin remains quiet, even at higher speeds. However, the engine's lack of power can be more apparent when trying to pass other vehicles or climb hills. The available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems are helpful for staying aware of your surroundings.

Fuel Economy:

The 2019 Buick Encore delivers decent fuel economy, which is a plus for budget-conscious drivers. It typically achieves around 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. These numbers are competitive for the compact SUV segment.

Potential Problems and Reliability

Before buying any used car, it’s crucial to consider potential problems and reliability. The 2019 Buick Encore has had some reported issues, so let’s take a closer look.

Common Issues:

• Engine Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the engine, including loss of power, excessive oil consumption, and even engine failure. These problems can be costly to repair, so it’s essential to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing.
• Transmission Issues: There have been reports of transmission problems, such as slipping gears and rough shifting. These issues can affect the vehicle’s performance and reliability.
• Electrical Problems: Some owners have experienced electrical issues, including problems with the infotainment system, lights, and other electronic components. These problems can be frustrating and difficult to diagnose.

Reliability Ratings:

While the Encore has some reported issues, it generally receives average reliability ratings from reputable sources like J.D. Power. However, it’s always a good idea to check the vehicle’s history and get a pre-purchase inspection to ensure it’s in good condition.

Alternatives to the 2019 Buick Encore

If the 2019 Buick Encore doesn't quite meet your needs, there are several other compact SUVs to consider. Here are a few top alternatives:

• Honda HR-V: The Honda HR-V offers more cargo space and a more spacious interior than the Encore. It also gets good fuel economy and has a reputation for reliability.
• Mazda CX-3: The Mazda CX-3 is known for its sporty handling and stylish design. It’s a fun-to-drive SUV that also offers a comfortable ride.
• Hyundai Kona: The Hyundai Kona stands out with its bold styling and available turbocharged engine. It offers a good balance of performance and fuel economy.
• Kia Seltos: The Kia Seltos provides a lot of value for the money, with a spacious interior, plenty of features, and a long warranty.

Is the 2019 Buick Encore Right for You?

So, should you buy a 2019 Buick Encore? Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:

Reasons to Buy:

• You want a compact SUV with an upscale interior.
• You value user-friendly technology and a quiet ride.
• You need a vehicle that’s easy to park and maneuver in the city.

Reasons to Skip:

• You need a lot of cargo space.
• You want strong engine performance.
• You need plenty of rear seat space for adults.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize comfort, style, and ease of use, the 2019 Buick Encore could be a good fit. However, if you need more space or power, you might want to consider one of the alternatives.

Conclusion

The 2019 Buick Encore is a mixed bag. It offers a premium feel and user-friendly features but falls short in cargo space and engine performance. US News highlights these pros and cons, giving potential buyers a balanced view. Before making a decision, weigh your priorities and consider test-driving a few different models to see which one best suits your needs. Happy car hunting, guys!