Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the heart of the 2023 Buick Encore GX – its engine! If you're considering snagging one of these stylish SUVs, understanding what's under the hood is super important. We'll break down the engine options, performance specs, and everything else you need to know to make an informed decision. Let's get started!

What Powers the 2023 Buick Encore GX?

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offers two distinct engine choices, both designed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate power for city and highway driving. These engines are part of GM's E-Turbo family, focusing on delivering a more refined and responsive driving experience compared to older, less technologically advanced engines. Choosing the right engine can significantly impact your overall satisfaction with the vehicle, depending on your driving style and needs. Let's delve into each option in detail:

1.2L Turbocharged Inline-3 Engine

The base engine for the 2023 Buick Encore GX is a 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-3. Don't let the small size fool you; this little engine packs a punch! It delivers around 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. While it might not sound like a lot, it's more than enough for everyday commuting and city driving. The turbocharger helps to provide a good amount of low-end torque, which means you'll feel the power when accelerating from a stop or merging onto the highway. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps maximize fuel efficiency. The 1.2L turbo engine is primarily available with front-wheel drive (FWD). For those prioritizing fuel economy and primarily driving in urban settings, this engine is an excellent choice. Its compact design also contributes to the Encore GX's nimble handling, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Keep in mind that while it's suitable for most daily driving scenarios, it may feel a bit strained when fully loaded with passengers and cargo, especially on steep inclines or during long road trips.

1.3L Turbocharged Inline-3 Engine

For those seeking a bit more oomph, the 2023 Buick Encore GX also offers a 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-3 engine. This upgraded engine bumps the power up to 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. The extra horsepower and torque make a noticeable difference in acceleration and overall responsiveness. It's a great option if you frequently drive on the highway, carry passengers, or live in an area with hilly terrain. Like the 1.2L engine, the 1.3L is also paired with a CVT when configured with front-wheel drive. However, if you opt for all-wheel drive (AWD), the 1.3L engine comes with a traditional 9-speed automatic transmission, which provides a more engaging and refined driving experience. The 9-speed transmission also helps to improve fuel economy at higher speeds. The 1.3L turbo engine is the preferred choice for drivers who want a bit more power and versatility. It offers a better balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for a wider range of driving conditions. Plus, the availability of all-wheel drive with the 1.3L engine makes the Encore GX a capable performer in various weather conditions.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Okay, so we know what engines are available, but how do they actually perform? Let's break it down:

1.2L Engine Performance

The 1.2L turbo engine provides adequate performance for city driving. Acceleration is decent, and the CVT helps to keep the engine in its optimal power range. However, it's not the quickest SUV on the market. Expect a 0-60 mph time in the low 10-second range. Fuel economy is a strong point, with EPA estimates of around 29 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. These figures can vary based on driving conditions and habits.

1.3L Engine Performance

The 1.3L turbo engine offers a noticeable improvement in performance. Acceleration is quicker, with a 0-60 mph time in the mid-8-second range. This makes it feel more confident when merging onto the highway or passing other cars. Fuel economy is still respectable, with EPA estimates of around 29 mpg city and 32 mpg highway for the FWD model with the CVT. The AWD model with the 9-speed automatic transmission sees a slight decrease in fuel economy, with estimates of around 26 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. Despite the slight decrease, the added traction and performance of the AWD system make it a worthwhile trade-off for many drivers.

Transmission Options

As mentioned earlier, the 2023 Buick Encore GX offers two transmission options, depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration:

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

The CVT is paired with both the 1.2L and 1.3L engines when configured with front-wheel drive. A CVT is designed to provide seamless and smooth acceleration by continuously adjusting the gear ratio to match the engine's optimal power output. This results in improved fuel economy and a more comfortable driving experience. However, some drivers may find the CVT's behavior to be a bit unusual, as it doesn't have traditional gear shifts. Instead, the engine tends to rev up and stay at a constant RPM during acceleration. While this can take some getting used to, the CVT is generally effective at maximizing fuel efficiency and providing a smooth ride. Buick has worked to refine its CVT technology, aiming to minimize the