For its second year on the market, the Encore GX receives only a few small updates. Both SiriusXM satellite radio and wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have become standard features across the lineup, and adaptive cruise control is now available on the Preferred model as part of the optional Safety package.
Pros Attractive exterior design, SUV practicality, good value compared to luxury-branded rivals.
Cons Too many plasticky interior parts, inadequate three-cylinder powertrains, unexciting to drive.
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Satellite radio now standard. Part of the first Encore GX generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Appealing design both inside and out Comfortable ride quality Desirable infotainment and driving assistance tech is standard Lots of space for passengers and cargo
Cons Front seats are narrow and don't fit a variety of body types Thick roof pillars reduce rear visibility Ho-hum handling
The 2021 Buick Encore GX steals the parking spot left between the smallest mainstream and luxury crossovers.
Pros Better-looking, with better details Right-sized urban runabout Upgraded interior More safety gear Better infotainment
Cons Steering lacks feel Narrow front seats Expensive, in Essence trim Average warranty
The 2021 Hyundai Kona's #1 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Hyundai Kona has a score of 8.3 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 22 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
PROS Upscale cabin Easy-to-use infotainment system Energetic turbocharged engine available Poised handling and comfortable ride
CONS Rear seats less spacious than rivals’ Subpar maximum cargo capacity
“Wilfully odd-looking small SUV is actually fun to drive. It's the Nissan Juke's worthy heir ”
PROS Refined mild-hybrid powertrain, and handles better than it strictly needs to
CONS Hybrid gets expensive. Looks weird (even weirder than before) but then you might like that
The hybrid version has low CO2 emissions on its side, but otherwise the Kona is outclassed by the many other small SUVs available to choose from at this price. The Ford Puma is more fun, the T-Roc more comfortable and the Skoda Kamiq more practical.
PROS Low CO2 emissions (Hybrid) Generous standard kit Good infotainment system
CONS Bumpy ride Not very practical So-so performance of the 1.0 T-GDi
