The 2019 Buick Encore ranked #3 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Buick Encore has a score of 8.2 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 37 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Nice interior with lots of standard features User-friendly infotainment system Nimble handling
Cons Underpowered base engine Higher base price than rivals
The Encore's available trims have been downsized to the base and Preferred models for 2021. With the exception of adding Dark Moon Blue Metallic and Cinnabar Metallic exterior colors, Buick hasn't made any changes to its smallest SUV.
Pros Smooth ride, intuitive infotainment setup, surprisingly spacious cabin.
Cons Not as fuel efficient as key rivals, lacks standard safety tech, just plain slow.
Simplified trim lineup. Improved suite of driver safety aids.
Pros Hushed cabin at highway speeds Maneuverable size
Cons Tepid acceleration Limited feature availability Small cargo area Unimpressive fuel economy
A solid workhorse, with seven seats and a very comfortable ride.
Pros Excellent ride comfort Minimal NVH Half-decent looker Solid build quality Plenty of internal storage Great family car for the money Standard safety features
Cons Exceptionally poor infotainment system Outdated switchgear and cabin Poor bluetooth telephony Tough competition
The seven-seater Nissan X-Trail is currently the biggest SUV the firm builds. It’s a good-looking family car that rivals the Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento and the Skoda Kodiaq. The X-Trail’s interior has a similar design to the one found in the Nissan Qashqai, so it’s simple to use if a little uninspiring to look at, and the car’s standard five-inch touchscreen display means there isn’t a sea buttons to contend with. While there is plenty or room for five adults inside, the two seats that fold out from the boot are best reserved for children. Even with them in place, though, the X-Trail has enough boot space for a few suitcases.
Pros Comfortable Well-equipped Decent off-road
Cons Third row seats are a bit cramped Not exactly head-turning looks CVT automatic is not as good as rivals with DSG
The X-TRAIL TL is clearly not a 4WD as our beach run proved – and the diesel could be both more responsive at low rpm and more economical. However, this is a comfortable, quiet, smooth and sure-footed medium SUV with plenty of room for holiday gear in the back.
Pros Supple ride Comfortable, versatile interior LED headlights
Cons Lack of low-rpm grunt Fuel consumption higher than claimed Foot-operated parking brake
