The 2017 Buick Encore reaches for the compact-luxury stars, but it falls shy on styling and front-seat space.When it was new in 2013, the Buick Encore was virtually alone on the automotive landscape as one of few small crossover SUVs. Today, that's a crowded niche, with pricey and prestigious rivals like the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and Audi Q3 as numerous as the more affordable ones (Trax, Renegade, 500X, CX-3, and HR-V). A 2017 update aims to keep it competitive. Most noticeable is the new front end, but the updated interior, complete with an 8.0-inch touchscreen and Apple Car Play and Android Auto, make it easier to live with on a daily basis.
Pros Quiet, calm interior Well-equipped Back seat fits adults Two-tone trim is tony Cargo space is ample
Cons Base engine's sluggish acceleration Mediocre gas mileage Cabin feels narrow Are hatchbacks luxury shapes?
A quiet cabin, user-friendly technology and city-friendly compact size make the 2017 Buick Encore worth a look if more conventional crossover SUVs simply seem too large. Modest performance and tight quarters limit the Encore's appeal, however.
Pros Quiet interior on the highway Excellent crash-test scores Small engines deliver solid fuel economy Long list of tech and safety features.
Cons Tepid performance from base engine Small cargo area can't swallow much luggage.
The 2017 Buick Encore ranks 3 out of 12 Subcompact SUVs. The 2017 Buick Encore is ranked highly among subcompact SUVs because it does what you want – and does it well. Its small footprint gives you excellent maneuverability, yet its spacious interior provides enough room for you, your friends, and their stuff, all wrapped in a classy, upscale package.
Pros User-friendly technology Generous list of standard features Luxurious interior
Cons Underpowered base engine Narrow rear seats
The 2017 Acura RDX ranks 3 out of 14 Luxury Compact SUVs. The 2017 Acura RDX combines good value for the money with a comfortable and fully featured cabin, V6 power, and a smooth ride. This SUV has a long list of standard features and options, which are tied to packages and not trim levels. This means you don’t have to buy the high-end model to get the option you’re coveting most.
Pros Peppy and capable V6 engine Comfortable and quiet cabin Smooth handling
Cons Less sporty than competitors Confusing infotainment system
The 2017 Acura RDX is one of the smoothest, most responsive-driving compact crossover SUVs—even though it prioritizes practicality. Acura may be the underdog today in luxury sedans, yet it's giving shoppers exactly what they want with the 2017 Acura RDX and the larger MDX. That includes strong powertrains, quiet cabins, and impressive safety—as well as just the right amount of versatility and practicality to make it one of the best-balanced picks in the segment, for those who are balancing the usual mix of sometimes-conflicting priorities.
Pros Smooth ride Strong V-6 performance Agile handling Quiet interior
Cons Back seat is a little cramped Rear seats don't fold flat Annoying audio and forward-collision beeps Tinny speakers
If a small, luxury SUV is on your shopping list, you should consider the 2017 Acura RDX. This stylish Acura is one of our favorites thanks to its fuel-efficient, yet powerful V6, comfortable interior and long list of standard features. Read on to find out why the RDX could be a good fit for you.
Pros Strong acceleration and fuel economy from standard V6 engine Elevated rear seat provides generous legroom and a commanding view More features than competitors at a similar or much lower price Generous cargo capacity for the segment.
Cons Technology interface can be distracting to use, especially the optional dual-screen system High-tech safety features and adaptive cruise control don't work as well as some rival systems Cabin lacks overtly luxurious look and feel.
