2023 GMC Acadia VS Buick Encore GX

The GMC Acadia and the Buick Encore GX provide striking appearances, a plethora of comfort features, and flexible cargo capacities. You can effortlessly travel anywhere you need to go with the Encore GX subcompact SUV, and it’s nearly a whole grand lower in starting price, but can it beat the 2023 Acadia’s versatility and size?

For your convenience, our Koons Clarksville Chevrolet Buick GMC team has closely compared the 2023 Encore GX and Acadia. See how the 2023 Encore GX and Acadia differ. Remember to browse for incredible deals on both models at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet Buick GMC.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2023 Acadia’s standard engine is a turbocharged four-cylinder with 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. However, a 310-horsepower V-6 with 271 lb-ft of torque is also offered. The turbo-four will serve most Clarksville drivers just fine, bringing plenty of power. The V-6, however, is worth it if you’ll be towing, transporting a full load of people, or carrying heavier goods much of the time.

The standard 2023 Encore GX powertrain is a 137-horsepower, 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine with 162 lb-ft of torque. A turbo 1.3-liter three-cylinder engine produces 174 lb-ft of torque and 166 horsepower. Continuously variable automatic transmissions are the norm for front-wheel-drive wagons, whereas all-wheel-drive models use a nine-speed automatic shifter.

The Acadia can tow up to 4,000 lbs when properly equipped, while the Encore GX can pull up to 1,000 lbs, so those interested in towing will probably find the GMC more appealing. Both have enough power to stay ahead of the pack on the highway. While the differences in power may seem broad, keep in mind that the Encore GX is a smaller SUV. It also brings the refined, nearly silent ride expected of a Buick. Although the Acadia is competent and cool, it can feel a bit heavier than the Encore GX, mainly when cornering at high speeds.

Gas Mileage

Among small SUVs, the Encore GX boasts respectable fuel efficiency. Front-wheel-drive models with the standard engine achieve 29/31 city/highway mpg. All-wheel-drive vehicles achieve 26/29 city/highway mpg.

The Acadia’s base turbo-four engine in front-wheel drive achieves 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the interstate. These figures drop to 22/27 city/highway mpg with the addition of all-wheel drive. The Acadia’s optional V-6 ratings are 19/27 mpg for front-wheel drive and 19/26 mpg for all-wheel drive. The Acadia’s gas tank holds 19.4 gallons, a solid gain over the Encore GX’s 13.2 gallons. Their numbers aren’t too different, but however you compare them, the Encore GX is more frugal on gas.

Interior Comfort

The Acadia’s stylish and roomy cabin has seating options for six or seven passengers. It includes third-row 50/50-split seats that fold flat for added cargo volume. A second-row passenger-side tip option allows the seat to slide forward and angle slightly even when an empty forward-facing child seat is in place using the LATCH system. Three-zone automatic temperature controls are also standard. Check out higher trims to get heated and ventilated leather-appointed front seats, a heated steering wheel, and more. With the Denali, you can even get a dual skyscape sunroof.

The Encore GX is a five-seater, two-row SUV that’s smaller than the Acadia. However, both rows have good headroom and legroom for the segment. An air ionizer comes standard, along with a heated steering wheel, a panoramic moonroof, and cloth-leatherette seating. A large center console provides storage for food, sunglasses, and other travel items. It can also be used as a center armrest. Dual-zone automatic climate control appears on the Select or higher, and you can find GX models with a heated steering wheel and heated front seats.

Cargo Space

The Encore GX has 23.5 cubic feet of space behind the second row and 50.2 cubic feet when the back seats are folded down. The Acadia is more passenger oriented but still offers 12.8 cubic feet behind the third seat row. Move down the third row for up to 41.7 cubic feet or the second and third for 79 cubic feet. Like the Encore GX, a hands-free power liftgate is available. Both models are roomy for their classes, so it comes down to the size and needs of you and your crew.

Infotainment Features

A digital driver information center, Wi-Fi hotspot, USB ports, a three-month platinum trial subscription to SiriusXM, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto all come standard on both models. Both also have an 8-inch infotainment system with keyless entry and start. Lower trims of both vehicles offer remote start as an option or as standard on higher trims.

While the Acadia has the Bose premium audio system as a standard feature on all trims after the base, Encore GX only offers it as an option on the Essence level. All told, you can try either of these new SUVs and enjoy a premium, fast, and connected driving experience.

Safety Ratings and Features

The 2023 Acadia and 2023 Encore GX received five-star overall safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Both vehicles come with a standard three-year OnStar and connected services plan, an advanced airbag system, automatic emergency braking, tire pressure monitoring, tire fill alert, and a teen driver mode. The latter allows owners to set limits on speed, volume control, and other details for a secondary driver. You can also expect a rearview camera, electronic stability and traction control, pedestrian detection and emergency braking, lane change and lane departure alerts, and much more on both vehicles.

2023 Encore GX vs. Acadia Conclusion

The GMC SUV leads the way in size and power in a direct contest. Overall, both vehicles bring an excellent level of value, comfort, and convenience for the price. Give the Encore GX a try if you like the Acadia’s features but don’t necessarily need as much size or raw towing power. To locate a new GMC Acadia or Buick Encore GX, check out Koons Clarksville Chevrolet Buick GMC and our new car inventory. If you have any concerns about the models we have available or the customization possibilities, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

Tags: Buick Encore GX, GMC Acadia
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