2020 Buick Encore GX vs 2019 Honda Passport

2019 Honda Passport
2019 Honda Passport
$31,990MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Buick Encore GX
2020 Buick Encore GX
$24,100MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Honda Passport
$31,990MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Buick Encore GX
$24,100MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$31,990

MSRP

$24,100

Listings

301

Listings

302

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.0 out of 10

Pros

  • Standard advanced safety features

  • Easy-to-use technology

Cons

  • Fairly pedestrian performance

  • Poor value for money

2019 Honda Passport Reviews Summary

With four SUVs currently in its lineup, it may be hard to imagine, but there was a time when Honda had no idea how to build one. In 1993, Isuzu did the hard work, offering its body-on-frame Rodeo, which Honda rebadged as the Passport until 2002. Today's modern Passport is a Honda Pilot without a third-row seat, and like the Pilot (and the Ridgeline pickup), it's based on the Odyssey minivan chassis. And despite being tailored to families and outdoorsy types, the Passport is one of the most simplistic, unadorned new SUVs on sale. Offering basic transportation with gobs of space, all-wheel drive, and high ground clearance, the Passport hasn’t altered its original formula—and that's a good thing.

2020 Buick Encore GX Reviews Summary

At first glance, one might suspect the 2020 Buick Encore GX is just the range-topping trim of the Buick Encore, a subcompact SUV. But closer examination reveals that it's a slightly larger, more upmarket small crossover. It has a longer wheelbase and heavily revised bodywork. But most crucially, it has more interior space and more powerful engines, which address the two biggest critiques of the Encore.

The Encore GX has a higher base price than the non-GX Encore, which then invites tougher competition. Starting at more than $25,000 brings it against some seriously competent small SUVs, such as the Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona. So, should Buick be careful what it wished for by creating a better—but more expensive—Encore?

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.5L 280 hp V6

Engine

1.2L 137 hp I3

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

280 hp @ 6000 rpm

Horsepower

137 hp @ 5000 rpm

MPG City

20

MPG City

26

MPG Highway

25

MPG Highway

30
2019 Honda Passport
2019 Honda Passport
$31,990MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Buick Encore GX
2020 Buick Encore GX
$24,100MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Honda Passport
$31,990MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Buick Encore GX
$24,100MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$31,990
$24,100
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.6

4.7

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Read full review

7.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Standard advanced safety features

  • Easy-to-use technology

Cons

  • Fairly pedestrian performance

  • Poor value for money

Summary
With four SUVs currently in its lineup, it may be hard to imagine, but there was a time when Honda had no idea how to build one. In 1993, Isuzu did the hard work, offering its body-on-frame Rodeo, which Honda rebadged as the Passport until 2002. Today's modern Passport is a Honda Pilot without a third-row seat, and like the Pilot (and the Ridgeline pickup), it's based on the Odyssey minivan chassis. And despite being tailored to families and outdoorsy types, the Passport is one of the most simplistic, unadorned new SUVs on sale. Offering basic transportation with gobs of space, all-wheel drive, and high ground clearance, the Passport hasn’t altered its original formula—and that's a good thing.

At first glance, one might suspect the 2020 Buick Encore GX is just the range-topping trim of the Buick Encore, a subcompact SUV. But closer examination reveals that it's a slightly larger, more upmarket small crossover. It has a longer wheelbase and heavily revised bodywork. But most crucially, it has more interior space and more powerful engines, which address the two biggest critiques of the Encore.

The Encore GX has a higher base price than the non-GX Encore, which then invites tougher competition. Starting at more than $25,000 brings it against some seriously competent small SUVs, such as the Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona. So, should Buick be careful what it wished for by creating a better—but more expensive—Encore?

Video

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
3.5L 280 hp V6
1.2L 137 hp I3
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
280 hp @ 6000 rpm
137 hp @ 5000 rpm
MPG City
20
26
MPG Highway
25
30
Look and feel

2019 Honda Passport

7/10

2020 Buick Encore GX

8/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Honda Passport as 7 out of 10 and the 2020 Buick Encore GX as 8 out of 10. The Passport boasts a boxier and more broad-shouldered appearance compared to the Pilot, with a rugged, off-road-ready design. The interior features soft and supportive leather seats, a digital instrument panel, and a practical, attractive style. The Encore GX exhibits a more mature and complete overall appearance compared to the standard Encore, with a larger grille and revised headlights and taillights. The cabin showcases a tremendous amount of care, style, and fit and finish, offering a comfortable and upscale environment.
Picture of 2019 Honda Passport
Picture of 2019 Honda Passport
Picture of 2019 Honda Passport
Picture of 2019 Honda Passport
Picture of 2019 Honda Passport
Picture of 2019 Honda Passport
Picture of 2019 Honda Passport
Picture of 2019 Honda Passport
Picture of 2019 Honda Passport
Performance

2019 Honda Passport

8/10

2020 Buick Encore GX

6/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Honda Passport 8 out of 10 and the 2020 Buick Encore GX 6 out of 10. The Passport, equipped with a naturally aspirated V6 and a 9-speed automatic transmission, delivers 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, providing strong acceleration and towing capabilities. It offers impressive cornering grip and mechanical torque vectoring, enhancing its handling and towing capacity. The Encore GX comes with a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine as standard, with an optional 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine. The powertrain delivers solid power and a smooth driving experience. The Encore GX exhibits responsive steering, well-weighted suspension, and impressive composure and handling at higher speeds.
Form and function

2019 Honda Passport

9/10

2020 Buick Encore GX

6/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Honda Passport 9 out of 10 and the 2020 Buick Encore GX 6 out of 10. The Passport offers ample space with 41.2 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats and 77.9 cubic feet with them folded, along with additional storage options and a practical, user-friendly interior layout. The tall windows and high seating position create an airy and comfortable environment, while the standard three-zone climate control and thoughtful storage solutions enhance convenience. The Encore GX features added space in the rear seats and cargo area, offering 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded, providing practical versatility for various cargo needs. The interior design includes deep in-door cubbies, additional trays and cubby space, and a deep center console compartment, enhancing storage and practicality.
Technology

2019 Honda Passport

7/10

2020 Buick Encore GX

9/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Honda Passport 7 out of 10 and the 2020 Buick Encore GX 9 out of 10. The Passport offers an 8-inch high-res touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 4G WiFi, along with a fast and accurate Garmin navigation system and standard Honda Sensing driver assists. The Honda's infotainment system provides a user-friendly interface, live traffic data, and a suite of connected services, although some advanced features are restricted to higher trims. The Encore GX comes standard with GM’s latest touchscreen infotainment system, offering crisp graphics, responsive performance, and standard Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Optional features include a wireless charging pad, navigation, rear camera mirror, and a head-up display, providing a range of advanced technology options for enhanced convenience and safety.
Safety

2019 Honda Passport

7/10

2020 Buick Encore GX

9/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Honda Passport 7 out of 10 and the 2020 Buick Encore GX 9 out of 10. The Passport comes standard with Honda Sensing driver assists, blind-spot monitoring, and a suite of safety features, offering a capable semi-automated system and standard alerts for recalls and maintenance. The Encore GX features a standard suite of advanced safety features, including forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, pedestrian detection, and a Teen Driver System, offering a comprehensive safety package. Optional safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system, enhancing visibility and collision avoidance capabilities.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

Based on the ratings provided by CarGurus experts, the 2019 Honda Passport offers a slightly higher overall rating of 7.5 out of 10 compared to the 2020 Buick Encore GX, which scores 7.0 out of 10. Therefore, the 2019 Honda Passport is the recommended choice, offering a rugged and versatile design, strong performance and towing capabilities, a spacious and practical interior, and a range of trims to suit different preferences and budgets. Although keep in mind that these vehicles are not direct rivals, so the choice will ultimately come down to what type of vehicle it is that you need.

Choose the 2020 Buick Encore GX if:

7of 10overall
  • You value a more mature and complete overall appearance with a comfortable and upscale cabin, offering a range of features and options for enhanced convenience and style.
  • You prioritize a smooth and responsive driving experience with solid power delivery, impressive composure and handling at higher speeds, and a range of advanced safety features.
  • You are looking for a subcompact SUV that offers a competitive pricing range, a practical and versatile interior, and a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features.

Choose the 2019 Honda Passport if:

7.5of 10overall
  • You prioritize a rugged and off-road-ready design with strong towing capabilities and mechanical torque vectoring for enhanced handling.
  • You seek a spacious and practical interior with user-friendly technology, standard driver assists, and a comfortable, airy environment.
  • You are looking for a versatile SUV that offers a range of trims to suit different budgets and preferences, with a focus on value and amenities.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

Based on the ratings provided by CarGurus experts, the 2019 Honda Passport offers a slightly higher overall rating of 7.5 out of 10 compared to the 2020 Buick Encore GX, which scores 7.0 out of 10. Therefore, the 2019 Honda Passport is the recommended choice, offering a rugged and versatile design, strong performance and towing capabilities, a spacious and practical interior, and a range of trims to suit different preferences and budgets. Although keep in mind that these vehicles are not direct rivals, so the choice will ultimately come down to what type of vehicle it is that you need.

Choose the 2020 Buick Encore GX if:

Shop Now
7of 10overall
  • You value a more mature and complete overall appearance with a comfortable and upscale cabin, offering a range of features and options for enhanced convenience and style.
  • You prioritize a smooth and responsive driving experience with solid power delivery, impressive composure and handling at higher speeds, and a range of advanced safety features.
  • You are looking for a subcompact SUV that offers a competitive pricing range, a practical and versatile interior, and a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features.

Choose the 2019 Honda Passport if:

Shop Now
7.5of 10overall
  • You prioritize a rugged and off-road-ready design with strong towing capabilities and mechanical torque vectoring for enhanced handling.
  • You seek a spacious and practical interior with user-friendly technology, standard driver assists, and a comfortable, airy environment.
  • You are looking for a versatile SUV that offers a range of trims to suit different budgets and preferences, with a focus on value and amenities.
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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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