2019 Honda Passport vs 2020 Buick Encore GX

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 experts rate the 2019 Honda Passport 7 out of 10 and the 2020 Buick Encore GX 4 out of 10. The Passport offers a range of trims with prices starting at $31,990 when new for the FWD Sport and ranging up to $43,680 for the AWD Elite, providing a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences. The Elite trim may be considered overpriced, but the EX-L trim offers excellent value, providing a standard V6, torque vectoring, and driver assists. The Encore GX started at a base MSRP of $24,100 when new for a front-wheel-drive Preferred trim, with higher trims offering additional features and options, providing a competitive pricing range for a subcompact SUV. While the Encore GX may be considered overpriced, it offers a range of features and capabilities that elevate its value and practicality, making it a compelling choice in its segment.