2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2020 Buick Encore GX

The 2020 Buick Encore GX presented a more mature and refined exterior compared to its predecessor, the Encore. It was slightly larger in every dimension, with a longer wheelbase and a wider track, giving it a more complete and sophisticated appearance. The exterior styling was notably revised, featuring a larger grille, updated headlights, and a reworked rear end. Inside, the cabin of the Encore GX mirrored this maturity with a focus on care, style, and fit and finish, offering a more upscale feel than some of its competitors, though not quite reaching the luxury of the Mazda CX-30.

In contrast, the 2021 Genesis GV80 was a fresh entry into the SUV market, unburdened by a legacy design language. It successfully blended innovative design with signature Genesis styling cues, such as the massive trapezoidal grille and Quad Lamp LED headlight array. The GV80's exterior was marked by elegant proportions, including a long hood and short front overhang. Inside, the GV80 boasted a sleek and uncluttered dashboard, emphasizing width and spaciousness, with authentic materials like real wood and leather, creating a truly luxurious environment.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX came standard with a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for front-wheel drive. An optional 1.3-liter turbocharged engine offered 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, with the choice of all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the Encore GX was not particularly brisk, it provided a confident driving experience with responsive steering and a smooth ride, especially at higher speeds.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine choices: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 producing 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The GV80 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and all-wheel drive was standard on V6 models. The GV80's ride was enhanced by advanced suspension systems, including electronically-controlled suspension with road preview on 3.5T models. The V6 engine provided a smoother and more powerful driving experience, with active noise cancellation contributing to a quieter cabin.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX offered increased interior space, particularly in the rear seats and cargo area. With 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded, it provided more room than the standard Encore. The rear legroom was also improved, allowing for easier folding of the rear seats. Up front, the center console was redesigned for better storage, with deep in-door cubbies and cup holders accommodating large water bottles.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sophisticated interior with a focus on technology and ergonomics. The center console housed a rotary gear selector and a multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The second row was spacious and comfortable, with available power seats and window shades. A third row was standard on certain models, increasing passenger capacity to seven. The GV80's interior was a blend of luxury and practicality, with power-folding third-row seats and advanced climate control options.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX came equipped with GM’s latest touchscreen infotainment system, featuring a user-friendly interface, crisp graphics, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional features included a wireless charging pad, navigation, and a head-up display projected via a small plastic display. The system allowed for customization of menu items and presets, enhancing the user experience.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted a sixth-generation Genesis UX infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD screen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity with over-the-air updates and user-configurable split-screen displays. The GV80 also featured a digital key function for Android users, Genesis Connected Services, and a head-up display on select models. The audio system ranged from a standard 12-speaker setup to a premium 21-speaker Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround system.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX included standard safety features such as forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera system. The Encore GX was equipped with a full suite of airbags, traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was equipped with 10 airbags, including a front-center airbag, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies. These included blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and forward collision-avoidance assist. The GV80 also featured adaptive cruise control with machine learning and highway-driving assist, enhancing safety and convenience.