2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2020 Buick Encore GX

2020 Buick Encore GX
2020 Buick Encore GX
$24,100MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
$37,580MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2020 Buick Encore GX
$24,100MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
$37,580MSRP
Overview
Overview
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CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Buick Encore GX is 7.0 out of 10, while the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is the recommended choice, offering superior performance, technology, and versatility for those seeking a family-friendly SUV with off-road prowess.

Overview

MSRP

$24,100

MSRP

$37,580

Average price

$18,463

Average price

$33,683

Listings

339

Listings

2964
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.0 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10
Pros
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Easy-to-use technology
Cons
  • Fairly pedestrian performance
  • Poor value for money
Pros
  • Great handling
  • Premium interior materials
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor fuel economy

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?

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Reviews Summary

Over ten years ago, the last 2010 Jeep Commander rolled off a Detroit, Michigan, assembly line, leaving Jeep without a three-row SUV at a time when American families were switching their allegiance from sedans to SUVs in record numbers. While the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler have nevertheless proven popular, Jeep customers have made it clear that they want an SUV with a third-row seat. The redesigned 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L supplies one, and much more.
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

1.2L 137 hp I3

Engine

3.6L 290 hp V6

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

4X2

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

137 hp @ 5000 rpm

Horsepower

290 hp @ 6400 rpm

MPG City

26

MPG City

19

MPG Highway

30

MPG Highway

26
2020 Buick Encore GX
2020 Buick Encore GX
$24,100MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
$37,580MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Buick Encore GX
$24,100MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
$37,580MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Buick Encore GX is 7.0 out of 10, while the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is the recommended choice, offering superior performance, technology, and versatility for those seeking a family-friendly SUV with off-road prowess.

Overview
MSRP
$24,100
$37,580
Average price
$18,463
$33,683
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.7
4.9
Expert reviews

7.0 out of 10

Read full review

7.8 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
Pros
  • Great handling
  • Premium interior materials
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor fuel economy
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?

Over ten years ago, the last 2010 Jeep Commander rolled off a Detroit, Michigan, assembly line, leaving Jeep without a three-row SUV at a time when American families were switching their allegiance from sedans to SUVs in record numbers. While the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler have nevertheless proven popular, Jeep customers have made it clear that they want an SUV with a third-row seat. The redesigned 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L supplies one, and much more.
Video
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
1.2L 137 hp I3
3.6L 290 hp V6
Drive Train
FWD
4X2
Seating Capacity
5
7
Horsepower
137 hp @ 5000 rpm
290 hp @ 6400 rpm
MPG City
26
19
MPG Highway
30
26
Look and feel
2020 Buick Encore GX
8/10
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
9/10

The 2020 Buick Encore GX presented a more mature and refined appearance compared to its predecessor, the Encore. It was slightly larger in every dimension, with a longer wheelbase and wider track, giving it a more complete and sophisticated look. The exterior styling was notably revised, featuring a larger grille, updated headlights, and a reworked rear end. Inside, the cabin echoed this mature styling 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 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a new addition to the Jeep lineup, offering a seven-passenger configuration with an extended-length design. Its styling was a strong selling point, reminiscent of the more expensive Wagoneer models, and it maintained Jeep's signature design elements like the seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. The Grand Cherokee L was available in multiple trim levels, with the Summit trim offering a luxurious interior with quilted leather and real wood trim, though some materials did not meet the high expectations set by its price point.

Performance
2020 Buick Encore GX
6/10
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
7/10

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 CVT for front-wheel drive. An optional 1.3-liter turbocharged engine was available, delivering 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, with the option for all-wheel drive through a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the engine provided solid power for its size, it was not particularly brisk and exhibited some roughness typical of three-cylinder engines. The driving experience was smooth overall, with responsive steering and a well-tuned suspension that handled bumps and corners with composure.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine with 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, or optional four-wheel drive systems. A 5.7-liter V8 engine was available for higher trims, producing 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, enhancing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds. The V6 provided brisk acceleration, though it was loud when revved, and the transmission sometimes resisted downshifts to improve fuel economy. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in off-road capability, with multiple driving modes and a Quadra-Lift air suspension providing up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance.

Form and function
2020 Buick Encore GX
6/10
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
7/10

The 2020 Buick Encore GX offered increased space in the rear seats and cargo area compared to the standard Encore. It provided 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded, surpassing some competitors. The rear seats could be folded without adjusting the front seats, and the rear load floor could be lowered for additional space. The interior featured practical storage solutions, with deep door cubbies and repositioned cup holders for convenience.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L prioritized comfort, especially in the Summit trim, with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, and a four-zone climate control system. However, the dashboard vents were small, making it challenging to cool the cabin quickly. The second-row captain’s chairs offered ample legroom and comfort, and the third row was surprisingly accommodating for adults. Cargo space was competitive, with 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 84.6 cubic feet with all seats folded. Storage for front-seat occupants was limited, but second-row passengers had access to a storage console.

Technology
2020 Buick Encore GX
9/10
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
9/10

The 2020 Buick Encore GX featured GM’s latest touchscreen infotainment system, known for its intuitive layout and responsive performance. It included standard features like Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with options for a wireless charging pad and navigation. The available head-up display projected onto a small plastic screen, offering a unique but somewhat clunky experience.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster response times and improved user experience. Available with either an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, it included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The system featured a natural voice-recognition system and an optional 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, which delivered impressive sound quality. Additional tech options included a digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, and a Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system.

Safety
2020 Buick Encore GX
9/10
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
8/10

The 2020 Buick Encore GX came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and pedestrian detection. It also featured the Teen Driver System, allowing for speed and volume limitations. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera system, enhancing parking and maneuvering capabilities.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. While effective, the system felt artificial in steering corrections. Intersection Collision Assist was another notable feature, detecting threats at intersections and applying brakes if necessary. The Grand Cherokee L offered a full range of driving assistance and collision avoidance technologies, though crash-test ratings were not available at the time of review.

Cost Effectiveness
2020 Buick Encore GX
4/10
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
7/10
N/A
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