2020 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2020 Buick Encore GX

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover carried a legacy of luxury and ruggedness, tracing its roots back to the original Series I off-roader. Initially popular among wealthy British landowners, the Range Rover evolved into a luxury SUV with robust 4x4 capabilities, a combination that defined the brand. By 2020, the Range Rover offered multiple trims, including HSE, Autobiography, and SVAutobiography Dynamic, with options for standard or long wheelbase configurations. Standard features included leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and a dual-screen infotainment system, while higher trims added luxury touches like massaging seats and a rear-seat entertainment system.

In contrast, the 2020 Buick Encore GX presented a more mature and refined appearance compared to its predecessor, the Encore. Slightly larger in dimensions, the Encore GX featured a redesigned exterior with a larger grille and updated lighting. Inside, the cabin offered improved fit and finish, with trim levels ranging from Preferred to Essence. Standard features included a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims added amenities like leather seating and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The Encore GX's interior was praised for its thoughtful design and practicality, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover offered a diverse range of powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 355 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The HSE trim featured a non-hybrid version of the same engine, delivering 395 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. A turbodiesel V6 was also available, rated at 254 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. The P525 and Autobiography trims came with a supercharged 5.0-liter V8, generating 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque, with an optional plug-in hybrid powertrain offering 398 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. The SV Autobiography Dynamic trim boasted a 557 hp V8 engine. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, providing a blend of power and efficiency. The Range Rover's electronic air suspension and Terrain Response System ensured a comfortable and capable driving experience, both on and off-road.

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 three-cylinder engine offered 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque, with an available all-wheel-drive system using a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the Encore GX's engine provided adequate power for its size, it lacked the low-end grunt of larger engines. The driving experience was smooth, with responsive steering and a well-tuned suspension that handled bumps and corners with ease. The Encore GX's handling and composure at higher speeds were notable, offering a confident ride for a compact SUV.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover offered two wheelbase options, with standard seating for five or an optional four-seat configuration with second-row captain's chairs. The SWB version provided 70.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, while the LWB model offered 77.5 cubic feet. Despite its luxury status, the Range Rover's cargo space was less than some competitors. The interior featured a hands-free power liftgate with a unique two-piece design, providing convenience for loading large items. The center console and door compartments offered practical storage solutions for everyday use.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX excelled in interior space, particularly in the rear seats and cargo area. With 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded, the Encore GX offered more room than the standard Encore. The rear seats provided ample legroom and headroom, and a quick-flip button allowed for easy folding. The rear load floor could be adjusted to create additional space. Up front, the shifter's repositioning created more storage options, with deep in-door cubbies and cup holders designed for large water bottles. The Encore GX's interior was both practical and comfortable, accommodating passengers and cargo with ease.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover featured the InControl Touch Pro Duo system, consisting of two touchscreens. The top screen managed navigation, phone, and media functions, while the lower screen controlled climate and vehicle settings. The system's integrated dials adapted to different menus, offering a unique user experience. Despite a learning curve and occasional lag, the system provided comprehensive control over the vehicle's features. A fully digital instrument panel and optional head-up display added to the Range Rover's tech-savvy appeal.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX came equipped with GM's latest touchscreen infotainment system, offering a user-friendly interface with crisp graphics and responsive performance. Standard features included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Optional upgrades included a wireless charging pad, navigation, and a head-up display. The Encore GX's HUD projected onto a small plastic display, providing a cost-effective alternative to windshield projection. The system's flexibility and clarity made it a standout feature in the Encore GX's tech offerings.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover came with standard safety features such as low-speed automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-departure warning. Optional features included a 360-degree parking camera, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. While the Range Rover offered a solid list of safety features, some competitors provided more standard equipment. The available 360-degree camera and parking sensors were particularly useful for maneuvering the large SUV in tight spaces.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Teen Driver System allowed for speed and volume limitations on a secondary set of keys. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera system, which provided clear images and multiple viewing angles. The Encore GX's safety features, combined with its standard airbags and traction control, ensured a secure driving experience.