2021 Buick Encore GX vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Buick Encore GX was praised for its stylish design, which was a significant improvement over the original Encore, often referred to as “the shoe” due to its awkward proportions. The Encore GX offered a sleek exterior with no unsatisfying lines, available in three trim levels: Preferred, Select, and Essence. Buyers could opt for the Sport Touring package for a sportier look. The SUV provided a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), with two turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The interior, while offering expected quality for its segment, had some drawbacks, such as hard-to-read analog gauges and a vibrating head-up display, which detracted from its overall refinement.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX carried the brand's signature design elements, with sharp lines and a sculpted exterior that echoed the smaller UX and larger RX models. The NX was available in three versions: NX 300, NX 300 F Sport, and NX 300h hybrid, with the F Sport model offering sportier aesthetics like a honeycomb grille and 18-inch wheels. The interior boasted excellent material fit and finish, with quilted NuLuxe sport seats exclusive to the F Sport. Despite its attractive design, the NX's center stack appeared outdated, and the infotainment system was less user-friendly compared to competitors. However, the NX maintained a quiet cabin, typical of Lexus vehicles.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX featured a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, with a more powerful 1.3-liter engine option delivering 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. The Encore GX's performance was deemed adequate, with the larger engine providing enough power for highway cruising. FWD models came with a CVT, while AWD versions had a nine-speed automatic transmission. Despite efforts to enhance ride quality, the Encore GX was criticized for its lack of refinement, with a brittle ride over rough roads and noticeable noise inside the cabin.

The 2021 Lexus NX, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, offering a relatively quiet ride despite some engine noise under hard acceleration. The standard six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though not as smooth as newer multi-speed options. The NX's AWD system could transfer up to 50% of torque to the rear axle, enhancing traction. Fuel economy was average for the segment, with the FWD model achieving 25 mpg combined. The NX's adaptive suspension system and three drive modes contributed to a smooth and comfortable driving experience, though steering feedback was minimal.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX offered a high seating position with supportive front seats, though the rear seats were less comfortable, especially for taller passengers. Interior storage was commendable, with 23.5 cubic feet of trunk space, expandable to 50.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The test vehicle included a fold-flat front passenger seat for carrying long items, but the hands-free power liftgate was deemed unnecessary.

The 2021 Lexus NX provided a comfortable and upscale interior, with ample room for front passengers and decent legroom for rear occupants. The NX featured a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, though cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The NX's power liftgate with kick sensor technology and available power-folding rear seats added convenience, though its storage capacity was among the smallest in its class.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX Essence came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity for two devices, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Advanced Technology Package added navigation, voice recognition, and a surround-view camera. Despite these features, the test vehicle lacked the available Bose premium sound system. The infotainment system was praised for its quick response, intuitive interface, and convenient steering wheel controls.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an infotainment screen positioned high on the dashboard, with an 8-inch touchscreen standard and a 10.3-inch display available. The Navigation package included predictive traffic information and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though the Lexus system was criticized for its complexity and reliance on a touchpad. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. The NX offered a Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system on higher trims and was compatible with the Lexus Enform Remote app, providing remote access to various vehicle functions.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX came with Buick Driver Confidence as standard, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on higher trims, with adaptive cruise control available. The Encore GX earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not tested it.

The 2021 Lexus NX included Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 as standard, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features such as lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. The NX received top "Good" scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided additional safety services, and the NX had not been subject to any recalls.