2022 Buick Encore GX vs 2021 Volvo XC40

The 2021 Volvo XC40 presented a traditional SUV aesthetic, characterized by its tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch, aligning with Volvo's signature design elements like the "Thor’s Hammer" LED headlights and a simple oval grille. The gasoline models offered a retro touch with an optional white contrasting roof. The electric XC40 Recharge differentiated itself with a blanked-off grille, unique badging, and model-specific alloy wheels, alongside a gloss black roof and mirror caps. Despite these distinctions, the Recharge maintained a subtle appearance, appealing to those who preferred a low-profile electric vehicle. Inside, the XC40 boasted a minimalist yet premium interior, featuring high-quality materials such as Nappa leather and Nubuck textile, with a coherent design that integrated elements like the portrait-oriented touchscreen seamlessly.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX shared a strong family resemblance with its sibling, the Encore, featuring Buick's trapezoidal "waterfall" grille and similar headlight styling. The Encore GX's slightly longer wheelbase and additional length gave it a more balanced look. The optional ST appearance package enhanced its appeal with sportier design elements, while new exterior paint options added a touch of personalization. Inside, the Encore GX offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and leather seats on higher trims. The controls were straightforward, and the heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel added a touch of luxury, although some controls were slightly cumbersome. Overall, the Encore GX provided a user-friendly and attractive interior.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a versatile powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline variants featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base FWD T4 produced 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD T5 delivered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model, sharing its powertrain with the Polestar 2, boasted dual electric motors for AWD, generating a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft, powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The Recharge accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, while the T5 and T4 took 6.1 and 8.1 seconds, respectively. All models were electronically limited to 112 mph. The XC40 Recharge emphasized luxury and comfort, offering excellent ride quality and one-pedal driving capability, with a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX featured two turbocharged three-cylinder engine options: a 1.2-liter engine with 137 horsepower and a 1.3-liter engine producing 155 hp. The 1.2-liter engine was standard on the Preferred and Select trims, while the 1.3-liter was standard on the Essence trim and optional on the lower trims. FWD was standard, with AWD available across all trims. FWD models used a CVT, while AWD models employed a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 1.3-liter engine and CVT combination provided adequate power, though it was somewhat noisy. The Encore GX's ride was less refined than expected, with noticeable noise, vibration, and harshness. Despite its SUV classification, the Encore GX was not designed for off-roading, handling only mild terrain.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, both in its Recharge and gasoline variants, offered similar passenger and cargo space, though it was not particularly spacious compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y or Ford Mustang Mach-E. Clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin and large door bins, compensated for the limited space. The center console was designed to hold a phone securely, with optional wireless charging and a standard USB-C port, though rear passengers lacked charging options.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, despite its compact size, provided a comfortable experience with easy ingress and egress, clear controls, and excellent visibility. Front-seat headroom and legroom were ample, though rear-seat space was tighter. Cargo space measured 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. The Encore GX featured a two-level cargo floor and an optional hands-free power liftgate, enhancing convenience.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge introduced the Android Automotive OS, featuring Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps, alongside Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with OTA update capability for software-controlled functions. The Recharge lacked a start button, relying on a key fob for activation.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered an eight-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. Available features included navigation, Amazon Alexa, and a range of driver-assistance technologies. The Advanced Technology package added HD surround vision, a head-up display, and adaptive cruise control. The infotainment system was intuitive, with easy Bluetooth pairing and efficient voice recognition.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 gasoline model received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though these ratings did not apply to the electric Recharge. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking, with optional features like traffic-sign recognition and Volvo’s Pilot Assist system. The Recharge model featured an advanced sensor suite for future driver aid enhancements.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came standard with driver assistance features and Teen Driver technology. It earned five stars from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, with varying headlight ratings. The Encore GX received "Superior" ratings for front crash prevention, offering comprehensive safety features for its price range.