2023 Buick Encore GX vs 2022 Kia EV6

2022 Kia EV6
2022 Kia EV6
$40,900MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Buick Encore GX
2023 Buick Encore GX
$25,900MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia EV6
$40,900MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Buick Encore GX
$25,900MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Kia EV6 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2023 Buick Encore GX scores 6.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Kia EV6 is the recommended choice for its superior performance, advanced technology, and overall driving experience.

Overview

MSRP

$40,900

MSRP

$25,900

Average price

$29,409

Average price

$23,332

Listings

101

Listings

759
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

6.7 out of 10
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Impressive technology
  • Fun to drive
Cons
  • Unimpressive electric range
  • Not much cargo space
Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Plenty of cargo space
  • Easy-to-use technology
Cons
  • Fairly pedestrian performance
  • Poor fuel economy

2022 Kia EV6 Reviews Summary

We didn't expect them to go there. But the designers and engineers behind the 2022 Kia EV6 did—and deleted the template of their company's affordable, cost-conscious brand. This is a $60,000 electric performance car that can genuinely compete with a Tesla Model 3 on everything from tech to style to acceleration to charging time. It's a masterclass of fresh thinking in a market segment dominated by rehashed ideas. And yet, it's hampered by the same major problems that, for decades, remain unresolved. The EV6 would be amazing with battery technology that hasn't yet been invented. For now, we'll tell you what the present life is like with this most unusual and exciting Kia in years.

2023 Buick Encore GX Reviews Summary

General Motors has big plans for Buick. The near-luxury division positioned between Chevrolet and Cadillac is slated to go all-electric by the end of the decade, with a fresh lineup of EVs highlighted by a new design language. But those new models aren’t scheduled to arrive for a few more years, so for now Buick carries on with a lineup of conventional gasoline crossover SUVs, of which the 2023 Buick Encore GX is the entry-level option.

The Encore GX was launched for the 2020 model year as a larger sibling to the Buick Encore, but the standard Encore is being discontinued, leaving only the GX for 2023. It slots below the Envision and Enclave in Buick’s three-model crossover lineup.

While Buick is generally considered a step up from mainstream brands, the Encore GX’s size and pricing are more in line with subcompact SUVs from mainstream brands, such as the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30, or the lifted-hatchback Subaru Crosstrek. In fact, the Encore GX shares powertrains and a basic platform with one of these vehicles—the Chevrolet Trailblazer.

The only change for 2023 is a new extra-cost Moonstone Gray Metallic paint option. That means the lineup still consists of base Preferred, mid-level Select, and top Essence trim levels. We tested out an Encore GX Essence for this review.

No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

167 hp Electric

Engine

1.2L 137 hp I3

Drive Train

RWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

Horsepower

137 hp @ 5000 rpm

EV Battery Capacity

58 kWh

EV Battery Capacity

MPG City

127

MPG City

29

MPG Highway

100

MPG Highway

31

Battery Charge Time (120V)

51 hours

Battery Charge Time (120V)

2022 Kia EV6
2022 Kia EV6
$40,900MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Buick Encore GX
2023 Buick Encore GX
$25,900MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia EV6
$40,900MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Buick Encore GX
$25,900MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Kia EV6 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2023 Buick Encore GX scores 6.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Kia EV6 is the recommended choice for its superior performance, advanced technology, and overall driving experience.

Overview
MSRP
$40,900
$25,900
Average price
$29,409
$23,332
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.4
4.5
Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Read full review

6.7 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Impressive technology
  • Fun to drive
Cons
  • Unimpressive electric range
  • Not much cargo space
Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Plenty of cargo space
  • Easy-to-use technology
Cons
  • Fairly pedestrian performance
  • Poor fuel economy
Summary
We didn't expect them to go there. But the designers and engineers behind the 2022 Kia EV6 did—and deleted the template of their company's affordable, cost-conscious brand. This is a $60,000 electric performance car that can genuinely compete with a Tesla Model 3 on everything from tech to style to acceleration to charging time. It's a masterclass of fresh thinking in a market segment dominated by rehashed ideas. And yet, it's hampered by the same major problems that, for decades, remain unresolved. The EV6 would be amazing with battery technology that hasn't yet been invented. For now, we'll tell you what the present life is like with this most unusual and exciting Kia in years.

General Motors has big plans for Buick. The near-luxury division positioned between Chevrolet and Cadillac is slated to go all-electric by the end of the decade, with a fresh lineup of EVs highlighted by a new design language. But those new models aren’t scheduled to arrive for a few more years, so for now Buick carries on with a lineup of conventional gasoline crossover SUVs, of which the 2023 Buick Encore GX is the entry-level option.

The Encore GX was launched for the 2020 model year as a larger sibling to the Buick Encore, but the standard Encore is being discontinued, leaving only the GX for 2023. It slots below the Envision and Enclave in Buick’s three-model crossover lineup.

While Buick is generally considered a step up from mainstream brands, the Encore GX’s size and pricing are more in line with subcompact SUVs from mainstream brands, such as the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30, or the lifted-hatchback Subaru Crosstrek. In fact, the Encore GX shares powertrains and a basic platform with one of these vehicles—the Chevrolet Trailblazer.

The only change for 2023 is a new extra-cost Moonstone Gray Metallic paint option. That means the lineup still consists of base Preferred, mid-level Select, and top Essence trim levels. We tested out an Encore GX Essence for this review.

Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
167 hp Electric
1.2L 137 hp I3
Drive Train
RWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
137 hp @ 5000 rpm
EV Battery Capacity
58 kWh
MPG City
127
29
MPG Highway
100
31
Battery Charge Time (120V)
51 hours
Look and feel
2022 Kia EV6
10/10
2023 Buick Encore GX
5/10

The 2022 Kia EV6 had a sporty and svelte design reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E, with a lower and wider stance that gave it a visually appealing look. Its short highback tail featured a lip spoiler doubling as a lightbar, and the wheels were pushed to the furthest corners of the chassis, giving the body a hip-like appearance. The EV6's voluptuous curves, similar to those on a Porsche 911, added both style and stability. The headlights squinted in anger, tracing a V-shaped pattern that mirrored the black trim below on the bumper, which mimicked air intakes but were sealed due to the electric motors. The wedgy profile, with its angled roofline and twin ducts in the rear spoiler, combined with the smooth and silken lower body, especially in matte silver paint, made the EV6 a visual delight.

In contrast, the 2023 Buick Encore GX broke away from Buick's historical design cues, opting for rounded exterior surfaces and a tall stance that resulted in awkward proportions. Even with the optional Sport Touring Package, which added different front and rear bumpers, a black mesh grille with red inserts, rocker and body-side moldings, and 18-inch wheels, the changes were subtle and barely noticeable unless parked next to a standard Encore. The interior of the Encore GX Essence trim featured leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, and power-adjustable seats, but the abundance of plastic reminded occupants of its position at the bottom of Buick's model hierarchy. The fit and finish were good, but the blob-like dashboard and door panels were reminiscent of 1990s automotive design, with the instrument cluster being the only memorable feature.

Performance
2022 Kia EV6
7/10
2023 Buick Encore GX
5/10

The 2022 Kia EV6 GT-Line e-AWD, with its two electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque, offered impressive performance. The 77-kilowatt-hour battery allowed the 4600-pound car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds. The upcoming GT trim promised even more power with 576 hp and a 0-60 time of less than 3.5 seconds. The base EV6 Light, with a smaller 58 kWh battery and a 167 hp motor, was less impressive. The single-motor Wind and GT-Line models, with a 225 hp motor, were more acceptable. The dual-motor GT-Line provided a thrilling driving experience with quick and effective torque distribution, making it feel like a getaway car. The regenerative braking system offered more than eight settings, allowing for one-pedal driving in the maximum I-Pedal setting. However, the EV6's driving range was disappointing in cold weather, with the car delivering only 65 percent of its 274-mile EPA estimate.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a standard 1.2-liter producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 1.3-liter engine with 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive was standard, while all-wheel drive was optional with the 1.3-liter engine. The FWD models used a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while AWD models had a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 1.3-liter AWD test car felt stronger than its specs suggested, but power delivery was not smooth, requiring a patient approach to throttle applications. The Encore GX excelled in ride comfort and noise reduction, thanks to its well-damped suspension and active noise cancellation. However, it felt ponderous and awkward in most driving situations, with slow and lifeless steering and significant body roll.

Form and function
2022 Kia EV6
7/10
2023 Buick Encore GX
7/10

The 2022 Kia EV6 reinvented core functions with features like pop-out door handles, paddle shifters, and a twisting rotary shifter. The climate controls and stereo shortcuts were combined in a thin touchscreen, which could be frustrating to use while driving. The EV6 offered generous legroom and headroom in all seating positions, with reclining rear seats and air vents. However, the cargo space was limited, with just 24 cubic feet behind the seats and 50 cubic feet when folded. The towing capacity was rated at 2,300 pounds, and the onboard power generator could run 120-volt equipment or charge another EV.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX provided competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, and Subaru Crosstrek. The cargo space was respectable, with 23.5 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and 50.2 cubic feet when folded. However, the front seats were placed far inboard, squeezing the driver and front passenger close together and reducing comfort due to a lack of thigh support. The Encore GX made good use of available space for small-item storage, with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless phone charger. The instrumentation was well-executed, with clear information conveyance and an array of hard buttons for ease of use.

Technology
2022 Kia EV6
9/10
2023 Buick Encore GX
8/10

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was simple, quick, and full of connectivity, though it required a wired connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The instrument panel showed vehicles in surrounding lanes and live feeds of blind spots when changing lanes. The 360-degree surround-view cameras were sharp and clear, and the head-up display used augmented reality for directional arrows and adaptive cruise control tracking. The tech features were impressive and not overwhelming, with higher trims offering a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and a remote parking system. However, Kia Connect features were disabled for Massachusetts residents due to compliance issues with state laws.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came with a standard 8-inch touchscreen and 4.2-inch driver information display, with optional built-in navigation, head-up display, wireless phone charging, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The interface was easy to use, with graphics that looked nicer than many competitor systems. The 8-inch touchscreen was small by current standards but functioned well within the dashboard's design constraints.

Safety
2022 Kia EV6
9/10
2023 Buick Encore GX
9/10

The 2022 Kia EV6 had no published test results from U.S. agencies, but it came equipped with impressive tech, including a driver's knee airbag, lane-keeping, cyclist and pedestrian detection, front and rear cross-traffic alert, driver attention monitor, rear parking sensors, safe exit warning, and rear occupant alert. Higher trims added features like automatic rear braking, 360 cameras, evasive steering assist, and adaptive cruise control with machine learning.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX included standard driver assist features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and a Teen Driver system. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, automatic park assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, a 360-degree camera system, and a rearview camera mirror. The Encore GX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS 2022 Top Safety Pick.

Cost Effectiveness
2022 Kia EV6
4/10
2023 Buick Encore GX
6/10
CarGurus logo

By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.