2023 Honda CR-V vs 2023 Buick Encore GX

The 2023 Buick Encore GX departed from Buick's storied design history, presenting a style that didn't echo the brand's past nor forge a new path. Its rounded exterior and tall stance resulted in awkward proportions that failed to capture the SUV allure that many buyers sought. Even with the Sport Touring Package, which added subtle enhancements like different bumpers and a black mesh grille, the changes were barely noticeable unless compared directly to a standard model. Inside, the Encore GX Essence trim offered expected features like leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control, but the abundance of plastic reminded occupants of its entry-level status within Buick's lineup. The interior design, reminiscent of 1990s automotive aesthetics, lacked excitement, though the instrument cluster stood out with its well-framed digital display.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V adopted a cleaner, more conservative design with a blunt nose, long hood, and stretched wheelbase, promising a look that would age gracefully. Both the CR-V EX and EX-L trims shared 18-inch alloy wheels and dark-tinted rear privacy glass, with the EX-L offering leather-wrapped seats and a more upscale interior. The dashboard, inspired by the latest Civic, featured metal mesh trim and a digital instrumentation display, exuding quality and simplicity. The CR-V EX-L further enhanced the experience with a larger touchscreen infotainment system, power-adjustable front passenger seat, and additional features like front and rear parking sensors. The CR-V's design and interior elements combined to create a refined and satisfying driving environment.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines, with the standard 1.2-liter engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 1.3-liter engine delivering 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive was standard, while all-wheel drive was available with the 1.3-liter engine. The FWD models used a CVT, while AWD models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 1.3-liter AWD test car provided stronger acceleration than expected, though power delivery was not smooth, requiring patience to maximize performance. 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, with slow steering and significant body roll.

The 2023 Honda CR-V, equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generated 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for a compact SUV. The engine was paired with a CVT, which, while efficient, detracted from the driving experience with its droning noise during hard acceleration. Despite this, the CR-V excelled in ride and handling, with a well-tuned suspension, steering, and brakes that delivered a satisfying driving experience. The CR-V managed speed bumps and uneven pavement with ease, maintaining composure and providing a smooth ride. The CVT contributed to impressive fuel economy, with the test vehicle achieving 29.1 mpg in combined driving.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. However, the Subaru Crosstrek provided more front legroom, and the Kia Seltos offered more rear-seat space. The Encore GX's cargo capacity of 23.5 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded was respectable, though the Seltos offered more. The front seats were positioned close together, reducing the sense of spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. Despite the limited cabin size, the Encore GX featured ample small-item storage, with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless phone charger. The instrumentation was well-executed, with clear information displays and an array of hard buttons for ease of use.

The 2023 Honda CR-V claimed to be the roomiest yet, though the driver's seat felt low, giving a car-like feel. The second row was more spacious, offering a high seating position and ample legroom, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The CR-V provided numerous storage options, including a large bin under the center armrest and various trays and bins throughout the cabin. The cargo area, accessible via a power liftgate, offered 39.3 cubic feet of space with the rear load floor in its lowest position, expanding to 76.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The CR-V's interior design and functionality catered to both passenger comfort and practical storage needs.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX featured a standard 8-inch touchscreen and 4.2-inch driver information display, with optional navigation, head-up display, and Bose audio system. Standard tech included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The interface, shared with other GM vehicles, was user-friendly, with clear graphics and menu layouts. The 8-inch touchscreen, though small by current standards, was adequate for the dashboard design.

The 2023 Honda CR-V offered a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the EX trim, with the EX-L upgrading to a 9-inch display and additional features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and wireless charging. The EX-L's sound system was upgraded, though a premium Bose system was reserved for the top-tier Sport Touring Hybrid. The infotainment system was an improvement over the previous generation, though some competitors offered more features at a similar price point. The CR-V's technology package was comprehensive, though not groundbreaking, aligning with current standards.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came with standard driver assist features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and a Teen Driver system. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system. The Encore GX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS 2022 Top Safety Pick, though child-seat anchor ease of use was rated "Average."

The 2023 Honda CR-V improved its driver assist systems with the Honda Sensing package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and new systems like Traffic Jam Assist. The CR-V's safety features met current standards, though some aspects, like lane-centering assist, could be improved. Honda's ACE body structure and new airbag designs aimed to enhance occupant protection, though the CR-V awaited re-testing by the NHTSA and IIHS.