2023 Buick Encore GX vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

2023 Buick Encore GX
2023 Buick Encore GX
$25,900MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Lincoln Aviator
2023 Lincoln Aviator
$51,370MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Buick Encore GX
$25,900MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Lincoln Aviator
$51,370MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Buick Encore GX is 6.7 out of 10, while the 2023 Lincoln Aviator scores 7.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Lincoln Aviator is the recommended choice for those seeking a more luxurious and feature-rich SUV experience.

Overview

MSRP

$25,900

MSRP

$51,370

Average price

$23,332

Average price

$55,940

Listings

759

Listings

546
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

6.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.0 out of 10
Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Plenty of cargo space
  • Easy-to-use technology
Cons
  • Fairly pedestrian performance
  • Poor fuel economy
Pros
  • Great handling
  • Comfortable
  • Impressive stereo
Cons
  • Unimpressive electric range
  • Cramped third row
  • Outdated technology

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.

2023 Lincoln Aviator Reviews Summary

There is a reason that Ford’s Lincoln luxury division emphasizes the ethos of “Quiet Flight” when discussing its products, and our 2023 Aviator Black Label Grand Touring proved itself the epitome of this concept. It quietly glides everywhere you go, swaddling you in comfort, luxury, and high-tech features. And Lincoln hasn’t altered this formula for the new model year. Aside from a new Jet Package (blacked-out trim) and a new Special Edition Luxe Package (black-painted roof), each newly available for Grand Touring models, there are no changes to the 2023 Aviator lineup.
No video found
No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

1.2L 137 hp I3

Engine

3.0L 400 hp V6

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

RWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

137 hp @ 5000 rpm

Horsepower

MPG City

29

MPG City

18

MPG Highway

31

MPG Highway

26
2023 Buick Encore GX
2023 Buick Encore GX
$25,900MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Lincoln Aviator
2023 Lincoln Aviator
$51,370MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Buick Encore GX
$25,900MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Lincoln Aviator
$51,370MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Buick Encore GX is 6.7 out of 10, while the 2023 Lincoln Aviator scores 7.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Lincoln Aviator is the recommended choice for those seeking a more luxurious and feature-rich SUV experience.

Overview
MSRP
$25,900
$51,370
Average price
$23,332
$55,940
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.5
5.0
Expert reviews

6.7 out of 10

Read full review

7.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Plenty of cargo space
  • Easy-to-use technology
Cons
  • Fairly pedestrian performance
  • Poor fuel economy
Pros
  • Great handling
  • Comfortable
  • Impressive stereo
Cons
  • Unimpressive electric range
  • Cramped third row
  • Outdated technology
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.

There is a reason that Ford’s Lincoln luxury division emphasizes the ethos of “Quiet Flight” when discussing its products, and our 2023 Aviator Black Label Grand Touring proved itself the epitome of this concept. It quietly glides everywhere you go, swaddling you in comfort, luxury, and high-tech features. And Lincoln hasn’t altered this formula for the new model year. Aside from a new Jet Package (blacked-out trim) and a new Special Edition Luxe Package (black-painted roof), each newly available for Grand Touring models, there are no changes to the 2023 Aviator lineup.
Video
No video found
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
1.2L 137 hp I3
3.0L 400 hp V6
Drive Train
FWD
RWD
Seating Capacity
5
7
Horsepower
137 hp @ 5000 rpm
MPG City
29
18
MPG Highway
31
26
Look and feel
2023 Buick Encore GX
5/10
2023 Lincoln Aviator
8/10

The 2023 Buick Encore GX did not reflect Buick's storied design history, such as the iconic 1938 Y-Job. Its styling was a departure from the past without venturing into new territory. The vehicle's rounded exterior and tall stance resulted in awkward proportions that failed to capture the SUV appeal that has drawn many buyers to this segment. Even with the optional Sport Touring Package, which included subtle enhancements like different bumpers and a black mesh grille, the Encore GX's design 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 interior was dominated by plastic materials, reminding occupants of its position at the lower end of Buick's lineup. The dashboard and door panels were reminiscent of uninspired 1990s designs, though the instrument cluster stood out with its well-framed digital display.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a more luxurious and sophisticated appearance. The Aviator's design was considered one of the most successful executions of Lincoln's modern aesthetic, especially in the three-row, midsize SUV category. However, the wheel designs on the Black Label Grand Touring model were deemed too plain, detracting from the vehicle's overall premium look. The Aviator's exterior lighting sequence, electric door handles, and ambient cabin lighting added to its upscale feel. Inside, the Black Label Grand Touring trim was lavishly appointed, featuring a mix of patterned metal trim, chrome accents, and rich leather seats. While the interior was visually striking, some elements, like the chrome detailing and stitching, were criticized for appearing less luxurious than expected. The Aviator's key fob also felt cheap, but the Phone As A Key technology offered a modern alternative.

Performance
2023 Buick Encore GX
5/10
2023 Lincoln Aviator
7/10

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The standard 1.2-liter engine produced 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, while the optional 1.3-liter engine delivered 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for the 1.3-liter engine. The Encore GX used different transmissions for its drivetrains: a CVT for FWD models and a nine-speed automatic for AWD models. The 1.3-liter AWD test car provided stronger acceleration than expected, but power delivery was not smooth, requiring a patient driving style. 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 steering and significant body roll.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, combined a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor, producing 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It offered 21 miles of electric driving range and averaged 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV, Preserve EV, and Excite, allowing drivers to optimize performance and efficiency. During testing, the Aviator achieved impressive fuel economy when relying on electric power. The vehicle's handling was enhanced by the Dynamic Handling Package, which included an adaptive-damping suspension. Despite its commendable handling traits, the Aviator was not particularly engaging to drive, with heavy and numb steering. It prioritized a quiet and smooth ride, making it ideal for relaxed cruising rather than spirited driving.

Form and function
2023 Buick Encore GX
7/10
2023 Lincoln Aviator
7/10

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space compared to similar-sized crossovers. Headroom was comparable to the Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, and Subaru Crosstrek, though the Subaru provided more front legroom. The Encore GX's cargo space was respectable, with 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. However, the front seats were positioned close together, reducing the sense of spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. The Encore GX made efficient use of available space for small-item storage, with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless phone charger. Instrumentation was well-executed, with clear notifications and an array of hard buttons for ease of use.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging 30-way Perfect Position front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious and supportive, but the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. With the third row in use, cargo space was limited to 18.3 cubic feet, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. Maximum cargo capacity was 77.7 cubic feet, making the Aviator less practical for carrying large loads when all seats were occupied.

Technology
2023 Buick Encore GX
8/10
2023 Lincoln Aviator
6/10

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information display. Optional features included navigation, a head-up display, and a Bose audio system. Standard tech included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM radio. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with clear graphics and a well-sized screen for the dashboard.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Black Label Grand Touring was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Alexa integration, and navigation. However, it ran on the older Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator also included a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging, and a Phone As A Key system. The digital instrumentation and head-up display were well-executed, and parking sensors and a surround-view camera system aided in maneuvering the vehicle.

Safety
2023 Buick Encore GX
9/10
2023 Lincoln Aviator
8/10

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered standard driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. 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 Top Safety Pick for 2022, with top ratings in crash tests.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator featured the Co-Pilot360 suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The test vehicle had additional features like evasive steering assist and rear cross-traffic alert. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the Grand Touring model had not been specifically rated.

Cost Effectiveness
2023 Buick Encore GX
6/10
2023 Lincoln Aviator
6/10
N/A
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.