2023 Volvo XC40 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 optional Sport Touring Package, which included 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 position at the lower end of Buick's lineup. While fit and finish were commendable, the uninspired dashboard and door panel design harkened back to less favorable 1990s automotive aesthetics.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC40 maintained its distinctive presence with a flat-roofed profile and clean exterior lines, embodying Volvo's design language. Updates for 2023 included pixelated "Thor’s Hammer" headlights and a more angular front bumper, though these changes were subtle. The XC40 shared its Compact Modular Architecture with other Volvo and Polestar models, making it unique in offering a combustion engine in the U.S. The interior continued with a minimalist design, featuring thin air vents and scalloped door elements. Our XC40 Ultimate test vehicle included luxurious options like a panoramic moonroof and Orrefors crystal shift knob, though the all-black interior felt utilitarian. Despite being Volvo's entry-level model, the XC40's fit and finish were impressive, though the materials reflected its position in the lineup.

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 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for the 1.3-liter engine. The FWD models used a CVT, while AWD models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission. Our 1.3-liter AWD test car provided stronger acceleration than expected, though 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, with slow steering and significant body roll.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains, adding a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-horsepower integrated starter generator. The base B4 powertrain combined this system with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, producing 197 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque, while the B5 model offered 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the B4 being FWD-only and the B5 AWD-only. The B5 model accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, offering a smooth power delivery with electric assist. The XC40's refinement stood out, handling corners with composure and absorbing bumps gracefully. The XC40 Recharge variant added more power, with 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds and a 223-mile range.

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 space was respectable, with 23.5 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. The front seats were positioned close together, reducing the sense of spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. Despite limited cabin size, Buick maximized 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, though a 360-degree camera button was absent.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, while small, offered reasonable space among its competitors. It matched the BMW X1 for rear-seat headroom and was just behind the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class in front-seat headroom. Legroom was average, but generous shoulder room enhanced the sense of spaciousness. Cargo space was 20 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 46.9 cubic feet with them folded, less than the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. The XC40 featured good interior storage, with scalloped door panels providing flexibility for bottles or handbags. The center console storage bin and phone tray were also sizable, considering the interior's dimensions.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came with a standard 8-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information display. Optional features included a navigation system, head-up display, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system. Standard tech included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with graphics that surpassed many competitors. The 8-inch touchscreen, though small by current standards, was well-integrated into the dashboard.

For 2023, the Volvo XC40 adopted an Android-based infotainment system, using Google apps for navigation and voice recognition. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 9-inch touchscreen were standard, with a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system available on higher trims. The infotainment experience was similar to other Volvo models with the Android system, offering pleasing graphics but potentially less satisfaction for Apple users. Volvo's minimalist design meant most controls were on the touchscreen, which could be less convenient for some functions.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX included standard driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and a Teen Driver system. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, automatic park assist, blind spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system. The Encore GX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and top "Good" ratings in IIHS crash tests, though it scored "Average" for child-seat anchor ease of use.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like a 360-degree camera system and adaptive cruise control with Pilot Assist. The XC40 received top "Good" ratings in most IIHS crash tests, though it scored "Acceptable" in the updated side-impact test. The NHTSA awarded the gasoline XC40 a five-star overall safety rating.