2023 Buick Encore GX vs 2024 Chrysler Pacifica

The 2023 Buick Encore GX departed from Buick's storied design history, presenting a style that neither embraced retro elements nor ventured into new territory. Its 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 added subtle enhancements like different bumpers and a black mesh grille, the Encore GX's design remained largely unremarkable. Inside, the top-trim Essence model 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 interior design lacked intrigue, with a dashboard and door panels reminiscent of uninspired 1990s automotive design.

In contrast, the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica maintained a contemporary look despite its age, offering a refreshing alternative to its more flamboyant competitors. Its smooth exterior styling, modest grille, and cleverly hidden sliding-door tracks contributed to a clean and sophisticated appearance. The Pacifica's interior mirrored its exterior's elegance, with a minimalist dashboard that seamlessly integrated controls and a rotary shift knob that conserved space. The Pinnacle trim, with its luxurious brown Nappa leather upholstery and quilted stitching, elevated the interior's appeal, although some elements still felt less premium. Overall, the Pacifica's design struck a balance between functionality and refinement, setting it apart from other minivans.

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 delivering 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 Encore GX employed different transmissions for its drivetrains, with a CVT for FWD models and a nine-speed automatic for AWD versions. 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, its driving experience was marred by ponderous handling and significant body roll, detracting from its overall appeal.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on select trims. The V6 engine, known as the Pentastar, provided ample power for brisk acceleration and a towing capacity of 3,600 pounds. The Pacifica's chassis tuning prioritized comfort and stability, effectively damping road imperfections and minimizing body motion. While some weight transfer was noticeable during acceleration and deceleration, the Pacifica maintained a quiet and comfortable ride, living up to Chrysler's reputation for refinement. Although not a luxury minivan, the Pacifica offered a more polished driving experience compared to its competitors.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. However, the Kia Seltos provided more rear-seat legroom and cargo space. The Encore GX's 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats in place and 50.2 cubic feet with seats folded were respectable for the segment. Despite its compact size, the Encore GX maximized small-item storage with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless phone charger. Instrumentation was well-executed, with clear information displays, though the lack of a 360-degree camera button was a drawback.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica excelled in interior versatility, thanks to its standard Stow 'n Go seating, which allowed second-row seats to fold flat into the floor, creating ample storage space. The Pacifica offered seven seats with second-row bucket seats and a 60/40 split-folding third-row bench, with an eight-seat configuration available on the Touring L trim. Passenger space was generous, with headroom and legroom comparable to other minivans. The Pacifica's cargo capacity was impressive, with 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 87.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 140.5 cubic feet with both rows folded. The optional Stow 'n Vac vacuum cleaner added convenience, though the raised center console's storage area was difficult to access.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information display, with optional features like built-in 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 satellite radio. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with clear graphics and intuitive menus, though the screen size was modest by current standards.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM with 360L, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The Pacifica also boasted up to 12 USB-C ports, built-in navigation, and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Uconnect 5 was praised for its intuitive interface and sharp displays, though a shortcut for the 360-degree camera view was missed. The Uconnect Theater system provided rear-seat entertainment with dual 10.1-inch touchscreens, wireless headphones, and Amazon Fire TV connectivity. The FamCam interior camera allowed parents to monitor rear-seat occupants, though an intercom system was absent.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered 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, 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 it scored lower for child-seat anchor ease of use.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica was named a 2023 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS and received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included a 360-degree camera system and park assist. New for 2024 was an Emergency Vehicle Alert System, providing warnings about nearby emergency vehicles or road hazards.