2023 Buick Encore GX vs 2024 Genesis GV70

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 dashboard and door panels lacked creativity, reminiscent of uninspired 1990s designs, though the instrument cluster stood out with its well-framed digital display.

In contrast, the 2024 Genesis GV70 distinguished itself with sleek styling that balanced brand recognition and modern aesthetics. It featured signature Genesis elements like split headlights and a large grille, yet maintained a sleeker profile than its larger sibling, the GV80. The GV70's design successfully combined SUV presence with luxury appeal, surpassing competitors like the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 in finesse. The Electrified GV70 retained the same styling as its gasoline counterpart, with a unique grille housing the charge port for convenience. Inside, the GV70 boasted a distinctive interior with luxury touches like quilted Nappa leather and a panoramic sunroof, complemented by innovative details such as an elliptical pod for controls and a futuristic rotary infotainment controller.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a 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. 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. The 1.3-liter AWD test car delivered 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 2024 Genesis GV70 offered robust powertrain options. The standard gasoline model featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, while a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 delivered 375 hp and 391 lb-ft. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The Electrified GV70 boasted front and rear electric motors producing 429 hp and 516 lb-ft, with a Boost Mode offering 483 hp temporarily. Despite impressive straight-line acceleration, the GV70's chassis tuning didn't match its sporty rivals, feeling heavier and less agile through corners. The ride was reasonably comfortable but lacked the refinement expected from a luxury SUV. The Electrified model maintained similar dynamics, with adjustable regenerative braking for a customizable driving experience.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX provided competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. However, the Subaru Crosstrek offered more front legroom, and the Kia Seltos provided more rear-seat space. The Encore GX's cargo capacity of 23.5 cubic feet with rear seats up and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded was respectable, though less than the Seltos. The front seats were positioned closely together, compromising spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. Despite limited cabin size, Buick optimized 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 2024 Genesis GV70 offered interior space comparable to its rivals, with slightly less headroom than the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 but more front-seat legroom than the BMW and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. Cargo space was 28.9 cubic feet with rear seats up, better than the Mercedes but less than the Audi. Folding the seats provided 56.9 cubic feet, less than its German competitors. The Electrified GV70's interior space was minimally impacted by the battery pack, with slight reductions in legroom and headroom. The stylish interior design limited small-item storage, though a dedicated phone nook and rear-seat climate controls were included. Automatic side bolsters in the front seats enhanced support during spirited driving.

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, Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM radio. The interface was user-friendly, with graphics superior to many competitors. The 8-inch screen size was adequate, fitting well within the dashboard design.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Lower trims had an 8-inch digital cluster, while higher trims offered a 12.3-inch unit with a 3D effect. A 12-inch head-up display and 16-speaker Lexicon audio system were available. The intuitive touchscreen layout and high-quality rotary controller enhanced usability. Genesis included a fingerprint scanner for driver profiles and a digital key for phone-based vehicle access.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX included standard driver assists like automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and a Teen Driver system. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. The Encore GX earned a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick and a five-star NHTSA rating, with top scores in crash tests but an average child-seat anchor rating.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award for both gasoline and Electrified models. NHTSA ratings for 2024 were incomplete, but the 2023 model had a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and Highway Driving Assist. The optional Highway Driving Assist 2 added lane-change capability and blind-spot monitoring. Genesis also offered a safe exit assist and a radar-based rear occupant alert system.