2023 Buick Encore GX vs 2024 Genesis GV80

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 understated. Inside, the top-trim Essence model offered expected features like leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control, but the interior's plastic components reminded us of its entry-level status within Buick's lineup. The dashboard and door panels evoked a 1990s design aesthetic, with the instrument cluster being the only standout feature.

In contrast, the 2024 Genesis GV80 exuded luxury and sophistication, particularly in the top-tier Prestige Signature trim. The exterior, while understated, was complemented by dark chrome trim and 22-inch wheels, though the black paint obscured their design details. Inside, the Ultramarine Blue over Dune interior was opulent, featuring diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and metallic accents. The GV80's cabin was a testament to luxury, with ambient lighting, a 3D digital instrument cluster, and a wide touchscreen display underscoring its flagship status. Despite its luxurious appeal, the Prestige Signature's exterior did not significantly outshine the regular Prestige model.

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 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 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 a patient driving approach. 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 GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV80 3.5T test vehicle delivered a rewarding driving experience, with swift acceleration and a sporty feel. It featured upgraded front brakes and an adaptive damping suspension, enhancing its athleticism. The GV80's steering was unremarkable but did not detract from the overall driving experience. The SUV's performance was complemented by its ability to tow up to 6,000 pounds and its 8.1 inches of ground clearance.

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 was respectable, with 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. The front seats were positioned close together, compromising spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. Despite the limited cabin size, Buick maximized small-item storage with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless phone charger. The instrumentation was well-executed, with clear information conveyance and an array of hard buttons for ease of use.

In 2024, the Genesis GV80 3.5T Advanced was the only model with a third-row seat, while the Prestige Signature accommodated four people with its second-row captain's chairs. The GV80's interior featured a mix of artificial and premium leather, with standard heated front seats and a power hands-free liftgate. Our test vehicle included a panoramic glass roof, triple-zone climate control, and ventilated front seats with massage programs. However, the seats were uncomfortable for long trips, and rear-seat legroom was limited. The GV80 offered commendable storage space, with 34.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and up to 84 cubic feet with the seats folded.

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.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel in the Prestige and Prestige Signature trims. The infotainment system included a navigation system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GV80 introduced a Wi-Fi hotspot for 2024 and offered wireless smartphone charging. The user interface was intuitive, with a pleasing graphical display and minimal glare. The GV80 also featured a digital key system and a Lexicon premium sound system, with a head-up display providing blind-spot warnings.

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

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered advanced safety features like a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The Blind-Spot View Monitor displayed video feeds within the digital instrument panel, enhancing lane-change safety. The GV80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings for frontal-impact tests.